Revelation 21:4

He will wipe away every tear from their eyes,' and there will be no more death or mourning or crying or pain, for the former things have passed away."

Study Bible

He will wipe away every tear from their eyes
This phrase speaks to the tender and compassionate nature of God. The Greek word for "wipe away" is "ἐξαλείφω" (exaleiphō), which means to obliterate or erase completely. This indicates not just a temporary relief but a permanent removal of sorrow. The imagery of God personally wiping away tears suggests an intimate and personal relationship with His people. Historically, tears have been a symbol of suffering and grief, and this promise signifies the end of all such pain in the new creation.

And there will be no more death
The Greek word for "death" is "θάνατος" (thanatos), which refers to both physical death and spiritual separation from God. In the context of Revelation, this phrase assures believers that the ultimate enemy, death, will be vanquished. This echoes 1 Corinthians 15:26, where Paul declares that the last enemy to be destroyed is death. The absence of death signifies the eternal life promised to believers, a life in perfect communion with God.

or mourning
"Mourning" in Greek is "πένθος" (penthos), which conveys a deep, sorrowful lamentation. In ancient cultures, mourning was often expressed through rituals and public displays of grief. The promise that there will be no more mourning indicates a complete transformation of the human experience, where the causes of such deep sorrow are eradicated.

or crying
The Greek term "κράζω" (krazo) for "crying" implies a loud, vocal expression of distress. This word captures the raw, unrestrained outpouring of emotion that accompanies profound suffering. The assurance that there will be no more crying points to a future where such expressions of anguish are unnecessary, as all sources of pain and distress are removed.

or pain
"Pain" in Greek is "πόνος" (ponos), which refers to physical and emotional suffering. In the ancient world, pain was often seen as an inevitable part of life. The promise of its absence in the new creation is a radical departure from the current human condition, highlighting the transformative power of God's redemptive plan.

for the former things have passed away.”
The phrase "former things" refers to the current order of existence, characterized by sin, suffering, and death. The Greek word "ἀπέρχομαι" (aperchomai) for "passed away" suggests a complete departure or disappearance. This signifies the ushering in of a new era, where the old order is replaced by the new heaven and new earth, as described earlier in Revelation 21. This transformation is the culmination of God's redemptive work, fulfilling His promises and establishing His eternal kingdom.

Persons / Places / Events

1. God
The one who will wipe away every tear, signifying His intimate care and compassion for His people.

2. New Jerusalem
The context of this verse is the New Jerusalem, the holy city where God dwells with His people.

3. John the Apostle
The author of Revelation, who received this vision while exiled on the island of Patmos.

4. The Redeemed
Those who have been saved by faith in Jesus Christ and are experiencing the fulfillment of God's promises.

5. The Former Things
Refers to the current world order, characterized by sin, suffering, and death, which will pass away.

Teaching Points

God's Compassion and Comfort
God is intimately involved in the lives of His people, offering comfort and healing from all forms of suffering.

The End of Suffering
The promise of no more death, mourning, crying, or pain is a future hope that believers can hold onto amidst present trials.

The New Creation
Believers are encouraged to live in the reality of the new creation, where the old order of sin and death is replaced by eternal life and joy.

Hope in God's Promises
This verse assures believers of the certainty of God's promises, encouraging them to remain steadfast in faith.

Eternal Perspective
Christians are called to focus on the eternal perspective, understanding that current sufferings are temporary and will be replaced by eternal joy.

Bible Study Questions

1. How does the promise of God wiping away every tear impact your understanding of His character?

2. In what ways can the hope of "no more death or mourning or crying or pain" influence your daily life and decisions?

3. How does the concept of the "former things" passing away challenge you to live differently in the present?

4. What connections can you draw between Revelation 21:4 and other biblical promises of comfort and restoration?

5. How can you practically share the hope of Revelation 21:4 with others who are experiencing suffering or loss?

Connections to Other Scriptures

Isaiah 25:8
This verse prophesies that God will swallow up death forever and wipe away tears, showing the continuity of God's redemptive plan.

1 Corinthians 15:54-55
Paul speaks of the ultimate victory over death, echoing the themes of Revelation 21:4.

Revelation 7:17
Earlier in Revelation, it is mentioned that God will wipe away every tear, reinforcing the promise of comfort and restoration.

2 Corinthians 5:17
Paul writes about the new creation in Christ, which aligns with the "former things" passing away in Revelation 21:4.