Amen

March 29, 2014


“The Amen, the faithful and true witness» (Revelation 3:14).

Our problem with “Amen” is that we hear it so often that it loses all meaning. For most of us, “Amen” either means, “The prayer is over” or “It’s time to eat.” It’s like the caboose at the end of the train. The word itself comes from the Old Testament and means, “So be it” or “I agree” or “Yes, this is true.” It’s not a throwaway word. The word “Amen” teaches us three things:

First, these things really are true. To say “Amen” means that you affirm the truth of what has just been said.

Second, truth always demands a personal response. That’s why the great creeds of the church end with the word “Amen.” It’s not enough to say what you believe. Adding “Amen” means that you are not only reciting words but that you believe that what you are saying is true.

Third, truth is ultimately wrapped up in Jesus. That’s why “Amen” is one of the names of our Lord. It’s also the last word of the Bible.

William Dowling comments that the whole gospel is like a great “Amen” from God:

To stand for a day is no proof of a well-built house; to triumph for centuries amid the evil or the ignorant is no mark of a true religion. But to abide through all ages, to be suited to every land, adapted to each variety of human life and all ages of man’s history, that is truly the seal of God set upon the doctrines and precepts of the gospel (Names and Titles of Jesus Christ, p. 250).

To say that Jesus is God’s “Amen” means that we can trust him completely. He will do what he said he will do. Where can you find a promise he has not kept? Every promise is true because he is the great “Amen” guaranteeing his own divine words. 

Fear not, child of God. Your future is as certain as the promises of God. When your earthly journey has run its course, you can say “Amen” and the Lord Jesus himself will welcome you into heaven. 

Increase our faith, Lord Jesus, to trust you so much that our whole life will be one great Amen. 

Do you have any thoughts or questions about this post?