Then the angel showed me
This phrase indicates a continuation of the vision given to John, the author of Revelation. The angel serves as a divine messenger, guiding John through the heavenly revelations. Angels frequently appear in biblical texts as intermediaries between God and humans, emphasizing the divine origin and authority of the message being conveyed.

a river of the water of life
The imagery of a river of life is reminiscent of the Garden of Eden, where a river flowed out to water the garden (Genesis 2:10). It symbolizes eternal life and the sustenance provided by God. In the prophetic literature, such as Ezekiel 47:1-12, a river flowing from the temple is depicted, bringing life wherever it goes. This river represents the spiritual life and renewal that comes from God.

as clear as crystal
The clarity of the water signifies purity and holiness. In biblical symbolism, crystal often represents something that is pure and unblemished. This purity reflects the nature of God and the perfection of the new creation, free from sin and corruption.

flowing from the throne of God and of the Lamb
The source of the river is the throne, indicating that life and sustenance come directly from God and the Lamb, who is Jesus Christ. The throne symbolizes authority and sovereignty, and its mention here underscores the divine rule and the centrality of God and Christ in the new creation. The Lamb is a title for Jesus, emphasizing His role as the sacrificial Savior, as seen in John 1:29 and Revelation 5:6. This connection highlights the unity and shared authority of God the Father and Jesus Christ in the divine plan of salvation and eternal life.

down the middle of the main street of the city.
This phrase describes the centrality and accessibility of the river of life in the New Jerusalem. The imagery of a main street suggests a place of prominence and importance, indicating that the life-giving water is available to all inhabitants. In biblical context, streets often symbolize the way of life or the path one follows. The city, representing the New Jerusalem, is a fulfillment of Old Testament prophecies about a restored and glorified Zion (Isaiah 60:14). The central placement of the river underscores the idea that God's provision and presence are at the heart of the eternal city.

On either side of the river stood a tree of life,
The tree of life is a significant biblical symbol, first appearing in Genesis 2:9 in the Garden of Eden. Its presence in the New Jerusalem signifies the restoration of what was lost due to sin. The tree of life represents eternal life and communion with God, a theme that runs throughout Scripture. The fact that it stands on both sides of the river suggests its abundant availability and the complete restoration of access to eternal life for the redeemed. This imagery also connects to Ezekiel 47:12, where trees along a river bear fruit for food and leaves for healing, symbolizing God's provision and blessing.

bearing twelve kinds of fruit and yielding a fresh crop for each month.
The number twelve is often associated with completeness and God's people, as seen in the twelve tribes of Israel and the twelve apostles. The twelve kinds of fruit may symbolize the fullness and diversity of God's provision. The monthly yield indicates a continuous and unending supply, reflecting the eternal nature of God's blessings. This perpetual fruitfulness contrasts with the cycles of scarcity and abundance experienced in the fallen world, emphasizing the constancy and sufficiency of God's provision in the new creation.

And the leaves of the tree are for the healing of the nations.
The healing leaves suggest a restoration not only of individuals but of entire nations, pointing to the reconciliation and peace that characterize the new creation. This healing is comprehensive, addressing the spiritual, physical, and relational brokenness caused by sin. The mention of nations highlights the inclusivity of God's salvation plan, fulfilling the promise that all nations will be blessed through Abraham's seed (Genesis 12:3). This universal healing reflects the ultimate fulfillment of God's redemptive work through Jesus Christ, who is the source of life and healing for all humanity.

No longer will there be any curse.
This phrase signifies the complete removal of the curse that was introduced in Genesis 3 due to Adam and Eve's disobedience. The curse brought sin, death, and separation from God into the world. In Revelation 22:3, the absence of the curse indicates the restoration of creation to its original state of perfection and harmony with God. This echoes the prophetic visions of a new heaven and a new earth found in Isaiah 65:17 and 2 Peter 3:13, where righteousness dwells and the effects of sin are eradicated.

The throne of God and of the Lamb will be within the city,
The presence of the throne signifies God's sovereign rule and authority. The mention of both God and the Lamb highlights the unity and co-reign of the Father and Jesus Christ, the Lamb of God. This imagery connects to the vision in Revelation 4 and 5, where the throne is central to the heavenly scene, emphasizing God's majesty and the Lamb's worthiness. The city refers to the New Jerusalem, described in Revelation 21, symbolizing the ultimate dwelling place of God with His people, fulfilling the promise of Emmanuel, "God with us" (Matthew 1:23).

and His servants will worship Him.
This phrase underscores the eternal purpose and joy of God's people: to worship Him. Worship in this context is not limited to singing or rituals but encompasses a life of service, devotion, and adoration. The term "servants" reflects the redeemed's identity and role, reminiscent of the faithful servants in Jesus' parables (e.g., Matthew 25:21). This worship is a fulfillment of the call to worship in spirit and truth (John 4:23-24) and is a direct contrast to the idolatry and false worship condemned throughout Revelation. The eternal worship of God and the Lamb signifies the ultimate reconciliation and communion between God and humanity.

They will see His face
This phrase signifies the ultimate fulfillment of the believer's hope: direct communion with God. In biblical context, seeing God's face is a privilege denied to humanity since the fall, as seen in Exodus 33:20, where God tells Moses that no one can see His face and live. The promise of seeing God's face in Revelation 22:4 indicates a restored relationship and the removal of sin's barrier. This aligns with the Beatitude in Matthew 5:8, "Blessed are the pure in heart, for they will see God," suggesting purity and holiness are prerequisites for this vision. Theologically, it represents the consummation of salvation and the believer's transformation into Christlikeness, as mentioned in 1 John 3:2, "We shall be like Him, for we shall see Him as He is."

and His name will be on their foreheads
This phrase symbolizes ownership, identity, and protection. In the ancient world, marking or sealing indicated possession and authority. The name on the forehead signifies that believers belong to God, contrasting with the mark of the beast in Revelation 13:16-17, which denotes allegiance to the Antichrist. This imagery echoes the high priest in Exodus 28:36-38, who wore a plate on his forehead inscribed with "Holy to the Lord," signifying consecration. Theologically, it reflects the fulfillment of the New Covenant promise in Jeremiah 31:33, where God writes His law on the hearts of His people. It also assures believers of their eternal security and divine protection, as seen in Revelation 3:12, where the overcomer is promised God's name written upon them.

There will be no more night in the city
This phrase signifies the complete absence of darkness, both literal and metaphorical, in the New Jerusalem. In biblical symbolism, night often represents sin, evil, and separation from God (John 3:19-21). The absence of night indicates the full presence of God, where sin and evil cannot exist. This aligns with the prophecy in Isaiah 60:19-20, where God promises to be an everlasting light for His people. The city, representing the eternal dwelling place of God with His people, is free from the fear and uncertainty that night brings.

and they will have no need for the light of a lamp or of the sun
This phrase emphasizes the sufficiency of God's presence as the source of light. In ancient times, lamps and the sun were essential for visibility and daily life. The absence of need for these traditional light sources highlights the transformative nature of God's glory, which surpasses all earthly provisions. This reflects the fulfillment of God's promise to be the light for His people, as seen in Isaiah 60:1-3. The imagery also connects to the creation narrative, where God is the ultimate source of light (Genesis 1:3).

For the Lord God will shine on them
The shining of the Lord God on His people signifies His direct presence and favor. This recalls the Aaronic blessing in Numbers 6:24-26, where God's face shining upon His people is a sign of blessing and peace. The divine light represents God's holiness, purity, and truth, illuminating the lives of the redeemed. This presence fulfills the promise of God dwelling with His people, as seen in Ezekiel 37:27 and Revelation 21:3.

and they will reign forever and ever
This phrase indicates the eternal reign of the redeemed alongside Christ. It fulfills the promise made to believers that they will share in Christ's authority and victory (2 Timothy 2:12, Revelation 3:21). The concept of reigning forever suggests a restoration of the dominion originally intended for humanity in Genesis 1:26-28. This eternal reign is not just a position of authority but also a participation in the life and purposes of God, reflecting the ultimate victory over sin and death through Jesus Christ.

Then the angel said to me
This phrase indicates a continuation of the dialogue between John and the angelic messenger. Angels often serve as messengers in biblical narratives, conveying God's revelations to humans. In Revelation, angels play a significant role in delivering visions and messages to John, emphasizing the divine origin and authority of the message.

These words are faithful and true
The assurance that the words are "faithful and true" underscores the reliability and trustworthiness of the prophecy. This echoes similar affirmations found in Revelation 19:9 and 21:5, reinforcing the certainty of God's promises. The phrase assures believers that the visions and prophecies will be fulfilled as stated.

The Lord, the God of the spirits of the prophets
This phrase highlights God's sovereignty and His role as the source of prophetic inspiration. The "spirits of the prophets" refers to the divine influence that guided the prophets throughout biblical history. This connection to the prophetic tradition underscores the continuity and consistency of God's revelation from the Old Testament to the New Testament.

has sent His angel
The sending of the angel signifies divine initiative and purpose. In biblical tradition, angels are often dispatched by God to deliver messages, provide guidance, or execute His will. This emphasizes the importance and urgency of the message being conveyed to John.

to show His servants
The term "servants" refers to believers who are committed to following God's will. This phrase indicates that the revelation is intended for the edification and encouragement of the Christian community. It aligns with the broader biblical theme of God revealing His plans to those who serve Him faithfully.

what must soon take place
This phrase points to the imminence of the events described in Revelation. The use of "soon" suggests a sense of urgency and anticipation, encouraging believers to remain vigilant and faithful. This aligns with the eschatological focus of the book, which emphasizes the nearness of Christ's return and the fulfillment of God's redemptive plan.

Behold, I am coming soon.
This phrase emphasizes the imminence of Christ's return, a central theme in the book of Revelation. The term "behold" is a call to attention, urging readers to focus on the significance of the message. The promise of coming "soon" reflects the urgency and certainty of Jesus' return, a concept that has been a source of hope and anticipation for believers throughout history. This expectation is consistent with other New Testament passages, such as Matthew 24:44 and 1 Thessalonians 5:2, which also speak of the unexpected and swift nature of Christ's return. The early church lived with the expectation of Christ's imminent return, which influenced their faith and conduct.

Blessed is the one who keeps the words of prophecy in this book.
The term "blessed" indicates a state of spiritual well-being and favor from God. This blessing is pronounced upon those who "keep" or adhere to the teachings and prophecies contained within the book of Revelation. The call to keep these words suggests not only understanding but also obedience and faithfulness to the prophetic message. This echoes the beatitudes found in the Gospels, such as Matthew 5:3-12, where blessings are pronounced on those who live according to God's will. The phrase underscores the importance of the prophetic message in Revelation, encouraging believers to remain steadfast in their faith and to live in a manner that reflects the teachings of the book. The emphasis on prophecy highlights the book's role in revealing God's ultimate plan for humanity and the world, urging believers to align their lives with this divine revelation.

And I, John, am the one who heard and saw these things.
John identifies himself as the author, emphasizing his role as a direct witness to the visions and revelations. This personal testimony underscores the authenticity and authority of the message. John, the apostle, is traditionally understood to be the same John who was one of Jesus' closest disciples, which adds weight to his account. His experience of hearing and seeing aligns with the prophetic tradition of receiving divine revelation, similar to prophets like Daniel and Ezekiel.

And when I had heard and seen them,
The repetition of "heard and seen" highlights the sensory and experiential nature of John's revelation. This phrase indicates the culmination of the visions that began in Revelation 1, where John is instructed to write what he sees. The comprehensive nature of his experience is emphasized, suggesting that the visions are both auditory and visual, providing a full revelation of God's plan.

I fell down to worship at the feet of the angel who had shown me these things.
John's reaction of falling down to worship reflects a common biblical response to divine or angelic encounters, seen in figures like Daniel (Daniel 10:9) and Ezekiel (Ezekiel 1:28). However, this act of worship is misplaced, as angels are not to be worshipped. This incident serves as a reminder of the distinction between Creator and creation, reinforcing the biblical teaching that worship is due to God alone. The angel's role as a messenger is highlighted, pointing to the importance of discerning the proper object of worship. This moment also reflects the overwhelming nature of the revelation John received, which led to a spontaneous, albeit incorrect, act of reverence.

But he said to me, “Do not do that!
In this phrase, the speaker, an angel, is addressing John, the author of Revelation. John has fallen into the error of attempting to worship the angel, which is a common human tendency to venerate the messenger rather than the message. This correction emphasizes the importance of directing worship solely to God. The angel's rebuke is a reminder of the first commandment, which prohibits idolatry and underscores the monotheistic foundation of Christian faith.

I am a fellow servant with you and your brothers the prophets,
Here, the angel identifies himself as a "fellow servant," placing himself on the same level as John and the prophets. This highlights the unity and equality among God's servants, whether celestial or terrestrial. The reference to "your brothers the prophets" connects John to the prophetic tradition of the Old Testament, affirming the continuity of God's revelation through His chosen messengers. It also underscores the role of prophets as servants who deliver God's message, not as objects of worship.

and with those who keep the words of this book.
This phrase emphasizes the importance of obedience and faithfulness to the teachings and prophecies contained in the Book of Revelation. "Those who keep the words" refers to believers who adhere to the instructions and warnings given in the text. This call to obedience is a recurring theme throughout Scripture, echoing the blessings promised to those who follow God's commandments, as seen in Deuteronomy 28 and James 1:22-25.

Worship God!”
The command to "Worship God" is the central exhortation of this passage. It serves as a reminder of the ultimate purpose of all creation: to glorify God. This directive aligns with the overarching biblical narrative that calls for exclusive devotion to God, as seen in passages like Exodus 20:3 and Matthew 4:10. The angel's instruction reinforces the theme of Revelation, which is the sovereignty and worthiness of God as the object of true worship, contrasting with the false worship of idols and earthly powers depicted throughout the book.

Then he told me
This phrase indicates a continuation of a conversation between John and an angelic messenger. The angel serves as a divine intermediary, delivering God's message to John. This reflects the common biblical theme of angels acting as messengers, as seen in other scriptures like Daniel 9:21-23 and Luke 1:26-38.

Do not seal up the words of prophecy in this book
Unlike the command given to Daniel to seal up his prophecy until the end times (Daniel 12:4), John is instructed to keep the prophecy open and accessible. This suggests an immediacy and relevance to the message, emphasizing that its contents are meant to be understood and acted upon by the contemporary audience. The open nature of the prophecy underscores the transparency of God's revelation and the urgency of its message.

Because the time is near
This phrase highlights the imminence of the events described in Revelation. The concept of "nearness" in biblical prophecy often conveys a sense of urgency and calls for readiness, as seen in passages like Romans 13:11-12. It reflects the early Christian belief in the imminent return of Christ, encouraging believers to live in a state of preparedness and faithfulness. Theologically, it serves as a reminder of the unfolding of God's redemptive plan and the ultimate fulfillment of His promises.

Let the unrighteous continue to be unrighteous
This phrase reflects the finality of judgment and the state of human hearts at the end of time. It echoes the idea found in Daniel 12:10, where the wicked will continue in their ways, unable to understand the truth. This is a call to recognize the permanence of one's spiritual state at the time of judgment. The unrighteous are those who have rejected God's offer of salvation and persist in their sinful ways. This phrase serves as a warning that there will come a time when change is no longer possible, emphasizing the urgency of repentance.

and the vile continue to be vile
The term "vile" refers to those who are morally corrupt and depraved. This phrase underscores the idea that those who have chosen a path of wickedness will remain in that state. It highlights the biblical principle that one's character becomes fixed at the time of judgment. This is consistent with the teachings of Jesus in Matthew 13:49-50, where the wicked are separated from the righteous at the end of the age. The continuation of vileness signifies the eternal consequences of rejecting God's grace.

let the righteous continue to practice righteousness
In contrast to the unrighteous, the righteous are those who have accepted God's salvation and live according to His commandments. This phrase encourages believers to persevere in their faith and good works. It reflects the biblical theme of sanctification, where the righteous are called to grow in holiness and live out their faith. This is supported by passages such as 1 John 3:7, which urges believers to practice righteousness as a reflection of their relationship with God. The continuation of righteousness signifies the eternal reward for those who remain faithful.

and the holy continue to be holy
The term "holy" refers to those who are set apart for God's purposes. This phrase emphasizes the call for believers to maintain their sanctity and dedication to God. Holiness is a recurring theme throughout Scripture, as seen in 1 Peter 1:15-16, where believers are called to be holy as God is holy. This reflects the transformative power of the Holy Spirit in the lives of believers, enabling them to live in a manner that honors God. The continuation of holiness signifies the eternal state of those who are in Christ, set apart for His glory.

Behold, I am coming soon
This phrase emphasizes the imminence of Christ's return, a central theme in the New Testament. The term "behold" is a call to attention, urging believers to remain vigilant. The concept of "coming soon" reflects the early Christian expectation of an imminent return, which is echoed in other scriptures such as Matthew 24:44 and 1 Thessalonians 5:2. The urgency of this message serves as a reminder for believers to live in readiness and anticipation.

and My reward is with Me
This indicates that Christ will bring rewards with Him at His return. The idea of reward is consistent with biblical teachings on divine justice and recompense, as seen in passages like Matthew 16:27 and 2 Corinthians 5:10. The reward is not merely a future promise but is tied to the presence of Christ Himself, suggesting that the ultimate reward is being in His presence.

to give to each one according to what he has done
This phrase underscores the principle of individual accountability and judgment. It aligns with the biblical teaching that each person will be judged based on their deeds, as seen in Romans 2:6 and Revelation 20:12. This reflects the justice of God, who rewards righteousness and punishes wickedness. The emphasis on deeds does not negate salvation by grace but highlights the evidence of faith through works, as discussed in James 2:14-26.

I am the Alpha and the Omega
This phrase signifies the eternal nature and sovereignty of God. "Alpha" and "Omega" are the first and last letters of the Greek alphabet, symbolizing completeness and totality. This title is used in Revelation 1:8 and 21:6, emphasizing God's omnipresence and omnipotence. It reflects the idea that God is the origin and the consummation of all things, a concept rooted in Isaiah 44:6, where God declares Himself as the first and the last. This title is also a direct claim to divinity, as it is used by both God the Father and Jesus Christ, affirming the unity and co-equality within the Trinity.

the First and the Last
This phrase underscores the eternal existence and unchanging nature of Christ. It is a title that Jesus uses for Himself in Revelation 1:17 and 2:8, echoing the Old Testament declarations of God in Isaiah 41:4 and 48:12. It highlights Christ's preeminence over creation and history, affirming His role in both the creation and the final judgment. This title assures believers of Christ's authority and presence throughout all of time, providing comfort and hope in His unchanging nature.

the Beginning and the End
This phrase further emphasizes the comprehensive scope of Christ's authority and existence. It indicates that Christ is the source of all creation and the ultimate goal of all history. Colossians 1:16-17 supports this by stating that all things were created through Him and for Him, and in Him all things hold together. This title assures believers that Christ is in control of the entire narrative of history, from creation to consummation, and that He will bring His purposes to fulfillment. It also connects to the prophetic vision of a new heaven and a new earth, where Christ's redemptive work is completed.

Blessed are those who wash their robes
This phrase signifies spiritual purity and redemption. In biblical context, washing robes is symbolic of cleansing from sin, often associated with the blood of Christ (Revelation 7:14). The imagery of washing robes is rooted in the Old Testament, where priests were required to wash before entering the temple (Exodus 30:20-21). This act represents the sanctification necessary to stand before God. The blessing pronounced here echoes the Beatitudes in Matthew 5, emphasizing the spiritual state of those who are cleansed.

so that they may have the right to the tree of life
The tree of life is a symbol of eternal life and divine provision, first mentioned in Genesis 2:9 in the Garden of Eden. Access to the tree of life signifies restoration to the original state of communion with God, lost through sin. In Revelation, the tree of life reappears as a promise of eternal life for the redeemed (Revelation 22:2). This connection underscores the fulfillment of God's redemptive plan, where believers are granted the right to eternal life through Christ's atonement.

and may enter the city by its gates
The city refers to the New Jerusalem, described in Revelation 21 as the ultimate dwelling place of God with His people. Entering by the gates implies legitimate access and acceptance into God's eternal kingdom. In ancient cities, gates were places of authority and judgment, where entry was controlled (Nehemiah 3:1-32). This imagery highlights the security and exclusivity of the New Jerusalem, where only those who are redeemed and purified may enter. The gates symbolize the openness of God's invitation to those who are faithful, contrasting with the exclusion of the unrighteous (Revelation 21:27).

But outside are the dogs
In biblical times, "dogs" were often seen as unclean animals, symbolizing impurity and moral corruption. In Philippians 3:2, Paul warns against "dogs" as a metaphor for false teachers. Here, "dogs" may represent those who are morally impure and excluded from the holy city, the New Jerusalem. This exclusion signifies a separation from God's presence and blessings.

the sorcerers
Sorcery, or witchcraft, is condemned throughout Scripture (e.g., Deuteronomy 18:10-12, Galatians 5:20). It involves attempting to manipulate spiritual forces, often in opposition to God's will. In the ancient world, sorcery was associated with pagan practices and idolatry. Those who engage in such practices are excluded from the New Jerusalem, emphasizing the incompatibility of sorcery with the holiness of God.

the sexually immoral
Sexual immorality is consistently condemned in the Bible (e.g., 1 Corinthians 6:9-10, Hebrews 13:4). It encompasses a range of behaviors outside the bounds of biblical marriage. In the context of Revelation, it may also symbolize spiritual unfaithfulness to God, akin to idolatry. The exclusion of the sexually immoral underscores the call to purity and faithfulness in the Christian life.

the murderers
Murder is a direct violation of the sixth commandment (Exodus 20:13) and is repeatedly condemned in Scripture (e.g., Matthew 5:21-22, 1 John 3:15). It represents the ultimate disregard for the sanctity of human life, which is made in the image of God. The exclusion of murderers from the New Jerusalem highlights the seriousness of this sin and the justice of God.

the idolaters
Idolatry, the worship of false gods, is a central concern throughout the Bible (e.g., Exodus 20:3-5, 1 Corinthians 10:14). It represents a turning away from the true God to serve created things. In Revelation, idolatry is often linked with the worship of the beast and false prophets. The exclusion of idolaters emphasizes the necessity of exclusive devotion to God.

and everyone who loves and practices falsehood
Falsehood, or lying, is condemned as contrary to God's nature (e.g., Proverbs 12:22, John 8:44). In Revelation, deceit is associated with the work of Satan and the beast. Those who love and practice falsehood are excluded from the New Jerusalem, highlighting the importance of truthfulness and integrity in the Christian life. This phrase serves as a warning against living in deception and a call to embrace the truth of the Gospel.

I, Jesus, have sent My angel to give you this testimony for the churches.
This phrase emphasizes the direct authority and involvement of Jesus in delivering the message of Revelation. The use of "I, Jesus" is significant as it is one of the few instances where Jesus directly names Himself in the New Testament, underscoring the importance and authenticity of the message. The sending of "My angel" indicates a divine messenger, a common theme in biblical narratives where angels serve as intermediaries between God and humans (e.g., Gabriel in Luke 1:26-38). The purpose of this testimony is for the "churches," referring to the seven churches in Asia Minor addressed earlier in Revelation (chapters 2-3). This highlights the communal and ecclesiastical nature of the message, intended for instruction, encouragement, and warning to the early Christian communities.

I am the Root and the Offspring of David,
This phrase connects Jesus to the Davidic lineage, fulfilling Old Testament prophecies about the Messiah. The "Root" signifies origin, indicating that Jesus is the source of David's line, while "Offspring" denotes His human descent from David, as seen in genealogies in Matthew 1 and Luke 3. This duality emphasizes both His divinity and humanity. The Davidic covenant (2 Samuel 7:12-16) promised an eternal kingdom through David's line, which Christians believe is fulfilled in Jesus. This connection to David also reinforces Jesus' rightful claim to kingship and His role as the promised Messiah.

the bright Morning Star.
The "bright Morning Star" is a title that signifies hope, renewal, and the ushering in of a new era. In ancient times, the morning star (often associated with the planet Venus) was a symbol of a new day. Biblically, this imagery is used to describe the coming of Christ as a new beginning for humanity. In 2 Peter 1:19, the morning star is associated with the prophetic word and the dawning of understanding in believers' hearts. This title also contrasts with the fallen "morning star" in Isaiah 14:12, traditionally interpreted as Lucifer, highlighting Jesus' victory over darkness and His role as the true light of the world (John 8:12).

The Spirit and the bride say, “Come!”
This phrase highlights the unity between the Holy Spirit and the Church, often symbolized as the bride of Christ. The Spirit's role is to guide, comfort, and convict believers, while the bride represents the collective body of believers. The invitation to "Come" is a call to salvation and fellowship with God, echoing the open invitation of the Gospel. This reflects the eschatological hope and the longing for Christ's return, as seen in other scriptures like Revelation 19:7-9, where the marriage of the Lamb is celebrated.

Let the one who hears say, “Come!”
This part emphasizes the responsibility of those who have heard the Gospel to also extend the invitation to others. It underscores the participatory role of believers in evangelism and the spread of the Gospel message. The call to "Come" is not just for the initial hearers but is meant to be passed on, creating a chain of invitation that spans generations. This aligns with the Great Commission in Matthew 28:19-20, where Jesus instructs His followers to make disciples of all nations.

And let the one who is thirsty come,
The imagery of thirst is a powerful metaphor for spiritual longing and need. In the biblical context, thirst often symbolizes a deep desire for God and His righteousness, as seen in Psalm 42:1-2. This invitation is inclusive, extending to anyone who recognizes their spiritual need. It reflects the promise of satisfaction and fulfillment found in Christ, who offers living water, as He did to the Samaritan woman in John 4:13-14.

and the one who desires the water of life drink freely.
The "water of life" is a symbol of eternal life and the sustenance that comes from a relationship with God. This phrase assures that the gift of salvation is available without cost, emphasizing the grace of God. The concept of drinking freely points to the abundance and accessibility of God's provision for those who seek Him. This is reminiscent of Isaiah 55:1, where the invitation to come and drink is extended to all who are thirsty, highlighting the generosity and inclusivity of God's offer of salvation.

I testify to everyone who hears the words of prophecy in this book:
This phrase emphasizes the solemnity and authority of the message. The act of testifying is a legal term, indicating a formal declaration. The audience is "everyone who hears," suggesting the universal relevance of the message. The "words of prophecy" refer to the entire content of the Book of Revelation, which is a prophetic vision given to John. This echoes the biblical tradition of prophecy as seen in the Old Testament, where prophets conveyed God's messages to His people. The phrase underscores the importance of listening and adhering to divine revelation.

If anyone adds to them:
This warning against adding to the words of prophecy reflects a common biblical theme of preserving the purity and integrity of God's word. Similar admonitions are found in Deuteronomy 4:2 and Proverbs 30:6, which caution against altering divine commandments. The historical context of Revelation, written during a time of persecution and false teachings, highlights the need to protect the message from distortion. This phrase serves as a safeguard against heretical interpretations and emphasizes the sufficiency of the revealed word.

God will add to him the plagues described in this book:
The consequence of adding to the prophecy is severe, involving the plagues mentioned throughout Revelation. These plagues, reminiscent of the plagues in Egypt (Exodus), symbolize divine judgment and are part of the apocalyptic imagery used to convey the seriousness of tampering with God's word. The plagues in Revelation include various forms of destruction and suffering, serving as a warning of the spiritual and physical consequences of disobedience. This phrase reinforces the theme of divine justice and the ultimate authority of God over His creation.

And if anyone takes away from the words of this book of prophecy
This phrase emphasizes the sanctity and completeness of the prophetic message in Revelation. The warning against altering the text reflects a broader biblical principle found in Deuteronomy 4:2 and Proverbs 30:6, where adding to or subtracting from God's word is strictly prohibited. The "book of prophecy" refers specifically to the Book of Revelation, which is considered a culmination of biblical prophecy, revealing the ultimate victory of Christ and the establishment of God's kingdom.

God will take away his share in the tree of life
The "tree of life" is a symbol of eternal life and blessing, first introduced in Genesis 2:9 in the Garden of Eden. Its reappearance in Revelation signifies the restoration of paradise and the eternal life promised to believers. The warning here is severe, indicating that tampering with the divine message results in forfeiting one's right to eternal life. This underscores the gravity of maintaining the integrity of Scripture.

and the holy city
The "holy city" refers to the New Jerusalem, described in Revelation 21:2 as descending from heaven. It represents the ultimate dwelling place of God with His people, a place of perfect peace, holiness, and communion with God. The loss of one's share in the holy city signifies exclusion from the eternal fellowship and blessings that God has prepared for His faithful.

which are described in this book
This phrase points back to the detailed descriptions found throughout Revelation, particularly in chapters 21 and 22, where the tree of life and the holy city are vividly depicted. The book serves as a comprehensive revelation of God's final plan for humanity, and the descriptions are meant to provide hope and assurance to believers. The warning serves as a reminder of the importance of preserving the integrity of these divine revelations.

He who testifies to these things says
This phrase refers to Jesus Christ, who is the faithful witness (Revelation 1:5). Throughout the Book of Revelation, Jesus is depicted as the one who reveals divine truth and testifies to the events that are to come. The role of a witness is significant in biblical terms, as it underscores the reliability and authority of the message being conveyed. In the context of Revelation, Jesus' testimony is a guarantee of the truthfulness of the prophetic visions John has recorded.

“Yes, I am coming soon.”
This declaration emphasizes the imminence of Christ's return. The phrase "coming soon" has been a source of hope and anticipation for Christians throughout history. It reflects the eschatological promise that Jesus will return to establish His kingdom and bring about the fulfillment of God's plan. The urgency of this promise is echoed in other New Testament passages, such as Matthew 24:30-31 and 1 Thessalonians 4:16-17, which describe the second coming of Christ. The expectation of His return serves as a call for believers to remain faithful and vigilant.

Amen.
The term "Amen" is a Hebrew word meaning "truly" or "so be it." It is used throughout the Bible to affirm the truthfulness of a statement or to express agreement with a prayer or declaration. In this context, it serves as a confirmation of the certainty of Christ's promise to return. The use of "Amen" here reflects the confidence and assurance that believers have in the fulfillment of God's promises.

Come, Lord Jesus!
This is a prayerful response from the Apostle John, expressing the longing and desire for Christ's return. It echoes the Aramaic expression "Maranatha," found in 1 Corinthians 16:22, which also means "Come, Lord." This plea captures the heart of Christian eschatological hope, as believers eagerly anticipate the day when Jesus will return to bring justice, peace, and restoration to the world. The invocation of Jesus' return is a central theme in Christian worship and theology, underscoring the hope and expectation that define the Christian faith.

The grace of the Lord Jesus
This phrase emphasizes the unmerited favor and kindness bestowed by Jesus Christ. Grace is a central theme in the New Testament, highlighting salvation as a gift from God (Ephesians 2:8-9). The grace of Jesus is foundational to Christian belief, underscoring His role as Savior and Redeemer. It reflects the culmination of God's redemptive plan through Christ, who is both fully divine and fully human, bridging the gap between God and humanity. This grace is not only for initial salvation but also for daily living, empowering believers to live in accordance with God's will.

be with all the saints.
The term "saints" refers to all believers, those set apart for God through faith in Jesus Christ. In the early church, "saints" was a common designation for Christians, emphasizing their holy calling and identity in Christ (1 Corinthians 1:2). The inclusion of "all" signifies the universal nature of the Christian community, transcending cultural, ethnic, and social boundaries. This phrase assures believers of the continuous presence and support of Christ's grace in their lives, encouraging unity and perseverance in faith. It also reflects the eschatological hope of eternal fellowship with God and all believers.

Amen.
"Amen" is a Hebrew word meaning "truly" or "so be it," used to affirm the truth and certainty of a statement. It is a fitting conclusion to the book of Revelation, which reveals God's ultimate plan for humanity and the world. The use of "Amen" here underscores the reliability and faithfulness of God's promises, as well as the believer's agreement and trust in these truths. Throughout Scripture, "Amen" is used to express confidence in God's word and His sovereign will (2 Corinthians 1:20). It serves as a final affirmation of the hope and assurance found in the grace of the Lord Jesus.