By Janice Hall
Overview
Lesson Text: Revelation 22:1-9
In Revelation 22, the scripture begins to teach us about the New Jerusalem and the final glory. We learn of the return of Christ and living a life of faith and obedience. There is an emphasis on the certainty of judgement and the need to avoid the manipulation of God’s word. We see the New Jerusalem described as a place of paradise, which is in contrast in Genesis, the loss of paradise. The scripture describes a city with the tree of life and a river of living water, healing and life.
The first five verses, speaks of this river which represents the Holy Spirit, offering life and cleansing. There is a tree of life, in the midst of the street restoration and the absence of the curse, providing continuous blessings. There is no more curse, removing all suffering and evil. There will be ultimate joy and fulfillment of being in God’s presence, and seeing His face. God’s name is on their forehead and they will reign with Him forever.
In Revelation 22:6-9, the blessed will experience eternal joy and dominion with God.
There comes a warning to John to not add or take away from the words of the book of Revelation. John stands in amazement to the visions and worships the angel. The angel clearly states that he is not to be worshipped , because he is a servant of God, as are the prophets.
Related Scriptures: Genesis 2:4-3:24; Ezekiel 47:1-12
Genesis 2:4-3:24, gives the account of the creation of the heavens and the earth. We also see the creation of man and woman, and their placement in the Garden of Eden. These passages speak of their relationship with God and the consequences of their disobedience. There is emphasis on God’s provision, humanity’s responsibility and the establishment of marriage as a covenant. The story of Adam and Eve cites the introduction of humanity and the establishment of the human race and family.
In Ezekiel 47:1-12, there is a description of the river flowing from the temple, bringing healing and life to the land. These verses symbolize God’s grace and the restoration of life, spiritually and physically. The emphasis shows a season of healing and abundant blessings, where God’s grace transform a flourishing, vibrant land which once was desolate. The interpretation of the vision shows a promise of God towards the world and His people.
Practical Point: We must always be vigilant that our worship is reserved for God and God alone.
God’s greatness, power, holiness, and love are why we worship Him. Worship involves our heart, soul and mind. Worship can and must include praise, prayer, reading the Word, and giving and serving others. We are to worship God in spirit and truth and to be able to seek to understand His character and His will. “ God is a Spirit: and they that worship him in spirit and in truth.” (John 4:24)
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