with him; but, at their entrance into the holy of holies, they are washed in the laver of Christ's blood,
and presented to the Father without spot. None are admitted into heaven who work abominations.
It is free from hypocrites, such as make lies. As nothing unclean can enter heaven, let us be stirred
up by these glimpses of heavenly things, to use all diligence, and to perfect holiness in the fear of
God.
Chapter 22
Chapter Outline
A description of the heavenly state, under (1–5)
the figures of the water and the tree of life,
and of the throne of God and the Lamb.
The truth and certain fulfilling of all the (6–19)
prophetic visions, The Holy Spirit, and the
bride, the church, invite, and say, Come.
The closing blessing. (20, 21)Verses 1–5
All streams of earthly comfort are muddy; but these are clear, and refreshing. They give life,
and preserve life, to those who drink of them, and thus they will flow for evermore. These point to
the quickening and sanctifying influences of the Holy Spirit, as given to sinners through Christ.
The Holy Spirit, proceeding from the Father and the Son, applies this salvation to our souls by his
new-creating love and power. The trees of life are fed by the pure waters of the river that comes
from the throne of God. The presence of God in heaven, is the health and happiness of the saints.
This tree was an emblem of Christ, and of all the blessings of his salvation; and the leaves for the
healing of the nations, mean that his favour and presence supply all good to the inhabitants of that
blessed world. The devil has no power there; he cannot draw the saints from serving God, nor can
he disturb them in the service of God. God and the Lamb are here spoken of as one. Service there
shall be not only freedom, but honour and dominion. There will be no night; no affliction or dejection,
no pause in service or enjoyment: no diversions or pleasures or man's inventing will there be wanted.
How different all this from gross and merely human views of heavenly happiness, even those which
refer to pleasures of the mind!
Verses 6–19
The Lord Jesus spake by the angel, solemnly confirming the contents of this book, particularly
of this last vision. He is the Lord God faithful and true. Also by his messengers; the holy angels
showed them to holy men of God. They are things that must shortly be done; Christ will come
quickly, and put all things out of doubt. And by the integrity of that angel who had been the apostle's
interpreter. He refused to accept religious worship from John, and reproved him for offering it.