What is the significance of the "tree of life" in Revelation 22:2? The Passage in Focus “Down the middle of the main street of the city. On either side of the river stood the tree of life, bearing twelve kinds of fruit, a fresh crop for each month. And the leaves of the tree are for the healing of the nations.” (Revelation 22:2) Back to Eden—Paradise Restored • Genesis 2:9 introduced the tree of life in Eden. • Humanity’s sin (Genesis 3:22-24) barred access so we would not “live forever” in a fallen state. • Revelation 22:2 shows God undoing the curse (Revelation 22:3). What was lost in Genesis is fully restored in the New Jerusalem. Perpetual Fruit—Unending Life • “Twelve kinds of fruit…each month” pictures continual provision. • Twelve symbolizes completeness (12 tribes, 12 apostles). • No seasons of scarcity; eternal life is ceaseless. • Echoes Jesus’ promise: “I give them eternal life, and they will never perish.” (John 10:28) Leaves for Healing—Total Wholeness • Not remedial medicine in a sick world, but perpetual health in a perfect one. • Isaiah 53:5 foretold healing through Messiah’s wounds; Revelation shows the outcome. • Nations once divided (Genesis 11) now united and cured of every curse, conflict, and corruption. River and Tree—Twin Symbols of Satisfaction • River of the water of life (Revelation 22:1) and tree of life together picture every need met. • Psalm 46:4; Psalm 1:3; Ezekiel 47:1-12 all tie life-giving water with thriving trees, culminating here. Reigning with God—Access Guaranteed • Only the redeemed may enter the city (Revelation 22:14). • “Blessed are those who wash their robes…that they may have the right to the tree of life.” • Our right is secured by Christ’s blood (Revelation 1:5; 5:9). Living in Light of the Tree Today • Assurance: eternal life is not abstract; it’s pictured as tangible fruit and healing leaves. • Motivation: “Hold fast what you have, so that no one may take your crown.” (Revelation 3:11) • Hope: every trial is temporary; the tree’s leaves guarantee everlasting well-being. |
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