Heaven - The New Jerusalem

1-THE CITY OF NEW JERUSALEM (Commentary) God creates the city called New Jerusalem; as it is written, "whose builder and maker is God." It is called the bride, the Lamb’s wife, the holy city, the holy Jerusalem, the heavenly Jerusalem, My Father’s house, the city of the living God, and a rejoicing. This great city is presented as a bride adorned for her husband. It is spotless and magnificent. At some point after the Millennium, this city will come down from God out of heaven. Apparently, it will be shortly after the heavens and the earth have passed away. It appears to be positioned somehow above the new earth; it is a heavenly city. The glory of God is there. The glory and honor of the kings and nations of the new earth is there. Abraham looked for this city. The saints also desire this better country, which is a heavenly one. It is a place prepared "for you." God the Father will be there. Jesus will be there. Abraham will be there. It is a city prepared for those that died in faith. There are an innumerable company of angels. The twelve apostles will be there and the twelve tribes of Israel. God’s servants will be there. Within the city are many mansions, including places for the saints. Her people are a joy. The kings of the earth may enter and those in the Lamb’s book of life. They also that do God’s commandments may have the right to enter in. God’s servants shall serve Him, they shall see His face. His name shall be in their foreheads. They shall reign for ever and ever. There will be no more curse or night; there will be no more tears, or death, or sorrow, or crying, and no more pain. There is no temple. The Lord God Almighty and the Lamb are the temple of it. There is a throne for God and the Lamb. New Jerusalem has no need of the sun, moon, or candle to shine in it. Its light is like a jasper stone, clear as crystal and most precious. The glory of God lightens it—the Lamb is its light. It is an enormous city and appears to be shaped like a cube. It is approximately 1500 miles long, 1500 miles wide, and 1500 miles high. Such a city, if it has levels, could house billions of people. It is of pure gold, but the gold is clear like glass. It has a great and high wall that appears to be built of jasper or diamond. It has foundations; in them are the names of the apostles of the Lamb. The foundations are garnished with precious stones. The city of New Jerusalem has twelve gates that shall never be shut (three gates for each of the four directions: east, north, south, and west). Each gate has an angel and a name written, the names of the twelve tribes of Israel. It has a street of pure gold, but the gold is like transparent glass. It has a river of pure water, which is the water of life. It is clear like crystal and proceeds out of the throne of God and of the Lamb. There is a tree of life, located in the midst of the street and on either side of the river. The tree bears twelve kinds of fruit. The fruit comes forth every month. The tree also has leaves that are for healing. All that do God’s commandments may have the right to the tree of life. New Jerusalem is called the mother of us all. She represents the new covenant and freedom. The tabernacle of God will be with men. They shall be His people, and He will be their God.

(Scripture with commentary) Jesus said, in Jn 14:2,3-IN MY FATHER'S HOUSE ARE MANY MANSIONS: IF IT WERE NOT SO, I WOULD HAVE TOLD YOU. I GO TO PREPARE A PLACE FOR YOU. AND IF I GO AND PREPARE A PLACE FOR YOU, I WILL COME AGAIN, AND RECEIVE YOU UNTO MYSELF; THAT WHERE I AM, THERE YE MAY BE ALSO. Jesus has gone to prepare a place for His people. That place is called New Jerusalem. Isa 65:18-BUT BE YE GLAD AND REJOICE FOR EVER IN THAT WHICH I CREATE: FOR, BEHOLD, I CREATE JERUSALEM A REJOICING, AND HER PEOPLE A JOY. Heb 13:14-FOR HERE HAVE WE NO CONTINUING (or enduring) CITY, BUT WE SEEK ONE TO

COME. The city we seek is New Jerusalem. Abraham looked for New Jerusalem in faith. It is written, Heb 11:10-Abraham LOOKED FOR (or was looking forward to-NIV) A CITY WHICH HATH FOUNDATIONS, WHOSE BUILDER AND MAKER (or Architect) IS GOD. The city of New Jerusalem is built by God. Indeed, the saints desire this better country, which is a heavenly one. It is written, Heb 11:16-BUT NOW THEY DESIRE A BETTER COUNTRY, THAT IS, AN HEAVENLY: WHEREFORE GOD IS NOT ASHAMED TO BE CALLED THEIR GOD: FOR HE HATH PREPARED FOR THEM A CITY. New Jerusalem is the city of God. Those that overcome the world and the things therein, Jesus will write upon them the name of New Jerusalem. It comes down out of heaven from God. It is written, Rev 3:12HIM THAT OVERCOMETH…I WILL WRITE UPON HIM THE NAME OF MY GOD, AND THE NAME OF THE CITY OF MY GOD, WHICH IS NEW JERUSALEM, WHICH COMETH DOWN OUT OF HEAVEN FROM MY GOD: AND I WILL WRITE UPON HIM MY NEW NAME. Heb 12:22-24-BUT YE ARE COME UNTO MOUNT ZION, AND UNTO THE CITY OF THE LIVING GOD, THE HEAVENLY JERUSALEM, AND TO AN INNUMERABLE COMPANY OF ANGELS, TO THE GENERAL ASSEMBLY AND CHURCH OF THE FIRSTBORN, WHICH ARE WRITTEN IN HEAVEN, AND TO GOD THE JUDGE OF ALL, AND TO THE SPIRITS OF JUST MEN MADE PERFECT, AND TO JESUS THE MEDIATOR OF THE NEW COVENANT, AND TO THE BLOOD OF SPRINKLING, THAT SPEAKETH BETTER THINGS THAN THAT OF ABEL. Gal 4:22-26-FOR IT IS WRITTEN, THAT ABRAHAM HAD TWO SONS, THE ONE BY A BONDMAID (or slave woman), (and) THE OTHER BY A FREEWOMAN. BUT HE WHO WAS OF THE BONDWOMAN (or slave woman) WAS BORN AFTER THE FLESH; BUT HE OF THE FREEWOMAN WAS BY PROMISE. WHICH THINGS ARE AN ALLEGORY: FOR THESE ARE THE TWO COVENANTS; THE ONE FROM THE MOUNT SINAI, WHICH GENDERETH TO BONDAGE, WHICH IS HAGAR. FOR THIS HAGAR IS MOUNT SINAI IN ARABIA, AND ANSWERETH TO JERUSALEM WHICH NOW IS, AND IS IN BONDAGE WITH HER CHILDREN. BUT JERUSALEM WHICH IS ABOVE IS FREE, WHICH IS THE MOTHER OF US ALL. New Jerusalem represents the new covenant—freedom. Rev 21:2-AND I JOHN SAW THE HOLY CITY, NEW JERUSALEM, COMING DOWN FROM GOD OUT OF HEAVEN, PREPARED AS A BRIDE ADORNED (or beautifully dressed) FOR HER HUSBAND.

2-GOD SHALL DWELL WITH MEN Rev 21:3-AND I HEARD A GREAT VOICE OUT OF HEAVEN (or from the throne) SAYING, BEHOLD (now), THE TABERNACLE OF GOD IS WITH MEN, AND HE WILL DWELL (or live) WITH THEM, AND THEY SHALL BE HIS PEOPLE, AND GOD HIMSELF SHALL BE WITH THEM, AND (will) BE THEIR GOD. God the Father and God the Son shall live with men in New Jerusalem. The redeemed shall be His people. The fellowship that man had in the beginning with God was broken, because of sin. However, that fellowship has now been restored through Jesus Christ. Those that did not merely say, "Lord, Lord," but rather denied themselves and followed Jesus, shall dwell with God eternally with unspeakable joy.

3-THE FORMER THINGS ARE PASSED AWAY Rev 21:4-AND GOD SHALL WIPE AWAY ALL TEARS FROM THEIR EYES; AND THERE SHALL BE NO MORE DEATH, NEITHER SORROW (or mourning), NOR CRYING, NEITHER SHALL THERE BE ANY MORE PAIN: FOR THE FORMER THINGS (or old order of things) ARE PASSED AWAY. The time, which is forever and ever, shall be wondrous. No further commentary is needed.

4-I MAKE ALL THINGS NEW Rev 21:5-AND HE THAT SAT UPON THE THRONE SAID, BEHOLD, I MAKE ALL THINGS (or everything) NEW. AND HE SAID UNTO ME, WRITE (this down): FOR THESE WORDS ARE TRUE AND FAITHFUL (or trustworthy). What John was told to write, even the entire Revelation, can be trusted. Indeed, the words of God are true

and can be trusted. They will come to pass. For IT IS EASIER FOR HEAVEN AND EARTH TO PASS, THAN ONE TITTLE OF THE LAW TO FAIL-Lk 16:17.

5-HE THAT OVERCOMETH SHALL BE MY SON Rev 21:6-AND HE SAID UNTO ME, IT IS DONE. I AM ALPHA AND OMEGA (the "A" and the "Z"), THE BEGINNING AND THE END. I (Myself) WILL GIVE UNTO HIM THAT IS ATHIRST OF THE FOUNTAIN (or spring) OF THE WATER OF LIFE FREELY. Scripture with commentary: AND HE SAID UNTO ME, IT IS DONE. Jesus had just finished saying, "Behold, I make all things new." Then He told John to write: "It is done." Jesus then repeats a description of Himself. I AM ALPHA AND OMEGA (the "A" and the "Z"). This is repeated in Rev 1:8 and 22:13. THE BEGINNING: This is repeated in Rev 1:8. AND THE END: "The ending" was stated in Rev 1:8. This, again, emphasizes the deity of Jesus. He is the "Alpha." He is the Creator. He is the First, the "A." He is not the second letter. He is also the End (or Ending). I (Myself) WILL GIVE UNTO HIM THAT IS ATHIRST OF THE FOUNTAIN (or spring) OF THE WATER OF LIFE FREELY. Many people are not thirsty for the water of life. They are not craving the water, as they have a much greater desire to do their own will now and take their chances later. However, for those "few" that will choose to believe the Bible and are thirsty for the water of eternal life (which is Jesus), He said, "I WILL GIVE." It is a free gift but can only be received by genuine faith, which comes through understanding God’s Word. Salvation is through faith in Jesus Christ. Genuine faith is the kind of faith that prompts a person to be a doer of the Word and not a hearer only. Jesus gives this promise to those that are athirst. (Note Jn 4:5-15, the woman of Samaria.) Rev 21:7-HE THAT OVERCOMETH (or wins the victory) SHALL INHERIT (or receive) ALL THINGS (or all this); AND I WILL BE HIS GOD, AND HE SHALL BE MY SON. For the one that drinks of the water of life freely, the one that overcomes, Jesus will be his God, and he will be His son. This shows the loving, intimate relationship between the saints and God.

6-THE NEW JERUSALEM Rev 21:9-AND THERE CAME UNTO ME ONE OF THE SEVEN ANGELS WHICH HAD THE SEVEN VIALS (or bowls) FULL OF THE SEVEN LAST PLAGUES, AND TALKED WITH ME, SAYING, COME HITHER, I WILL SHOW THEE THE BRIDE, THE LAMB’S WIFE. (New Jerusalem was introduced, in Rev 21:2, as a BRIDE ADORNED FOR HER HUSBAND.) One of the same angels that brought destruction to the earth, now brings a vision of beauty. One of the angels that had the seven vials also had shown John the judgment of the great whore-ref Rev 17:1. John is shown "the bride, the Lamb's wife," which is the city of God, called New Jerusalem. As noted in the verses following, this city of God is decked with precious jewels. Note, Isa 61:10-AS A BRIDE ADORNETH HERSELF WITH HER JEWELS. God's Word is about to describe a sight that is almost unimaginable. It is written, FOR SINCE THE BEGINNING OF THE WORLD MEN HAVE NOT HEARD, NOR PERCEIVED BY THE EAR, NEITHER HATH THE EYE SEEN, O GOD, BESIDE THEE, WHAT HE HATH PREPARED FOR HIM THAT WAITETH FOR HIM-Isa 64:4. Rev 21:10-AND HE CARRIED ME AWAY IN THE SPIRIT TO (the top of) A GREAT AND HIGH MOUNTAIN, AND SHEWED ME THAT GREAT CITY, THE HOLY JERUSALEM, DESCENDING OUT (or coming down out) OF HEAVEN FROM GOD. Scripture with commentary: AND HE CARRIED ME AWAY IN THE SPIRIT. John is transported in the spirit, TO (the top of) A GREAT AND HIGH MOUNTAIN. The mountain is not identified. Neither is its location revealed. It apparently is a good location to view the city fro, which seems to be above the new earth. (Some believe the city will come down and be on the earth itself.) AND SHEWED ME THAT GREAT CITY: New Jerusalem is described as a "great" city. THE HOLY JERUSALEM: New Jerusalem is portrayed as "holy." DESCENDING OUT (or coming down out) OF HEAVEN FROM GOD: It comes out of heaven, it comes from God.

Rev 21:11-HAVING THE GLORY OF GOD: AND HER LIGHT (or brilliance) WAS LIKE UNTO A STONE (or jewel) MOST PRECIOUS, EVEN LIKE A JASPER STONE, CLEAR AS CRYSTAL (or like a crystal-clear diamond). Scripture with commentary: HAVING THE GLORY OF GOD: The glory of New Jerusalem is God. AND HER LIGHT (or brilliance): New Jerusalem has light. That light WAS LIKE UNTO A STONE (or jewel) MOST PRECIOUS. The words "most precious" may indicate it is a dazzling, brilliant light. EVEN LIKE A JASPER STONE, CLEAR AS CRYSTAL (or like a crystal-clear diamond): A jasper stone may reflect a greenish-white light or even a variety of colors. A diamond can reflect a crystal clear light. Rev 21:12-AND HAD A WALL GREAT AND HIGH, AND HAD TWELVE GATES, AND AT THE GATES TWELVE ANGELS, AND NAMES WRITTEN (or inscribed) THEREON (the gates), WHICH ARE THE NAMES OF THE TWELVE TRIBES OF THE CHILDREN OF ISRAEL. Scripture with commentary: AND HAD A WALL GREAT AND HIGH: The wall is a great wall, very high. Walls often denote security. Indeed, it will be secure—God will reign there. AND HAD TWELVE GATES: The city of New Jerusalem has twelve gates. A person cannot just enter the city from any direction or any place. They must enter through a gate. AND AT THE GATES TWELVE ANGELS: There were angels at the gates; these angels might be called gatekeepers. AND NAMES WRITTEN (or inscribed) THEREON (the gates): Names were written on the gates. WHICH ARE THE NAMES OF THE TWELVE TRIBES OF THE CHILDREN OF ISRAEL. The names, however, are not listed in this verse. Thus, the names of the gates appear to be the names of the tribes of Israel. If they correspond with the millennial Jerusalem, in Ezek 48:31-34, they may be as follows: on the eastJoseph, Benjamin, and Dan; on the north-Reuben, Judah, and Levi; on the south-Simeon, Issachar, and Zebulun; and on the west-Gad, Asher, and Naphtali. The names of the twelve tribes would appear to represent Old Testament Israel. Rev 21:13-ON THE EAST THREE GATES; ON THE NORTH THREE GATES; ON THE SOUTH THREE GATES; AND ON THE WEST THREE GATES. There will be directions; all four directions are listed. East is mentioned first, and west is mentioned last. There will be three gates for each side. Note the order given goes from the east to the north, then to the south and to the west. Rev 21:14-AND THE WALL OF THE CITY HAD (or was built on) TWELVE FOUNDATIONS (stones), AND IN (or on) THEM THE NAMES OF THE TWELVE APOSTLES OF THE LAMB. Scripture with commentary: AND THE WALL OF THE CITY, the wall is first mentioned in v.12. It HAD (or was built on) TWELVE FOUNDATIONS (stones). The wall of the city had (or was built on) twelve foundations (or foundation-stones). AND IN (or on) THEM THE NAMES OF THE TWELVE APOSTLES OF THE LAMB. The apostles laid the foundation of the church, which was built upon the foundation stone, Jesus. In each foundation was the name of one of the twelve apostles. Consider, the name of Judas might have been there, if he had not forsaken Jesus. But rather, he was replaced by Matthias. The names of the twelve apostles may represent New Testament Israel. It may also represent the New Testament church. Rev 21:15-AND HE (the angel) THAT TALKED WITH ME HAD A GOLDEN REED (or measuring rod) TO MEASURE THE CITY, AND THE GATES THEREOF, AND THE WALL THEREOF. In Rev 11:1, a reed was given to measure the temple in Jerusalem during the Tribulation; however, it was not a "golden" reed. Here, the "golden" reed was given TO MEASURE THE CITY, AND THE GATES THEREOF, AND THE WALL THEREOF. Three things are mentioned: the city, the gates, and the wall. Rev 21:16-AND THE CITY LIETH FOURSQUARE (or was laid out like a square-NIV), AND THE LENGTH IS AS LARGE AS THE BREADTH (or width): AND HE MEASURED THE CITY WITH THE REED (or rod), TWELVE THOUSAND FURLONGS (or stadia) (or 1500 miles). THE LENGTH AND THE BREADTH (or width) AND THE HEIGHT OF IT ARE EQUAL (or the same). New Jerusalem appears to be shaped like a huge cube. It is approximately 1380 to 1500 miles long, 1380 to 1500 miles wide, and 1380 to 1500 miles high. It appears to be a huge "Holy of Holies"-ref 1 Ki 6:20. The exact length of a furlong (Greek: stadion), at the time this was written, seems to be in question. The best estimates appear to be (on each side and the height) from 1380 to 1500 miles or approximately 2220 to

2414 km. A city of this size could house billions of people. If it had levels, it could easily house much more and still have ample room for secluded areas or places to roam. Rev 21:17-AND HE MEASURED THE WALL THEREOF, AN HUNDRED AND FORTY AND FOUR CUBITS (thick) (or 216 feet), ACCORDING TO THE MEASURE OF A MAN (or by man’s measurementNIV), THAT IS, OF THE ANGEL (or which the angel was using-NIV). The KJV does not designate whether the 144 cubits denote thickness or height. The angel was using the same measurements that a man would use to measure the wall. Rev 21:18-AND THE BUILDING OF THE WALL OF IT WAS OF JASPER (or of diamond): AND THE CITY WAS PURE GOLD, LIKE UNTO CLEAR (or pure) GLASS. Consider a huge, cube-shaped city. The wall of the city was as a diamond. The city was pure gold, yet transparent like glass. Pure gold may symbolize the pure righteousness of God and His divine glory. Rev 21:19-AND THE FOUNDATIONS OF THE WALL OF THE CITY (this was also mentioned in Rev 21:14) WERE GARNISHED (or decorated) WITH ALL MANNER (or kinds) OF PRECIOUS STONES. THE FIRST FOUNDATION WAS JASPER (or diamond); THE SECOND, SAPPHIRE (blue); THE THIRD, A CHALCEDONY (a combination of gray, blue, and yellow; or blue with stripes of other colors; or whitish); THE FOURTH, AN EMERALD (green); Rev 21:20-THE FIFTH, SARDONYX (red and white or pale blue); THE SIXTH, SARDIUS (or carnelian) (a bright red, or amber, or honey color); THE SEVENTH, CHRYSOLITE (may be purple and green); THE EIGHTH, BERYL (sea green or bluish green); THE NINTH, A TOPAZ (yellowish green or golden); THE TENTH, A CHRYSOPRASUS (apple green or mixed blue, green, and yellow); THE ELEVENTH, A JACINTH (or turquoise, or violet) (blue) (or combination of red, violet, and yellow); THE TWELFTH, AN AMETHYST (purple). There is disagreement among certain people regarding the color of some of these precious stones. Nevertheless, the expression of glorious, radiant color comes through. The beauty of a spectacular fireworks display comes to mind, with its bright, exploding colors. Magnify that thousands of times, even then, the beauty of the city of God may not be comprehended. Rev 21:21-AND THE TWELVE GATES WERE TWELVE PEARLS; EVERY SEVERAL GATE WAS OF ONE PEARL: AND THE (main) STREET OF THE CITY WAS PURE GOLD, AS IT WERE TRANSPARENT (as) GLASS. We are reminded of the following parable. AGAIN, THE KINGDOM OF HEAVEN IS LIKE UNTO A MERCHANT MAN, SEEKING GOODLY PEARLS: WHO, WHEN HE HAD FOUND ONE PEARL OF GREAT PRICE, WENT AND SOLD ALL THAT HE HAD, AND BOUGHT IT-Mt 13:45,46. Consider a pearl the size of an entrance gate. This gate is set in a wall made of diamond and provides passage into a city of transparent gold. AND THE (main) STREET OF THE CITY: Note, the city had a main street, indicating it could have many other streets as well. The street WAS PURE GOLD, AS IT WERE TRANSPARENT (as) GLASS. Rev 21:22-AND I SAW NO TEMPLE THEREIN (the city): FOR THE LORD GOD ALMIGHTY AND THE LAMB ARE THE TEMPLE OF IT. There is free, unhindered access and fellowship with the Father and the Son. In the past, only the high priest could enter the Holy of Holies on one specific day a year. Rev 21:23-AND THE CITY HAD NO NEED OF (or does not need) THE SUN, NEITHER OF THE MOON, TO SHINE IN IT: FOR THE GLORY OF GOD DID LIGHTEN IT (or gives it light), AND THE LAMB IS THE LIGHT (or lamp) THEREOF. Scripture with commentary: AND THE CITY HAD NO NEED OF (or does not need) THE SUN,

NEITHER OF THE MOON, TO SHINE IN IT. Note, it did not say there would not be a sun or moon, but that the city had no need of the sun, neither the moon. There are some that say there will be no sun or moon; however, upon closer examination of the Scriptures, it does not say this, even though it may be true. FOR THE GLORY OF GOD DID LIGHTEN IT (or gives it light), AND THE LAMB (Jesus) IS THE LIGHT (or Lamp) THEREOF. It is written, GOD IS LIGHT, AND IN HIM IS NO DARKNESS AT ALL-1 Jn 1:5. It is also written, HIS SON...BEING THE BRIGHTNESS OF HIS GLORY-Heb 1:2,3. Also it is written, AND THERE SHALL BE NO NIGHT THERE; AND THEY NEED NO CANDLE, NEITHER LIGHT OF THE SUN; FOR THE LORD GOD GIVETH THEM LIGHT-Rev 22:5. God is light, and the "glory" of God gave the city light. Rev 21:24-AND THE NATIONS OF THEM WHICH ARE SAVED SHALL WALK IN THE LIGHT OF IT (or walk by its light): AND THE KINGS OF THE EARTH DO (or will) BRING THEIR GLORY AND HONOR (or splendor) INTO IT. These nations SHALL WALK IN THE LIGHT OF IT (or walk by its light). These saved nations shall walk by the light of New Jerusalem. It appears this is denoting that, spiritually, they are walking by its light. New Jerusalem has no need of the sun or the moon. Such a statement is not made regarding the new earth. Nevertheless, it is possible that New Jerusalem may give light to the new earth. The kings of the earth DO (or will) BRING THEIR GLORY AND HONOR (or splendor) INTO IT. The kings on the new earth will be able to transport to New Jerusalem in some manner. They will bring their glory and honor into it. 1623-4J-2 Rev 21:25-AND THE GATES OF IT SHALL NOT BE SHUT (or will never close) AT ALL BY DAY: FOR THERE SHALL BE NO NIGHT THERE. Scripture with commentary: AND THE GATES OF IT (of New Jerusalem) SHALL NOT BE SHUT (or will never close). Man was separated from God by sin. But now, access to God has been restored. The gates shall never be shut to the city of God, New Jerusalem. As it is written, THE TABERNACLE OF GOD IS WITH MEN, AND HE WILL DWELL WITH THEM, AND THEY SHALL BE HIS PEOPLE, AND GOD HIMSELF SHALL BE WITH THEM, AND BE THEIR GOD-Rev 21:3. (New Jerusalem was also shown to have twelve gates in Rev 21:12. There were three gates in each of the four directions in Rev 21:13. Each gate had an angel, in Rev 21:12, and had the name of a tribe of Israel. Each gate was made of one pearl in Rev 21:21). The gates will never be shut AT ALL BY DAY: FOR THERE SHALL BE NO NIGHT THERE. God is light and this is the city of light. This is the city of God-ref Heb 12:22. His glory will be there continually. No night shall ever exist in New Jerusalem. With our new bodies, it appears, we shall never need sleep. Rev 21:26-AND THEY SHALL BRING THE GLORY (or splendor) AND HONOR OF THE NATIONS INTO IT. (The glory and honor of the nations will be brought into it-NIV.) The nations upon the new earth shall have glory and honor and shall bring it into New Jerusalem. Rev 21:27-AND THERE SHALL IN NO WISE ENTER INTO IT ANY THING THAT DEFILETH (or nothing impure), NEITHER WHATSOEVER WORKETH ABOMINATION (or shameful things), OR MAKETH A LIE (or lies, or is deceitful): BUT (only) THEY WHICH ARE WRITTEN IN THE LAMB’S BOOK OF LIFE. Nothing that defileth or is impure (or sin), no unforgiven, unsanctified, unsaved person will ever enter into New Jerusalem. Only those written in the Lamb's book of life will be able to enter into the presence of God; we must first be washed by the blood of the Lamb—for sin separates us from God. Rev 22:1-AND HE SHEWED ME A PURE RIVER OF WATER OF LIFE, CLEAR (or sparkling) AS CRYSTAL, PROCEEDING (or flowing) OUT OF THE THRONE OF GOD AND OF THE LAMB. Scripture with commentary: AND HE SHEWED ME A PURE RIVER. New Jerusalem has a river OF WATER—the water OF LIFE. It is perfectly CLEAR (or sparkling) AS CRYSTAL. This "clearness" may represent the holiness and pureness of God. It is PROCEEDING (or flowing) OUT OF THE THRONE.

The throne belongs to the One that gives life. Flowing from the throne that the Father and the Son sit upon is the water of life. It is written, JESUS ANSWERED AND SAID UNTO HER…BUT WHOSOEVER (or everyone who) DRINKETH OF THE WATER THAT I SHALL GIVE HIM SHALL NEVER THIRST; BUT (or indeed) THE WATER THAT I SHALL GIVE HIM SHALL BE IN HIM A WELL (or spring) OF WATER SPRINGING UP INTO EVERLASTING LIFE-Jn 4:13,14. AND DID ALL DRINK THE SAME SPIRITUAL DRINK: FOR THEY DRANK OF THAT SPIRITUAL ROCK THAT FOLLOWED THEM: AND THAT ROCK WAS CHRIST-1 Cor 10:4. As previously stated, there is no temple, for the Father and the Son are THE TEMPLE OF IT-Rev 21:22. Yet there is a throne in New Jerusalem. The throne is OF GOD AND OF THE LAMB. Rev 22:2-IN THE MIDST OF THE (main or great) STREET OF IT (the city), AND ON EITHER SIDE OF THE RIVER, WAS THERE THE TREE OF LIFE, WHICH BARE (or bearing, or producing) TWELVE MANNER (or kinds, or crops) OF FRUITS, AND YIELDED HER FRUIT (a different kind) EVERY MONTH: AND THE LEAVES OF THE TREE WERE FOR THE HEALING OF THE NATIONS. Scripture with commentary: IN THE MIDST OF THE (main or great) STREET OF IT (the city): Rev 21:21 gives us some information about the street. AND ON EITHER SIDE OF THE RIVER. (The river was covered in the previous verse.) It appears the river of the water of life flows DOWN THE MIDDLE OF THE GREAT STREET OF THE CITY-NIV. This main street, on which the water flows, seems to lead directly to God's throne. On either side of the river, WAS THERE THE TREE. The NIV says, ON EACH SIDE OF THE RIVER STOOD THE TREE OF LIFE. Here is the first mention of a tree. There will likely be many other trees in New Jerusalem, such as were in the Garden of Eden. The tree of life, WHICH BARE (or bearing, or producing) TWELVE MANNER (or kinds, or crops) OF FRUITS. The tree is not stagnant, but produces twelve different kinds of fruits. AND YIELDED HER FRUIT (a different kind) EVERY MONTH: Each month a different kind of fruit will come forth, indicating a twelve month cycle or perhaps year. In other words, time will not stand still. One might also consider the good fruits of the Spirit, the fruits of soul winning, the fruits of righteousness, the fruits of our works and of serving God. AND THE LEAVES OF THE TREE: The tree has leaves as well as fruits. The leaves WERE FOR THE HEALING OF THE NATIONS. Healing (from the Greek word-"therapeia") can mean serving, care, or healing (therapy); medical-cure, domestics: healing, household; or health-giving. In some way, the leaves will be used for the healing of the nations upon the new earth.

6B-THE TREE OF LIFE The tree of life is covered in the following verses. AND OUT OF THE GROUND MADE THE LORD GOD TO GROW EVERY TREE THAT IS PLEASANT TO THE SIGHT, AND GOOD FOR FOOD; THE TREE OF LIFE ALSO IN THE MIDST OF THE GARDEN, AND THE TREE OF KNOWLEDGE OF GOOD AND EVIL-Gen 2:9. THE MAN...LEST HE PUT FORTH HIS HAND, AND TAKE ALSO OF THE TREE OF LIFE, AND EAT, AND LIVE FOR EVER-Gen 3:22. SO HE DROVE OUT THE MAN; AND HE PLACED AT THE EAST OF THE GARDEN OF EDEN CHERUBIMS, AND A FLAMING SWORD WHICH TURNED EVERY WAY, TO KEEP THE WAY OF THE TREE OF LIFE-Gen 3:24. WISDOM, AND...UNDERSTANDING...SHE IS A TREE OF LIFE TO THEM THAT LAY HOLD UPON HER: AND HAPPY IS EVERY ONE THAT RETAINETH HER-Pv 3:13,18. THE FRUIT OF THE RIGHTEOUS IS A TREE OF LIFE; AND HE THAT WINNETH SOULS IS WISE-Pv 11:30. HOPE DEFERRED MAKETH THE HEART SICK: BUT WHEN THE DESIRE COMETH, IT IS A TREE OF LIFE-Pv 13:12. A WHOLESOME TONGUE IS A TREE OF LIFE-Pv 15:4. TO HIM THAT OVERCOMETH WILL I GIVE TO EAT OF THE TREE OF LIFE, WHICH IS IN THE MIDST OF THE PARADISE OF GOD-Rev 2:7. IN THE MIDST OF THE STREET OF IT, AND ON EITHER SIDE OF THE RIVER, WAS THERE THE TREE OF LIFE, WHICH BARE TWELVE MANNER OF FRUITS, AND YIELDED HER FRUIT

EVERY MONTH: AND THE LEAVES OF THE TREE WERE FOR THE HEALING OF THE NATIONSRev 22:2. BLESSED ARE THEY THAT DO HIS COMMANDMENTS, THAT THEY MAY HAVE RIGHT TO THE TREE OF LIFE, AND MAY ENTER IN THROUGH THE GATES INTO THE CITY-Rev 22:14. Note, do these give us keys to salvation? WISDOM, AND...UNDERSTANDING...IS A TREE OF LIFE-Pv 3:13,18. Without wisdom and understanding of God's Word (of Jesus), there is no hope. THE FRUIT OF THE RIGHTEOUS IS A TREE OF LIFE-Pv 11:30. Winning souls is mentioned. By a person's fruits, you shall know them. A WHOLESOME TONGUE IS A TREE OF LIFE-Pv 15:4. TO HIM THAT OVERCOMETH WILL I GIVE TO EAT OF THE TREE OF LIFE-Rev 2:7. DO HIS COMMANDMENTS...THEY MAY HAVE RIGHT TO THE TREE OF LIFE-Rev 22:14. Note: wisdom, understanding, fruits, the tongue, overcoming, and doing God's commandments are associated with the tree of life in these verses. Note, the tree of life is found in the Garden of Eden, in the paradise of God, and in New Jerusalem. Rev 22:3-AND THERE SHALL BE NO MORE CURSE: BUT THE THRONE OF GOD AND OF THE LAMB SHALL BE IN IT (the city); AND HIS SERVANTS SHALL SERVE (or worship) HIM. Scripture with commentary: AND THERE SHALL BE NO MORE CURSE: The curse that came through the disobedience of Adam is gone. In addition, all sin has been paid for. Righteousness reigns. BUT THE THRONE OF GOD AND OF THE LAMB SHALL BE IN IT (the city). This is also covered in Rev 22:1. AND HIS SERVANTS SHALL SERVE (or worship) HIM. The redeemed that inherit New Jerusalem were servants of God. Serving God did not save them, but rather, serving God was a reflection of their faith. A person’s works are prompted by faith in Jesus Christ. Eternally, the saints shall serve God and do "His" will. Rev 22:4-AND THEY SHALL SEE HIS FACE; AND HIS NAME SHALL BE IN (or on) THEIR FOREHEADS. Scripture with commentary: AND THEY SHALL SEE HIS FACE. From the time of the resurrection and on, the saints should be able to see the face of God. In New Jerusalem, the redeemed will see the face of God. Man, in his sinful state, cannot look upon the face of God. It is written, AND HE SAID, THOU CANST NOT SEE MY FACE: FOR THERE SHALL NO MAN SEE ME, AND LIVE-Ex 33:20. However, when He shall appear, the following will apply. BELOVED, NOW ARE WE THE SONS OF GOD, AND IT DOTH NOT YET APPEAR WHAT WE SHALL BE: BUT WE KNOW THAT, WHEN HE SHALL APPEAR, WE SHALL BE LIKE HIM; FOR WE SHALL SEE HIM AS HE IS-1 Jn 3:2. AND HIS NAME SHALL BE IN (or on) THEIR FOREHEADS. It is also written, HIM THAT OVERCOMETH...I WILL WRITE UPON HIM MY NEW NAME-Rev 3:12. This indicates ownership. We are His possession for eternity. Rev 22:5-AND THERE SHALL BE NO NIGHT THERE. This indicates that nighttime will no longer exist. This was also in Rev 21:25-AND THEY NEED NO CANDLE (or lamp), NEITHER LIGHT OF THE SUN. No light of any kind should be needed in New Jerusalem, FOR THE LORD GOD GIVETH THEM LIGHT (or will shine upon them): AND THEY SHALL REIGN (as kings) FOR EVER AND EVER. The servants of God shall reign as kings eternally. How this shall be and over whom they shall reign is not revealed in this verse.

7-NEW JERUSALEM: THE CITY OF GOD •

AND THE NAME OF THE CITY OF MY GOD, WHICH IS NEW JERUSALEM-Rev 3:12

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THE CITY OF THE LIVING GOD, THE HEAVENLY JERUSALEM-Heb 12:22

8-NEW JERUSALEM IS CALLED •

THE BRIDE-Rev 21:9

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THE LAMB'S WIFE-Rev 21:9

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THE HOLY CITY-Rev 21:2

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THE HOLY JERUSALEM-Rev 21:10

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MY FATHER'S HOUSE-Jn 14:2

9-NEW JERUSALEM: GOD BUILT IT •

WHOSE BUILDER AND MAKER IS GOD-Heb 11:10

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I CREATE JERUSALEM-Isa 65:18

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FOR HE HATH PREPARED FOR THEM A CITY-Heb 11:16

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I GO TO PREPARE A PLACE FOR YOU-Jn 14:2

10-NEW JERUSALEM: GOD'S PURPOSE (Partial list) •

THE CITY OF...GOD-Rev 3:12

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To be THE LAMB'S WIFE-Rev 21:9

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To prepare for the saints A CITY-Heb 11:16

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So God’s dwelling could be with men-ref Rev 21:3 NIV

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So God could LIVE with men-ref Rev 21:3 NIV

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So men shall be God's people-ref Rev 21:3

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So God can be their God-ref Rev 21:3

11-NEW JERUSALEM COMES FROM WHERE? •

FROM GOD-Rev 21:2,10

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OUT OF HEAVEN-Rev 21:2,10

12-NEW JERUSALEM: TIME •

THERE SHALL BE NO NIGHT THERE-Rev 21:25; 22:5

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There appear to be twelve month cycles or perhaps years-ref Rev 22:2

13-NEW JERUSALEM IS: MISCELLANEOUS ITEMS ABOUT THE CITY •

The New Jerusalem is revealed as "THE HOLY CITY"-Rev 21:2

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PREPARED AS A BRIDE-Rev 21:2

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It is AS A BRIDE ADORNED-Rev 21:2

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It is beautiful-ref Rev 21:2

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It is magnificent to behold-ref Rev 21:2

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It is A BETTER COUNTRY-Heb 11:16

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It is A REJOICING-Isa 65:18

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It is a GREAT CITY-Rev 21:10

14-NEW JERUSALEM HAS GLORY •

THE GLORY OF GOD-Rev 21:11

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The GLORY AND HONOR of the kings of the earth are brought into it-Rev 21:24

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THE GLORY AND HONOR OF THE NATIONS are brought into it-Rev 21:26

15-NEW JERUSALEM: THE TEMPLE •

NO TEMPLE-Rev 21:22

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THE LORD GOD ALMIGHTY...is THE TEMPLE OF IT-Rev 21:22

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AND THE LAMB is THE TEMPLE OF IT-Rev 21:22

16-NEW JERUSALEM: THE THRONE •

There is the THRONE OF GOD-Rev 22:1,3

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There is the THRONE...OF THE LAMB-Rev 22:1,3

17-NEW JERUSALEM HAD NO NEED OF •

The SUN TO SHINE IN IT-Rev 21:23; 22:5

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The MOON TO SHINE IN IT-Rev 21:23

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The light of a CANDLE (or lamp)-Rev 22:5

18-NEW JERUSALEM HAS LIGHT •

HER LIGHT WAS LIKE UNTO A STONE MOST PRECIOUS-Rev 21:11

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HER LIGHT WAS LIKE...A JASPER STONE, CLEAR AS CRYSTAL-Rev 21:11

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THE GLORY OF GOD DID LIGHTEN IT-Rev 21:23

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THE LAMB IS THE LIGHT THEREOF-Rev 21:23

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THE LORD GOD GIVETH THEM LIGHT-Rev 22:5

19-NEW JERUSALEM RADIATES LIGHT •

THE NATIONS…WHICH ARE SAVED SHALL WALK IN THE LIGHT OF IT-Rev 21:24

20-THE SHAPE AND SIZE OF THE CITY •

LIETH FOURSQUARE-Rev 21:16

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Appears to be shaped like a cube-ref Rev 21:16

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The length, width, and HEIGHT...ARE EQUAL-Rev 21:16

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It is approximately 1380 to 1500 miles long-ref Rev 21:16

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It is approximately 1380 to 1500 miles wide-ref Rev 21:16

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It is approximately 1380 to 1500 miles high-ref Rev 21:16

21-NEW JERUSALEM HAS: PHYSICAL INFORMATION •

It has FOUNDATIONS-Rev 21:19

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It has MANY MANSIONS-Jn 14:2

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It is of GOLD-Rev 21:18

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The gold is PURE-Rev 21:18

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The gold is like CLEAR GLASS-Rev 21:18

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It has a WALL-Rev 21:12

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The wall is GREAT-Rev 21:12

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The wall is HIGH-Rev 21:12

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The wall is built of jasper or diamond-ref Rev 21:18

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The wall has FOUNDATIONS-Rev 21:14

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In the foundations are the NAMES OF THE TWELVE APOSTLES OF THE LAMB-Rev 21:14

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THE FOUNDATIONS OF THE WALL...WERE GARNISHED WITH...PRECIOUS STONESRev 21:19

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Foundation one is JASPER or diamond-Rev 21:19

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Foundation two is SAPPHIRE-Rev 21:19

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Foundation three is CHALCEDONY-Rev 21:19

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Foundation four is EMERALD-Rev 21:19

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Foundation five is SARDONYX-Rev 21:20

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Foundation six is SARDIUS-Rev 21:20

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Foundation seven is CHRYSOLITE-Rev 21:20

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Foundation eight is BERYL-Rev 21:20

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Foundation nine is TOPAZ-Rev 21:20

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Foundation ten is CHRYSOPRASUS-Rev 21:20

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Foundation eleven is JACINTH-Rev 21:20

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Foundation twelve is AMETHYST-Rev 21:20

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It has GATES-Rev 21:12

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The gates shall never be shut-ref Rev 21:25

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There are TWELVE GATES-Rev 21:12

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Three east gates-ref Rev 21:13

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Three north gates-ref Rev 21:13

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Three south gates-ref Rev 21:13

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Three west gates-ref Rev 21:13

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Each gate has an angel-ref Rev 21:12

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Each gate has a name written-ref Rev 21:12

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The names on the gates are of the twelve tribes of Israel-ref Rev 21:12

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Each gate is made of ONE PEARL-Rev 21:21

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There are "directions"—east, north, south, and west-ref Rev 21:13

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It has a STREET-Rev 21:21; 22:2

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The street is GOLD-Rev 21:21

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The gold is PURE-Rev 21:21

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The gold is AS IT WERE TRANSPARENT GLASS-Rev 21:21

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It has a RIVER-Rev 22:1,2

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The river is PURE-Rev 22:1

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The river contains WATER-Rev 22:1

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The water is the WATER OF LIFE-Rev 22:1

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The water is CLEAR AS CRYSTAL-Rev 22:1

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The water proceeds OUT OF THE THRONE OF GOD AND OF THE LAMB-Rev 22:1

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It has THE TREE OF LIFE-Rev 22:2

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The tree of life is located IN THE MIDST OF THE STREET-Rev 22:2

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The tree of life is located ON EITHER SIDE OF THE RIVER-Rev 22:2

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The tree bears FRUITS-Rev 22:2

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It produces twelve kinds of fruit-ref Rev 22:2

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A different kind of fruit comes forth each month-ref Rev 22:2

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The tree has LEAVES-Rev 22:2

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The leaves are FOR THE HEALING OF THE NATIONS-Rev 22:2

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Those that DO HIS COMMANDMENTS...MAY HAVE RIGHT TO THE TREE OF LIFE-Rev 22:14

22-NEW JERUSALEM: WHAT ELSE IS THERE? •

BUT YE ARE COME UNTO MOUNT ZION-Heb 12:22

23-NEW JERUSALEM: INFORMATION ABOUT HER PEOPLE •

AND HER PEOPLE A JOY-Isa 65:18

24-NEW JERUSALEM IS FREEDOM •

BUT JERUSALEM WHICH IS ABOVE IS FREE-Gal 4:26

25-NEW JERUSALEM IS THE MOTHER •

WHICH IS THE MOTHER OF US ALL-Gal 4:26

26-NEW JERUSALEM: WHO SHALL DWELL THERE? •

God the Father-ref Rev 22:1,3

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Jesus Christ, the Son, the Lamb of God-ref Rev 22:1,3

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It is a city which God has prepared for those that died in faith-ref Heb 11:13-16

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BUT YE ARE COME...UNTO THE CITY OF THE LIVING GOD-Heb 12:22

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It is the city that Abraham looked for-ref Heb 11:10

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AND TO AN INNUMERABLE COMPANY OF ANGELS-Heb 12:22

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THE TWELVE APOSTLES-Rev 21:14

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(The twelve apostles appear to represent New Testament Israel that were saved and perhaps the New Testament Gentile church)

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The twelve tribes of Israel-ref Rev 21:12

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(The twelve tribes seem to represent Old Testament Israel that were saved)

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The following may also represent all of Israel that were saved

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HIS SERVANTS-Rev 22:3

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MEN...THEY SHALL BE HIS PEOPLE-Rev 21:3

27-NEW JERUSALEM: WHO ELSE MAY COME THERE OR ENTER IN? •

THE KINGS OF THE EARTH-Rev 21:24

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THEY WHICH ARE WRITTEN IN THE LAMB'S BOOK OF LIFE-Rev 21:27

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THE NATIONS-Rev 21:26

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Those that DO HIS COMMANDMENTS...MAY HAVE RIGHT TO…ENTER IN-Rev 22:14

28-NEW JERUSALEM: WHAT SHALL THE PEOPLE DO? •

HIS SERVANTS SHALL SERVE HIM-Rev 22:3

29-NEW JERUSALEM: THESE THINGS NO MORE •

No CURSE-Rev 22:3

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No NIGHT-Rev 21:25; 22:5

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No TEMPLE-Rev 21:22

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No more tears-ref Rev 21:4

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No more DEATH-Rev 21:4

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No more SORROW-Rev 21:4

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No more CRYING-Rev 21:4

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No more PAIN-Rev 21:4

30-NEW JERUSALEM: NO NEED OF THESE THINGS •

No need of a candle (or lamp)-ref Rev 22:5

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No need for the light of the sun-ref Rev 22:5

31-THE SERVANTS OF GOD •

HIS SERVANTS SHALL SERVE HIM-Rev 22:3

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HIS SERVANTS...SHALL SEE HIS FACE-Rev 22:3,4

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HIS NAME SHALL BE IN THEIR FOREHEADS-Rev 22:3,4

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HIS SERVANTS...SHALL REIGN FOR EVER AND EVER-Rev 22:3,5

32-NEW JERUSALEM: ITS LOCATION Its exact location is not specified; however, it seems to be positioned above the new earth.

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WHICH COMETH DOWN OUT OF HEAVEN FROM MY GOD-Rev 3:12

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COMING DOWN FROM GOD-Rev 21:2

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JERUSALEM WHICH IS ABOVE-Gal 4:26

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THE HOLY JERUSALEM, DESCENDING OUT OF HEAVEN-Rev 21:10

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THE HEAVENLY JERUSALEM-Heb 12:22

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THAT IS, AN HEAVENLY-Heb 11:16

33-NEW JERUSALEM: WHEN DOES IT APPEAR? Some believe this city of God will come forth at the beginning of the Millennium. Many others believe it will appear after the great white throne judgment. Considering that (1) the heavens and earth passed away prior to the great white throne, and (2) THERE WAS FOUND NO PLACE FOR THEM-Rev 21:11, and (3) the placement of New Jerusalem in the Scriptures, it seems clear this great city of God will come forth after the new heavens and earth.

34-WARNING ABOUT ADDING OR TAKING AWAY FROM THE WORDS Rev 22:18-FOR I TESTIFY UNTO EVERY MAN (or warn everyone) THAT HEARETH THE WORDS OF THE PROPHECY OF THIS BOOK: Next comes forth a very serious warning. It may be called a warning of doom. It appears to carry with it the same penalty as taking the mark and worshiping the image of the beast. That penalty, ultimately, is eternal damnation. IF ANY MAN SHALL ADD UNTO THESE THINGS, GOD SHALL ADD UNTO HIM THE PLAGUES THAT ARE WRITTEN (or described) IN THIS BOOK. There are people in this generation that have committed this sin. There are those that have rewritten the Bible and even left out this verse. Rev 22:19-Next comes another warning of doom, which appears to be the same as in v.18, that is, eternal damnation. AND IF ANY MAN SHALL TAKE AWAY (anything) FROM THE WORDS OF THE BOOK OF THIS PROPHECY, GOD SHALL TAKE AWAY HIS PART (or share) OUT OF (1) THE BOOK (or tree) OF LIFE, AND (2) OUT OF THE HOLY CITY, AND (3) FROM THE THINGS WHICH ARE WRITTEN (or described) IN THIS BOOK. God's warning is—do not tamper with the prophecy of the Revelation. It seems that the warning given in these two verses constitutes the unpardonable sin. Some might contend that this is not true, as the words "his part" are stated. However, some of the things written in this book include such events as the first resurrection, the book of life, and of the holy city. If one’s part in these is taken away, there appears to be nothing left except eternal damnation. There are others who hold that, although this verse sounds like salvation can be lost, this cannot be true. The reason they believe this is because the verse does not say the "Lamb’s" book of life, but rather the "book of life." They believe that the "book of life" and the "Lamb’s book of life" are two separate things.

35-HE THAT IS UNJUST, LET HIM BE UNJUST STILL Rev 22:11-HE THAT IS UNJUST (or keeps acting wickedly, or does wrong), LET HIM BE UNJUST STILL (or go on acting wickedly, or continue to do wrong): AND HE WHICH IS FILTHY (or vile), LET HIM BE (or go on being) FILTHY (or vile) STILL: AND HE THAT IS RIGHTEOUS (or does right), LET HIM BE RIGHTEOUS STILL (or continue to do right): AND HE THAT IS HOLY, LET HIM BE HOLY STILL. The verse is broken down into two parts, each having two categories. The first covers the unredeemed, and the second, those that are redeemed. Once a person dies, their state is sealed: it cannot be changed. The unjust and the filthy will spend eternity in the lake of fire. They will retain their unjust and filthy nature for eternity. Whatever nature they had while on earth, they will keep forever and ever. The lake of fire will have multitudes of people with a nature of raw bitterness, hatred, covetousness, jealousy, greed, lying, deceitfulness, murder, stealing, violence, and every sort of ungodliness. They will still have their desires, but they will never be gratified. Where will pride be, when eternal damnation and suffering is the only future? The redeemed will forever be partakers of the divine nature. They will forever be righteous and holy. The righteous will forever be filled with joy and love; they shall be surrounded with people that are the same way