The book of Revelation is the last book of the New Testament of the Bible and contains the apostle John’s prophetic visions of the end times. In chapter 22 we find a description of a holy city, New Jerusalem, and accompanying symbols such as the River of Life and the Tree of Life.
The River of Life is mentioned in Revelation 22:1-2 as “a river of water of life, bright as crystal, flowing from the throne of God and of the Lamb”. The river flows through the middle of the city’s main street and is fed by the presence of God. The Tree of Life is also described as “in the middle of the main street, on either side of the river, was the tree of life, which bears twelve fruits, yielding its fruit every month, and the leaves of the tree are for the healing of the nations” (Revelation 22:2).
Both the River of Life and the Tree of Life are symbols of blessings and eternal life that God promises to those who follow and love him. The Tree of Life was first mentioned in the book of Genesis, in the Garden of Eden, but after the fall of man, entry into the Garden was forbidden and the possibility of eating the fruit of the Tree of Life was denied (Genesis 3:22 -24). However, with the promise of redemption in Christ, access to the Tree of Life is again open to those who believe in Jesus.
The River of Life and the Tree of Life are powerful symbols that represent the promise of eternal life for those who are faithful to God. Access to eternal life is through faith in Jesus, as He said in John 14:6, “I am the way and the truth and the life. No one comes to the Father except through me.” These symbols are a reminder that despite the struggles and challenges of this life, there is greater hope in eternal life with God. The promise of eternal life is a gift from God to those who trust in Him and follow His ways.
In summary, the River of Life and the Tree of Life in Revelation 22 symbolize God’s promise of eternal life and blessing to those who believe in Jesus. These symbols remind us that despite the difficulties of this life, there is greater hope in eternal life with God. Through faith in Jesus, we can gain access to eternal life and enjoy the blessings God has promised His children.
Aprofunde seus conhecimentos
436. What does “Decalogue” mean?
468. What is the purpose of punishment?
578. What is the origin of the Our Father?
357. How is the Christian moral life bound up with faith and the sacraments?
291. What is required to receive Holy Communion?
Acesse nossos estudos biblicos:
What is the message of Proverbs 6:6-11 about laziness and hard work?
How is God’s justice manifested in the midst of suffering, according to Job 34:10-12?
How is prayer seen in the Psalms as an expression of dependence on God?
What does the Bible say about the true source of comfort in times of trouble?
What is the true nature of evil, according to the story of Job described in Job 2:1-13?
