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Revelation 22:14
Verse
Context
Jesus Is Coming
13I am the Alpha and the Omega, the First and the Last, the Beginning and the End.” 14Blessed are those who wash their robes, so that they may have the right to the tree of life and may enter the city by its gates.15But outside are the dogs, the sorcerers, the sexually immoral, the murderers, the idolaters, and everyone who loves and practices falsehood.
Sermons







Summary
Commentary
- Adam Clarke
- Jamieson-Fausset-Brown
- John Gill
- Tyndale
Adam Clarke Bible Commentary
Blessed are they that do his commandments - They are happy who are obedient. That they may have right to the tree of life - The original is much more expressive, Ἱνα εσται ἡ εξουσια αυτων επι το ξυλον της ζωης· That they may have authority over the tree of life; an authority founded on right, this right founded on obedience to the commandments of God, and that obedience produced by the grace of God working in them. Without grace no obedience; without obedience no authority to the tree of life; without authority no right; without right no enjoyment: God's grace through Christ produces the good, and then rewards it as if all had been our own.
Jamieson-Fausset-Brown Bible Commentary
do his commandments--so B, Syriac, Coptic, and CYPRIAN. But A, Aleph, and Vulgate read, "(Blessed are they that) wash their robes," namely, in the blood of the Lamb (compare Rev 7:14). This reading takes away the pretext for the notion of salvation by works. But even English Version reading is quite compatible with salvation by grace; for God's first and grand Gospel "commandment" is to believe on Jesus. Thus our "right" to (Greek, "privilege" or "lawful authority over") the tree of life is due not to our doings, but to what He has done for us. The right, or privilege, is founded, not on our merits, but on God's grace. through--Greek, "by the gates."
John Gill Bible Commentary
Blessed are they that do his commandments,.... Either the commandments of God, Rev 12:17 the precepts of the moral law, which are the whole duty of man; which are done either legally in order to obtain life, and then they must be perfectly done, which no man can do; hence none live, and are justified by the deeds of it, and consequently are not blessed, but cursed; or evangelically, when they are done in the strength of Christ, from love to God, in the exercise of faith upon him, with a view to his glory, and without dependence on them, acknowledging the imperfection of them, and looking unto Jesus for righteousness and life, in whom such find both, and so are blessed persons: or else the commandments of Jesus are intended, who is speaking in the context, Rev 22:12 and is speaking of himself, and his, as the angel does in Rev 22:6 Christ's commandments are his new commandment of love, and the ordinances of baptism, and the Lord's supper; which are to be observed in the same evangelical manner as the commandments of God, and to be kept exactly as they are delivered, without any alteration, addition, or diminution; and they are to be attended to immediately, and without delay; and such as regard them in a right way and manner are blessed; they have much pleasure and delight in the observance of them; these commandments are not grievous, especially when they have the presence of Christ, the discoveries of his love, and are under the gracious influences of his Spirit: or it may be rather the commandments in this book are designed, for it may be rendered, "that do its commandments"; keep the sayings of this book, as in Rev 22:7 such as relate to the worship of God, and forbid the worship of the beast, which caution against idolatry, and exhort to come out of Babylon, and direct to follow the Lamb, and charge not to add or take from anything written in this prophecy; and such persons as keep the words of it are pronounced blessed, Rev 1:3. The Alexandrian copy reads, "that wash their garments"; and so the Ethiopic version, and also the Vulgate Latin, which adds, "in the blood of the Lamb", agreeably to Rev 7:13 and such whose persons and garments are washed in the blood of Christ are blessed indeed; they are justified by it, pardoned through it, and both they and their services are accepted on account of it. The instances of their that they may have right to the tree of life; or "power over the tree of life"; that is, Christ, not of government over him, but of enjoyment of him; a liberty of eating of the fruit of this tree, having interest in it, and so a right to partake of it; which right, or liberty, is not obtained by obedience to the commands of God, or Christ, or of this book, for this is what is due to God, and obligatory on men; and which, when done, is but their duty, and can merit nothing; though a cheerful and evangelical obedience to the divine will makes such appear to have a right to such a privilege, as the disciples of Christ are not made so, but appear to be such by bringing forth fruit, Joh 15:8 but to have interest in Christ, the tree of life, and a right, power, and liberty to eat thereof, is a free grace gift, Rev 2:7 and happy are those who enjoy such a privilege! Pro 3:18. And may enter in through the gates into the city: the Ethiopic version reads, "into this holy city": and which intends not entrance into a particular church of Christ, the way into which is faith in Christ, and a profession of it, and submission to the ordinance of baptism; nor entrance into heaven, which, as a Gospel church, is often called a city, and into which none shall enter, but such who are justified by the righteousness of Christ, and are regenerated by his Spirit, the gates of it are Christ and his grace; but the holy city, the new Jerusalem, is meant, and entrance into that, which is so largely described in the preceding chapter, and particularly its gates; and they must be happy persons, indeed, who enter there; and their right to it is from, and lies in Christ, his blood, righteousness, and grace, under a sense of which they yield a ready obedience to his will, which makes their right to appear. Frequent mention is made of the gates of this city in the book of Zohar; and, says R. Isaac (i), "when the soul , "is fit" (or worthy, or has a right) "to enter through the gates of Jerusalem" that is above, Michael the great prince goes with it, who anticipates for it the peace of the ministering angels, wondering at him, and inquiring concerning it, saying, "who is this that comes out of the wilderness", &c. Sol 3:6.'' (i) Medrash Haneelam in Zohar in Gen. fol. 77. 1.
Tyndale Open Study Notes
22:14 Blessed are those: In response to the connection between actions and ultimate results (22:12), the seventh blessing of Revelation (see also 1:3; 14:13; 16:15; 19:9; 20:6; 22:7) promises acceptance for those who wash their robes—those who have been purified by trusting in Christ and following him faithfully (3:5; 6:11; 7:9-10, 14; 19:13; Eph 5:26; Heb 10:22). • enter through the gates of the city: See study note on Rev 21:24-25.
Revelation 22:14
Jesus Is Coming
13I am the Alpha and the Omega, the First and the Last, the Beginning and the End.” 14Blessed are those who wash their robes, so that they may have the right to the tree of life and may enter the city by its gates.15But outside are the dogs, the sorcerers, the sexually immoral, the murderers, the idolaters, and everyone who loves and practices falsehood.
- Scripture
- Sermons
- Commentary
(Through the Bible) Revelation 21-22
By Chuck Smith1.9K40:24Through The BiblePSA 119:105REV 22:6REV 22:12REV 22:14REV 22:17In this sermon, the speaker discusses the disappearance of the sun and the revelation of God's love and mercy towards humanity through Jesus Christ. The sermon traces the rebellion of mankind and its effects, highlighting God's patient and loving dealings with humanity. The speaker emphasizes the importance of being prepared for the return of Jesus and the rewards that will be given based on one's work. The sermon concludes with a reminder to worship God alone and an affirmation of the truth and faithfulness of God's promises.
(Revelation) Revelation 6:1-17
By Zac Poonen1.7K1:00:35ZEC 5:1ACT 1:6REV 1:3REV 6:16REV 22:14In this sermon, the preacher discusses the four instruments that God uses as weapons of warfare: sword, famine, disease, and wild beasts. He references Revelation 6:7-8 and Ezekiel 14:12-21 to support his points. The preacher emphasizes that only one-fourth of the earth's population is wiped out by these judgments, showing God's grace. He also highlights the importance of righteousness as a means of protection and mentions biblical figures like Noah, Daniel, and Job as examples to follow. The sermon concludes by mentioning Psalm 91 and the book of Revelation as tools for understanding the future and the coming of Jesus Christ.
Propitiation
By Ron Bailey1.3K1:00:06PropitiationGEN 3:15GEN 3:24MAT 6:332PE 1:31JN 2:1REV 21:4REV 22:14In this sermon, the speaker discusses the story of Jacob and his encounter with his brother Esau. Jacob, known for his cunning and strategic thinking, divides his family into two groups to protect them from any harm that Esau may bring. The speaker emphasizes the use of various words and illustrations in the Bible to convey deeper meanings and associations. The sermon also touches on the parable of the prodigal son, highlighting the importance of acknowledging and confessing one's sins to God. Overall, the message emphasizes God's constant desire for repentance and forgiveness.
The Tree of Life
By Art Katz1.0K50:39Christian LifeGEN 3:24MAT 6:33REV 22:1REV 22:14In this sermon, the preacher emphasizes the importance of understanding the concept of life versus religion. He highlights that many Christians are living religious lives instead of embracing the new covenant based on God's life. The preacher shares a personal encounter with someone who is living a lavish and materialistic lifestyle, but deep down is lost and unsure of their purpose. The sermon concludes with the preacher acknowledging the need for a genuine encounter with God's life, rather than relying on clever words or strategies.
What Is a Christian 13 Christian Is a Soldier
By James K. Boswell37545:35PSA 119:59MAT 28:19ROM 6:16REV 22:14In this sermon, the preacher shares two stories to illustrate the importance of complete devotion to God. The first story is about a young lady who developed a desire for strong drink at a very young age due to her father's influence. The second story is about a student who, after hearing from God, decides to give his life completely to Him without any reservations. The preacher emphasizes the need for loyalty and commitment to God, using examples of soldiers who were ineffective because they tried to serve both sides in a war. He concludes by urging listeners to examine their own lives and ensure that they are fully devoted to God.
Leadership and Ministry Training #3
By Stephen Kaung25256:58REV 2:7REV 3:21REV 12:5REV 14:1REV 14:4REV 15:2REV 19:7REV 21:2REV 22:14This sermon from Revelation chapter 14 emphasizes the call to overcome, highlighting the importance of being overcomers in Christ. It discusses the vision of the Lamb and the 144,000, the significance of following the Lamb wherever He goes, and the need for believers to be prepared for Christ's imminent return. The message stresses the urgency of surrendering to God, allowing the Holy Spirit to work in our lives, and being clothed with Christ's righteousness and the sanctifying work of the Holy Spirit to be prepared as the bride of the Lamb for eternity.
1 Corinthians 9
By John Nelson Darby0Accountability in PreachingMinistryJHN 10:28ROM 5:5ROM 8:101CO 9:18PHP 1:192TI 2:5HEB 3:141JN 3:4REV 22:14John Nelson Darby expounds on 1 Corinthians 9, emphasizing the nature of ministry and the responsibilities of preachers. He highlights Paul's refusal to exercise his rights as an apostle for the sake of the gospel, illustrating the importance of serving without seeking personal gain. Darby discusses the balance between being supported by the church and maintaining independence in ministry, stressing that preachers are ultimately accountable to God. He warns against the dangers of legalism and the necessity of living a life consistent with one's preaching to avoid being a 'castaway.' The sermon concludes with a call to uphold the integrity of the gospel while navigating the complexities of ministry.
Divine Life
By T. Austin-Sparks0Faith and ObedienceDivine LifePSA 138:6MAT 11:28JHN 10:10JHN 14:30GAL 5:22EPH 3:20REV 2:7REV 22:1REV 22:14REV 22:19T. Austin-Sparks emphasizes the significance of the tree of life as a symbol of Divine life, which is central to God's purpose for humanity. He explains that spiritual death results from disobedience and unbelief, separating man from God, the source of life. The sermon highlights that faith and obedience are essential for accessing this Divine life, which is embodied in Jesus Christ, the Alpha and Omega. Sparks illustrates that true life is practical, fruitful, and governed by the lordship of Christ, urging believers to commit wholly to Him to experience the fullness of Divine life. Ultimately, the message calls for a life that reflects the order, honesty, and influence of God's nature.
Sanctification -- What It Is
By J.H. Collins0LEV 11:442CO 7:1EPH 5:251TH 5:232TI 3:16HEB 12:141JN 4:18REV 22:14J.H. Collins preaches about the importance of sanctification and holiness in the Christian journey, emphasizing that perfect love casts out fear and the need for believers to be fully consecrated and cleansed from all sin to experience Christian perfection. The sermon delves into the two-fold meaning of sanctification - consecration and purification - highlighting that God enables believers to become holy and fulfill His commandments. The Scriptures teach that holiness is attainable and essential for believers to see the Lord, presenting it as the heritage of God's people and emphasizing that human nature can exist without sin through Christ's cleansing power.
Genesis Finds Its Complement in the Apocalypse
By E.W. Bullinger0GEN 1:16GEN 2:7GEN 3:15GEN 3:24GEN 6:9GEN 22:17REV 20:10REV 21:4REV 22:3REV 22:5REV 22:14E.W. Bullinger delves into the parallelism between Genesis and Revelation, showcasing the contrast between the beginning and the end of God's redemptive plan. From the creation of Earth to the final judgment, the preacher highlights the themes of sin, rebellion, restoration, and the ultimate victory of God over evil. The sermon emphasizes the consequences of man's disobedience, the impact of Satan's influence, and the promise of redemption through a promised seed. It concludes with the restoration of man, the defeat of Satan, and the eternal blessings awaiting those who remain faithful to God.
Repentance on the Earth
By Clement of Rome0MAT 25:232CO 7:101TH 4:31JN 1:9REV 22:14Clement of Rome emphasizes the importance of repentance while we are still on earth, comparing us to clay in the hands of a potter who can reshape us if we are willing to repent wholeheartedly. He warns that once we leave this world, we will no longer have the opportunity to confess or repent, urging believers to do the will of the Father, keep the flesh holy, and obey the commandments of the Lord to obtain eternal life. Clement stresses the significance of being faithful in small things, as it reflects our faithfulness in greater matters, highlighting the need to keep ourselves pure to receive the gift of eternal life.
Rev. 22:14. Entrance Into the City
By Horatius Bonar0The New JerusalemEternal LifeGEN 2:9PSA 119:1MAT 5:8JHN 10:9PHP 3:20HEB 11:101PE 2:9REV 2:7REV 21:2REV 22:14Horatius Bonar preaches on Revelation 22:14, emphasizing the blessings of those who keep God's commandments, which grant them access to the tree of life and the new Jerusalem. He describes the city as a glorious place, built by God, where redeemed men enter through twelve pearl gates that are always open. The tree of life symbolizes Christ and offers eternal nourishment and healing to the nations. Bonar highlights the threefold blessedness of believers: keeping commandments, having a right to the tree of life, and entering the city triumphantly. Ultimately, he assures that this new Jerusalem is a permanent home for the redeemed, where they will dwell forever in God's presence.
Unending Enmity
By E.A. Adeboye0REV 7:14REV 20:12REV 22:14REV 22:17E.A. Adeboye delivers a powerful sermon on the Great White Throne Judgement Day as described in Revelation 20:11-15, where all individuals face the eternal consequences of their lives on earth. The scene depicts a solemn moment where every secret deed is exposed, and judgement is passed by Almighty God. Those who accepted Jesus and lived to please Him are spared, while the unsaved are cast into the lake of fire for eternity, leading to regret and enmity towards the saved. Adeboye urges action by creating a list of unsaved loved ones and devising a plan to share the Gospel with them to prevent such eternal separation.
Rights in Christ
By Daniel Steele0JHN 1:12JHN 16:23JHN 17:3ROM 8:11EPH 2:18HEB 4:161JN 1:9REV 22:14Daniel Steele preaches about the concept of rights in Christ, distinguishing between natural rights and gracious rights. He explains how believers are invested with inalienable rights through Christ's atoning merit, such as repentance, belief in Christ, and eternal life. Steele emphasizes the importance of claiming and exercising these rights, grounded in faith and the name of Jesus, to receive blessings and the fullness of the Spirit. He encourages believers to boldly approach the throne of grace, understanding their rights in Christ and the power of His name in prayer.
The Saints' Attendants
By George Kulp0EXO 14:19PSA 23:6ROM 8:281CO 15:542CO 5:8EPH 2:4PHP 4:19REV 21:4REV 22:14George Kulp delivers a powerful sermon on the enduring presence of God's goodness and mercy in the lives of His children, drawing from the beautiful imagery of Psalms 23:6. Through various biblical examples like Elijah, Elisha, and the apostles, he illustrates how God's goodness and mercy have always been constant companions to those who trust in Him. Kulp emphasizes the abundant provision, protection, and guidance that God's goodness offers, highlighting the privilege of dwelling in the house of the Lord both now and for eternity.
The Celestial Railroad
By Nathaniel Hawthorne0PSA 139:23MAT 7:13MRK 9:24JHN 14:6ROM 6:232CO 6:141PE 5:8REV 21:27REV 22:14Nathaniel Hawthorne preaches a sermon based on a dream inspired by Bunyan's 'Pilgrim's Progress', highlighting the contrast between the broadness of contemporary Christianity and the narrowness of Biblical Christianity. The dream journey depicts a railroad from the City of Destruction to the Celestial City, symbolizing the easy path of 'easy religion' that leads to destruction. Along the way, various biblical references are intertwined with modern elements, showcasing the challenges and temptations faced by pilgrims on the narrow path to eternal life.
In a Nutshell
By Robert Wurtz II0GEN 3:8ROM 5:12ROM 6:61CO 15:53GAL 5:16REV 22:14Robert Wurtz II delves into 'The Fall of Man,' exploring how Adam and Eve's communion with God was marked by the glory of God, which departed when they sinned, leading to spiritual death and separation from God. The introduction of sin corrupted their nature, giving rise to the doctrine of Original Sin, inherited by all. God, foreseeing man's sin, implemented death as the penalty for sin, freeing believers from sin's final effects at physical death. The ongoing struggle with the sin nature is a challenge for all believers, emphasizing the need to walk in the Spirit and not feed the flesh, ultimately looking forward to resurrection and eternal life in Christ.
Walking With God. (Gen 5:24)
By George Whitefield0GEN 5:24MAT 5:10ROM 5:1ROM 8:72CO 3:181PE 2:91JN 1:7REV 22:14George Whitefield preaches about the importance and honor of walking with God, using the example of Enoch who walked with God and was taken by Him. He emphasizes that walking with God involves overcoming the enmity of the heart, being reconciled to God through Jesus Christ, maintaining communion with God, and making progress in the divine life. Whitefield urges believers to read the Bible, engage in secret prayer, meditate on God's word, watch His providential dealings, be led by the Holy Spirit, participate in ordinances, and fellowship with other believers. He motivates both sinners and saints to walk closely with God, highlighting the honor, pleasure, and eternal reward that come from this intimate relationship.
- Adam Clarke
- Jamieson-Fausset-Brown
- John Gill
- Tyndale
Adam Clarke Bible Commentary
Blessed are they that do his commandments - They are happy who are obedient. That they may have right to the tree of life - The original is much more expressive, Ἱνα εσται ἡ εξουσια αυτων επι το ξυλον της ζωης· That they may have authority over the tree of life; an authority founded on right, this right founded on obedience to the commandments of God, and that obedience produced by the grace of God working in them. Without grace no obedience; without obedience no authority to the tree of life; without authority no right; without right no enjoyment: God's grace through Christ produces the good, and then rewards it as if all had been our own.
Jamieson-Fausset-Brown Bible Commentary
do his commandments--so B, Syriac, Coptic, and CYPRIAN. But A, Aleph, and Vulgate read, "(Blessed are they that) wash their robes," namely, in the blood of the Lamb (compare Rev 7:14). This reading takes away the pretext for the notion of salvation by works. But even English Version reading is quite compatible with salvation by grace; for God's first and grand Gospel "commandment" is to believe on Jesus. Thus our "right" to (Greek, "privilege" or "lawful authority over") the tree of life is due not to our doings, but to what He has done for us. The right, or privilege, is founded, not on our merits, but on God's grace. through--Greek, "by the gates."
John Gill Bible Commentary
Blessed are they that do his commandments,.... Either the commandments of God, Rev 12:17 the precepts of the moral law, which are the whole duty of man; which are done either legally in order to obtain life, and then they must be perfectly done, which no man can do; hence none live, and are justified by the deeds of it, and consequently are not blessed, but cursed; or evangelically, when they are done in the strength of Christ, from love to God, in the exercise of faith upon him, with a view to his glory, and without dependence on them, acknowledging the imperfection of them, and looking unto Jesus for righteousness and life, in whom such find both, and so are blessed persons: or else the commandments of Jesus are intended, who is speaking in the context, Rev 22:12 and is speaking of himself, and his, as the angel does in Rev 22:6 Christ's commandments are his new commandment of love, and the ordinances of baptism, and the Lord's supper; which are to be observed in the same evangelical manner as the commandments of God, and to be kept exactly as they are delivered, without any alteration, addition, or diminution; and they are to be attended to immediately, and without delay; and such as regard them in a right way and manner are blessed; they have much pleasure and delight in the observance of them; these commandments are not grievous, especially when they have the presence of Christ, the discoveries of his love, and are under the gracious influences of his Spirit: or it may be rather the commandments in this book are designed, for it may be rendered, "that do its commandments"; keep the sayings of this book, as in Rev 22:7 such as relate to the worship of God, and forbid the worship of the beast, which caution against idolatry, and exhort to come out of Babylon, and direct to follow the Lamb, and charge not to add or take from anything written in this prophecy; and such persons as keep the words of it are pronounced blessed, Rev 1:3. The Alexandrian copy reads, "that wash their garments"; and so the Ethiopic version, and also the Vulgate Latin, which adds, "in the blood of the Lamb", agreeably to Rev 7:13 and such whose persons and garments are washed in the blood of Christ are blessed indeed; they are justified by it, pardoned through it, and both they and their services are accepted on account of it. The instances of their that they may have right to the tree of life; or "power over the tree of life"; that is, Christ, not of government over him, but of enjoyment of him; a liberty of eating of the fruit of this tree, having interest in it, and so a right to partake of it; which right, or liberty, is not obtained by obedience to the commands of God, or Christ, or of this book, for this is what is due to God, and obligatory on men; and which, when done, is but their duty, and can merit nothing; though a cheerful and evangelical obedience to the divine will makes such appear to have a right to such a privilege, as the disciples of Christ are not made so, but appear to be such by bringing forth fruit, Joh 15:8 but to have interest in Christ, the tree of life, and a right, power, and liberty to eat thereof, is a free grace gift, Rev 2:7 and happy are those who enjoy such a privilege! Pro 3:18. And may enter in through the gates into the city: the Ethiopic version reads, "into this holy city": and which intends not entrance into a particular church of Christ, the way into which is faith in Christ, and a profession of it, and submission to the ordinance of baptism; nor entrance into heaven, which, as a Gospel church, is often called a city, and into which none shall enter, but such who are justified by the righteousness of Christ, and are regenerated by his Spirit, the gates of it are Christ and his grace; but the holy city, the new Jerusalem, is meant, and entrance into that, which is so largely described in the preceding chapter, and particularly its gates; and they must be happy persons, indeed, who enter there; and their right to it is from, and lies in Christ, his blood, righteousness, and grace, under a sense of which they yield a ready obedience to his will, which makes their right to appear. Frequent mention is made of the gates of this city in the book of Zohar; and, says R. Isaac (i), "when the soul , "is fit" (or worthy, or has a right) "to enter through the gates of Jerusalem" that is above, Michael the great prince goes with it, who anticipates for it the peace of the ministering angels, wondering at him, and inquiring concerning it, saying, "who is this that comes out of the wilderness", &c. Sol 3:6.'' (i) Medrash Haneelam in Zohar in Gen. fol. 77. 1.
Tyndale Open Study Notes
22:14 Blessed are those: In response to the connection between actions and ultimate results (22:12), the seventh blessing of Revelation (see also 1:3; 14:13; 16:15; 19:9; 20:6; 22:7) promises acceptance for those who wash their robes—those who have been purified by trusting in Christ and following him faithfully (3:5; 6:11; 7:9-10, 14; 19:13; Eph 5:26; Heb 10:22). • enter through the gates of the city: See study note on Rev 21:24-25.