The River of Life and the Throne of God
An exploration of Revelation 22:1-9, focusing on the blessings of eternal life and the worship due to the Almighty.
1. The Source and Sustenance of Eternal Life
1.1 The River of Life Flowing from the Throne
Verses: Revelation 22:1
- The river proceeds directly from the throne, signifying God as the source of all life.
- The water is pure and clear, representing the purity and holiness of God's presence.
1.2 The Tree of Life and its Abundance
Verses: Revelation 22:2
- The tree bears fruit every month, symbolizing the constant provision and abundance in God's kingdom.
- The leaves are for the healing of the nations, indicating the restorative power of God's grace for all people.
2. The Blessings of God's Presence
2.1 The Absence of the Curse and the Vision of God
Verses: Revelation 22:3-4
- The curse is removed, signifying the complete redemption and restoration brought about by God.
- Servants will see His face, emphasizing the intimate relationship believers will have with God.
2.2 Identification with God and Eternal Reign
Verses: Revelation 22:4-5
- God's name will be on their foreheads, representing ownership and identification with Him.
- They will reign forever, highlighting the eternal nature of their inheritance and authority in God's kingdom.
3. The Certainty of God's Word and the Return of Jesus
3.1 The Truthfulness of the Prophecy
Verses: Revelation 22:6
- These sayings are faithful and true, underscoring the reliability and trustworthiness of God's word.
- God sends His angel to show His servants what must soon take place, revealing His desire to communicate with and prepare His people.
3.2 The Imminent Return and the Call to Obedience
Verses: Revelation 22:7
- Jesus is coming quickly, urging believers to live in anticipation of His return.
- Blessed is the one who heeds the words of the prophecy, emphasizing the importance of obedience and faithfulness.
4. The Proper Object of Worship
4.1 The Error of Worshipping the Angel
Verses: Revelation 22:8-9
- John fell down to worship the angel, demonstrating a misunderstanding of who is worthy of worship.
- The angel rebukes John, emphasizing that worship is due to God alone.
4.2 The Exclusivity of Worship Due to God
Verses: Revelation 22:9
- The angel identifies himself as a fellow servant, reinforcing the principle that all creation is subordinate to God.
- Worship God, the angel commands, highlighting the exclusive devotion that is due to the Almighty.