Blessings and Curses

In Revelation 21, John was instructed to write “true and faithful” words (21:5). These words, delivered from the throne of God, speak of the blessings associated with faithfulness and the curses associated with wickedness. This is a good reminder of how Jehovah has always dealt with mankind. It is one of the most prominent themes of the Bible. Moses detailed for the Hebrew people how God provided blessings for obedience and brought curses for disobedience (Exo 19:5; Deut 28:1-14; 28:15ff). Likewise, Jesus declared the same truth (Matt 7:24-27; Mark 16:16). Even after the establishment of the church, it is no different (2 Cor 5:10; Gal 6:7-9). Those who obey God are rewarded, while the unfaithful who rebel against Him are punished.

Notice in Revelation 21, God freely gives of the water of life (21:6). The Almighty does not show partiality or favoritism (Deut 10:17; Rom 2:11; Eph 6:9). With God there is no respect of persons (Acts 10:34; 1 Pet 1:17). Christ gave His life for the sins of all mankind (Rom 8:32; 2 Cor 5:15; 1 John 2:2). God’s grace and the teaching of grace “has appeared to all men” (Tit 2:11-12). This means that even one perceived as lowly or worthless can have access to God’s blessings (Luke 5:31-32; 16:22). It also means that those appearing to be the most righteous can earn punishment for themselves (Luke 3:8; 16:15).

Returning to Revelation 21’s “true and faithful” words, the good inheritance is reserved for overcomers (21:7). Followers of God understand that Christ’s victory enables us to overcome worldliness (John 16:33; Heb 12:2; 1 John 4:4; 5:4). By faithfully abiding in His teaching (John 8:31; 2 John 1:9) we are more than conquerors (Rom 8:37)! Through the sacrifice of Jesus and our submission to the truth, we are spiritually adopted into God’s family and are set to receive the promised inheritance of His grace (Gal 3:26-29; Eph 1:5, 11; 1 John 3:1).

Back in Revelation 21, the lake of fire is the final punishment for the wicked. Consider the wide variety of evil activity which is in view here: “the cowardly, unbelieving, abominable, murderers, sexually immoral, sorcerers, idolaters, and all liars” (21:8). This collection of sinfulness is similar to lists recorded elsewhere in the New Testament (1 Cor 6:9-10; Gal 5:19-21). Each item listed represents man’s disobedience and a refusal to submit to divine orders.

God is just and will not abide sin (Hab 1:13; Isa 61:8; Col 3:25). In His grace and mercy, He shows us a better way (Deut 30:19; Matt 11:28-30; Acts 2:37-41). Aren’t we thankful to serve such a caring God? May we choose to submit to His every command today and receive blessings rather than curses.