Translation
I am coming quickly.
Go to footnote numberHold fast to what
you have, so that no one takes your crown.
Paraphrase
I am coming to you without unnecessary delay. Hold fast to what you already have, so that no one can take the reward you have earned.
Footnotes
1
This Greek word is often translated “quickly.” However, it does not mean “immediately,” but rather, “without unnecessary delay.” Jesus promises to come to our aid in times of persecution or opposition, but that will not always be in the way that we desire, nor in the timing that we desire. However, any perceived delays in His coming to help us are for a good purpose and will not allow us to be tempted or tried beyond what we are able to bear (see I Cor 10:13).