Bible Commentaries
Revelation 22

Verses 1-21

Still gazing at the city, the seer beheld the great river of water of life. On its banks is the tree of life, yielding fruit, and leaves for the healing of nations. And once more the apostle declares there shall be no more curse.

The great unveiling is accomplished. It ended with the declaration of the established Throne, and of the unending reign of the saints. What follows is of the nature of ratification and enforcement. The divine word concerning the authority and value of the book is that the words are "faithful and true." In order that those who have received the unveiling should ever be on the alert, it is announced, "Behold, I come quickly." The word "quickly" might with accuracy be rendered "suddenly." A blessing is pronounced on those who keep the words of the prophecy.

John now adds his own name to the ratification of the book, declaring that he had heard and seen all of which he had written.

The angel charged him not to seal the words of the prophecy, and the tendency to permanence of character is revealed (verse Rev 22:11 ).

Following the charge of the angel, once again the voice of the great unveiled One is heard reaffirming the suddenness of His coming, and declaring that His reward is with Him. In majestic simplicity He introduces Himself as "I, Jesus," and describes Himself in terms of mystical magnificence as the "Root of David," and, moreover, as David's Offspring.

John writes his solemn testimony against tampering with this narrative of unveiling. The final announcement of Jesus is, Yea, I come quickly." To this John writes in reply, "Amen, come, Lord Jesus." This is the perfect acquiescence of the trusting sod.

The wonderful book ends with the simplest of benedictions: 'The grace of the Lord Jesus be with the saints, Amen."