John, the apostle who was shown the book of Revelation, received one of the most extraordinary revelations recorded in all of Scripture. This book, known as Revelation, contains the prophecies of the last times, the consummation of history, the final judgment, and the eternal reign of God. John did not receive these visions because of personal merit, but because God sovereignly chose him to be a witness of what must soon take place. His experience reminds us that divine revelation always points to God’s glory, not to human exaltation.
Throughout the book of Revelation, John is taken beyond the limits of human understanding and allowed to see heavenly realities. In one of these visions, he is guided by an angel, a heavenly messenger sent by God to show him events that would occur in the near future. These revelations were overwhelming, filled with glory, power, and holiness. Faced with such splendor, John’s response was deeply human: he bowed down in reverence before the angel who was showing him these things.
This reaction reveals something important about John’s heart. He was not attempting to commit idolatry out of rebellion or ignorance, but responding instinctively to the majesty of what he was witnessing. The presence of the angel, shining with heavenly authority, caused John to fall on his knees in awe. This demonstrates the profound impact that divine realities have on human weakness. Even a faithful apostle, a close disciple of Jesus, momentarily misunderstood the proper object of worship.
The angel, however, immediately corrected John. He did not accept worship, nor did he allow any confusion regarding authority or glory. Angels, no matter how glorious they appear, are created beings. They serve God and carry out His will, but they are not divine. The angel made this distinction very clear, reminding John that he was merely a fellow servant.
The angel spoke to the man who had bowed and said: Do not do it. He explained that he was a servant alongside John’s brothers, the prophets, and all who keep the words of this book. By doing this, the angel emphasized the unity of God’s servants—whether heavenly or earthly. All are under God’s authority, and all exist for His glory alone.
Then saith he unto me, See thou do it not: for I am thy fellowservant, and of thy brethren the prophets, and of them which keep the sayings of this book: worship God.
Revelation 22:9
These words are among the most powerful declarations about worship in all of Scripture. The angel’s command is direct and uncompromising: “Worship God.” No angel, no prophet, no apostle, and no created being deserves worship. Worship belongs exclusively to God. This moment serves as a corrective not only for John, but for all believers throughout history.
The reverence in John’s heart was sincere, but sincerity alone does not determine truth. The angel’s correction shows us that even good intentions must be guided by sound doctrine. Worship must be directed correctly. To worship anything other than God—even something good or glorious—is to fall into error. Scripture consistently teaches that God alone is worthy of worship because He alone is Creator, Redeemer, and Lord.
This passage also protects us from a common spiritual danger: elevating messengers above the One who sent them. Throughout history, people have been tempted to exalt angels, spiritual experiences, religious leaders, or even personal revelations. Revelation 22:9 firmly places all servants of God in their proper place. They point to God, but they are never to replace Him.
The angel’s words remind us that true worship is not based on what impresses our senses, but on obedience to God’s truth. Glory, power, and beauty belong to God alone. When worship is misdirected, it becomes idolatry, even if it appears religious or spiritual. That is why Scripture constantly calls God’s people back to pure, God-centered worship.
The command “worship God” is not only corrective, but instructive. It defines the purpose of humanity and the destiny of the redeemed. From Genesis to Revelation, the ultimate goal of God’s work is that He be worshiped in spirit and in truth. Worship is not limited to songs or rituals; it is the posture of the heart, the surrender of the will, and the recognition of God’s supreme authority.
Let us not forget, therefore, that we must surrender ourselves only before God. Our devotion, loyalty, and reverence belong to Him alone. We are called to adore Him in the magnificence of His power, to exalt Him for His holiness, and to praise Him for His mighty works. Everything that exists owes its being to Him, and everything that breathes is called to glorify Him.
To adore God is to acknowledge His greatness above all else. It is to recognize that He is eternal, unchanging, and sovereign over all creation. When we worship God, we align ourselves with the purpose for which we were created. Worship humbles us, reminds us of our dependence on Him, and fills our hearts with awe and gratitude.
This passage also teaches us humility. Even angels refuse worship because they understand their place before God. How much more should we, as human beings, resist the temptation to seek glory, recognition, or reverence for ourselves? All honor belongs to God, and all praise must return to Him.
May we learn from John’s experience and the angel’s correction. Let us guard our worship carefully, ensuring that it is directed solely to the Lord. Let us reject every form of idolatry, whether obvious or subtle, and fix our hearts on God alone. May our lives become living acts of worship, marked by obedience, humility, and reverence.
May everything that breathes praise the Lord. May our voices, our actions, and our hearts proclaim His glory. For He alone is worthy of worship, honor, and praise forever and ever. Amen.