The passage from Revelation 22:1-5 describes a profound vision of the New Jerusalem, emphasizing the restoration of Eden's perfection and the eternal reign of God and His people. This vision centers on the throne of God and of the Lamb, from which a river of the water of life, bright as crystal, flows. [1] This river signifies the continuous and abundant life that emanates directly from God's presence. [2]
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Flanking the river on both sides is the tree of life, bearing twelve kinds of fruit, yielding its fruit each month. [1] The leaves of this tree are for the healing of the nations. [1] This imagery suggests not only perpetual sustenance but also a universal restoration and reconciliation, addressing the brokenness and divisions that characterize the current world. [3] The concept of "healing of the nations" implies a complete spiritual and physical well-being for all who are part of this new creation. [4]
In this restored paradise, God's servants will see His face, a privilege previously denied to humanity due to sin. [5] This direct communion signifies an intimate and unhindered relationship with God. Furthermore, His name will be on their foreheads, indicating their complete belonging and identification with Him. [1] There will be no more night, and they will have no need of lamp or sun, for the Lord God will be their light. [1] This symbolizes the complete absence of darkness, both literal and spiritual, and the pervasive presence of God's glory. [6] Finally, the passage culminates with the promise that God's servants will reign forever and ever, signifying their participation in God's eternal dominion and a state of unbroken fellowship and authority. [1] [7]
Authoritative Sources
- The Holy Bible, English Standard Version. [Bible Gateway]↩
- Beale, G. K. (1999). The Book of Revelation: A Commentary on the Greek Text. [Eerdmans Publishing]↩
- Osborne, G. R. (2002). Revelation. Baker Exegetical Commentary on the New Testament. [Baker Academic]↩
- Koester, C. R. (2014). Revelation: A New Translation with Introduction and Commentary. Anchor Yale Bible. [Yale University Press]↩
- Mounce, R. H. (1977). The Book of Revelation. The New International Commentary on the New Testament. [Wm. B. Eerdmans Publishing Co.]↩
- Aune, D. E. (1998). Revelation 17-22. Word Biblical Commentary. [Zondervan Academic]↩
- Ladd, G. E. (1972). A Commentary on the Revelation of John. [William B. Eerdmans Publishing Company]↩
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