How does Revelation 21:11 inspire us to reflect God's glory in our lives? Revelation 21:11 at a glance “shining with the glory of God. Its radiance was like a most precious jewel, like a jasper, clear as crystal.” • This is a literal description of the New Jerusalem, the eternal dwelling of God with His people. • The city’s brilliance comes solely from the unveiled glory of God Himself—nothing man-made, nothing dimmed. • God intends that same glory to be mirrored in the lives of His redeemed right now (John 17:22). What God’s glory looks like • Unmatched beauty—“a most precious jewel.” • Spotless purity—“clear as crystal.” • Undiminished radiance—no shadows, no dullness, only light (1 John 1:5). Why this matters for us now • We are God’s “living stones” built into a spiritual house (1 Peter 2:5). • Our bodies are literal temples of the Holy Spirit (1 Corinthians 6:19-20). • As we see His glory, we are “being transformed into the same image from glory to glory” (2 Corinthians 3:18). Practical ways to reflect His glory • Abide in His Word: daily reading, memorizing, and obeying Scripture (John 15:7). • Worship passionately: give God “the glory due His name” (Psalm 29:2). • Walk in holiness: pursue a lifestyle that is “holy in all you do” (1 Peter 1:15-16). • Serve others selflessly: let good works shine so people “glorify your Father in heaven” (Matthew 5:16). • Speak life-giving words: “Let the word of Christ dwell in you richly” (Colossians 3:16). • Keep an eternal focus: “Set your minds on things above” (Colossians 3:2). The transforming gaze • Moses’ face shone after meeting with the LORD (Exodus 34:29-30). • We have an even greater privilege—unveiled access through Christ. The more we behold Him, the more clearly His likeness becomes visible in us (2 Corinthians 3:18). Living with crystal-clear radiance • The purity of the jasper-like city calls us to moral and doctrinal clarity. • The priceless beauty of God’s presence invites us to cherish His nearness over every earthly treasure (Philippians 3:8). • The undimmed light of eternity urges us to reject compromise and shine visibly in a dark world (Philippians 2:15). A shining conclusion Revelation 21:11 is more than a future postcard; it is a present mandate. When God’s people treasure His beauty, pursue His purity, and display His radiance through obedient lives, the world catches a glimpse of the city to come—and of the King whose glory lights it forever. |
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