What does Revelation 22:4 mean?

One of the beatitudes promises that the pure in heart will see God (Matthew 5:8). John 1:18 declares that no one has seen God at any time, but that situation no longer exists in the heavenly city. God's redeemed, glorified servants will see His face, as Revelation 22:4 tells us. Although New Jerusalem is a beautiful place, undoubtedly the best thing about it is the privilege given to God's servants to see His face. The experience suggests a degree of intimacy previously unknown.

Further, God's name will be on His servants' foreheads. This might be a poetic reference, or a literal physical seal. God's "name" stands for His character and His ownership of His servants. In the tribulation unbelievers received the mark of the beast on their foreheads as a pledge of their loyalty to him (Revelation 13:16–17). Throughout eternity God's servants will demonstrate their loyalty to the One who redeemed them.

First Peter 1:18–19 reminds us that we were redeemed with the precious blood of Christ. It is appropriate that we should not wait until heaven to serve Him. He gave His all for us, therefore we should give our all to Him.