Revelation 21
by Philip Layton
Heaven is for those whose names are written in the Lamb’s book of life
Click here to read Revelation 21
Discussion Questions
- Having read Revelation, do you think that belief in action, social justice and spiritual evolution will prepare the way for Jesus to return and set up Heaven on earth, or would you say that life will become harder with more persecution until Jesus intervenes and rules for 1,000 years (vv 1-5). Then, after the final judgement, will a totally new Heaven and earth replace this one?
- Is your name written in the Lamb’s book of life (v 27)?
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Going Deeper From 'Words of Life'
Everything will be new! A place of perfect holiness. The Holy City, the new Jerusalem, coming from Heaven. Christ’s faithful followers will live in God’s presence, in a state of everlasting peace:
‘He will wipe every tear from their eyes. There will be no more death or mourning or crying or pain, for the old order of things has passed away’ (v 4).
There will be no night in Heaven, for the luminous glory of God will be constant. Gold, pearls, brilliant colours of precious stones – everywhere!
And the glistening river of life flows from God’s throne:
Then the angel showed me the river of the water of life, as clear as crystal, flowing from the throne of God and of the Lamb down the middle of the great street of the city (22:1, 2).
John is completely overwhelmed by the closing of this incredible vision!
He then records what Jesus says, for all to hear:
‘Behold, I am coming soon! My reward is with me, and I will give to everyone according to what he has done… Blessed are those who wash their robes, that they may have the right to the tree of life and may go through the gates into the city…I, Jesus, have sent my angel to give you this testimony for the churches. I am the Root and the offspring of david, and the bright Morning Star’ (vv 12, 14, 16).
And as we now end our look into the revelation of Jesus given to his apostle, let’s ponder on the last two verses and pray together:
He who testifies to these things says, ‘Yes, I am coming soon.’ Amen. Come, Lord Jesus. The grace of the Lord Jesus be with God’s people. Amen (vv 20, 21).
Beverly Ivany
The January 2016 edition of Words of Life is available now.