Revelation 21:18-21 is about the description of the New Jerusalem, symbolizing the perfection and glory of God’s eternal kingdom, depicted in its foundations, gates, and streets made of precious stones and metals to convey the message of divine splendor and beauty.
18 The wall was built of jasper, while the city was pure gold, like clear glass.
19 The foundations of the wall of the city were adorned with every kind of jewel. The first was jasper, the second sapphire, the third agate, the fourth emerald,
20 the fifth onyx, the sixth carnelian, the seventh chrysolite, the eighth beryl, the ninth topaz, the tenth chrysoprase, the eleventh jacinth, the twelfth amethyst.
21 And the twelve gates were twelve pearls, each of the gates made of a single pearl, and the street of the city was pure gold, transparent as glass.
Setting the Scene for Revelation 21:18-21
In Revelation chapter 21, the scene is set in the heavenly city of New Jerusalem. The apostle John, who is the author of the book of Revelation, is being shown a vision of this magnificent city by an angel. The city is described as having twelve gates made of pearls, with each gate being made from a single pearl. The street of the city is pure gold, like transparent glass. John sees the foundations of the city walls adorned with precious stones such as jasper, sapphire, and emerald.
Surrounding John are the twelve tribes of Israel, represented by the twelve gates of the city, and the twelve apostles of the Lamb, represented by the twelve foundations of the city walls. The scene is filled with awe and wonder as John beholds the beauty and grandeur of the heavenly city. The light of God illuminates the city, and there is no need for the sun or moon, for the glory of God provides all the light the city needs.
As John takes in the breathtaking sight of New Jerusalem, he is filled with a sense of peace and joy, knowing that this is the eternal home prepared for all who believe in God. The scene is a powerful reminder of the promise of a new heaven and a new earth, where God will dwell with His people and wipe away every tear from their eyes.
What is Revelation 21:18-21 about?
Imagine a city adorned with the most exquisite jewels and precious metals, shining brilliantly in the light. The verse you are referring to highlights the grandeur and splendor of the New Jerusalem, a symbol of a perfect and divine dwelling place. The materials mentioned in the verse – gold, jewels, and pearls – represent purity, opulence, and value beyond measure. This depiction paints a picture of a place of unparalleled beauty and majesty, fit for the glory of God. Reflect on this verse as you consider the significance of these materials in the context of spirituality. What do these luxurious elements symbolize in terms of the perfection and eternal nature of the New Jerusalem? How does the imagery of gold, jewels, and pearls make you contemplate the concept of heavenly perfection and divine presence? The richness of these materials serves as a reminder of the eternal splendor and magnificence that await those who dwell in the presence of God in the New Jerusalem.
Understanding what Revelation 21:18-21 really means
In Revelation 21:18-21, we are transported into John’s vision of the New Jerusalem, the holy city descending from heaven. This passage forms part of the grand revelation of the end times and the ultimate fulfillment of God’s promise to His people. The vivid imagery painted here serves to captivate our minds and hearts, drawing us into the splendor of God’s eternal kingdom.
The description of the city walls made of jasper and the streets of pure gold, as clear as glass, symbolizes the glory, purity, and holiness of God Himself. Each precious stone adorning the foundations speaks of the beauty and diversity of God’s creation, reflecting the richness of His promises to His people. The twelve gates, each crafted from a single pearl, signify the immense value and beauty of entering into God’s kingdom. The streets paved with gold, as transparent as glass, highlight the absolute purity and holiness of the New Jerusalem, where sin and impurity have no place.
Drawing parallels from other biblical passages such as Isaiah 54:11-12, 1 Corinthians 3:12-13, and Matthew 13:45-46, we see a consistent theme of precious stones, gold, and pearls symbolizing the enduring worth and beauty of God’s kingdom. These passages reinforce the idea of building our lives on Christ, the foundation that will withstand the refining fire and reveal our true motives and actions.
The relevance of this vision to believers today cannot be overstated. It offers a glimpse of the future glory that awaits those who remain faithful, serving as a beacon of hope in the midst of life’s trials and challenges. By meditating on the beauty and purity of the New Jerusalem, we are inspired to live holy and faithful lives, striving to reflect the splendor of God’s eternal kingdom in all we do.
Consider the story of an individual facing immense suffering, perhaps battling a severe illness, who finds solace and strength in the promise of a perfect, eternal home with God. This vision of the New Jerusalem becomes their anchor, reminding them that their present struggles are temporary, and a glorious future awaits in the presence of the Almighty. It is in moments of deepest despair that the hope of the New Jerusalem shines brightest, illuminating the path to perseverance and faithfulness.
In conclusion, Revelation 21:18-21 paints a picture of unparalleled beauty, purity, and value in the New Jerusalem. Let us hold onto this vision as a source of hope and motivation in our daily lives, striving to embody the holiness and glory of God’s eternal kingdom here on earth. May the promise of the New Jerusalem inspire us to live with unwavering faith and anticipation of the glorious future that awaits all who believe.
How can we prioritize eternal treasures over material possessions?
We can prioritize eternal treasures over material possessions by gaining a deeper understanding of what truly holds everlasting value. Material possessions are temporary and can easily fade away or lose their significance over time. On the other hand, eternal treasures such as love, kindness, compassion, faith, and spiritual growth have enduring worth and can positively impact not only our lives but the lives of others as well. We can lay up treasures in heaven that will never perish or lose their value by focusing on nurturing these virtues and living a purpose-driven life. Realizing that our time on earth is limited and that we cannot take material possessions with us when we leave can shift our perspective towards storing up treasures in heaven. Instead of solely chasing after worldly possessions that are fleeting, we can invest our time, energy, and resources into building relationships, helping those in need, and living out our faith in a tangible way. We can experience a sense of fulfillment and peace that transcends the temporary satisfaction that material possessions offer by prioritizing eternal treasures. Reflecting on the teachings of the Bible, specifically on the importance of focusing on eternal treasures, can guide us in making intentional choices that align with our values and beliefs. We can prioritize eternal treasures over material possessions and experience a deeper sense of purpose and fulfillment in our journey of faith by seeking to live a life that is in harmony with the principles of love, grace, and righteousness.
Application
Let the vision described in Revelation 21:18-21 ignite a fire within you to strive for greater heights in faith. Just like the precious stones and foundations of the new Jerusalem, let your life be built on a foundation of deep spiritual richness and beauty. As we gaze upon the glory that awaits us in God’s kingdom, let us be inspired to live our lives with a renewed sense of purpose and dedication. Will you join me in committing to shining brightly with the light of God’s love and truth in all aspects of your life?
Reverend Ogunlade is a seasoned Church Minister with over three decades of experience in guiding and nurturing congregations. With profound wisdom and a serene approach, Reverend Ogunlade has carried out various pastoral duties, including delivering uplifting sermons, conducting religious ceremonies, and offering sage counsel to individuals seeking spiritual guidance. Their commitment to fostering harmony and righteousness within their community is exemplified through their compassionate nature, making them a beloved and trusted figure among the congregation.