Chapter 22

The New Jerusalem:  22:1-5.
In chapter 22:1-5 we see more description of New Jerusalem. Then the angel showed John a river of water of life clear as crystal, flowing from the throne of God and of the Lamb. On either side of the river, grew the tree of life which bears twelve manners of fruit and the leaves of the tree are for the healing of the nations (Revelation 22:1, 2). The river of life and the tree of life speak of God’s endless provision and the abundance of blessings in the New Jerusalem (John 7:3839; Psalms 46:4).  Even the gentile nations will enjoy health and blessing in New Jerusalem. The scripture says that “No eye has seen, no ear has heard and no mind has imagined what God has prepared for those who love God” (1 Corinthians 2:9). There will be no more curse, no more tears, no more sin and no more darkness. It will be a perfect place. Believers will serve and worship God. While we do not know exactly the nature of service, we are told that we will exercise authority over nations and angels (1 Corinthians 6:23).  Believers will see Christ face to face and His name will be on their foreheads (22:4). This speaks of our perfect fellowship and identification with Christ. We will know and recognize each other in heaven (Matthew 17:3). Our age old desire will be fulfilled and we will be in perfect communion with Christ (Psalms 27:42 Corinthians 4:4-61 John 3:2). There shall be no night in New Jerusalem because the Lord God will shine on us. Believers will reign forever and ever (Revelation 22:5).  We will enjoy all these blessings because we are in Christ.  So believers have no room for boasting except in the wonder of God’s grace (Ephesians 1:6Galatians 6:14).  Heaven will be a place filled with worship and praise.
 
Conclusion: 22:6-16. 
John ends the book of Revelation with warning, comfort, invitation and blessings.  From Genesis to Revelation, the Bible is a message of God’s saving grace in Jesus Christ. His glory is revealed in the book of Revelation.  John was told to write the things which he had heard and seen because they are true (1:19). God who inspired the prophets to write the scripture has sent His angel to tell His servants what will happen soon (22:6). Revelation is God inspired prophecy.  John was forbidden from worshiping angels because only God should be worshiped.  Angels are created beings and fellow servants (22:9). John was assured of Christ’s soon return (22:7, 12, 20). There is special blessing for those who obey the word of this prophecy.  John was told not to seal the word of the prophecy of this book because the time is near and Christ’s return is imminent. Sinners may continue in their sin but believers are exhorted to continue to live in righteousness. Christ is coming with His rewards. He will give rewards to everyone for their faithful service. Salvation is a gracious gift but rewards are for faithful service.  Blessed are those who wash their robes by the blood of Christ and they have access to the tree of life. Jesus is the beginning and the end of this revelation.  The Lord sent His angel to give this message to the churches. This is the first time church is mentioned since the third chapter.  Christ is both the root of David and the heir of God’s throne.  He is the offspring of David and He will reign forever. He is the bright and the morning star.  Morning star appears in the sky before the sun rises.  Christ shall be our light in the new heaven and new earth. Do you know this wonderful Savior?  Are you willing to lay down your pride and embrace Christ to be saved? Will you respond to his invitation to receive Jesus Christ as your Lord and Savior?  May God bless you all!
 
The Final Invitation: 22:17-21.
The Spirit and the bride give the final invitation.  "Let him that thirsts come and drink the water of life freely" (22:17). Those who reject Christ will be cast into the lake of fire. In Verses 18 and 19, we see the stern warning about adding to the word of God or taking away from it.  One who attempts to do that will suffer the judgment described in this Book. The Bible alone is the Word of God.  Christ said “Surely I am coming soon”.  John’s response to this blessed promise was “Even so come, Lord Jesus”.  This should be the blessed hope and desire of every believer. John ends the book of Revelation with a benediction.  "The grace of our Lord Jesus Christ be with you all. Amen”. From Genesis to Revelation God reveals His amazing grace.  Christ is our hope and eternal reward. How blessed it is to drink the water of life and share it with others!  The grace of the Lord Jesus be with all. Amen.