Promises from the Book of Revelation – The New Jerusalem
“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.” – Revelation 22:14 (NIV)
In Revelation 22, there are at least seven promises given to us that confirm Jesus’ victory over satan, sin, and death. Today we will examine the final one.
Promise No. 7 Entrance into the New Jerusalem (v. 14)
Adam and Eve were denied access to the Garden of Eden after the Fall. God placed cherubims at the entrance to the garden to keep them out. But in New Jerusalem, access is freely granted to those who by faith “wash their robes” in the blood of the Lamb, while those outside the city gates demonstrate their unbelief through sinful lifestyles (Rev. 22:14-15; see also Rev. 21:8, 27).
This is possible only through Jesus, Who is “the Way, the Truth, and the Life” – John 14:6. He’s “the Bright Morning Star” and “the Root and the Offspring of David” – Revelation 22:16 (NIV). Just as access into the holy of holies was denied to all people, except the high priest on the Day of Atonement, access to God had been declined to all people because of sin. But Jesus, our great High Priest, entered the holy of holies in heaven after shedding His blood and secured our salvation.
The washing of robes mentioned here is a metaphor for purification from uncleanliness – sin. If we are clean, we have been made so by the Blood of Jesus. Those cleansed have unrestricted access to the source of life. They are blessed to enter the city. They’re blessed to feast on the tree of life because they trust Jesus.
The invitation to enter this city and feast on the tree and drink of the river extends to all, as can be seen in Revelation 22:17 (NKJV), “And the Spirit and the bride say, ‘Come!’ And let him who hears say, ‘Come!’ And let him who thirsts come. Whoever desires, let him take the water of life freely.”
This promise shows the righteous are allowed into the eternal city, the New Jerusalem, and have access to the tree of life. We, Christians, have the guarantee of a bright future – eternal life. Praise the Living Saviour.
Prayer
Heavenly Father, we thank You that You are the Father, Son, and Holy Spirit. We thank You that there is no one else like You.
Thank You that we have been washed and clothed in Your righteousness; thank You for salvation. Thank You, Father, that we have the guarantee of a bright future, Hallelujah! Help us to keep our eyes on You as we wait in expectation of Your promised return. Keep us in peace as You promised, in the mighty name of Jesus. Amen.
Read: Ephesians 1:7; Revelation 3:12
Bible Reading Guide: Proverbs 3:1-10; Matthew 16:21-28; Genesis 47:13-31; Genesis 48
