Revelation 22

Summary

 

Revelation 22 concludes with a vision of the river and tree of life, affirmations of the trustworthiness of the prophecy, warnings and exhortations to remain faithful, and an invitation to partake in the water of life. The chapter concludes with a fervent desire for the soon return of Jesus and a blessing of grace.

 

  1. The River and Tree of Life (Revelation 22:1-5): John sees a river of the water of life, clear as crystal, flowing from the throne of God and the Lamb. On either side of the river is the tree of life, bearing twelve kinds of fruit and yielding its fruit every month. The leaves of the tree are for the healing of the nations. There is no more curse, and God's servants will serve Him. They will see His face, and His name will be on their foreheads. There will be no night, and they will reign forever and ever.
  2. Jesus Is Coming Soon (Revelation 22:6-7): An angel affirms the trustworthiness of the words in the book of Revelation and declares that these things will come to pass quickly. Blessed are those who keep the words of the prophecy.
  3. Final Exhortations and Warnings (Revelation 22:8-19): John falls at the feet of the angel who showed him these things, but the angel instructs him to worship God. The time is near, and the unjust will remain unjust, the filthy will remain filthy, the righteous will remain righteous, and the holy will remain holy. Jesus testifies to the authenticity of the prophecy and pronounces a blessing on those who keep its words.
  4. The Assurance and Invitation (Revelation 22:20-21): Jesus declares, "Surely I am coming quickly." John responds with a prayer, "Even so, come, Lord Jesus!" Jesus affirms that He is the Alpha and the Omega, the Beginning and the End. He promises to give the water of life freely to those who thirst. The final words are an invitation to come and an assurance of Jesus's imminent return: "He who testifies to these things says, 'Surely I am coming quickly.' Amen. Even so, come, Lord Jesus! The grace of our Lord Jesus Christ be with you all. Amen."

 

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