The Gardens of God – Week 8 Guide
The Garden of God – Revelation 22:1-5
To download the guide for this week, use the link below.
Connecting
Share a word, phrase, or image that reflects what you think heaven will be like.
Revelation 22:1-5 (NRSV)
Then the angel showed me the river of the water of life, bright as crystal, flowing from the throne of God and of the Lamb 2 through the middle of the street of the city. On either side of the river is the tree of life with its twelve kinds of fruit, producing its fruit each month; and the leaves of the tree are for the healing of the nations. 3 Nothing accursed will be found there any more. But the throne of God and of the Lamb will be in it, and his servants will worship him; 4 they will see his face, and his name will be on their foreheads. 5 And there will be no more night; they need no light of lamp or sun, for the Lord God will be their light, and they will reign forever and ever.
Questions for Discussion
- Symbolism of the Garden: How do you interpret the imagery of the river and the tree of life in Revelation 22? In what ways do these symbols connect to the original Garden of Eden in Genesis?
- Eternal Life and Abundance: The passage mentions the “river of the water of life” and “twelve kinds of fruit.” What do these elements suggest about God’s promises for eternal life and abundance? How can these promises influence our lives today?
- Healing of the Nations: Verse 2 states that the leaves of the tree are for “the healing of the nations.” What does this healing signify in the context of today’s world? How can we actively participate in this healing process in our communities?
- Presence of God: In the Garden of God, it’s mentioned that people will “see his face.” What does this intimate fellowship with God mean to you? How might this vision of God’s presence change the way you approach your relationship with Him now?
- Restoration vs. Return: The sermon emphasizes that the Garden of God represents not just a return to Eden, but a fulfillment of God’s purpose. In what ways do you see your faith journey as a movement toward restoration rather than just a return to previous experiences?
- Living as Citizens of the Garden: How can we live as if we are already part of the Garden of God? What practical steps can we take to embody the values of this future hope in our daily lives?
- Personal Reflections: The sermon closes with a challenge to assess whether we are on our way to the Garden. Reflect on your own spiritual journey. What steps do you feel prompted to take in order to align yourself more closely with the vision of the Garden of God presented in Revelation 22?
Thank You!
Thank you for being a part of our journey through the Gardens of God. We hope this study has helped you grow in your understanding of God, faith, and how we’re called to live as followers of Jesus. We pray that God will continue to grow, mature, and deepen your faith and your relationship with the Lord and that your life will be like a beautiful and fruitful Garden. Pastor Doug Scalise and Pastor Nate Ryan.
Closing Prayer
Gracious God, we thank you with grateful hearts, for the vision of your heavenly garden where Your presence brings eternal life and abundant grace.
Thank You for the river of life that flows from Your throne, reminding us of the nourishment and healing we find in You.
Help us to be instruments of peace and healing in our families, church, communities, and nation, reflecting Your love and mercy to all we encounter.
As we seek to live as citizens of Your kingdom, guide us to deepen our fellowship with You and each other, embracing the hope and transformation You offer.
May our lives and actions embody the light of Your presence, shining brightly in a world yearning for healing, peace, and joy. Lead us to the paths that align with Your purposes and strengthen our faith as we journey toward your Garden.
In Jesus’ name, we pray. Amen.