Revelation 22 unveils the glorious conclusion of God’s redemptive plan, emphasizing the imminent return of Jesus Christ. This chapter invites readers to behold the beauty of the New Jerusalem, partake in the river of life, and embrace God’s eternal promises. With the triumphant declaration, “Behold, I am coming soon,” the chapter calls believers to live in readiness, trust in God’s Word, and worship Him in spirit and truth. Explore Revelation 22 to discover profound truths about eternity, God’s righteousness, and the fulfillment of His promises.
Revelation 22 Overview
- The River of Life (Revelation 22:1-5)
- The Promise of Christ’s Return (Revelation 22:6-13)
- An Invitation to All (Revelation 22:14-17)
- Final Warnings and Benediction (Revelation 22:18-21)
The River of Life
1 He showed me a river of water of life, clear as crystal, proceeding out of the throne of God and of the Lamb, 2 in the middle of its street. On this side of the river and on that was the tree of life, bearing twelve kinds of fruits, yielding its fruit every month. The leaves of the tree were for the healing of the nations. 3 There will be no curse any more. The throne of God and of the Lamb will be in it, and his servants will serve him. 4 They will see his face, and his name will be on their foreheads. 5 There will be no night, and they need no lamp light or sun light; for the Lord God will illuminate them. They will reign forever and ever.
The Promise of Christ’s Return
6 He said to me, “These words are faithful and true. The Lord God of the spirits of the prophets sent his angel to show to his servants the things which must happen soon.” 7 “Behold, I come quickly. Blessed is he who keeps the words of the prophecy of this book.”
8 Now I, John, am the one who heard and saw these things. When I heard and saw, I fell down to worship before the feet of the angel who had shown me these things. 9 He said to me, “See you don’t do it! I am a fellow bondservant with you and with your brothers, the prophets, and with those who keep the words of this book. Worship God.”
10 He said to me, “Don’t seal up the words of the prophecy of this book, for the time is at hand. 11 He who is unjust, let him be unjust still. He who is filthy, let him be filthy still. He who is righteous, let him do righteousness still. He who is holy, let him be holy still.” 12 “Behold, I come quickly. My reward is with me, to repay to each man according to his work. 13 I am the Alpha and the Omega, the First and the Last, the Beginning and the End.”
An Invitation to All
14 Blessed are those who do his commandments, that they may have the right to the tree of life, and may enter in by the gates into the city. 15 Outside are the dogs, the sorcerers, the sexually immoral, the murderers, the idolaters, and everyone who loves and practices falsehood.
16 “I, Jesus, have sent my angel to testify these things to you for the assemblies. I am the root and the offspring of David, the Bright and Morning Star.”
17 The Spirit and the bride say, “Come!” He who hears, let him say, “Come!” He who is thirsty, let him come. He who desires, let him take the water of life freely.
Final Warnings and Benediction
18 I testify to everyone who hears the words of the prophecy of this book, if anyone adds to them, may God add to him the plagues which are written in this book. 19 If anyone takes away from the words of the book of this prophecy, may God take away his part from the tree of life, and out of the holy city, which are written in this book. 20 He who testifies these things says, “Yes, I come quickly.” Amen! Yes, come, Lord Jesus. 21 The grace of the Lord Jesus Christ be with all the saints. Amen.
Sermon Themes
Revelation 22 challenges believers to eagerly anticipate Christ’s return and faithfully keep His Word. How does the promise of Jesus’ imminent return inspire you to live in readiness and worship? Take time today to meditate on Revelation 22 and prepare your heart to meet the Lord. Explore the following themes and topics to shape your sermon on this chapter of Revelation.
- The River of Life- God’s Eternal Provision: The pure river of water of life symbolizes the eternal sustenance and abundance found in God’s presence. (Revelation 22:1-2)
- The Healing of the Nations: The leaves of the tree of life bring healing and restoration, reflecting God’s ultimate reconciliation for humanity. (Revelation 22:2)
- The Certainty of Christ’s Return: The repeated declaration, “Behold, I am coming soon,” emphasizes the imminence and certainty of Jesus’ return. (Revelation 22:7, 12, 20)
- Blessed Are Those Who Obey: A special blessing is promised to those who keep the words of the prophecy in the book, encouraging faithfulness. (Revelation 22:7, 14)
- The Invitation to Come: The Spirit and the Bride invite all to partake in the gift of salvation, a call to respond to God’s grace. (Revelation 22:17)
- The Warning Against Altering God’s Word: A solemn warning is given not to add or take away from God’s Word, emphasizing the sufficiency and authority of Scripture. (Revelation 22:18-19)
- Worship God Alone: The angel commands John not to worship him but to worship God, a reminder to direct our worship solely to the Creator. (Revelation 22:8-9)
- The Already-Not-Yet Kingdom of God: This chapter reflects the tension between the present reality of Christ’s reign and the future fulfillment of His promises. (Revelation 22:1-21)
- Rest in God’s Provision: Trust the river of life as a symbol of God’s unending care and provision for His people. (Revelation 22:1-2)
- Live in the Light of Christ: Walk in the hope and clarity of God’s eternal light in a world full of darkness. (Revelation 22:5)
- Extend God’s Invitation: Share the gospel and invite others to come to Christ, just as the Spirit and Bride invite all. (Revelation 22:17)
- Guard the Truth of God’s Word: Uphold Scripture’s authority and guard against false teachings or misinterpretations. (Revelation 22:18-19)
- Worship God Fully: Focus your heart on worshiping God alone, avoiding distractions or idols. (Revelation 22:8-9)
- Live in Kingdom Hope Now: Embrace Christ’s reign in your life today while awaiting its full manifestation in eternity. (Revelation 22:1-21)
▷ Scripture quotations taken from the World English Bible (WEB), which is in the public domain.
