The Revelation Study of John’s Revelation Chapter 22
Chapter 22 – God’s Final Invitation More Blessings of Heaven (v.1-5) There is a River of Life for drinking (v.1, 17), which comes from the throne of God. This is the first mention of nature in the New Jerusalem. Try to picture the location of this river. There is a Tree of Life for food (v.2, 14). The word “healing” refers to service rendered, (household in Mt 24:45; Lu 12:42). There will be no more curse. Sin will be gone! (v.3). Believers will serve the Lord eternally. We will see God’s face and His name will be in our foreheads as an identification of citizenship (v.4). Night will be gone forever. God will be the light (v.5). Believers will reign with Christ eternally.
Chapter 22 – God’s Final Invitation The Lord Reminds John of His Coming (v. 6-9) The angel assured John that all that these things he had seen were faithful and true (v.6). The Lord God was revealing things that would soon come to pass. Christ is coming soon to Rapture believers and to begin the Tribulation (v.7). Quickly to God may seem ages for us. God promises blessings on all who obey the warnings (v.7). Having heard all this, John fell down in worship, but the angel directed his worship to God (v.8-9).
Chapter 22 – God’s Final Invitation The Lord Stresses the Urgency of His Message (v. 10-16). John was not to seal the book because people need to hear its message (v.10). All who reject this will be rejected by God (v.11). All who heed the message will be blessed of God (v.11). Christ is coming soon with his rewards (v.12).
Chapter 22 – God’s Final Invitation The Lord Stresses the Urgency of His Message (v. 10-16). Christ, the Alpha and Omega, is eternal and trustworthy (v.13, cf. v.16). He will bless all who keep his commandments (v.14). He does not specify which commandments. Context suggests the Gospel commands. All who reject him are cast out (v.15). Robertson identifies the dogs as “not literal dogs, but the morally impure (De 23:18; 2 Ki 8:13; Ps 22:17,21; Mt 7:6; Mr 7:27; Php 3:3)” (Word Pictures, Rev 22:15). Jesus confirms that He sent this message (v.16).
Chapter 22 – God’s Final Invitation God’s Last Invitation and Warning (v. 17-21). An invitation resounds for all to come (v.17). Note all those who are urged to say “Come!” God warns all who might tamper with the prophecies of the book of Revelation (v.18-19). This applies specifically to the book of Revelation.
This applies specifically to the book of Revelation. The angel was not speaking of the entire Bible. The Lord Jesus promises to come quickly (v.20). Conclusion (v.21). Grace = God’s divine enabling.
Personal Application Heaven is a wonderful place that no one will want to miss. The book of Revelation is faithful and true and no fairy tale. Jesus is coming soon and we must be prepared. He is the eternal God who must be feared. Rejecting Christ results in permanent loss. Receiving Christ results in permanent gain. God’s invitation is “COME!” God wants you to come to heaven to live eternally with him. God wants to quench your spiritual thirst forever. Have you come to Him in answer to his invitation?