Revelation 22:15

“For without are dogs, and sorcerers, and whoremongers, and murderers, and idolaters, and whosoever loveth and maketh a lie.”

Context:The book of Revelation is the final book of the Bible and contains a series of visions and prophecies given to the Apostle John. It primarily deals with the end times, the second coming of Christ, and the establishment of God’s eternal kingdom.

The New Jerusalem:Revelation 22:15 refers to those who are “without,” which means outside the New Jerusalem, the heavenly city described in the preceding verses. The New Jerusalem represents the dwelling place of God and the redeemed.

Sinful behaviors:The verse lists various sinful behaviors and character traits. Let’s examine each of them:

• Dogs:In biblical times, dogs were often considered unclean animals. Here, “dogs” symbolically represents those who are impure or morally defiled.
• Sorcerers:Refers to those who practice witchcraft, divination, or magic arts, attempting to gain power or control through occult practices.
• Whoremongers:Refers to those who engage in sexual immorality, particularly prostitution or promiscuity.
• Murderers:Refers to those who take the life of another person unlawfully, exhibiting a lack of respect for the sanctity of life.
• Idolaters:Refers to those who worship or give devotion to false gods or idols, putting something or someone else in the place of God.
• Liars:Refers to those who habitually speak falsehoods, deceive others, or live in a state of deception.

Exclusion from the New Jerusalem:The statement “For without are” indicates that these sinful behaviors and character traits will exclude individuals from entering the New Jerusalem, the dwelling place of God and the redeemed. They will be outside, separated from God’s presence and the blessings of His eternal kingdom.

Redemption and transformation:This verse highlights the importance of repentance, forgiveness, and transformation through the saving work of Jesus Christ. Through faith in Jesus, believers are cleansed of their sins and receive a new nature. Those who continue in unrepentant sin and do not turn to Christ for forgiveness will remain outside the New Jerusalem.