Revelation 22
Revelation Chapter 22
1 And he showed me a pure river of water of life, clear as crystal, proceeding from the throne of God and of the Lamb. 2 In the middle of its street, and on either side of the river, was the tree of life, which bore twelve fruits, each tree yielding its fruit every month. The leaves of the tree were for the healing of the nations. 3 And there shall be no more curse, but the throne of God and of the Lamb shall be in it, and His servants shall serve Him. 4 They shall see His face, and His name shall be on their foreheads. 5 There shall be no night there: They need no lamp nor light of the sun, for the Lord God gives them light. And they shall reign forever and ever.
Genesis
Heavens and earth created, 1:1
Sun created, 1:16
The night established, 1:5
The seas created, 1:10
The curse announced, 3:14-17
Death enters history, 3:19
Man driven from the tree, 3:24
Sorrow and pain begin, 3:17
Revelation
New heavens and earth, 21:1
No need of the sun, 21:23
No night there, 22:5
No more seas, 21:1
No more curse. 22:3
No more death, 21:4
Man restored to paradise, 22:14
No more tears or pain, 21:4
6 Then he said to me, "These words are faithful and true." And the Lord God of the holy prophets sent His angel to show His servants the things which must shortly take place. 7 "Behold, I am coming quickly! Blessed is he who keeps the words of the prophecy of this book." 8 Now I, John, saw and heard these things. And when I heard and saw, I fell down to worship before the feet of the angel who showed me these things. 9 Then he said to me, "See that you do not do that. For I am your fellow servant, and of your brethren the prophets, and of those who keep the words of this book. Worship God."
Observation:
Who sent this angel to John?
6b And the Lord God of the holy prophets sent His angel
Why did God send this angel to John?
6a Then he said to me, "These words are faithful and true."
6c to show His servants the things which must shortly take place.
What John heard next?
7 "Behold, I am coming quickly! Blessed is he who keeps the words of the prophecy of this book."
What was John's reaction when he heard and saw these things?
8 Now I, John, saw and heard these things. And when I heard and saw, I fell down to worship before the feet of the angel who showed me these things.
What was Angel's response for the John's action?
9 Then he said to me, "See that you do not do that. For I am your fellow servant, and of your brethren the prophets, and of those who keep the words of this book. Worship God."
Interpretation:
Who sent this angel to John?
6b And the Lord God of the holy prophets sent His angel
Jesus sent His angel to John
Rev 22:16 - "I, Jesus, have sent My angel to testify to you these things in the churches. I am the Root and the Offspring of David, the Bright and Morning Star."
Who sent this angel to John?
6b And the Lord God of the holy prophets sent His angel Why did God send this angel to John?
6a Then he said to me, "These words are faithful and true."
What "these words" hear refers to?
These words here refers to the entire book of Revelation. It covers from Revelation 1 through 22.
Are these words are faithful and true?
6a Then he said to me, "These words are faithful and true."
Rev 19:9b - Then he said to me, "Write: 'Blessed are those who are called to the marriage supper of the Lamb!' " And he said to me, "These are the true sayings of God."
Rev 21:5 - Then He who sat on the throne said, "Behold, I make all things new." And He said to me, "Write, for these words are true and faithful."
Read Are these sayings are True? topic in Rev 19:9b notes
Who is the author of this book?
Application:
Does the whole Bible has true sayings?
Why Jesus came to this world?
What truth Jesus testifies?
Is there any name Jesus has that relates to this fact?
Who is the author of the Bible and who compiled/edited the Bible?
Did God revealed every truth to all believers in all period (OT believers, the Church and Tribulation Saints)?
Are we capable of identify the truth? Does human beings has capacity to identify the truth after fall?
Is there any error in the Bible especially very old version King James Version?
...
6c to show His servants the things which must shortly take place.
Is this angel showing John any new things?
No, same angel who showed up to John in the beginning in Rev 1:1 wraps up this prophesy here.
Rev 1:1 - The Revelation of Jesus Christ, which God gave Him to show His servants--things which must shortly take place. And He sent and signified it by His angel to His servant John,
Rev 22:16 - "I, Jesus, have sent My angel to testify to you these things in the churches. I am the Root and the Offspring of David, the Bright and Morning Star."
Rev 22:8 - Now I, John, saw and heard these things. And when I heard and saw, I fell down to worship before the feet of the angel who showed me these things.
What John heard next?
7a "Behold, I am coming quickly! Blessed is he who keeps the words of the prophecy of this book."
Who is coming quickly?
Jesus Christ is coming quickly.
Rev 22:16 - "I, Jesus, have sent My angel to testify to you these things in the churches. I am the Root and the Offspring of David, the Bright and Morning Star."
Rev 22:12 - "And behold, I am coming quickly, and My reward is with Me, to give to every one according to his work.
Rev 22:20 - He who testifies to these things says, "Surely I am coming quickly." Amen. Even so, come, Lord Jesus!
Rev 3:11 - Behold, I am coming quickly! Hold fast what you have, that no one may take your crown.
Why does it seem that it has been so long? Was Jesus wrong here?
(DG) As John reminds us of the suddenness of these events, Jesus Himself breaks in with a reminder to all that He is coming quickly.
(Morgan) The word quickly in the ancient Greek isn’t exactly the same as our word for “quickly.” “The word ‘quickly’ might with accuracy be rendered ‘suddenly.’”
Jesus also explained this in
Matt 24:36-44 - 36 "But of that day and hour no one knows, not even the angels of heaven, but My Father only. 37 But as the days of Noah were, so also will the coming of the Son of Man be. 38 For as in the days before the flood, they were eating and drinking, marrying and giving in marriage, until the day that Noah entered the ark, 39 and did not know until the flood came and took them all away, so also will the coming of the Son of Man be. 40 Then two men will be in the field: one will be taken and the other left. 41 Two women will be grinding at the mill: one will be taken and the other left. 42 Watch therefore, for you do not know what hour your Lord is coming. 43 But know this, that if the master of the house had known what hour the thief would come, he would have watched and not allowed his house to be broken into. 44 Therefore you also be ready, for the Son of Man is coming at an hour you do not expect.
Who is blessed? When they will be blessed? or What believers in Christ need to do?
7b Blessed is he who keeps the words of the prophecy of this book."
This is Sixth blessing in this book of Revelation. First and last blessings are also related to this blessing.
First Blessing:
Rev 1:3 - Blessed is he who reads and those who hear the words of this prophecy, and keep those things which are written in it; for the time is near.
Last Blessing:
Rev 22:14 - Blessed are those who do His commandments, that they may have the right to the tree of life, and may enter through the gates into the city.
Application:
What commands are there in this book to keep/follow/observe? How?
Stay in first Love
Rev 2:4-5 - 4 Nevertheless I have this against you, that you have left your first love. 5 Remember therefore from where you have fallen; repent and do the first works, or else I will come to you quickly and remove your lampstand from its place--unless you repent.
Be faithful to do the will of God even if you go through suffering.
Rev 2:10 - Do not fear any of those things which you are about to suffer. Indeed, the devil is about to throw some of you into prison, that you may be tested, and you will have tribulation ten days. Be faithful until death, and I will give you the crown of life.
1 Peter 3:17 - For it is better, if it is the will of God, to suffer for doing good than for doing evil
Do not follow people/leaders/false prophet/ false teacher.
Rev 2:14-16 - 14 But I have a few things against you, because you have there those who hold the doctrine of Balaam, who taught Balak to put a stumbling block before the children of Israel, to eat things sacrificed to idols, and to commit sexual immorality. 15 Thus you also have those who hold the doctrine of the Nicolaitans, which thing I hate. 16 Repent, or else I will come to you quickly and will fight against them with the sword of My mouth.
Do not worship any other created things or gods other than our one and only God Almighty Jesus Christ.
Rev 2:20 - Nevertheless I have a few things against you, because you allow that woman Jezebel, who calls herself a prophetess, to teach and seduce My servants to commit sexual immorality and eat things sacrificed to idols.
Do not do your own ministry but do the will of the father which he had prepared uniquely for you long before.
Rev 3:1-2 - 1 "And to the angel of the church in Sardis write, 'These things says He who has the seven Spirits of God and the seven stars: "I know your works, that you have a name that you are alive, but you are dead. 2 Be watchful, and strengthen the things which remain, that are ready to die, for I have not found your works perfect (NIV: complete) before God.
Eph 2:10 - 8 For by grace you have been saved through faith, and that not of yourselves; it is the gift of God, 9 not of works, lest anyone should boast. 10 For we are His workmanship, created in Christ Jesus for good works, which God prepared beforehand that we should walk in them.
Wait on the Lord. He will make enemies to come under your subjection.
Rev 3:9 - Indeed I will make those of the synagogue of Satan, who say they are Jews and are not, but lie--indeed I will make them come and worship before your feet, and to know that I have loved you.
Psalm 23:5 - You prepare a table before me in the presence of my enemies; You anoint my head with oil; My cup runs over
Rom 16:20 - And the God of peace will crush Satan under your feet shortly. The grace of our Lord Jesus Christ be with you. Amen.
Allow/Invite our God to work within you. Do not walk in the flesh(your selfish desire) but walk as per the leading of the Holy Spirit.
Rev 3:17-20 - 17 Because you say, 'I am rich, have become wealthy, and have need of nothing'--and do not know that you are wretched, miserable, poor, blind, and naked-- 18 I counsel you to buy from Me gold refined in the fire, that you may be rich; and white garments, that you may be clothed, that the shame of your nakedness may not be revealed; and anoint your eyes with eye salve, that you may see. 19 As many as I love, I rebuke and chasten. Therefore be zealous and repent. 20 Behold, I stand at the door and knock. If anyone hears My voice and opens the door, I will come in to him and dine with him, and he with Me.
Be ready/watchful to be taken up or rapture to heaven on Jesus secret coming with a blow of the Lord's trumpet. - Rev 4 & 6; 1 Thes 4:16
Beware of 7 year Great Tribulation. Do not deceived by natural disaster with God's Wrath poured out during this Great Tribulation. Warn the non believers preaching about this. - Rev 6-19
Be ready to come back to this earth during Jesus 2nd coming. - Rev 19:11-16
Do well as per the leading of Jesus Christ hear in this earth and define the future destiny in Millennial reign and in Heaven. - Rev 20:4-6
Be ready to Judge all the non-believers with Jesus Christ on Final Judgment or Escape the Final Judgment which is for non-believers. Here is where non-believers come back to life to receive punishment for their sins and suffer in Lake of Fire (Hell) forever and ever. - Rev 20:11-15
Be ready to enjoy in Heaven forever and ever. - Rev 21-22.
Seven Blessing associated with the deeds of the believers announced in this book:
Revelation 1:3 - Blessed is he who reads and those who hear the words of this prophecy, and keep those things which are written in it; for the time is near.
Revelation 14:13 -Then I heard a voice from heaven saying to me, "Write: 'Blessed are the dead who die in the Lord from now on.' " "Yes," says the Spirit, "that they may rest from their labors, and their works follow them."
Revelation 16:15 - "Behold, I am coming as a thief. Blessed is he who watches, and keeps his garments, lest he walk naked and they see his shame."
Revelation 19:9 - Then he said to me, "Write: 'Blessed are those who are called to the marriage supper of the Lamb!' " And he said to me, "These are the true sayings of God."
Revelation 20:6 - Blessed and holy is he who has part in the first resurrection. Over such the second death has no power, but they shall be priests of God and of Christ, and shall reign with Him a thousand years.
Revelation 22:7 - "Behold, I am coming quickly! Blessed is he who keeps the words of the prophecy of this book."
Revelation 22:14 - Blessed are those who do His commandments, that they may have the right to the tree of life, and may enter through the gates into the city.
(DG) The main intent of prophecy is to lead us to trust and obey God, and apply His truth to the way we live.
By understanding this prophecy correctly we will not get deceived but we can see things in Godly/Heavenly perspective.
What was John's reaction and Angel's response?
8 Now I, John, saw and heard these things. And when I heard and saw, I fell down to worship before the feet of the angel who showed me these things. 9 Then he said to me, "See that you do not do that. For I am your fellow servant, and of your brethren the prophets, and of those who keep the words of this book. Worship God."
What John was doing?
John fell down to worship before the feet of the angel who showed me these things.
Does angel accepted John's worship?
9a Then he said to me, "See that you do not do that.
No, instead the angel requested John not to worship him.
Who is this angel to John and other believers of God?
9b For I am your fellow servant, and of your brethren the prophets, and of those who keep the words of this book.
Angels are believers of God's fellow servant.
Whom angel asked John to worship?
9c Worship God.
Worship only God.
Is it first time John is worshipping the angel?
No, John did the same in Revelation 19 after seeing the praise and worship service in heaven.
Rev 19:10 And I fell at his feet to worship him. But he said to me, "See that you do not do that! I am your fellow servant, and of your brethren who have the testimony of Jesus. Worship God! For the testimony of Jesus is the spirit of prophecy."
Read Warning: Do not worship the Angel or any human being but only God in Revelation 19:10 notes.
Application:
Why John added this in this book instead of just ignoring this?
God convicted or moved them by His Holy Spirit to write these things.
If the Bible hides all the wrong doings of men/women (Adam, Eve, Abraham, Sara, David, Peter, John, Paul,....) then this book is for self righteous people and it teaches hypocrisy.
Same way if we testify only material, physical blessings instead testifying how God rescued from the great fall, wrong doings, bad characters, envy, pride,... then we are hypocrites.
Think for a moment "Why John repeats this action?" Is this behavior any way relates to our practical life?
(JC) I find it interesting that the same thing happened just a couple pages earlier in chapter 19. After he fell down and worshiped an angel, the angel said to John, “See thou do it not.” So how could John worship an angel again? The same way we make the same mistakes and commit the same sins over and over and over again. But the good news is that the Lord taught us to forgive so many times that we lose count (Matthew 18:22). And if He taught us to forgive to that degree, how much more will He
“Oh, Lord, I blew it again,” I cry.
“Again?” He says. “What are you talking about? I don’t remember you blowing it before” (see Hebrews 8:12).
God forgives and forgets our sins
Jeremiah 31:34 - No more shall every man teach his neighbor, and every man his brother, saying, 'Know the Lord,' for they all shall know Me, from the least of them to the greatest of them, says the Lord. For I will forgive their iniquity, and their sin I will remember no more."
Hebrews 8:12 - For I will be merciful to their unrighteousness, and their sins and their lawless deeds I will remember no more."
Hebrews 10:17 - then He adds, "Their sins and their lawless deeds I will remember no more."
Psalm 103:12 - As far as the east is from the west, So far has He removed our transgressions from us.
God never forget our good work/service to our God
Hebrew 6:10 - For God is not unjust to forget your work and labor of love which you have shown toward His name, in that you have ministered to the saints, and do minister.
NLT: Hebrew 6:10 - For God is not unfair. He will not forget how hard you have worked for him and how you have shown your love to him by caring for other Christians, as you still do.
1 Corinthians 15:58 - Therefore, my beloved brethren, be steadfast, immovable, always abounding in the work of the Lord, knowing that your labor is not in vain in the Lord.
NLT: 1 Corinthians 15:58 - So, my dear brothers and sisters, be strong and steady, always enthusiastic about the Lord's work, for you know that nothing you do for the Lord is ever useless.
Galatians 6:9-10 - 9 And let us not grow weary while doing good, for in due season we shall reap if we do not lose heart. 10 Therefore, as we have opportunity, let us do good to all, especially to those who are of the household of faith.
10 And he said to me, "Do not seal 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 be righteous still; he who is holy, let him be holy still." 12 "And behold, I am coming quickly, and My reward is with Me, to give to every one according to his work. 13 I am the Alpha and the Omega, the Beginning and the End, the First and the Last." 14 Blessed are those who do His commandments, that they may have the right to the tree of life, and may enter through the gates into the city. 15 But outside are dogs and sorcerers and sexually immoral and murderers and idolaters, and whoever loves and practices a lie.
Observation:
What did this angel say about this book?
10a And he said to me, "Do not seal the words of the prophecy of this book,
Why did this angel say this?
10b for the time is at hand.
What did this angel say to all of us?
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 be righteous still; he who is holy, let him be holy still."
What is Jesus response to those people?
12 "And behold, I am coming quickly, and My reward is with Me, to give to every one according to his work.
How Jesus knows everyone's life history to reward them?
13 I am the Alpha and the Omega, the Beginning and the End, the First and the Last."
What is the blessing this angel pronounced? Who receives this blessing?
14 Blessed are those who do His commandments, that they may have the right to the tree of life, and may enter through the gates into the city. 15 But outside are dogs and sorcerers and sexually immoral and murderers and idolaters, and whoever loves and practices a lie.
Interpretation:
What did this angel say about this book?
10a And he said to me, "Do not seal the words of the prophecy of this book,
To whom this prophecy was sealed?
God sealed this prophecy for the Old Testament believers of God.
Dan 12:1-4,8,9-13 - 4 "But you, Daniel, shut up the words, and seal the book until the time of the end; many shall run to and fro, and knowledge shall increase.".
... 8 Although I heard, I did not understand. Then I said, "My lord, what shall be the end of these things?" 9 And he said, "Go your way, Daniel, for the words are closed up and sealed till the time of the end.
To whom this prophecy was not sealed?
God revealed this prophecy to the New Testament believers, the Church, believers in Christ or bride of Jesus Christ. Now is the time to read and understand.
(JC) There are preachers, professors, authors, commentators, and sincere brothers and sisters who say, “Don’t read Revelation. It’s too complicated. There are too many interpretations. Seal it up.” But here is a direct command from heaven: “Don’t shut it.” People think Revelation is a hard book to understand.
But if you follow the divine outline given in chapter 1, verse 19, it becomes crystal clear.…
Chapter 1 Jesus resurrected
Chapters 2–3 Church History
Chapters 4–5 The Rapture
Chapters 6–19 The Tribulation
Chapter 20 The Millennium
Chapters 21–22 The new heaven and new earth
This book is to be kept open. And the same holds true for us. When you’re done reading it, don’t say, “Well, that about wraps up the Book of Revelation for the next fourteen years.…” Because this book has a unique blessing attached to it that says, “Blessed are they that hear these words of this prophecy” (see Revelation 1:3), if we seal it up, or put it aside, we will be the poorer for it.
Rev 1:19 - Write the things which you have seen, and the things which are, and the things which will take place after this
Rev 1:3 - Blessed is he who reads and those who hear the words of this prophecy, and keep those things which are written in it; for the time is near.
Rev 22:7 - "Behold, I am coming quickly! Blessed is he who keeps the words of the prophecy of this book."
Read What is Revelation? in Revelation Chapter 1 Introduction for more details.
Why did this angel say this?
10b for the time is at hand.
What is "time is at hand" means?
It is very near, close, reachable. We can see this in following verses:
Matthew 4:17 - From that time Jesus began to preach and to say, "Repent, for the kingdom of heaven is at hand."
Matthew 26:18 - And He said, "Go into the city to a certain man, and say to him, 'The Teacher says, "My time is at hand; I will keep the Passover at your house with My disciples." ' "
Mark 1:15 - and saying, "The time is fulfilled, and the kingdom of God is at hand. Repent, and believe in the gospel."
2 Timothy 4:6 - 5 But you be watchful in all things, endure afflictions, do the work of an evangelist, fulfill your ministry. 6 For I am already being poured out as a drink offering, and the time of my departure is at hand. 7 I have fought the good fight, I have finished the race, I have kept the faith. 8 Finally, there is laid up for me the crown of righteousness, which the Lord, the righteous Judge, will give to me on that Day, and not to me only but also to all who have loved His appearing.
Because Jesus is going to come in the air to take us home, the Great Tribulation is going to come, Jesus is coming back to rule and reign for 1000 years, beware of the Final Judgment or escape Final judgment by believing in Jesus and enter into heaven the everlasting kingdom.
What did this angel say to all of us?
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 be righteous still; he who is holy, let him be holy still."
Why this angel is saying this?
God never force anyone to become believers. He respect everyone's "free will". Otherwise we will become puppets or robots created by God.
God has given capacity to know Him (Rom 1:19), put the eternity in their hearts (Ecc 3:11), placed geographically to seek Him (Acts 17:26-27).
NLT: Rom 1:19 - 18 But God shows his anger from heaven against all sinful, wicked people who push the truth away from themselves. 19 For the truth about God is known to them instinctively. God has put this knowledge in their hearts.
Ecc 3:11 - He has made everything beautiful in its time. Also He has put eternity in their hearts, except that no one can find out the work that God does from beginning to end.
Acts 17:26-27 - 26 And He has made from one blood every nation of men to dwell on all the face of the earth, and has determined their preappointed times and the boundaries of their dwellings, 27 so that they should seek the Lord, in the hope that they might grope for Him and find Him, though He is not far from each one of us;
Jesus through Holy Spirit keeps on trying/knocking gently everyone in this world and providing them every opportunity to bring everyone to His Kingdom.
Rev 3:20 - Behold, I stand at the door and knock. If anyone hears My voice and opens the door, I will come in to him and dine with him, and he with Me.
Matt 25:41-45 - 41 Then He will also say to those on the left hand, 'Depart from Me, you cursed, into the everlasting fire prepared for the devil and his angels: 42 for I was hungry and you gave Me no food; I was thirsty and you gave Me no drink; 43 I was a stranger and you did not take Me in, naked and you did not clothe Me, sick and in prison and you did not visit Me.' 44 Then they also will answer Him, saying, 'Lord, when did we see You hungry or thirsty or a stranger or naked or sick or in prison, and did not minister to You?' 45 Then He will answer them, saying, 'Assuredly, I say to you, inasmuch as you did not do it to one of the least of these, you did not do it to Me.' 46 And these will go away into everlasting punishment, but the righteous into eternal life."
But some ignored those God given opportunities to know Him and they keep on denying Holy Spirit's whisper and eventually in one point they blaspheme the Holy Spirit. When they blasphemes the Holy Spirit then God will not forgive them as said in Luke 12:10 but grand them to go as per their desire as given in Romans 1:28.
Luke 12:10 - And anyone who speaks a word against the Son of Man, it will be forgiven him; but to him who blasphemes against the Holy Spirit, it will not be forgiven.
NLT: Rom 1:28 - 18 But God shows his anger from heaven against all sinful, wicked people who push the truth away from themselves. 19 For the truth about God is known to them instinctively. God has put this knowledge in their hearts. 20 From the time the world was created, people have seen the earth and sky and all that God made. They can clearly see his invisible qualities -- his eternal power and divine nature. So they have no excuse whatsoever for not knowing God. 21 Yes, they knew God, but they wouldn't worship him as God or even give him thanks. And they began to think up foolish ideas of what God was like. The result was that their minds became dark and confused. 22 Claiming to be wise, they became utter fools instead. 23 And instead of worshiping the glorious, ever-living God, they worshiped idols made to look like mere people, or birds and animals and snakes. 24 So God let them go ahead and do whatever shameful things their hearts desired. As a result, they did vile and degrading things with each other's bodies. 25 Instead of believing what they knew was the truth about God, they deliberately chose to believe lies. So they worshiped the things God made but not the Creator himself, who is to be praised forever. Amen. 26 That is why God abandoned them to their shameful desires. Even the women turned against the natural way to have sex and instead indulged in sex with each other. 27 And the men, instead of having normal sexual relationships with women, burned with lust for each other. Men did shameful things with other men and, as a result, suffered within themselves the penalty they so richly deserved. 28 When they refused to acknowledge God, he abandoned them to their evil minds and let them do things that should never be done. 29 Their lives became full of every kind of wickedness, sin, greed, hate, envy, murder, fighting, deception, malicious behavior, and gossip. 30 They are backstabbers, haters of God, insolent, proud, and boastful. They are forever inventing new ways of sinning and are disobedient to their parents. 31 They refuse to understand, break their promises, and are heartless and unforgiving. 32 They are fully aware of God's death penalty for those who do these things, yet they go right ahead and do them anyway. And, worse yet, they encourage others to do them, too
Jer 17:10 - I, the Lord, search the heart, I test the mind, Even to give every man according to his ways, According to the fruit of his doings.
(JC) If you choose to be unjust after reading this prophecy, be unjust still. If you choose to be filthy after reading this prophecy, be filthy still. In other words, if you cannot be convinced of the truth of the Word by the revelation of Jesus Christ and the fulfilling of Bible prophecy, what could possibly convince you? After reading this book, you have no other logical option, no other rational recourse than to say, “Jesus is Lord, and I’m going to live for His kingdom.”
Does this suggest that God does not want men to repent and change their ways? or
Does this suggest that we do not want to spread the Gospel?
Rom 10:13-15 - 13 For "whoever calls on the name of the Lord shall be saved." 14 How then shall they call on Him in whom they have not believed? And how shall they believe in Him of whom they have not heard? And how shall they hear without a preacher? 15 And how shall they preach unless they are sent? As it is written: "How beautiful are the feet of those who preach the gospel of peace, Who bring glad tidings of good things!"
(WW) No, because that would be contrary to the message of Revelation and of the Gospel itself. The angel's words must be understood in light of the repeated statement, "Behold, I come quickly" (Rev. 22:7, 12), as well as his statement, "For the time is at hand" (Rev. 22:10). Jesus Christ's coming will occur so quickly that men will not have time to change their characters.
Revelation 22:11, therefore, is a solemn warning that decision determines character, and character determines destiny.
What is Jesus response to those people?
12 "And behold, I am coming quickly, and My reward is with Me, to give to every one according to his work.
Jesus is coming quickly/suddenly.
Read Who is coming quickly? from Rev 22:7 notes.
Read Why does it seem that it has been so long? Was Jesus wrong here? from Rev 22:7 notes.
Warning: (WW) All of them have been embarrassed, of course, because it is unbiblical to set dates for His coming. It is also unbiblical to become careless and lazy just because we believe Jesus is coming soon. Paul faced this problem with some of the believers in Thessalonica (2 Thes. 3).
Why this is repeated?
Because it is very very important and true/real.
Why Jesus is coming quickly?
12b and My reward is with Me, to give to every one according to his work.
How Jesus will reward believer and non-believers?
God reward believers for their good work, service to God, or the work they did as per the leading of the Holy Spirit. Because God no more remembers their sins but remembers their good works.
God forgives and forgets believer's sins
Jeremiah 31:34 - No more shall every man teach his neighbor, and every man his brother, saying, 'Know the Lord,' for they all shall know Me, from the least of them to the greatest of them, says the Lord. For I will forgive their iniquity, and their sin I will remember no more."
Hebrews 8:12 - For I will be merciful to their unrighteousness, and their sins and their lawless deeds I will remember no more."
Hebrews 10:17 - then He adds, "Their sins and their lawless deeds I will remember no more."
Psalm 103:12 - As far as the east is from the west, So far has He removed our transgressions from us.
God never forget believer's good work/service to God
Hebrew 6:10 - For God is not unjust to forget your work and labor of love which you have shown toward His name, in that you have ministered to the saints, and do minister.
NLT: Hebrew 6:10 - For God is not unfair. He will not forget how hard you have worked for him and how you have shown your love to him by caring for other Christians, as you still do.
1 Corinthians 15:58 - Therefore, my beloved brethren, be steadfast, immovable, always abounding in the work of the Lord, knowing that your labor is not in vain in the Lord.
NLT: 1 Corinthians 15:58 - So, my dear brothers and sisters, be strong and steady, always enthusiastic about the Lord's work, for you know that nothing you do for the Lord is ever useless.
Galatians 6:9-10 - 9 And let us not grow weary while doing good, for in due season we shall reap if we do not lose heart. 10 Therefore, as we have opportunity, let us do good to all, especially to those who are of the household of faith.
God reward (everlasting punishment) non-believers for their sins. All non-believers deeds/works/sins are written in the book.
Rev 20:12 - And I saw the dead, small and great, standing before God, and books were opened. And another book was opened, which is the Book of Life. And the dead were judged according to their works, by the things which were written in the books.
Read Rev 20:11-15 notes
Rev 11:18 - The nations were angry, and Your wrath has come, And the time of the dead, that they should be judged, And that You should reward Your servants the prophets and the saints, And those who fear Your name, small and great, And should destroy those who destroy the earth."
Read Rev 11:18 notes.
For detail study about future Judgment and Rewards read Believer Vs Non-Believer Judgments OR Bema Seat Vs White Throne Judgments
Application: Are you eagerly looking for His coming?
(WW) If we really believe that Jesus is coming soon, we will watch and be faithful (Luke 12:35).
"My reward is with Me" implies that God is mindful of our sufferings and our service, and nothing will ever be done in vain if it is done for Him. At the Judgment Seat of Christ, believers will be judged according to their works; and rewards will be given to those who have been faithful.
Throughout church history, there have been those who have (to use Dwight L. Moody's words) become "so heavenly minded that they were no earthly good." They quit their jobs, sold their property, and sat and waited for Jesus to return.
Suffering believers might ask. "Is it worth it to live a godly life?" John's reply is, "Yes! Jesus is returning, and He will reward you!" Next comes John's second admonition.
How Jesus knows everyone's life history to reward them?
13 I am the Alpha and the Omega, the Beginning and the End, the First and the Last."
Rev 1:8 - "I am the Alpha and the Omega, the Beginning and the End," says the Lord, "who is and who was and who is to come, the Almighty."
Rev 1:11 - saying, "I am the Alpha and the Omega, the First and the Last," and, "What you see, write in a book and send it to the seven churches which are in Asia: to Ephesus, to Smyrna, to Pergamos, to Thyatira, to Sardis, to Philadelphia, and to Laodicea."
Rev 21:6 - And He said to me, "It is done! I am the Alpha and the Omega, the Beginning and the End. I will give of the fountain of the water of life freely to him who thirsts.
Read Rev 1:8 for in depth detail about these attributes of Jesus.
Which one of these attributes referred to our God the father in Old Testament? (Is 41:4)
Why the above titles are very important? (Proves that Jesus is God)
Application:
Heb 12:2 - looking unto Jesus, the author and finisher of our faith, who for the joy that was set before Him endured the cross, despising the shame, and has sat down at the right hand of the throne of God.
(WW) This is a great encouragement to anyone who seeks to serve the Lord. Whatever God starts, He will finish; for He is the Alpha and Omega, the beginning and the ending, the first and the last (see Phil. 1:6; 2:12-13).
Phil. 1:6 - being confident of this very thing, that He who has begun a good work in you will complete it until the day of Jesus Christ
Phil 2:12-13 - 12 Therefore, my beloved, as you have always obeyed, not as in my presence only, but now much more in my absence, work out your own salvation with fear and trembling; 13 for it is God who works in you both to will and to do for His good pleasure.
What is the blessing this angel pronounced? Who receives this blessing?
14 Blessed are those who do His commandments, that they may have the right to the tree of life, and may enter through the gates into the city. 15 But outside are dogs and sorcerers and sexually immoral and murderers and idolaters, and whoever loves and practices a lie.
Who is blessed? When they will be blessed?
14a Blessed are those who do His commandments
What blessings they will receive when they do/obey His commandments?
14b that they may have the right to the tree of life, and may enter through the gates into the city.
Who will not receive these blessings? Why?
15 But outside are dogs and sorcerers and sexually immoral and murderers and idolaters, and whoever loves and practices a lie.
What is "outside" here refers to?
(Mounce) We shouldn’t think that outside the walls of heaven multitudes will throng, longing to get in. “The verse does not intend to teach that in the eternal state all manner of wicked men will be living just outside the heavenly city. It simply describes the future with the imagery of the present.”
They all in Lake of Fire or Hell:
Rev 21:8 - But the cowardly, unbelieving, abominable, murderers, sexually immoral, sorcerers, idolaters, and all liars shall have their part in the lake which burns with fire and brimstone, which is the second death."
Rev 21:27 - But there shall by no means enter it anything that defiles, or causes an abomination or a lie, but only those who are written in the Lamb's Book of Life.
Who is "dog" here refers to?
(Robertson) No, what is meant here is “Not literal dogs, but the morally impure . . . Dogs in the Oriental cities are scavengers and excite unspeakable contempt (Matthew 7:6; Philippians 3:2).”
Mat 7:6 - Do not give what is holy to the dogs; nor cast your pearls before swine, lest they trample them under their feet, and turn and tear you in pieces.
NLT: Mat 7:6 - "Don't give what is holy to unholy people. Don't give pearls to swine! They will trample the pearls, then turn and attack you.
Jews/Israelites call Gentiles as dog. (To Jesus Gentiles are not a Jew or not become the believer of God by circumcising).
Matt 15:26-27 - 22 And behold, a woman of Canaan came from that region and cried out to Him, saying, "Have mercy on me, O Lord, Son of David! My daughter is severely demon-possessed." 23 But He answered her not a word. And His disciples came and urged Him, saying, "Send her away, for she cries out after us." 24 But He answered and said, "I was not sent except to the lost sheep of the house of Israel." 25 Then she came and worshiped Him, saying, "Lord, help me!" 26 But He answered and said, "It is not good to take the children's bread and throw it to the little dogs." 27 And she said, "Yes, Lord, yet even the little dogs eat the crumbs which fall from their masters' table." 28 Then Jesus answered and said to her, "O woman, great is your faith! Let it be to you as you desire." And her daughter was healed from that very hour
(JC) The word “dogs” refers to legalists/ritualistic who follow behind Paul and ask the new believers to circumcise.
Phil 3:2 - 2 Beware of dogs, beware of evil workers, beware of the mutilation! 3 For we are the circumcision, who worship God in the Spirit, rejoice in Christ Jesus, and have no confidence in the flesh
(JC) The Greek word translated “sorcerers” is literally “drug-takers.”
Is this a final blessing of all seven blessings given in the book of Revelation?
Yes.
Read List all Blessings in the Book of Revelation for more blessings.
What is His commandments?
All moral laws and Ten commandments in Old Testament are still valid. Jesus explained most of these in Matthew and other Gospels.
These are summarized in Greatest commandments
Matt 22:37-40 - 37 Jesus said to him, "'You shall love the Lord your God with all your heart, with all your soul, and with all your mind.' 38 This is the first and great commandment. 39 And the second is like it: 'You shall love your neighbor as yourself.' 40 On these two commandments hang all the Law and the Prophets."
Application:
Does the final blessing means that anyone who just obey His commandments go to heaven?
Sure if they do 100% perfectly they can go to heaven but if they fail in one commandment then they will go to Hell.
James 2:10 - For whoever shall keep the whole law, and yet stumble in one point, he is guilty of all.
Rom 3:20 - Therefore by the deeds of the law no flesh will be justified in His sight, for by the law is the knowledge of sin.
Gal 3:11-12 - 11 But that no one is justified by the law in the sight of God is evident, for "the just shall live by faith." 12 Yet the law is not of faith, but "the man who does them shall live by them."
NLT: Gal 3:11-12 - 11 Consequently, it is clear that no one can ever be right with God by trying to keep the law. For the Scriptures say, "It is through faith that a righteous person has life." 12 How different from this way of faith is the way of law, which says, "If you wish to find life by obeying the law, you must obey all of its commands."
So that Jesus open up unique and only way to heaven is through Him.
Matt 19:26 - 25 When His disciples heard it, they were greatly astonished, saying, "Who then can be saved?" 26 But Jesus looked at them and said to them, "With men this is impossible, but with God all things are possible."
John 6: 28,29 - 28 Then they said to Him, "What shall we do, that we may work the works of God?" 29 Jesus answered and said to them, "This is the work of God, that you believe in Him whom He sent."
Rom 3:21 - 20 Therefore by the deeds of the law no flesh will be justified in His sight, for by the law is the knowledge of sin. 21 But now the righteousness of God apart from the law is revealed, being witnessed by the Law and the Prophets, 22 even the righteousness of God, through faith in Jesus Christ, to all and on all who believe. For there is no difference;
John 14:6 - Jesus said to him, "I am the way, the truth, and the life. No one comes to the Father except through Me.
(JC) “What must we do to do the works of God?” the multitude asked Jesus.
“You’re asking about works,” Jesus answered, “but this is the singular work: That you believe on Him whom the Father hath sent” (see John 6:28, 29).
People make following the Lord so complicated. “You gotta do this,” they say, “and keep away from that. Wear these clothes and don’t eat those foods.” But that’s not what Scripture teaches.…
Nine simple words is all it took for a death-row thief to enter the kingdom: “Lord, remember me when You come into Your kingdom” (see Luke 23:42, 43).
But it’s even simpler than that. Peter expressed the same thing in only three words: “Lord, save me” (Matthew 14:30).
But it’s even simpler than that. Only one word is necessary to assure an eternity in heaven: “Lord” (Romans 10:9).
So salvation is gift from God to those who come to Him by faith/believing in Jesus.
Eph 2:8-10 - 8 For by grace you have been saved through faith, and that not of yourselves; it is the gift of God, 9 not of works, lest anyone should boast. 10 For we are His workmanship, created in Christ Jesus for good works, which God prepared beforehand that we should walk in them.
Is it ok to to ignore the commandments if we are saved by faith?
That is why the faith what Bible talks about is the genuine Faith that produces work/fruit.
James 2:26 - For as the body without the spirit is dead, so faith without works is dead also.
Titus 3:8 - This is a faithful saying, and these things I want you to affirm constantly, that those who have believed in God should be careful to maintain good works. These things are good and profitable to men.
Exodus 20:6 - 3 You shall have no other gods before Me. 4 "You shall not make for yourself a carved image, or any likeness of anything that is in heaven above, or that is in the earth beneath, or that is in the water under the earth; 5 you shall not bow down to them nor serve them. For I, the Lord your God, am a jealous God, visiting the iniquity of the fathers on the children to the third and fourth generations of those who hate Me, 6 but showing mercy to thousands, to those who love Me and keep My commandments.
John 14:15 - "If you love Me, keep My commandments.
John 14:21 - He who has My commandments and keeps them, it is he who loves Me. And he who loves Me will be loved by My Father, and I will love him and manifest Myself to him."
John 15:10 - If you keep My commandments, you will abide in My love, just as I have kept My Father's commandments and abide in His love.
(WW) The contrast here is between those who do God's commandments and enter the city, and those who reject His Word and are excluded from the city (see Rev. 21:8, 27).
It is not likely that those who "do His commandments" are a special or an elite group of saints.
The phrase is similar to "them that overcome" and characterizes all the people of God.
Obedience to God's Word is a mark of true salvation.
Do we need to keep a check list of "Dos" and "Don'ts"?
Absolutely No.
Col 20-23 - 20 Therefore, if you died with Christ from the basic principles of the world, why, as though living in the world, do you subject yourselves to regulations-- 21 "Do not touch, do not taste, do not handle," 22 which all concern things which perish with the using--according to the commandments and doctrines of men? 23 These things indeed have an appearance of wisdom in self-imposed religion, false humility, and neglect of the body, but are of no value against the indulgence of the flesh.
In what way Newt Testament believers (bride/believers of Christ) differ from the Old Testament believers (bride/believers of God) in keeping/obeying the commandments? or How to obey His commandments?
Newt Testament believers (bride/believers of Christ) has been given Holy Spirit the day believe or born-again in Jesus Christ.
John 16:13-15 - 13 However, when He, the Spirit of truth, has come, He will guide you into all truth; for He will not speak on His own authority, but whatever He hears He will speak; and He will tell you things to come. 14 He will glorify Me, for He will take of what is Mine and declare it to you. 15 All things that the Father has are Mine. Therefore I said that He will take of Mine and declare it to you.
1 John 2:27 - But the anointing which you have received from Him abides in you, and you do not need that anyone teach you; but as the same anointing teaches you concerning all things, and is true, and is not a lie, and just as it has taught you, you will abide in Him.
How do you know that you received the God's Holy Spirit? or How to receive/experience God's Love?
When God pours out His Holy Spirit then we will experience God's Love and peace that surpasses all understanding.
Rom 5:5 - Now hope does not disappoint, because the love of God has been poured out in our hearts by the Holy Spirit who was given to us.
What one main thing the Love of does to us?
Jesus Love compels us to obey His commandments.
2 Cor 5:14 - For the love of Christ compels us, because we judge thus: that if One died for all, then all died; 15 and He died for all, that those who live should live no longer for themselves, but for Him who died for them and rose again.
Love Him back.
Mat 22:37 - 37 Jesus said to him, "'You shall love the Lord your God with all your heart, with all your soul, and with all your mind.' 38 This is the first and great commandment.
1 John 4:19 - We love Him because He first loved us.
Love your neighbors.
Mat 22:39 - And the second is like it: 'You shall love your neighbor as yourself.'
All true believers in Christ are given Holy Spirit when they day the accepted Jesus Christ as their personal Savior. So, if we follow the leading of the Holy Spirit then we will produce the fruit of the Holy Spirit and fulfill all His commandments.
Gal 5:22-25 - 22 But the fruit of the Spirit is love, joy, peace, longsuffering, kindness, goodness, faithfulness, 23 gentleness, self-control. Against such there is no law. 24 And those who are Christ's have crucified the flesh with its passions and desires. 25 If we live in the Spirit, let us also walk in the Spirit.
Therefore just by obeying the commandments mechanically or ritually as the Pharisees did during the time of Jesus 1st coming no one can enter the heaven. But
Put our genuine faith in Jesus Christ
Invite Him into our heart.
Experience the Love of God by the power of His presence in our heart through His Holy Spirit.
Love Him back by obeying God as per the leading of His Holy Spirit.
Continue in this Faith by abiding in Him and stay in the Love relationship. Then you will not doubt your salvation but God will lead you, guide you, accomplish great things through you.
16 "I, Jesus, have sent My angel to testify to you these things in the churches. I am the Root and the Offspring of David, the Bright and Morning Star." 17 And the Spirit and the bride say, "Come!" And let him who hears say, "Come!" And let him who thirsts come. Whoever desires, let him take the water of life freely. 18 For I testify to everyone who hears the words of the prophecy of this book: If anyone adds to these things, God will add to him the plagues that are written in this book; 19 and if anyone takes away from the words of the book of this prophecy, God shall take away his part from the Book of Life, from the holy city, and from the things which are written in this book. 20 He who testifies to these things says, "Surely I am coming quickly." Amen. Even so, come, Lord Jesus! 21 The grace of our Lord Jesus Christ be with you all. Amen.
Observation:
Who did Jesus send? Why?
16a "I, Jesus, have sent My angel to testify to you these things in the churches.
What titles Jesus attributing to Himself?
16b I am the Root and the Offspring of David, the Bright and Morning Star."
Who are all saying "come"?
17a And the Spirit and the bride say, "Come!" And let him who hears say, "Come!"
Who are all can come to Jesus? Why Jesus calling them?
17b And let him who thirsts come. Whoever desires, let him take the water of life freely.
What is the warning given to all of us?
18 For I testify to everyone who hears the words of the prophecy of this book: If anyone adds to these things, God will add to him the plagues that are written in this book; 19 and if anyone takes away from the words of the book of this prophecy, God shall take away his part from the Book of Life, from the holy city, and from the things which are written in this book.
What more Jesus is saying?
20a He who testifies to these things says, "Surely I am coming quickly."
What is John's response?
20b Amen. Even so, come, Lord Jesus!
How John Ends this book? (Benediction)
21 The grace of our Lord Jesus Christ be with you all. Amen.
Interpretation:
Who did Jesus send? Why?
16a "I, Jesus, have sent My angel to testify to you these things in the churches.
To whom these prophecy has to be testified?
16a "I, Jesus, have sent My angel to testify to you these things in the churches.
This verse clearly says that this prophecy is to testified to the all churches but not particular to the 7 churches in the history. Also at the end of each message to the church it ends with churches in Revelation chapter 2 and 3.
Rev 2:7 - He who has an ear, let him hear what the Spirit says to the churches. To him who overcomes I will give to eat from the tree of life, which is in the midst of the Paradise of God." '
Rev 2:11 He who has an ear, let him hear what the Spirit says to the churches. He who overcomes shall not be hurt by the second death." '
Rev 2:17 - He who has an ear, let him hear what the Spirit says to the churches. To him who overcomes I will give some of the hidden manna to eat. And I will give him a white stone, and on the stone a new name written which no one knows except him who receives it." '
Rev 2:29 - He who has an ear, let him hear what the Spirit says to the churches." '
Rev 3:6 - He who has an ear, let him hear what the Spirit says to the churches." '
Rev 3:13 - He who has an ear, let him hear what the Spirit says to the churches." '
Rev 3:22 - He who has an ear, let him hear what the Spirit says to the churches." ' "
(DG) This book is not a private affair, knowable only by an elite - it is for all believers.
Because Jesus is the author of this book as well as entire Bible.
What did this angel testifies to the churches?
This angel has testified all these in 22 chapters of the book of Revelation.
(DG) With these solemn words, Jesus authenticates the entire book. Much of the Book of Revelation is either fantastic or seems too good to be true, but it is all true.
Application: Is your church teaching book of Revelation?
What titles Jesus attributing to Himself?
16b I am the Root and the Offspring of David, the Bright and Morning Star."
How is it possible that David is root and the offspring of David?
Because Jesus is God and existed before He created this earth. In fact Jesus created this earth, Adam and Eve so Jesus is the root of David. Jesus was also called as the Root of David in Rev 5:5.
Rev 5:5 - But one of the elders said to me, "Do not weep. Behold, the Lion of the tribe of Judah, the Root of David, has prevailed to open the scroll and to loose its seven seals."
For this reason David called Jesus as Lord:
Matt 22:41-46 - 41 While the Pharisees were gathered together, Jesus asked them, 42 saying, "What do you think about the Christ? Whose Son is He?" They said to Him, "The Son of David." 43 He said to them, "How then does David in the Spirit call Him 'Lord,' saying: 44 'The Lord said to my Lord, "Sit at My right hand, Till I make Your enemies Your footstool" '? 45 "If David then calls Him 'Lord,' how is He his Son?" 46 And no one was able to answer Him a word, nor from that day on did anyone dare question Him anymore.
Even though Jesus is God He humbled Himself and came to this earth as a descended (offspring) of David through Mary and Joseph.
(WW) As "the Root ... of David,' Jesus Christ brought David into existence. As "the Offspring of David," Jesus came into this world, born a Jew from David's line. Both the deity and the humanity of Jesus are evident here.
(DG) This is a precious Messianic title (Isaiah 11:1). It shows that Jesus is both the Creator of King David and His descendent. Jesus spoke to this same idea in Matthew 22:41-46.
Is 11:1 - There shall come forth a Rod from the stem of Jesse, And a Branch shall grow out of his roots.
Why Jesus is called the bright morning star?
The idea of a “bright morning star” is a star that outshines all the others. Jesus, as God incarnate, the Lord of the universe, is THE bright and morning star. Jesus is the most holy and powerful “light” in all the universe. That is why Jesus is the light of the world (John 9:5).
John 9:5 - As long as I am in the world, I am the light of the world."
2 Peter 1:19 - And so we have the prophetic word confirmed, which you do well to heed as a light that shines in a dark place, until the day dawns and the morning star rises in your hearts;
(DG) This is another Messianic title from the Old Testament (Numbers 24:17) and the New Testament (Revelation 2:28). Just as the Morning Star (generally held to be the planet Venus) shines and welcomes the new day, so does Jesus.
Numbers 24:17 - "I see Him, but not now; I behold Him, but not near; A Star shall come out of Jacob; A Scepter shall rise out of Israel, And batter the brow of Moab, And destroy all the sons of tumult.
(Walvoord) “Christ, as the morning star, heralds the coming day in His role as the One who comes for the church in the rapture.”
(WW) The "morning star" announces dawn's soon arrival. Jesus Christ will come for His church as "the Morning Star." But when He returns to judge, it will be as "the Sun of righteousness" in burning fury (Mal. 4:1-3).
Malachi 4:2 - 1 "For behold, the day is coming, Burning like an oven, And all the proud, yes, all who do wickedly will be stubble. And the day which is coming shall burn them up," Says the Lord of hosts, "That will leave them neither root nor branch. 2 But to you who fear My name The Sun of Righteousness shall arise With healing in His wings; And you shall go out And grow fat like stall-fed calves. 3 You shall trample the wicked, For they shall be ashes under the soles of your feet On the day that I do this," Says the Lord of hosts.
(WW) The "root" is buried in the ground where no one can see it, but the "star" is in the heavens where everyone can see it. In "the Root and Offspring of David" we have Jesus' Jewish, national name, but in "the Bright and Morning Star" we have His universal name. One speaks of humility, the other of majesty and glory.
Is there anyone else called as the Morning star other than Jesus?
Satan has another title during fall is Lucifer which means morning star, shining star, star of the morning or light-bearer. Only referred in Isaiah 14:12.
Is 14:12 - 12 "How you are fallen from heaven, O Lucifer, son of the morning! How you are cut down to the ground, You who weakened the nations! 13 For you have said in your heart: 'I will ascend into heaven, I will exalt my throne above the stars of God; I will also sit on the mount of the congregation On the farthest sides of the north; 14 I will ascend above the heights of the clouds, I will be like the Most High.' 15 Yet you shall be brought down to Sheol, To the lowest depths of the Pit. 16 "Those who see you will gaze at you, And consider you, saying: 'Is this the man who made the earth tremble, Who shook kingdoms, 17 Who made the world as a wilderness And destroyed its cities, Who did not open the house of his prisoners?'
NIV: Is 14:12 - How you have fallen from heaven, O morning star, son of the dawn! You have been cast down to the earth, you who once laid low the nations!
NAS: Is 14:12 - "How you have fallen from heaven, O star of the morning, son of the dawn ! You have been cut down to the earth, You who have weakened the nations !
NLT: Is 14:12 - "How you are fallen from heaven, O shining star,, son of the morning! You have been thrown down to the earth, you who destroyed the nations of the world.
Why are both Jesus and Satan called/described as the “morning star”?
(Taken from http://www.gotquestions.org/morning-star.html)
It is interesting to note that the concept of the “morning star” is not the only concept that is applied to both Jesus and Satan. In Revelation 5:5, Jesus is referred to as the Lion of the tribe of Judah. In 1 Peter 5:8, Satan is compared to a lion, seeking someone to devour. The point is this, both Jesus and Satan, to a certain extent, have similarities to lions. Jesus is similar to a lion in that He is the King, He is royal and majestic. Satan is similar to a lion in that he seeks to devour other creatures. That is where the similarities between Jesus, Satan, and lions end, however. Jesus and Satan are like lions in very different ways.
The idea of a “bright morning star” is a star that outshines all the others. Satan, as perhaps the most beautiful creation of God, probably the most powerful of all the angels, was a bright morning star. Jesus, as God incarnate, the Lord of the universe, is THE bright and morning star. Jesus is the most holy and powerful “light” in all the universe. So, while both Jesus and Satan can be described as “bright morning stars,” in no sense is this equating Jesus and Satan. Satan is a created being. His light only exists to the extent that God created it. Jesus is the light of the world (John 9:5). Only Jesus’ light is self-existent. Satan may be a bright morning star, but he is only a poor imitation of the one true bright morning star, Jesus Christ, the light of the world.
Is there anyone else in future shines like this Morning start? or Who receives the Morning star reward?
Rev 2:28 - 24 Now to you I say, and to the rest in Thyatira, as many as do not have this doctrine, who have not known the depths of Satan, as they say, I will put on you no other burden. 25 But hold fast what you have till I come. 26 And he who overcomes, and keeps My works until the end, to him I will give power over the nations-- 27 'He shall rule them with a rod of iron; They shall be dashed to pieces like the potter's vessels'-- as I also have received from My Father; 28 and I will give him the morning star. 29 He who has an ear, let him hear what the Spirit says to the churches." '
Who are all can come to Jesus? Why Jesus calling them?
17b And let him who thirsts come. Whoever desires, let him take the water of life freely.
What is water of life? From when this water of life available?
Water of life means the Holy Spirit.
The Holy Spirit was available from the day Jesus was glorified in heaven after His death and resurrection.
John 7:37-39 - 37 On the last day, that great day of the feast, Jesus stood and cried out, saying, "If anyone thirsts, let him come to Me and drink. 38 He who believes in Me, as the Scripture has said, out of his heart will flow rivers of living water." 39 But this He spoke concerning the Spirit, whom those believing in Him would receive; for the Holy Spirit was not yet given, because Jesus was not yet glorified.
How much we need to pay to receive the water of life?
Nothing.
The Holy Spirit is available freely to all.
Who can receive the water of life?
Anyone who is thirsty or has desire can receive the Holy Spirit by believing in Jesus Christ.
(DG) Anyone who desires salvation in Jesus Christ can come to Him and take the water of life freely.
“I don’t understand all the Christian doctrine and theology” - come anyway, because it doesn’t say whoever understands, let him take the water of life freely.
“I can’t repent the way that I should. My heart is hard and I can’t even weep over my sins or feel bad over them as I should” - come anyway, because it doesn’t say whoever feels, let him take the water of life freely.
“I don’t know if I can live the Christian life the way that I should” - come anyway, because it doesn’t say whoever can, let him take the water of life freely.
“I don’t know if I am worthy to live the Christian life” - come anyway, because it doesn’t say whoever is worthy, let him take the water of life freely.
(Spurgeon) “But mark thee, sinner, it says, ‘whosoever.’ What a big word that is! Whosoever! There is no standard height here. It is of any height and any size. Little sinners, big sinners, black sinners, fair sinners, sinners double dyed, old sinners, aggravated sinners, sinners who have committed every crime in the whole catalogue, - whosoever.”
It is really this simple: do you desire Jesus and His salvation? Then come. Can you say, “Now, Lord, I desire to be saved, give me a new heart; I desire to give up my sins; I desire to be a Christian; I desire to believe and desire to obey. But I have no strength to do this. I have the desire, give me the power.” If this is your desire, then you are freely invited to come, if you are only willing. There is no barrier between you and Jesus except your stubborn will.
Just come to Jesus whatever the state you are in. He is there always to cleanse us by His blood.
Following famous song clearly explains this:
Just as I am, without one plea (an appeal or a plea for mercy),
But that Thy blood was shed for me,
And that Thou bidst (invite) me come to Thee,
O Lamb of God, I come, I come.
(Walvoord) “A similar invitation is extended in Isaiah 55:1. The invitation to come is an urgent command, for the day will arrive when it is too late to come. Now is the day of grace. The hour of judgment is impending.”
Isaiah 1:18 - "Come now, and let us reason together," Says the Lord, "Though your sins are like scarlet, They shall be as white as snow; Though they are red like crimson, They shall be as wool.
Isaiah 55:1 - 1 "Ho! Everyone who thirsts, Come to the waters; And you who have no money, Come, buy and eat. Yes, come, buy wine and milk Without money and without price. 2 Why do you spend money for what is not bread, And your wages for what does not satisfy? Listen carefully to Me, and eat what is good, And let your soul delight itself in abundance. 3 Incline your ear, and come to Me. Hear, and your soul shall live; And I will make an everlasting covenant with you-- The sure mercies of David.
Matthew 11:28 - Come to Me, all you who labor and are heavy laden, and I will give you rest.
Mark 10:14 - But when Jesus saw it, He was greatly displeased and said to them, "Let the little children come to Me, and do not forbid them; for of such is the kingdom of God.
(Spurgeon) It is fitting that this great invitation closes the Book of Revelation and the Bible. “All the prophets of the Bible, all the apostles of the Bible, all the threatenings of the Bible, all the promises of the Bible, gather themselves up, and focus themselves into this one burning ray, ‘Come to Jesus. Come, and take the water of life freely.’”
What way Christianity differ from other world religion?
(DG) All of this world’s religion can be summed up in the idea that you must bring something to give unto the gods. The essence of Christianity is summed up in the idea that God invites us to take the water of life freely. You can’t bring anything to save or justify or commend yourself before God, but you can take the salvation He offers.
Application/Warning: (DG) This is an open invitation to receive salvation from Jesus. He will not exclude anyone who comes to Him. An invitation is both an opportunity and a responsibility. If we decline an invitation, we have only ourselves to blame.
Who are all saying "come"?
17a And the Spirit and the bride say, "Come!" And let him who hears say, "Come!"
God's Spirit and the believers in Christ are saying Come.
We can notice the same in John's response to Jesus assurance in Rev 22:20b.
Rev 22:20 - He who testifies to these things says, "Surely I am coming quickly." Amen. Even so, come, Lord Jesus!
Why they are calling Jesus to come?
Because ...
Their thirst is quenched by His Holy Spirit.
(WW) The bride wants to meet her Bridegroom and enter into her home.
They believe in Jesus and received His Holy Spirit freely and want to see Him face to face and be with Him always.
Rev 21:4-6 - 4 And God will wipe away every tear from their eyes; there shall be no more death, nor sorrow, nor crying. There shall be no more pain, for the former things have passed away." 5 Then He who sat on the throne said, "Behold, I make all things new." And He said to me, "Write, for these words are true and faithful. 6 And He said to me, "It is done! I am the Alpha and the Omega, the Beginning and the End. I will give of the fountain of the water of life freely to him who thirsts.7 He who overcomes shall inherit all things, and I will be his God and he shall be My son.
Rev 22:4 - They shall see His face, and His name shall be on their foreheads.
This is the reason Paul said this...
NLT: 2 Cor 5:2,4,8 - 1 For we know that when this earthly tent we live in is taken down -- when we die and leave these bodies -- we will have a home in heaven, an eternal body made for us by God himself and not by human hands. 2 We grow weary in our present bodies, and we long for the day when we will put on our heavenly bodies like new clothing. 3 For we will not be spirits without bodies, but we will put on new heavenly bodies. 4 Our dying bodies make us groan and sigh, but it's not that we want to die and have no bodies at all. We want to slip into our new bodies so that these dying bodies will be swallowed up by everlasting life. 5 God himself has prepared us for this, and as a guarantee he has given us his Holy Spirit. 6 So we are always confident, even though we know that as long as we live in these bodies we are not at home with the Lord. 7 That is why we live by believing and not by seeing. 8 Yes, we are fully confident, and we would rather be away from these bodies, for then we will be at home with the Lord.
What is the warning given to all of us?
18 For I testify to everyone who hears the words of the prophecy of this book: If anyone adds to these things, God will add to him the plagues that are written in this book; 19 and if anyone takes away from the words of the book of this prophecy, God shall take away his part from the Book of Life, from the holy city, and from the things which are written in this book.
When was this book written by John?
95 – 96 AD. During Roman Emperor Domitian reign (AD 81 – 96) (after Nero’s reign).
Read Revelation Introduction in chapter 1 notes.
Is this chronologically last book written among all New Testament books?
Yes. Chronologically Revelation is the last book written by John.
Does this warning applies only to this book of Revelation or entire books in the Bible?
This warning may seems like specific to this book but in general it applies to all the books in the Bible.
Even though not all the books in the Bible are ordered chronologically but God specifically reveled this prophecy lastly and kept this book at the end all books in the Bible.
Why God reveled this prophecy lastly and kept this book at the end all books in the Bible?
God did this because He do not want anyone to add any new Bible books or prophecy after this.
(Poole) “Divines generally do further extend the sense of these two verses, considering this as the last portion of holy writ, not only placed last in our Bibles, but revealed and written last. They conceive these verses the seal of all canonical Scripture, and that God here denounces a curse to those who shall pretend any new revelations of his will . . . as also against all those who shall deny, corrupt, or deprave any part of them.”
2 Tim 3:16 - 16 All Scripture is given by inspiration of God, and is profitable for doctrine, for reproof, for correction, for instruction in righteousness, 17 that the man of God may be complete, thoroughly equipped for every good work.
2 Peter 1:20-21 - 20 knowing this first, that no prophecy of Scripture is of any private interpretation, 21 for prophecy never came by the will of man, but holy men of God spoke as they were moved by the Holy Spirit.
Beware and do not deceived by anyone.
Gal 1:8 - But even if we, or an angel from heaven, preach any other gospel to you than what we have preached to you, let him be accursed.
As it is said during and after 100AD many new prophecies started to originate from people since they were not coherent/consistent to the existing word of God. In other words God didn't inspire them.
Even today there are many do the same especially Mormons say that Revelation is not the last book chronologically but 1st, 2nd, 3rd John is the last ones. They say this to narrow down the scope of these verses specific to this book and try convince that the Book of Mormon is an additional Testament of the Bible.
But the fact of the matter is John wrote 1st, 2nd, 3rd John during 90AD and Revelation around 95AD. You can find this in history and it is given in Nelson’s complete book of Bible maps and charts: Old and New Testament.
Is it possible to add/remove from this prophecy without understanding this prophecy?
No it is impossible to alter any content without understanding.
(DG) This solemn promise also implies that the Book of Revelation can be understood. Why would God assign such a strong rebuke for the addition to or subtraction from a book that just painted big ideas in wild pictures, or if no one could really understand the book anyway?
(Walvoord) “What a solemn warning this is to critics who have tampered with this book and other portions of Scripture in arrogant self-confidence that they are equipped intellectually and spiritually to determine what is true and what is not true in the Word of God.”
(DG) This means that there is a high price to pay for tampering with the Book of Revelation specifically, and the Scriptures in general.
Application:
Does this warning includes wrong interpretation?
This warning also includes wrong interpretation of the Bible.
James 3:1 - My brethren, let not many of you become teachers, knowing that we shall receive a stricter judgment.
James 3:1 - Dear brothers and sisters, not many of you should become teachers in the church, for we who teach will be judged by God with greater strictness.
What more Jesus is saying?
20a He who testifies to these things says, "Surely I am coming quickly."
Jesus is coming quickly/suddenly.
Read Who is coming quickly? from Rev 22:7 notes.
Read Why does it seem that it has been so long? Was Jesus wrong here? from Rev 22:7 notes.
Also this is repeated in Rev 22:12.
What is John's response?
20b Amen. Even so, come, Lord Jesus!
John was eagerly awaited for Jesus to come.
(DG) With this phrase, John uses an Aramaic expression that was well known in the ancient church: Maranatha!
The Book of Revelation concerns many prophetic events, but the book closes with John’s longing for the return of Jesus for His people - he wants the rapture of the church.
(Seiss) “If the whole creation groans and travails together in pain for the manifestation of the sons of God, how much more those sons of God themselves!”
(Mounce) “At the very close of the book is the confession that the answers to the problems of life do not lie in man’s ability to create a better world but in the return of the One whose sovereign power controls the course of human affairs.”
Application:
(WW) But believers ought also to invite lost sinners to trust Christ and drink the water of life. Indeed, when the church lives in expectancy of Christ's return, such an attitude provokes ministry and evangelism as well as purity of heart. We want to tell others of the grace of God. A true understanding of Bible prophecy should both motivate us to obey God's Word and to share God's invitation with a lost world.
If our study of Revelation has been truly led by the Spirit, then we will join John in the Bible's last prayer: "Even so. come, Lord Jesus!"
Are you eagerly waiting and expecting for the coming of our Lord Jesus Christ?
Like John we need to eagerly expecting for Jesus coming.
If your heart says that wait Lord I want to do some important thing in this world before you be with the Lord then that means you need to question your salvation or love relationship with Jesus Christ i.e.
Please check
Whether you really accepted Jesus as your Savior or not?
Whether you continue in first Love after your salvation?
Whether you backslidden and walking in your flesh or worldly passion?
(WW) Because God's people look for their Lord's return, they keep their lives clean and dedicated to Him (1 John 2:28-3:3).
1 John 2:28-3:3 - 28 And now, little children, abide in Him, that when He appears, we may have confidence and not be ashamed before Him at His coming. 29 If you know that He is righteous, you know that everyone who practices righteousness is born of Him. 3:1 Behold what manner of love the Father has bestowed on us, that we should be called children of God! Therefore the world does not know us, because it did not know Him. 2 Beloved, now we are children of God; and it has not yet been revealed what we shall be, but we know that when He is revealed, we shall be like Him, for we shall see Him as He is. 3 And everyone who has this hope in Him purifies himself, just as He is pure.
How John Ends this book? (Benediction)
21 The grace of our Lord Jesus Christ be with you all. Amen.
John ends with Grace of our Lord Jesus Christ and amen.
How the Old Testament ends with?
Old Testament ends with curse. That’s the law (Gal 3:10).
Malachi 4:6 - 5 "Look, I am sending you the prophet Elijah before the great and dreadful day of the LORD arrives. 6 His preaching will turn the hearts of parents to their children, and the hearts of children to their parents. Otherwise I will come and strike the land with a curse."
NLT: Gal 3:10 - But those who depend on the law to make them right with God are under his curse, for the Scriptures say, "Cursed is everyone who does not observe and obey all these commands that are written in God's Book of the Law."
How the New Testament ends with?
New Testament ends with Grace of our Lord Jesus Christ.
(DG) Fittingly, the last words of the New Testament speak of grace, because grace describes God’s dealing with man on the basis of the New Covenant.
Application:
How Jesus took away our curse?
By the grace of God Jesus took away our curse by becoming curse for us.
Gal 3:13 - Christ has redeemed us from the curse of the law, having become a curse for us (for it is written, "Cursed is everyone who hangs on a tree"),
NLT: Gal 3:10-13 - 10 But those who depend on the law to make them right with God are under his curse, for the Scriptures say, "Cursed is everyone who does not observe and obey all these commands that are written in God's Book of the Law." 11 Consequently, it is clear that no one can ever be right with God by trying to keep the law. For the Scriptures say, "It is through faith that a righteous person has life." 12 How different from this way of faith is the way of law, which says, "If you wish to find life by obeying the law, you must obey all of its commands." 13 But Christ has rescued us from the curse pronounced by the law. When he was hung on the cross, he took upon himself the curse for our wrongdoing. For it is written in the Scriptures, "Cursed is everyone who is hung on a tree."
Why John bless the reader, hearer, keeper of this word with the grace of our Lord Jesus Christ?
So that believers in Christ will grow in the grace of our Lord Jesus Christ.
(Robertson) “It is a good word for the close of this marvelous picture of God’s gracious provision for his people in earth and heaven.”
(Spurgeon) “Whatever you may miss, may the grace of our Lord Jesus Christ be always with you. In whatsoever points you or any of us may fail, may we never come short of the grace of our Lord Jesus Christ.”