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Revelation 22:1
Verse
Context
The River of Life
1Then the angel showed me a river of the water of life, as clear as crystal, flowing from the throne of God and of the Lamb2down the middle of the main street of the city. On either side of the river stood a tree of life, bearing twelve kinds of fruit and yielding a fresh crop for each month. And the leaves of the tree are for the healing of the nations.
Sermons
Art Katz
Alan Redpath
Major Ian Thomas
Willie Mullan
T. Austin-SparksT. Austin-Sparks
Carter ConlonSummary
Commentary
- Adam Clarke
- John Gill
- Matthew Henry
- Tyndale
Adam Clarke Bible Commentary
Pure river of water of life - This is evidently a reference to the garden of paradise, and the river by which it was watered; and there is also a reference to the account, Eze 47:7-12. Water of life, as we have seen before, generally signifies spring or running water; here it may signify incessant communications of happiness proceeding from God.
John Gill Bible Commentary
And he showed me a pure river of water of life,.... Not baptism, which used to be administered in rivers and pools of water; and which engaged to purity of life; and, the power and authority of administering which was from God and Christ; but in this Jerusalem state there will be no use nor need of ordinances; for Rev 22:1 belongs to the preceding chapter, and is a continuation of the same account, this being not a new vision, but a part of the former, which the same angel, as in Rev 21:9 proceeds to show to John: nor is the Holy Ghost intended by this river, whose gifts and graces are sometimes, for their plenty, purity, and quickening virtue, compared to rivers of living water; and who is a pure and holy Spirit, and proceeds from the Father and the Son: nor the doctrine of the Gospel, which comes from the blessed God, and is the Gospel of Christ; and, when purely and faithfully preached, is clear as crystal; and is the means of conveying spiritual life to men, and of supporting it in them: nor the ultimate joys of heaven, which may be called a river of pleasure, for the fulness and variety of delight; pure, and clear as crystal, for the holiness and perfect knowledge of that state; and be said to proceed from the throne of God and the Lamb, being the free gift of God through Christ; but this state is not designed here: rather, therefore, by this river is meant the everlasting love of God, which may be compared to a river for its largeness and abundance, its height and depth, its length and breadth; and for the large displays of it in this state, when its waters will increase, and be a broad river to swim in, and be unpassable; and for the streams of it in election, redemption, calling, justification, pardon, adoption, and eternal life, which make glad the city of God; and for the pleasure it yields, and the fruitfulness it gives to those who drink of it: it may be called a river "of water of life", because in the present state of things it quickens such who are dead in trespasses and sins; revives the saints when dead and lifeless, supports their spirits, and is a cordial that preserves from fainting; it keeps and secures from dying the second death and is the spring and source of eternal life; and that itself will last and flow for ever, it is ever running water, it is everlasting love: and it may be said to be pure and clear as crystal, it being free from all hypocrisy and dissimulation, being real, hearty, and sincere, both in the Father and in Christ, of which the fullest proofs and demonstrations are given; and being clear of all motives and conditions in the creature, by which it might be influenced; and it engaging to purity and holiness of life and conversation; for the doctrine, which brings the account of it, and the inward principle of grace, which is the fruit of it, and every discovery of it, have a tendency hereunto: proceeding out of the throne of God and of the Lamb; not taking its rise from man's obedience, nor from his love to God, nor from his faith in Christ; for the love of God is prior to all these, and is the spring and cause of them, and therefore cannot be moved and influenced by them; but it has its origin from the sovereignty of God and of Christ, signified by the throne of both, who will be gracious to whom they will be gracious; nor can any reason be given why they love any of the sons of men, but their own sovereign will and pleasure; this is the sole motive, spring, and cause of their love; and God and the Lamb being mentioned together, shows both the equal dignity of their persons, being on the same throne, and the equality of their love to the inhabitants of the new Jerusalem: and thus, as a river adds to the pleasure, use, convenience, and wholesomeness of a city, this glorious city is commended by such a river running by it, or in the midst of it: there may be an allusion to the river which ran out of the garden of Eden, for this will be a paradisiacal state, Gen 2:9 or rather to the waters in Eze 47:1 which came from under the threshold of the Sanctuary; though this river proceeds not from the temple, there being no temple in this state, but from the throne of God and the Lamb, which is instead of it.
Matthew Henry Bible Commentary
The heavenly state which was before described as a city, and called the new Jerusalem, is here described as a paradise, alluding to the earthly paradise which was lost by the sin of the first Adam; here is another paradise restored by the second Adam. A paradise in a city, or a whole city in a paradise! In the first paradise there were only two persons to behold the beauty and taste the pleasures of it; but in this second paradise whole cities and nations shall find abundant delight and satisfaction. And here observe, I. The river of paradise. The earthly paradise was well watered: no place can be pleasant or fruitful that is not so. This river is described, 1. By its fountain-head - the throne of God and the Lamb. All our springs of grace, comfort, and glory, are in God; and all our streams from him are through the mediation of the Lamb. 2. By its quality - pure and clear as crystal. All the streams of earthly comfort are muddy; but these are clear, salutary, and refreshing, giving life, and preserving life, to those who drink of them. II. The tree of life, in this paradise. Such a tree there was in the earthly paradise, Gen 2:9. This far excels it. And now, as to this tree, observe, 1. The situation of it - in the midst of the street, and on either side the river; or, as might have been better rendered, in the midst between the terrace-walk and the river. This tree of life is fed by the pure waters of the river that comes from the throne of God. The presence and perfections of God furnish out all the glory and blessedness of heaven. 2. The fruitfulness of this tree. (1.) It brings forth many sorts of fruit - twelve sorts, suited to the refined taste of all the saints. (2.) It brings forth fruit at all times - yields its fruit every month. This tree is never empty, never barren; there is always fruit upon it. In heaven there is not only a variety of pure and satisfying pleasures, but a continuance of them, and always fresh. (3.) The fruit is not only pleasant, but wholesome. The presence of God in heaven is the health and happiness of the saints; there they find in him a remedy for all their former maladies, and are preserved by him in the most healthful and vigorous state. III. The perfect freedom of this paradise from every thing that is evil (Rev 22:3): There shall be no more curse; no accursed one - katanathema, no serpent there, as there was in the earthly paradise. Here is the great excellency of this paradise. The devil has nothing to do there; he cannot draw the saints from serving God to be subject to himself, as he did our first parents, nor can he so much as disturb them in the service of God. IV. The supreme felicity of this paradisiacal state. 1. There the saints shall see the face of God; there they shall enjoy the beatific vision. 2. God will own them, as having his seal and name on their foreheads. 3. They shall reign with him for ever; their service shall be not only freedom but honour and dominion. 4. All this shall be with perfect knowledge and joy. They shall be full of wisdom and comfort, continually walking in the light of the Lord; and this not for a time, but for ever and ever.
Tyndale Open Study Notes
22:1-2 This part of John’s vision of the city deals with God’s provision of water and food for his people (cp. Exod 16:4, 22-24; Ezek 47:1-12; John 4:10; 6:32-35). Although God originally made a “garden of delight” (Eden) for Adam and Eve, they disobeyed him and lost it (Gen 2–3). Now Eden is refashioned and united to the celestial city as God’s marvelous gift for his faithful people. 22:1 the water of life: See 7:17; John 4:10-15; cp. Exod 17:1-7; Isa 55:1; Ezek 47:1-10; Zech 14:8.
Revelation 22:1
The River of Life
1Then the angel showed me a river of the water of life, as clear as crystal, flowing from the throne of God and of the Lamb2down the middle of the main street of the city. On either side of the river stood a tree of life, bearing twelve kinds of fruit and yielding a fresh crop for each month. And the leaves of the tree are for the healing of the nations.
- Scripture
- Sermons
- Commentary
A River of Life
By Art Katz8.4K55:07Living WaterAbundant LifeRiver of LifeREV 22:1Art Katz emphasizes the significance of the 'river of life' flowing from the throne of God, illustrating how this divine life is accessible to believers who submit to God's sovereignty. He contrasts the abundant life available through Christ with the stagnation of religious practices that lack true vitality. Katz urges the congregation to seek deeper intimacy with God, moving beyond superficial faith to experience the transformative power of the waters of life. He highlights the healing and nourishing qualities of this life, which can revitalize not only individuals but also entire nations. Ultimately, he calls for a commitment to dive deeper into the river of life, encouraging believers to embrace the fullness of God's presence.
Inexhaustible Resources in Christ
By Alan Redpath5.2K39:32ResourcesPSA 46:4ISA 35:6EZK 47:1JHN 7:37REV 22:1In this sermon, the speaker reflects on their personal journey of faith and acknowledges their own stubbornness. They believe that we are living in the end times and that Satan is putting pressure on the church. The speaker then introduces an Old Testament parable that points to the resources available to us in Jesus Christ. They emphasize the need for quality and integrity in Christian life, which they believe is lacking in today's superficial society. The speaker concludes by encouraging listeners to seek the depth of the river of God's Spirit and to stand firm in their faith.
If I Perish I Perish-03 Ministry From Esther
By Major Ian Thomas4.4K42:00EstherPSA 7:3PSA 46:1JHN 7:38EPH 5:191JN 3:2REV 22:1In this sermon, the preacher discusses the struggle between the flesh and the spirit in the life of a believer. He emphasizes that when the flesh dominates, it leads to moral defeat and separation from God. However, through the death of Jesus Christ, believers are freed from the power of sin and the old sinful nature. The preacher uses the story of Esther to illustrate the concept of dying to self and surrendering to God's purpose. He concludes by highlighting the importance of the Holy Spirit in guiding believers to live according to God's will.
(Revelation) the New Heaven Earth Jerusalem
By Willie Mullan2.4K1:21:40New JerusalemREV 1:1REV 21:4REV 21:23REV 22:1REV 22:12In this sermon, the speaker begins by discussing the book of Revelation and its significance. He highlights that the first three chapters of Revelation reveal God's revelation of Christ in the midst of the churches. However, in chapter four, the focus shifts to God's revelation of Christ as the Lamb in the midst of the throne. The speaker then mentions a Jew named Herman Humark who has filmed and talked about the land of Palestine and its future. The sermon concludes with a call to accept Christ and warns against living a life of empty religion.
The Persistent Purpose of God - Part 12
By T. Austin-Sparks2.2K56:03Purpose Of GodMAT 6:33MAT 28:18JHN 7:37REV 22:1In this sermon, the preacher discusses the symbolism of a river that flows toward the east and how it represents the progressive fullness of the Spirit of Jesus. The river starts small in Jerusalem but grows in scope and potentiality to meet the needs of the whole world. The preacher emphasizes that there is sufficiency in Christ, ministered by the Spirit, to meet any need, no matter how great. The sermon also highlights the significance of the number two as a symbol of sufficient testimony and the importance of the testimony of a believer's life as a reflection of their faith in Jesus.
The Persistent Purpose of God - Part 1
By T. Austin-Sparks2.1K44:53Purpose Of GodGEN 2:9JHN 3:3ACT 8:301CO 2:13REV 22:1In this sermon, the speaker emphasizes the importance of spiritual life in understanding the Word of God. They explain that our understanding of the Bible is directly related to our spiritual growth. The speaker also highlights the significance of the final mention of a particular matter in the Bible, stating that it often holds the key to understanding all that has been said about it before. They urge the listeners to seek spiritual increase and to judge everything by its contribution to the ultimate purpose of God. The sermon concludes with a suggestion to read the first three chapters of the Prophet Ezekiel for further study.
The Things Which Must Be Hereafter
By Carter Conlon1.9K56:21UnsavedPSA 68:18MAT 6:33EPH 1:13PHP 4:7REV 4:1REV 19:11REV 22:1In this sermon, the speaker emphasizes the importance of being a living testimony for God in our generation. He encourages believers to go where there is difficulty and opposition, boldly proclaiming the testimony of Jesus Christ. The speaker also expresses a belief in a future revival in the nation of Burundi, envisioning it as a role model of God's glory in Africa. He warns against being blinded by scriptural knowledge without a true relationship with Jesus Christ. The sermon concludes with a plea for supernatural love and a testimony of God's grace and glory in the last hour of time.
Ezekiel: Vision of the Temple
By Stephen Kaung1.9K1:12:47EzekielPSA 46:10EZK 43:7EZK 43:10JHN 7:38ACT 13:2GAL 5:22REV 22:1In this sermon, the preacher discusses the visions that God gave to the prophet Ezekiel while he was among the captives by the river Chiba. One of the visions was of the glory of the Lord, where God was on his throne carried by the children. This vision led to God commissioning Ezekiel to be a prophet and go to the children of Israel to proclaim his word. The preacher also mentions other prophets like Jeremiah, Isaiah, and Daniel, who each received different aspects of revelation from God.
The Persistent Purpose of God - Part 4
By T. Austin-Sparks1.8K46:24Purpose Of GodEZK 1:4MAT 6:33JHN 6:56JHN 6:62EPH 1:20REV 22:1In this sermon, the speaker begins by reviewing the points covered in the previous session and suggests translating them into Chinese for better understanding. The focus then shifts to the preparation of the prophet for his ministry, specifically the visions of God. The speaker highlights the importance of the first great vision given to the prophet, which is described in verses 4 to 28 of chapter 1. The vision emphasizes the power and authority of Jesus, who is depicted as being on the throne. The speaker emphasizes that the entire ministry of the prophet is rooted in this vision and encourages the audience to recognize the significance of Jesus being Lord.
Whosoever Wills of the Bible
By Rolfe Barnard1.8K49:25Free WillMAT 11:28JHN 7:37ROM 10:9EPH 2:8HEB 11:6REV 22:1REV 22:17In this sermon, the preacher reflects on his time spent with the congregation and expresses gratitude for their friendship and the opportunity to preach the gospel. He mentions a controversial movie and plans to discuss it in the future. The sermon then focuses on the last chapter of the Bible, discussing the tree of life and the water of life that brings healing to the nations. The preacher emphasizes the richness of God's mercy and the importance of faith as a vital act of the soul in accepting Jesus Christ. He encourages the congregation to reach out and take hold of Christ, acknowledging that while faith is a gift from God, it is also an individual's responsibility to exercise it.
1 Peter 1; Minneapolis Conference
By Bob Bruton1.1K44:23ConferenceMAT 6:33ACT 1:1ROM 1:11PE 1:3REV 22:1In this sermon, the speaker discusses the importance of witnessing and sharing the word of God with others. He emphasizes the power of a transformed life as a testimony to the world. The speaker believes that God gives everyone at least one chance to be saved, and it is up to the individual to accept or reject it. He encourages believers to let their lives shine as a witness and to reflect the victory of a Christian life. The sermon also includes a personal story about the speaker's father's conversion to Christianity after many years of not knowing Christ.
Mid South Conference 1981-04 the People of Israel
By Aldy Fam Fanous95338:24IsraelEXO 8:1DEU 1:2JHN 6:37JHN 10:27ACT 2:41REV 22:1In this sermon, the speaker discusses the journey of the children of Israel from Egypt to Canaan and how it relates to the Christian experience. The speaker emphasizes that those who do not know Jesus Christ are slaves to sin and can only be set free by Him. The land of Canaan is seen as a type of the rest and victory that God wants to bring His people into. The speaker also highlights the assurance and certainty that those who belong to Christ will remain His forever, as stated in John 10:27-29.
The Death of a Believer & Unbeliever
By Rolfe Barnard89654:39JHN 5:25REV 22:1REV 22:3In this sermon, the preacher discusses the concept of death for believers as being like sleep for the body. He shares a personal experience of preaching at his father's funeral and how it was a blessed time for him. The preacher emphasizes the importance of facing the reality of death and asks the congregation if they would be willing to die in their current state. He then presents five blessed truths that come from the scripture, highlighting the difference between the fate of unbelievers and believers in death.
Essence of the River's Power
By Alan Redpath77856:20Holy SpiritPSA 1:3PSA 46:4ISA 35:6EZK 47:1JHN 4:10JHN 7:37REV 22:1In this sermon, the speaker addresses the current state of defeat and victory in the lives of Christians. He acknowledges that many believers are disillusioned, discouraged, and defeated, lacking the true experience of faith. The speaker emphasizes the need for a real and vibrant relationship with Jesus, rather than just attending church or having head knowledge. He introduces the theme of the sermon series, which focuses on the resources for Christian living, specifically discussing the essence, experience, and effect of the river's power.
The Church - Bride, Body, Building
By G.W. North14146:55ChurchJHN 14:2REV 22:1In this sermon, the preacher emphasizes the importance of putting God at the center of our lives. He describes a vision of a throne and a river of living water flowing from it. The preacher urges the congregation to forsake everything for their love of God and warns against putting any other love or person before Him. He also discusses the concept of the church as the bride of Christ and highlights the significance of reading the Bible to gain a deeper understanding of spiritual truths.
The Throne, Throng and Thrill
By Leonard Ravenhill5853:53Christian LifeThe Glory of GodEternal LifeREV 22:1Leonard Ravenhill emphasizes the significance of the throne of God, the throng of believers, and the thrill of seeing Jesus face to face in his sermon 'The Throne, Throng and Thrill.' He reflects on the profound revelation given to John in the book of Revelation, highlighting the beauty of eternal life and the joy of serving God. Ravenhill urges listeners to recognize the urgency of their faith and the nearness of Christ's return, encouraging them to long for the moment when they will behold the face of Jesus. He contrasts the fleeting nature of earthly life with the eternal glory that awaits believers, reminding them of the importance of living in anticipation of that day.
River of Life and the Tree of Life
By Zac Poonen0GEN 3:24EZK 47:1JHN 7:372CO 4:10REV 22:1Zac Poonen delves into the imagery of the river of water of life in Revelation 22:1-2, symbolizing the Holy Spirit bringing life and healing. He connects this to Ezekiel's vision of the life-giving river and Jesus' promise of rivers of living water to believers. Poonen emphasizes the Spirit-filled life where believers are carried by the Holy Spirit, no longer bound to earthly limitations. The purity and transparency of the river reflect the need for God and Christ to be exalted on the throne for the Spirit to work powerfully.
The Lord My Drink
By Octavius Winslow0The Blood of ChristSpiritual NourishmentLEV 17:11MAT 26:26JHN 6:53ROM 5:91CO 11:24EPH 1:7HEB 9:221JN 1:7REV 22:1Octavius Winslow emphasizes that the believer's spiritual life is sustained by the life of Jesus, who offers His flesh and blood as true nourishment. He highlights the importance of having an experiential knowledge of Christ, urging believers to not merely profess their faith but to live by it. Winslow explains that the blood of Christ is essential for spiritual vitality, cleansing, and nourishment, and encourages believers to continually apply it in their lives. He reassures that even in weakness, believers can approach the Lord's Table to remember Christ's sacrifice and receive eternal life. Ultimately, the sermon calls for a deep, personal relationship with Christ, where His blood invigorates and sustains the believer's faith.
Healed by His Stripes
By Richard E. Bieber0PSA 46:4PSA 103:3ISA 53:5MRK 2:5LUK 9:2JHN 19:34ACT 8:81JN 5:6REV 22:1Richard E. Bieber preaches about the significance of the River of God that flows throughout the Bible, symbolizing forgiveness and healing through water and blood. From Eden to Revelation, the River represents God's continuous presence and provision for humanity. Jesus is revealed as the ultimate source of this River, offering not just physical healing but spiritual restoration through His blood shed on the Cross. Believers are encouraged to follow the signs of healing to the source of forgiveness at Calvary, where the blood and water flowed from Jesus' side, bringing redemption and healing to all who believe.
Epistle 184
By George Fox0Unity in ChristEternal LifeAMO 5:24JHN 4:24ROM 8:2EPH 2:19HEB 7:16HEB 12:251JN 1:31JN 3:151JN 5:12REV 22:1George Fox emphasizes the power of God that unites believers in eternal life, urging them to live in this divine power to inherit eternity. He warns against envy and persecution, stating that those who harbor such feelings do not possess eternal life. Fox encourages the faithful to worship God in truth and spirit, distinguishing between divine and human gatherings, and to remain steadfast in the teachings of Christ. He highlights the importance of listening to God's voice, which brings true joy and shakes away falsehoods. Ultimately, he calls for a life rooted in the eternal, where believers can experience the fullness of God's glory and righteousness.
Today You Will Be With Me in Paradise
By John Piper0PSA 51:17MAT 11:28LUK 23:43ROM 6:232CO 12:3PHP 2:10JAS 4:10REV 2:7REV 22:1John Piper preaches on the two responses to personal suffering as seen in the story of the two thieves crucified with Jesus. One thief represents those who selfishly demand deliverance from suffering without repentance, while the other thief exemplifies humility, fear of God, confession of sin, acceptance of deserved punishment, acknowledgment of Jesus' righteousness and kingship, and a plea for mercy. Jesus promises the repentant thief immediate entrance into Paradise, highlighting the reward of responding to suffering with faith and humility.
Two Opposites
By John Henry Jowett0MAT 6:24JAS 4:41JN 2:15REV 22:1John Henry Jowett emphasizes the impossibility of loving both God and the world simultaneously, drawing parallels to walking in contrary directions or dressing for different climates. He highlights the need for a clear choice between God and the world, as attempting to compromise leads to a shallow, ritualistic faith that displeases God. Jowett urges listeners to make a decisive choice in their affections, knowing that embracing the love of God will naturally extinguish worldly desires, leading to a life filled with the purity and clarity of God's love.
The Three Gardens
By John Henry Jowett0GEN 2:8LUK 22:44ROM 5:101CO 6:20REV 22:1John Henry Jowett emphasizes the significance of Gethsemane in the journey of redemption, connecting it to the gardens of Paradise lost and regained. He warns against taking redemption lightly and reminds believers that they were reconciled to God through the death of His Son. Jowett highlights the importance of remembering that we are bought with a price, which should humble us and fill our hearts with love for Christ.
Rivers of Living Water
By Zac Poonen0PSA 42:1MRK 11:24JHN 7:37ACT 2:33REV 22:1Zac Poonen preaches on the imagery of the Holy Spirit as a river flowing from the throne of God, emphasizing the baptism in the Holy Spirit as being immersed under this waterfall to have rivers of living water flow from within. He contrasts the struggle of the average believer to a hand-pump, drawing only a few drops of blessing, but encourages turning to the Lord in our dryness to experience abundant blessings. Poonen highlights the importance of acknowledging our need for the Holy Spirit's power over engaging in theological debates, stressing the necessity of thirst and faith to receive this baptism.
From Marah to Elim
By J. Wilbur Chapman0PSA 23:2PSA 84:6PSA 92:12ISA 12:3ISA 58:11JHN 4:142CO 9:8EPH 2:6COL 3:1REV 22:1J. Wilbur Chapman preaches about the delightful change Israel experienced when they moved from Marah to Elim, symbolizing the transition from bondage to freedom, darkness to light, and unrest to rest. This journey mirrors the Christian's rightful experience of a glorious and wonderful life in Christ. Elim's twelve wells of water represent refreshment and rest for every month of the year, while the seventy palm trees signify provision and sustenance for every year of a believer's life. Chapman emphasizes the surpassing experience of going beyond the cross of Christ, passing through His death, and standing on Resurrection ground, where abundant blessings await those who seek heavenly things.
- Adam Clarke
- John Gill
- Matthew Henry
- Tyndale
Adam Clarke Bible Commentary
Pure river of water of life - This is evidently a reference to the garden of paradise, and the river by which it was watered; and there is also a reference to the account, Eze 47:7-12. Water of life, as we have seen before, generally signifies spring or running water; here it may signify incessant communications of happiness proceeding from God.
John Gill Bible Commentary
And he showed me a pure river of water of life,.... Not baptism, which used to be administered in rivers and pools of water; and which engaged to purity of life; and, the power and authority of administering which was from God and Christ; but in this Jerusalem state there will be no use nor need of ordinances; for Rev 22:1 belongs to the preceding chapter, and is a continuation of the same account, this being not a new vision, but a part of the former, which the same angel, as in Rev 21:9 proceeds to show to John: nor is the Holy Ghost intended by this river, whose gifts and graces are sometimes, for their plenty, purity, and quickening virtue, compared to rivers of living water; and who is a pure and holy Spirit, and proceeds from the Father and the Son: nor the doctrine of the Gospel, which comes from the blessed God, and is the Gospel of Christ; and, when purely and faithfully preached, is clear as crystal; and is the means of conveying spiritual life to men, and of supporting it in them: nor the ultimate joys of heaven, which may be called a river of pleasure, for the fulness and variety of delight; pure, and clear as crystal, for the holiness and perfect knowledge of that state; and be said to proceed from the throne of God and the Lamb, being the free gift of God through Christ; but this state is not designed here: rather, therefore, by this river is meant the everlasting love of God, which may be compared to a river for its largeness and abundance, its height and depth, its length and breadth; and for the large displays of it in this state, when its waters will increase, and be a broad river to swim in, and be unpassable; and for the streams of it in election, redemption, calling, justification, pardon, adoption, and eternal life, which make glad the city of God; and for the pleasure it yields, and the fruitfulness it gives to those who drink of it: it may be called a river "of water of life", because in the present state of things it quickens such who are dead in trespasses and sins; revives the saints when dead and lifeless, supports their spirits, and is a cordial that preserves from fainting; it keeps and secures from dying the second death and is the spring and source of eternal life; and that itself will last and flow for ever, it is ever running water, it is everlasting love: and it may be said to be pure and clear as crystal, it being free from all hypocrisy and dissimulation, being real, hearty, and sincere, both in the Father and in Christ, of which the fullest proofs and demonstrations are given; and being clear of all motives and conditions in the creature, by which it might be influenced; and it engaging to purity and holiness of life and conversation; for the doctrine, which brings the account of it, and the inward principle of grace, which is the fruit of it, and every discovery of it, have a tendency hereunto: proceeding out of the throne of God and of the Lamb; not taking its rise from man's obedience, nor from his love to God, nor from his faith in Christ; for the love of God is prior to all these, and is the spring and cause of them, and therefore cannot be moved and influenced by them; but it has its origin from the sovereignty of God and of Christ, signified by the throne of both, who will be gracious to whom they will be gracious; nor can any reason be given why they love any of the sons of men, but their own sovereign will and pleasure; this is the sole motive, spring, and cause of their love; and God and the Lamb being mentioned together, shows both the equal dignity of their persons, being on the same throne, and the equality of their love to the inhabitants of the new Jerusalem: and thus, as a river adds to the pleasure, use, convenience, and wholesomeness of a city, this glorious city is commended by such a river running by it, or in the midst of it: there may be an allusion to the river which ran out of the garden of Eden, for this will be a paradisiacal state, Gen 2:9 or rather to the waters in Eze 47:1 which came from under the threshold of the Sanctuary; though this river proceeds not from the temple, there being no temple in this state, but from the throne of God and the Lamb, which is instead of it.
Matthew Henry Bible Commentary
The heavenly state which was before described as a city, and called the new Jerusalem, is here described as a paradise, alluding to the earthly paradise which was lost by the sin of the first Adam; here is another paradise restored by the second Adam. A paradise in a city, or a whole city in a paradise! In the first paradise there were only two persons to behold the beauty and taste the pleasures of it; but in this second paradise whole cities and nations shall find abundant delight and satisfaction. And here observe, I. The river of paradise. The earthly paradise was well watered: no place can be pleasant or fruitful that is not so. This river is described, 1. By its fountain-head - the throne of God and the Lamb. All our springs of grace, comfort, and glory, are in God; and all our streams from him are through the mediation of the Lamb. 2. By its quality - pure and clear as crystal. All the streams of earthly comfort are muddy; but these are clear, salutary, and refreshing, giving life, and preserving life, to those who drink of them. II. The tree of life, in this paradise. Such a tree there was in the earthly paradise, Gen 2:9. This far excels it. And now, as to this tree, observe, 1. The situation of it - in the midst of the street, and on either side the river; or, as might have been better rendered, in the midst between the terrace-walk and the river. This tree of life is fed by the pure waters of the river that comes from the throne of God. The presence and perfections of God furnish out all the glory and blessedness of heaven. 2. The fruitfulness of this tree. (1.) It brings forth many sorts of fruit - twelve sorts, suited to the refined taste of all the saints. (2.) It brings forth fruit at all times - yields its fruit every month. This tree is never empty, never barren; there is always fruit upon it. In heaven there is not only a variety of pure and satisfying pleasures, but a continuance of them, and always fresh. (3.) The fruit is not only pleasant, but wholesome. The presence of God in heaven is the health and happiness of the saints; there they find in him a remedy for all their former maladies, and are preserved by him in the most healthful and vigorous state. III. The perfect freedom of this paradise from every thing that is evil (Rev 22:3): There shall be no more curse; no accursed one - katanathema, no serpent there, as there was in the earthly paradise. Here is the great excellency of this paradise. The devil has nothing to do there; he cannot draw the saints from serving God to be subject to himself, as he did our first parents, nor can he so much as disturb them in the service of God. IV. The supreme felicity of this paradisiacal state. 1. There the saints shall see the face of God; there they shall enjoy the beatific vision. 2. God will own them, as having his seal and name on their foreheads. 3. They shall reign with him for ever; their service shall be not only freedom but honour and dominion. 4. All this shall be with perfect knowledge and joy. They shall be full of wisdom and comfort, continually walking in the light of the Lord; and this not for a time, but for ever and ever.
Tyndale Open Study Notes
22:1-2 This part of John’s vision of the city deals with God’s provision of water and food for his people (cp. Exod 16:4, 22-24; Ezek 47:1-12; John 4:10; 6:32-35). Although God originally made a “garden of delight” (Eden) for Adam and Eve, they disobeyed him and lost it (Gen 2–3). Now Eden is refashioned and united to the celestial city as God’s marvelous gift for his faithful people. 22:1 the water of life: See 7:17; John 4:10-15; cp. Exod 17:1-7; Isa 55:1; Ezek 47:1-10; Zech 14:8.