Arcana Coelestia #283
283. The fourth generation among whom natural good began to melt away is dealt with in verse 22. Had they been created anew or received instruction in heavenly matters of faith they would have perished, which is the meaning of 'by chance he will put out his hand and also take from the tree of life 1 and live for ever'.
Imibhalo yaphansi:
1. literally, of lives
Luke 22:43-46
43
An angel from heaven appeared to him, strengthening him.
44
Being in agony he prayed more earnestly. His sweat became like great drops of blood falling down on the ground.
45
When he rose up from his prayer, he came to the disciples, and found them sleeping because of grief,
46
and said to them, "Why do you sleep? Rise and pray that you may not enter into temptation."
