A New Heaven and a New Earth 1Then I saw a new heaven and a new earth,a for the first heaven and earth had passed away, and the sea was no more. 2I saw the holy city, the new Jerusalem, coming down out of heaven from God, prepared as a bride adorned for her husband. 3And I heard a loud voice from the throne saying: “Behold, the dwelling place of God is with man, and He will dwell with them. They will be His people, and God Himself will be with them as their God.b 4‘He will wipe away every tear from their eyes,’c and there will be no more death or mourning or crying or pain, for the former things have passed away.” 5And the One seated on the throne said, “Behold, I make all things new.” Then He said, “Write this down, for these words are faithful and true.” 6And He told me, “It is done! I am the Alpha and the Omega, the Beginning and the End. To the thirsty I will give freely from the spring of the water of life. 7The one who overcomes will inherit all things, and I will be his God, and he will be My son. 8But to the cowardly and unbelieving and abominable and murderers and sexually immoral and sorcerers and idolaters and all liars, their place will be in the lake that burns with fire and sulfur. This is the second death.” The New Jerusalem 9Then one of the seven angels with the seven bowls full of the seven final plagues came and said to me, “Come, I will show you the bride, the wife of the Lamb.” 10And he carried me away in the Spirit to a mountain great and high, and showed me the holy city of Jerusalem coming down out of heaven from God, 11shining with the glory of God. Its radiance was like a most precious jewel, like a jasper, as clear as crystal. 12The city had a great and high wall with twelve gates inscribed with the names of the twelve tribes of Israel, and twelve angels at the gates. 13There were three gates on the east, three on the north, three on the south, and three on the west. 14The wall of the city had twelve foundations bearing the names of the twelve apostles of the Lamb. 15The angel who spoke with me had a golden measuring rod to measure the city and its gates and walls. 16The city lies foursquare, with its width the same as its length. And he measured the city with the rod, and all its dimensions were equal—12,000 stadiad in length and width and height. 17And he measured its wall to be 144 cubits,e by the human measure the angel was using. 18The wall was made of jasper, and the city itself of pure gold, as pure as glass. 19The foundations of the city walls were adorned with every kind of precious stone: The first foundation was jasper, the second sapphire, the third chalcedony, 20the fifth sardonyx, the sixth carnelian, the seventh chrysolite, the eighth beryl, the ninth topaz, the tenth chrysoprase, the eleventh jacinth, 21And the twelve gates were twelve pearls, with each gate consisting of a single pearl. The main street of the city was pure gold, as clear as glass. 22But I saw no temple in the city, because the Lord God Almighty and the Lamb are its temple. 23And the city has no need of sun or moon to shine on it, because the glory of God illuminates the city, and the Lamb is its lamp. 24By its light the nations will walk, and into it the kings of the earth will bring their glory.f 25Its gates will never be shut at the end of the day, because there will be no night there. 26And into the city will be brought the glory and honor of the nations. 27But nothing unclean will ever enter it, nor anyone who practices an abomination or a lie, but only those whose names are written in the Lamb’s Book of Life. Footnotes: 1 a See Isaiah 65:17 and Isaiah 66:22 (see also LXX). 3 b SBL, NE, WH, and BYZ God Himself will be with them. 4 c Isaiah 25:8. 16 d 12,000 stadia is approximately 1,380 miles or 2,220 kilometers. 17 e 144 cubits is approximately 216 feet or 65.8 meters. The measure could indicate either height or thickness. 24 f BYZ and TR include and honor. Berean Standard Bible (BSB) printed 2016, 2020, 2022, 2025 by Bible Hub and Berean.Bible. Produced in cooperation with Bible Hub, Discovery Bible, unfoldingWord, Bible Aquifer, OpenBible.com, and the Berean Bible Translation Committee. This text of God's Word has been dedicated to the public domain. Free downloads and unlimited usage available. See also the Berean Literal Bible and Berean Interlinear Bible. Bible Hub  Revelation 21 Summary A New Heaven and a New EarthVerses 1–2 – A New Heaven and a New Earth Verses 3–4 – God with Us Forever Verses 5–8 – All Things Made New, Final Destinies Verses 9–14 – The Bride, the City, the Twelve Gates Verses 15–21 – Dimensions and Splendor Verses 22–27 – The Eternal Light and Open Gates Revelation 21 presents a vision of hope and glory, depicting the renewal of heaven and earth, the dwelling of God among people, and the promise of a life free from sorrow. This chapter serves as the climax of the book, where all the tribulations and trials fade away, giving way to a future where God's people live in a state of eternal peace and joy. Background and Setting in Revelation’s Flow Revelation 21 follows the final judgment of chapter 20. With evil removed, God unveils His everlasting kingdom. The vision answers the cries of persecuted churches (Revelation 6:10) and fulfills promises made throughout Scripture (Isaiah 65:17; 2 Peter 3:13). The Promise of Complete Renewal • Genesis opened with creation; Revelation closes with re-creation. • “No more sea” (v. 1) signals the removal of chaos and separation (Psalm 89:9; Revelation 13:1). • God’s voice announces the end of grief—echoing Isaiah 25:8 and 35:10. Old Testament Echoes • New Jerusalem combines Zion prophecies (Isaiah 52:1; 60:1–22) with the bridal joy of Hosea 2:19–20. • The cube shape mirrors the Most Holy Place of Solomon’s temple (1 Kings 6:20), showing the whole city is now God’s innermost sanctuary. • Twelve gates (tribes) + twelve foundations (apostles) unite old and new covenant people into one household (Ephesians 2:19–22). Measurements and Symbolic Numbers • “12,000 stadia” per side and “144 cubits” walls multiply twelves, the biblical number of God’s organized people. • A perfect cube (length = width = height) signifies wholeness and stability. • Gold so pure it looks like glass emphasizes transparency—nothing is hidden in God’s presence. Precious Stones and Ancient Trade John lists twelve gems (vv. 19–20) known across the Roman world. Archaeology at Ephesus, Smyrna, and Sardis uncovers trade routes that funneled these stones westward. Their brilliance reminds readers of the high priest’s breastplate (Exodus 28:17-20), signaling that every citizen now enjoys priest-level access to God. No Temple, Sea, Night, or Sun—Why They Matter • Temple: God Himself is immediate; no more mediators. • Sea: fear, rebellion, and distance removed. • Night: insecurity gone; cities closed gates at dark, but “its gates will never be shut by day” because night never falls. • Sun: creation’s strongest light source replaced by the Creator’s own glory (Isaiah 60:19-20). The Book of Life and Final Security Verse 27 closes the chapter with a safeguard: only those in the Lamb’s Book of Life enter. Jesus spoke of this secure registry in Luke 10:20, and Paul mentioned it in Philippians 4:3. It underscores that citizenship is by grace through the Lamb. Connections to Other New Testament Passages • Jesus’ “I go to prepare a place for you” (John 14:2-3) finds fulfillment here. • Hebrews 11:10 speaks of a city whose architect is God—now revealed. • 2 Corinthians 6:16 promises, “I will dwell among them,” echoed word-for-word in Revelation 21:3. Archaeological and Historical Imagery • First-century readers knew Rome’s pomp: marble forums, golden statues, and triumphal arches. John’s city eclipses all that glory, offering persecuted believers a hope far brighter than imperial propaganda. • Pearls were treasured beyond gold in the ancient east (Matthew 13:45-46). A gate carved from a single pearl outshines any Caesar’s trophy. Practical Encouragement for Worship • God longs to live with His people (v. 3). Worship today rehearses that future face-to-face fellowship. • Tears are temporary; praise is permanent (Psalm 30:5). • The city’s open gates challenge believers to live with open hearts, welcoming others into God’s light. Encouragement for Suffering Churches • Smyrna’s believers who faced imprisonment (Revelation 2:10) now hear there will never again be night, pain, or death. • Those threatened by exclusion from trade guilds (Revelation 13:17) find assurance their names can never be erased from God’s roll. Simple Key Themes and Takeaways 1. God finishes what He starts—creation ends in greater glory than it began. 2. Relationship over religion—no temple, only God’s presence. 3. Belonging over exclusion—gates stay open, but holiness still matters. 4. Hope drives endurance—future certainty fuels present faithfulness. Connections to Additional Scriptures Isaiah 65:17For behold, I will create new heavens and a new earth. The former things will not be remembered, nor will they come to mind. 2 Peter 3:13 But in keeping with God’s promise, we are looking forward to a new heaven and a new earth, where righteousness dwells. John 14:2-3 In My Father’s house are many rooms. If it were not so, would I have told you that I am going there to prepare a place for you? And if I go and prepare a place for you, I will come back and welcome you into My presence, so that you also may be where I am. Teaching Points The New CreationRevelation 21:1 states, Then I saw a new heaven and a new earth, for the first heaven and earth had passed away, and the sea was no more. This signifies the complete renewal of creation, free from the corruption of sin. God Dwelling with His People Verse 3 declares, And I heard a loud voice from the throne saying: 'Behold, the dwelling place of God is with man, and He will dwell with them. They will be His people, and God Himself will be with them as their God.' This emphasizes the intimate relationship between God and His people in the new creation. The End of Suffering Verse 4 promises, 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. This is a powerful assurance of the end of all suffering and the beginning of eternal joy. The Alpha and Omega In verse 6, God declares, I am the Alpha and the Omega, the Beginning and the End. This highlights God's eternal nature and His sovereign control over all history. The Inheritance of the Faithful Verse 7 states, The one who overcomes will inherit all things, and I will be his God, and he will be My son. This is a promise of eternal inheritance for those who remain faithful to God. Practical Applications Live with HopeLet the promise of a new heaven and new earth inspire you to live with hope and anticipation, knowing that God has a glorious future prepared for you. Cultivate Intimacy with God As God desires to dwell with His people, seek to deepen your relationship with Him through prayer, worship, and studying His Word. Find Comfort in God's Promises In times of suffering, remember that God will one day wipe away every tear and eliminate all pain. Let this truth bring you comfort and strength. Persevere in Faith Be encouraged to overcome challenges and remain faithful, knowing that your perseverance will lead to an eternal inheritance with God. People 1. GodDescribed as the Alpha and the Omega, the Beginning and the End. He is the one who declares, "Behold, I make all things new" (Revelation 21:5). The Greek term used here for God is "Θεός" (Theos), emphasizing His divine nature and sovereignty. 2. The Lamb Refers to Jesus Christ, who is central to the vision of the New Jerusalem. The Lamb is mentioned as the temple of the city, alongside God (Revelation 21:22). The Greek word "ἀρνίον" (arnion) is used, symbolizing Jesus as the sacrificial Lamb. 3. The Bride Represents the Church, described as the "wife of the Lamb" (Revelation 21:9). The Greek term "νύμφη" (nymphē) is used, indicating the Church's intimate and covenantal relationship with Christ. 4. The One Who Sat on the Throne This figure is often understood to be God Himself, who speaks authoritatively about the new creation (Revelation 21:5). The throne symbolizes His ultimate authority and rule. 5. The Angel An angel is mentioned as showing John the vision of the New Jerusalem (Revelation 21:9). Angels, or "ἄγγελος" (angelos) in Greek, are messengers of God, guiding and revealing divine truths. 6. The Nations Refers to the peoples who will walk by the light of the New Jerusalem and bring their glory into it (Revelation 21:24). The Greek term "ἔθνη" (ethnē) is used, indicating diverse groups of people. 7. The Kings of the Earth These are the rulers who bring their splendor into the New Jerusalem (Revelation 21:24). The Greek word "βασιλεῖς" (basileis) is used, denoting their authority and honor. 8. The Overcomers Those who conquer will inherit the blessings of the new creation, as stated in Revelation 21:7 . The Greek term "νικῶν" (nikōn) is used, meaning those who are victorious through faith. 9. The Cowardly, Unbelieving, and Other Sinners These are the individuals who are excluded from the New Jerusalem and face the second death (Revelation 21:8). The passage lists various sins, emphasizing the moral purity required to enter the holy city. Places 1. New Heaven and New EarthRevelation 21:1: "Then I saw a new heaven and a new earth, for the first heaven and earth had passed away, and the sea was no more." This represents the renewed creation where the old order has passed away. The Greek word for "new" (καινός, kainos) implies something fresh and unprecedented. 2. Holy City, New Jerusalem Revelation 21:2: "I saw the holy city, the new Jerusalem, coming down out of heaven from God, prepared as a bride adorned for her husband." The New Jerusalem symbolizes the dwelling place of God with His people. The Greek term for "holy" (ἅγιος, hagios) denotes something set apart for God. 3. The Sea Revelation 21:1: "and the sea was no more." The absence of the sea signifies the removal of chaos and evil, as the sea often symbolizes turmoil and separation in biblical literature. 4. The Tabernacle of God Revelation 21:3: "And I heard a loud voice from the throne saying: 'Behold, the dwelling place of God is with man, and He will dwell with them. They will be His people, and God Himself will be with them as their God.'" The term "dwelling place" (σκηνή, skēnē) refers to the tabernacle, indicating God's presence among His people. 5. The Throne of God and the Lamb Revelation 21:5: "He who was seated on the throne said, 'Behold, I am making all things new.'" The throne represents God's sovereign rule and authority. The Greek word for "throne" (θρόνος, thronos) is a symbol of divine kingship. Events 1. The New Heaven and New EarthRevelation 21:1 - "Then I saw a new heaven and a new earth, for the first heaven and earth had passed away, and the sea was no more." This event marks the creation of a new heaven and earth, signifying the renewal of all things. The Greek word for "new" (καινός, kainos) implies something fresh and unprecedented. 2. The New Jerusalem Revelation 21:2 - "I saw the holy city, the new Jerusalem, coming down out of heaven from God, prepared as a bride adorned for her husband." The New Jerusalem descends from heaven, symbolizing the dwelling place of God with His people. The imagery of a bride highlights purity and the intimate relationship between God and His people. 3. God Dwelling with Humanity Revelation 21:3 - "And I heard a loud voice from the throne saying: 'Behold, the dwelling place of God is with man, and He will dwell with them. They will be His people, and God Himself will be with them as their God.'" This event emphasizes God's presence among His people, fulfilling the covenant promise. The Greek word for "dwelling" (σκηνή, skēnē) is akin to "tabernacle," indicating God's intimate presence. 4. The End of Suffering 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." This signifies the end of all suffering and the complete restoration of creation. The Greek word for "wipe away" (ἐξαλείφω, exaleiphō) conveys the idea of complete removal. 5. The Declaration from the Throne Revelation 21:5-6 - "And the One seated on the throne said, 'Behold, I make all things new.' Then He said, 'Write this down, for these words are faithful and true.' And He told me, 'It is done! I am the Alpha and the Omega, the Beginning and the End. To the thirsty I will give freely from the spring of the water of life.'" God declares the renewal of all things and offers the water of life, symbolizing eternal satisfaction and life. "Alpha and Omega" (ἄλφα καὶ τὸ ὦ) signifies God's eternal nature. 6. The Inheritance of the Overcomers Revelation 21:7 - "The one who overcomes will inherit all things, and I will be his God, and he will be My son." Overcomers are promised an inheritance, emphasizing the familial relationship with God. The Greek word for "overcomes" (νικάω, nikaō) implies victory through faith. 7. The Fate of the Unbelieving Revelation 21:8 - "But to the cowardly and unbelieving and abominable and murderers and sexually immoral and sorcerers and idolaters and all liars, their place will be in the lake that burns with fire and sulfur. This is the second death." This event describes the judgment of those who reject God, highlighting the seriousness of sin and the finality of the second death. 8. The Vision of the New Jerusalem Revelation 21:9-11 - "Then one of the seven angels with the seven bowls full of the seven final plagues came and said to me, 'Come, I will show you the bride, the wife of the Lamb.' And he carried me away in the Spirit to a mountain great and high, and showed me the holy city of Jerusalem, coming down out of heaven from God, shining with the glory of God." The New Jerusalem is described in detail, symbolizing the glory and purity of God's eternal kingdom. 9. The Description of the City Revelation 21:12-21 - The city is described with high walls, twelve gates, and foundations adorned with precious stones. The detailed description emphasizes the beauty, security, and divine order of the New Jerusalem. 10. The Absence of a Temple Revelation 21:22 - "But I saw no temple in the city, because the Lord God Almighty and the Lamb are its temple." The absence of a physical temple signifies direct access to God, as His presence fills the city. 11. The Eternal Light Revelation 21:23-24 - "And the city has no need of sun or moon to shine on it, because the glory of God illuminates the city, and the Lamb is its lamp. By its light the nations will walk, and into it the kings of the earth will bring their glory." God's glory provides eternal light, symbolizing His presence and guidance. 12. The Open Gates Revelation 21:25-26 - "Its gates will never be shut at the end of the day, because there will be no night there. And into the city will be brought the glory and honor of the nations." The open gates represent security and the inclusion of all who are redeemed. 13. The Exclusion of the Impure Revelation 21:27 - "But nothing unclean will ever enter it, nor anyone who practices an abomination or a lie, but only those whose names are written in the Lamb’s Book of Life." Only those redeemed by Christ are allowed in, emphasizing purity and holiness. Lessons from Revelation 21 1. A New Heaven and a New Earth 2. The Holy City, New Jerusalem 3. God Dwelling Among Us 4. The End of Suffering 5. Making All Things New 6. The Alpha and the Omega 7. The Gift of the Water of Life 8. The Inheritance of the Overcomers 9. The Warning Against Unbelief 10. The Splendor of the New Jerusalem Topics 1. The New Heaven and New EarthRevelation 21:1 describes the vision of a new heaven and a new earth, as the first heaven and earth have passed away. The Greek word for "new" (καινός, kainos) implies something fresh and unprecedented, indicating a complete renewal of creation. 2. The New Jerusalem In Revelation 21:2, John sees the holy city, the New Jerusalem, coming down out of heaven from God. This city is described as a bride beautifully dressed for her husband, symbolizing purity and divine preparation. 3. God Dwelling with His People Revelation 21:3 emphasizes God's presence with humanity: "Behold, the dwelling place of God is with man." The Greek term for "dwelling place" (σκηνή, skēnē) is reminiscent of the tabernacle, signifying God's intimate presence with His people. 4. The End of Suffering Revelation 21:4 promises the end of death, mourning, crying, and pain, as the former things have passed away. This reflects the ultimate fulfillment of God's redemptive plan, where suffering is eradicated. 5. The Alpha and Omega In Revelation 21:6, God declares Himself as the Alpha and Omega, the beginning and the end. This title underscores God's eternal nature and sovereign control over all history. 6. The Inheritance of the Overcomers Revelation 21:7 speaks of the inheritance for those who overcome, promising that they will be God's children. The Greek word for "overcome" (νικάω, nikaō) conveys victory and perseverance in faith. 7. The Fate of the Unbelieving Revelation 21:8 lists those who will face the second death, including the cowardly, unbelieving, and immoral. This serves as a warning of the consequences of rejecting God's salvation. 8. The Description of the New Jerusalem Revelation 21:9-21 provides a detailed description of the New Jerusalem, including its radiant appearance, high walls, and twelve gates. The imagery reflects the city's divine origin and perfection. 9. The Temple and the Glory of God Revelation 21:22-23 reveals that there is no temple in the city, for the Lord God Almighty and the Lamb are its temple. The city's illumination by God's glory signifies His direct presence and the absence of any need for a physical temple. 10. The Nations and the Kings Revelation 21:24-26 describes the nations walking by the city's light and the kings bringing their splendor into it. This portrays the universal scope of God's kingdom and the inclusion of all peoples in His eternal plan. Themes 1. The New Heaven and New EarthRevelation 21:1 describes the creation of a new heaven and a new earth, indicating the renewal and restoration of all things. The Greek word "καινός" (kainos) is used for "new," suggesting something fresh and unprecedented. 2. The Holy City, New Jerusalem In Revelation 21:2, the New Jerusalem is depicted as a bride beautifully dressed for her husband. This symbolizes the purity and holiness of the city, prepared by God for His people. 3. God Dwelling with His People Revelation 21:3 emphasizes God's presence with humanity: "Behold, the dwelling place of God is with man." The Greek word "σκηνή" (skēnē) for "dwelling" reflects the idea of God's tabernacle among His people. 4. The End of Suffering and Death Revelation 21:4 promises the end of tears, death, mourning, crying, and pain. This theme highlights the complete removal of the former things, as God makes all things new. 5. The Alpha and Omega In Revelation 21:6, God declares Himself the "Alpha and Omega," the beginning and the end. This underscores His eternal nature and sovereign control over history. 6. The Inheritance of the Overcomers Revelation 21:7 speaks of the inheritance for those who overcome, promising that they will be God's children. The Greek word "νικάω" (nikaō) for "overcome" implies victory through faith. 7. The Fate of the Unbelieving and Wicked Revelation 21:8 lists those who will face the second death, including the cowardly, unbelieving, and immoral. This theme serves as a warning of judgment for those who reject God. 8. The Splendor of the New Jerusalem Revelation 21:9-21 describes the beauty and majesty of the New Jerusalem, with its precious stones and gates of pearl. This imagery reflects the glory and perfection of God's eternal city. 9. The Absence of a Temple Revelation 21:22 notes that there is no temple in the city, for the Lord God Almighty and the Lamb are its temple. This signifies direct and unmediated access to God. 10. The Light of the City Revelation 21:23-24 highlights that the city does not need the sun or moon, for the glory of God illuminates it, and the Lamb is its lamp. This theme emphasizes the divine presence as the source of light and life. 11. The Nations and Kings Bringing Glory Revelation 21:24-26 describes the nations walking by the city's light and the kings bringing their splendor into it. This suggests the inclusion and unity of all peoples in God's kingdom. 12. The Purity of the City Revelation 21:27 concludes with the assurance that nothing impure will enter the city, only those whose names are written in the Lamb's Book of Life. This underscores the holiness required to dwell with God. Prayer Points Thanksgiving for God's Promise Thank God for the promise of a new heaven and new earth and the hope it brings to our lives. Desire for God's Presence Strength to Overcome Comfort for the Suffering Answering Tough Questions 1. How can the creation of a “new heaven and new earth” (Revelation 21:1) be reconciled with scientific understanding of the universe? Bible Study Discussion Questions 1. What does the promise of a new heaven and a new earth signify to you? 2. What emotions or thoughts does the description of the New Jerusalem evoke in you? 3. How does the vision of God dwelling among His people influence your understanding of God's relationship with humanity? 4. How does the absence of a physical temple in the New Jerusalem shape your view of worship? 5. How does the concept of the second death in the lake of fire influence your understanding of divine judgment and reward? 6. In what ways do you see God making things new in your life today? 7. How can the promise of a life without mourning, crying, or pain bring comfort in your present situations? 8. How can the detailed description of the New Jerusalem inspire you to live in anticipation of this glorious future? 9. How can the vision of the New Jerusalem impact the way you handle trials and tribulations in your life? 10. How does the vision of God as the Alpha and Omega influence your view of God's sovereignty? 11. What does it mean to you to be called to "overcome," as mentioned in verse 7? 12. How does the concept of "the Lamb's book of life" impact your understanding of salvation? 13. How does the vision of the kings of the earth bringing their splendor into the New Jerusalem shape your understanding of the Kingdom of God? 14. How can this vision of eternal life with God influence your daily decisions and actions? 15. In your own life, how can you prepare yourself, as the Bride of Christ, for the coming of the New Jerusalem? 16. How does Revelation 21 influence your understanding of the end times? 17. What steps can you take to ensure your name is in the Lamb's Book of Life? 18. How can the vision of the holy city, the New Jerusalem, serve as a motivation in your Christian walk? 19. In your daily living, how can you strive to be part of those who "overcome" and inherit the promises of God? 20. How can the glory and purity of the New Jerusalem challenge you to live a life of purity and righteousness? Bible Hub Chapter Summaries and Bible Study Questions |
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