- Home
- Bible
- Revelation
- Chapter 21
- Verse 21
Revelation 21:9
Verse
Context
The New Jerusalem
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.”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.”
Sermons
T. Austin-SparksT. Austin-Sparks
Steve Gallagher
Jack Hyles
Stephen Kaung
David Clifford
Sandeep PoonenSummary
Commentary
- Adam Clarke
- Jamieson-Fausset-Brown
- John Gill
- Matthew Henry
- Tyndale
Adam Clarke Bible Commentary
The bride, the Lamb's wife - The pure and holy Christian Church.
Jamieson-Fausset-Brown Bible Commentary
The same angel who had shown John Babylon the harlot, is appropriately employed to show him in contrast new Jerusalem, the Bride (Rev 17:1-5). The angel so employed is the one that had the last seven plagues, to show that the ultimate blessedness of the Church is one end of the divine judgments on her foes. unto me--A, B, and Vulgate omit. the Lamb's wife--in contrast to her who sat on many waters (Rev 17:1), (that is, intrigued with many peoples and nations of the world, instead of giving her undivided affections, as the Bride does, to the Lamb.
John Gill Bible Commentary
And there came unto me one of the seven angels,.... Either the first of them, as one of the four beasts is the first of them, Rev 6:1 or it may be the last, and very likely the same as in Rev 17:1 which had the seven vials full of the seven last plagues; that is, the wrath of God poured out by them on the antichristian party; see Rev 15:1. And talked with me, saying, come hither; see Rev 17:1. I will show thee the bride, the Lamb's wife. The "Lamb" is Christ, who is often so called in this book; see Rev 5:6 Rev 19:7 and is the Son of God, the heir of all things, the Maker and Governor of the universe, the King of kings, and Lord of lords; and who, as Mediator, has all accomplishments and qualifications to recommend him as a bridegroom, such as beauty, riches, and wisdom: the bride, his wife, is not any particular believer, nor any particular church; not the Gentile church, nor the Jewish church only, but all the elect of God, consisting of the raised and living saints at the coming of Christ; who will make up one body, one general assembly, and be as a bride, prepared and adorned for her husband: these were first betrothed to Christ in eternity, and were openly espoused by him, one by one, at conversion; and now being all gathered in by the effectual calling, the dead being raised, and the living changed, and all glorified, the marriage is consummated, and they are declared publicly to be the bride, the Lamb's wife; See Gill on Mat 22:2. And now, though John had had a sight of her before, Rev 21:2 yet that was but a glimmering one, at a distance, he being in the wilderness, Rev 17:3 wherefore the angel calls him to him, and proposes to give him a clear, distinct, and particular view of her, in all her glory; and a glorious sight this indeed! to see the bride brought to the King in raiment of needlework, and the queen stand at his right hand in gold of Ophir. This is a sight of a quite different nature from that of the filthy strumpet, which the same angel proposed to give to John in Rev 17:1.
Matthew Henry Bible Commentary
We have already considered the introduction to the vision of the new Jerusalem in a more general idea of the heavenly state; we now come to the vision itself, where observe, I. The person that opened the vision to the apostle - one of the seven angels, that had the seven vials full of the seven last plagues, Rev 21:9. God has a variety of work and employment for his holy angels. Sometimes they are to sound the trumpet of divine Providence, and give fair warning to a careless world; sometimes they are to pour out the vials of God's anger upon impenitent sinners; and sometimes to discover things of a heavenly nature to those that are the heirs of salvation. They readily execute every commission they receive from God; and, when this world shall be at an end, yet the angels shall be employed by the great God in proper pleasant work to all eternity. II. The place from which the apostle had this glorious view and prospect. He was taken, in ecstasy, into a high mountain. From such situations men usually have the most distinct views of adjacent cities. Those who would have clear views of heaven must get as near heaven as they can, into the mount of vision, the mount of meditation and faith, whence, as from the top of Pisgah, they may behold the goodly land of the heavenly Canaan. III. The subject-matter of the vision - the bride, the Lamb's wife (Rev 21:10); that is, the church of God in her glorious, perfect, triumphant state, under the resemblance of Jerusalem, having the glory of God shining in its lustre, as uxor splendit radiis mariti - the bride comely through the comeliness put on her by her husband; glorious in her relation to Christ, in his image now perfected in her, and in his favour shining upon her. And now we have a large description of the church triumphant under the emblem of a city, far exceeding in riches and splendour all the cities of this world; and this new Jerusalem is here represented to us both in the exterior and the interior part of it. 1. The exterior part of the city - the wall and the gates, the wall for security and the gates for entrance. (1.) The wall for security. Heaven is a safe state; those that are there are enclosed with a wall, that separates them and secures them from all evils and enemies: now here, in the account of the wall, we observe, [1.] The height of it, which, we are told, is very high, seventy yards (Rev 21:17), sufficient both for ornament and security. [2.] The matter of it: It was as jasper; a wall all built of the most precious stones, for firmness and lustre, Rev 21:11. This city has a wall that is impregnable as well as precious. [3.] The form of it was very regular and uniform: It was four-square, the length as large as the breadth. In the new Jerusalem all shall be equal in purity and perfection. There shall be an absolute uniformity in the church triumphant, a thing wanted and wished for on earth, but not to be expected till we come to heaven. [4.] The measure of the wall (Rev 21:15, Rev 21:16): Twelve thousand furlongs each way, each side, which is forty-eight thousand furlongs in the whole compass, or fifteen hundred German miles. Here is room sufficient for all the people of God - many mansions in their Father's house. [5.] The foundation of the wall, for heaven is a city that hath her foundations (Rev 21:19); the promise and power of God, and the purchase of Christ, are the strong foundations of the church's safety and happiness. The foundations are described by their number - twelve, alluding to the twelve apostles (Rev 21:14), whose gospel doctrines are the foundations upon which the church is built, Christ himself being the chief corner-stone; and, as to the matter of these foundations, it was various and precious, set forth by twelve sorts of precious stones, denoting the variety and excellency of the doctrines of the gospel, or of the graces of the Holy Spirit, or the personal excellencies of the Lord Jesus Christ. (2.) The gates for entrance. Heaven is not inaccessible; there is a way opened into the holiest of all; there is a free admission to all those that are sanctified; they shall not find themselves shut out. Now, as to these gates, observe, [1.] Their number - twelve gates, answering to the twelve tribes of Israel. All the true Israel of God shall have entrance into the new Jerusalem, as every tribe had into the earthly Jerusalem. [2.] Their guards which were placed upon them - twelve angels, to admit and receive the several tribes of the spiritual Israel and keep out others. [3.] The inscription on the gates - the names of the twelve tribes, to show that they have a right to the tree of life, and to enter through the gates into the city. [4.] The situation of the gates. As the city had four equal sides, answering to the four quarters of the world, east, west, north, and south, so on each side there were three gates, signifying that from all quarters of the earth there shall be some who shall get safely to heaven and be received there, and that there is as free entrance from one part of the world as from the other; for in Christ there is neither Jew nor Greek, Barbarian, Scythian, bond, nor free. Men of all nations, and languages, who believe on Christ, have by him access to God in grace here and in glory hereafter. [5.] The materials of these gates - they were all of pearls, and yet with great variety: Every gate one pearl, either one single pearl of that vast bigness, or one single sort of pearl. Christ is the pearl of great price, and he is our way to God. There is nothing magnificent enough in this world fully to set forth the glory of heaven. Could we, in the glass of a strong imagination, contemplate such a city as is here described, even as to the exterior part of it, such a wall, and such gates, how amazing, how glorious, would the prospect be! And yet this is but a faint and dim representation of what heaven is in itself. 2. The interior part of the new Jerusalem, Rev 21:22-27. We have seen its strong wall, and stately gates, and glorious guards; now we are to be led through the gates into the city itself; and the first thing which we observe there is the street of the city, which is of pure gold, like transparent glass, Rev 21:21. The saints in heaven tread upon gold. The new Jerusalem has its several streets. There is the most exact order in heaven: every saint has his proper mansion. There is converse in heaven: the saints are then at rest, but it is not a mere passive rest; it is not a state of sleep and inactivity, but a state of delightful motion: The nations that are saved walk in the light of it. They walk with Christ in white. They have communion not only with God, but with one another; and all their steps are firm and clean. They are pure and clear as gold and transparent glass. Observe, (1.) The temple of the new Jerusalem, which was no material temple, made with men's hands, as that of Solomon and Zerubbabel, but a temple altogether spiritual and divine; for the Lord God Almighty, and the Lamb, are the temple thereof. There the saints are above the need of ordinances, which were the means of their preparation for heaven. When the end is attained the means are no longer useful. Perfect and immediate communion with God will more than supply the place of gospel institutions. (2.) The light of this city. Where there is no light, there can be no lustre nor pleasure. Heaven is the inheritance of the saints in light. But what is that light? There is no sun nor moon shining there, Rev 21:23. Light is sweet, and a pleasant thing it is to behold the sun. What a dismal world would this be if it were not for the light of the sun! What is there in heaven that supplies the want of it? There is no want of the light of the sun, for the glory of God lightens that city, and the Lamb is the light thereof. God in Christ will be an everlasting fountain of knowledge and joy to the saints in heaven; and, if so, there is no need of the sun or moon, any more than we here need to set up candles at noon day, when the sun shineth in its strength. (3.) The inhabitants of this city. They are described here several ways. [1.] By their numbers - whole nations of saved souls; some out of all nations, and many out of some nations. All those multitudes who were sealed on earth are saved in heaven. [2.] By their dignity - some of the kings and princes of the earth: great kings. God will have some of all ranks and degrees of men to fill the heavenly mansions, high and low; and when the greatest kings come to heaven they will see all their former honour and glory swallowed up of this heavenly glory that so much excels. [3.] Their continual accession and entrance into this city: The gates shall never be shut. There is no night, and therefore no need of shutting up the gates. Some one or other is coming in every hour and moment, and those that are sanctified always find the gates open; they have an abundant entrance into the kingdom. (4.) The accommodations of this city: All the glory and honour of the nations shall be brought into it. Whatever is excellent and valuable in this world shall be there enjoyed in a more refined kind, and to a far greater degree - brighter crowns, a better and more enduring substance, more sweet and satisfying feasts, a more glorious attendance, a truer sense of honour and far higher posts of honour, a more glorious temper of mind, and a form and a countenance more glorious than ever were known in this world. (5.) The unmixed purity of all who belong to the new Jerusalem, Rev 21:27. [1.] There the saints shall have no impure thing remaining in them. In the article of death they shall be cleansed from every thing that is of a defiling nature. Now they feel a sad mixture of corruption with their graces, which hinders them in the service of God, interrupts their communion with him, and intercepts the light of his countenance; but, at their entrance into the holy of holies, they are washed in the laver of Christ's blood, and presented to the Father without spot. [2.] There the saints shall have no impure persons admitted among them. In the earthly Jerusalem there will be a mixed communion, after all the care that can be taken. Some roots of bitterness will spring up to trouble and defile Christian societies; but in the new Jerusalem there is a society perfectly pure. First, Free from such as are openly profane. There are none admitted into heaven who work abominations. In the churches on earth sometimes abominable things are done, solemn ordinances profaned and prostituted to men openly vicious, for worldly ends; but no such abominations can have place in heaven. Secondly, Free from hypocrites, such as make lies, say they are Jews, and are not, but do lie. These will creep into the churches of Christ on earth, and may lie concealed there a long time, perhaps all their days; but they cannot intrude into the new Jerusalem, which is wholly reserved for those that are called, and chosen, and faithful, who are all written, not only in the register if the visible church, but in the Lamb's book of life.
Tyndale Open Study Notes
21:9–22:9 This symbolic vision of the new Jerusalem uses vivid word pictures to describe the bride, the wife of the Lamb—all those who respond to Christ’s message of salvation (see 21:2; 22:17; Eph 5:22-32).
Revelation 21:9
The New Jerusalem
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.”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.”
- Scripture
- Sermons
- Commentary
Faith Unto Enlargement Through Adversity - Part 3
By T. Austin-Sparks4.5K23:32AdversityGEN 15:5GEN 17:1ROM 4:17HEB 11:8HEB 11:11HEB 12:1REV 21:9In this sermon, the preacher discusses the concept of faith and its application in the work of the Lord. He refers to various passages from the Bible, including Genesis, Romans, and Hebrews, to illustrate the importance of faith in the face of challenges and tests. The preacher emphasizes that just as Abraham faced tests of faith, so do believers today. He highlights the need to persevere and continue on the path of faith, even when circumstances seem to indicate otherwise. The sermon encourages listeners to trust in God's plan and have faith in His promises for enlargement and fulfillment.
The Heavenly Calling - Part 16
By T. Austin-Sparks1.8K52:56Heavenly CallingISA 54:5ISA 62:5MAL 2:11REV 19:7REV 21:2REV 21:9In this sermon, the speaker emphasizes the purpose of the Christian life, which is to reveal Christ and bring pleasure to Him. The speaker acknowledges that believers often struggle in this task, facing difficulties and challenges that test their faith. The sermon also highlights the importance of the church's mission to preach the gospel to all nations, as God desires all people to be saved. The speaker concludes by urging Christians to strive for their heavenly calling and not to settle for anything less than God's best.
Come Out of the Darkness of Babylon
By Steve Gallagher1.8K45:50Babylon2TI 4:3REV 17:1REV 18:1REV 19:19REV 21:9The video shown during the sermon was described as a production created by the church. The speaker prayed for the congregation and mentioned that some people may choose to stay behind and seek the Lord in the sanctuary. The speaker then discussed the book of Revelation, explaining that the first three chapters serve as an introduction to the overwhelming scenes depicted in the rest of the book. Chapter 18 was highlighted as describing life as it is currently known, particularly in the United States, focusing on pleasure, entertainment, and sensuality.
Circumstantial Happiness
By Jack Hyles1.2K37:40EXO 33:20MAT 16:26PHP 3:10REV 21:9In this sermon, the preacher emphasizes the importance of knowing God in order to endure the hardships and challenges of life. He gives examples of biblical figures such as Paul, Shadrach, Meshach, and Abednego, John, and Moses who were able to face difficult circumstances because they knew God personally. The preacher encourages the audience to spend time with God and develop a deep relationship with Him. He also highlights the joy and contentment that comes from knowing God, even in the midst of trials and losses.
The Eternal Bride of the Eternal Son
By Stephen Kaung1.0K1:11:49REV 19:7REV 21:1REV 21:9REV 22:8In this sermon, the preacher describes a vision of a city with a river of the water of life running through it. In the midst of the river, there is a tree of life that bears twelve fruits, symbolizing the fullness of Christ and life in the Spirit. The preacher emphasizes the importance of worshiping God and not missing the opportunity to do so. The sermon also touches on the concept of the judgment seat of Christ, which is a family judgment where rewards or sufferings are determined, and the consequences for the five foolish virgins and the wicked servant are discussed.
Eternity and Time 05 the Millenium
By David Clifford72554:072PE 3:3REV 21:9In this sermon, the preacher discusses the topic of the last days and how to live in them. He references 2 Peter chapter 3 verse 3, which talks about people in the last days questioning the promise of Jesus' return. The preacher also shares a story about a conversation he had with a boy about Sunday school and Jacob. He then reads from Revelation chapter 21 verse 9, which describes the bride of the lamb and the holy city of Jerusalem. The sermon concludes with a reminder from Philippians about the importance of being optimistic and believing in the preacher's final words.
Crystal Clear Stones for God Alone
By Sandeep Poonen69518:171KI 6:7PSA 27:4JHN 12:242CO 5:1GAL 5:16PHP 1:211TH 5:16REV 21:9
This sermon emphasizes the future of believers as the bride of Christ, highlighting the need for unity and crystal clear purity to reflect the glory of God. It delves into the individual longing to be one with the Lord, groaning for spiritual unity and a desire to be absent from the body and present with the Lord. The message stresses the importance of yielding to the Holy Spirit's groaning for oneness with the Father and the Son, leading to a transformation into crystal clear stones for God's temple.
Rev. 21:9. the Glorious Bride
By Horatius Bonar0The Church as the Bride of ChristGod's Sovereign LoveISA 54:5REV 21:9Horatius Bonar expounds on Revelation 21:9, illustrating the Church's dual identity as both the bride and the wife of Christ. He emphasizes the Church's humble beginnings as an unlovable outcast, chosen by the Father and redeemed by the Son, who undertakes to free her from sin and death. Bonar highlights the preparation and adornment of the Church by the Holy Spirit, culminating in the glorious future marriage to the Lamb. He invites all to accept the proposal of this divine Bridegroom, urging them to embrace the honor of becoming part of the Lamb's wife. The sermon concludes with a call to recognize the boundless love of God that transforms the redeemed into heirs of His glory.
The New Heaven and the New Earth
By John F. Walvoord0REV 21:1REV 21:5REV 21:7REV 21:9REV 21:12REV 21:15REV 21:18REV 21:22REV 21:25John F. Walvoord preaches about the vision of the new heaven and the new earth in Revelation 21, emphasizing the eternal state where God dwells with His people in the holy city, the new Jerusalem. The description includes the absence of the sea, the new creation, and the beauty of the city with its foundations of precious stones and gates of pearl. The eternal city is illuminated by the glory of God and the Lamb, with continuous day and no need for the sun or moon. Only those whose names are written in the Lamb's book of life have access, ensuring a perfect environment of purity and eternal life.
Some Better Thing
By John Nelson Darby0Unity in ChristThe Church1CO 12:12EPH 1:4EPH 2:7EPH 5:32HEB 11:40REV 21:9John Nelson Darby emphasizes the unique position of the church as the body of Christ, called out during the rejection of Jesus on earth. He explains that Christians belong to a 'better thing' provided by God, which is the church, destined for glory alongside Christ. The sermon highlights the importance of unity within the body of Christ, where every member is essential and interconnected. Darby stresses that the church's existence is rooted in God's sovereign grace and the necessity of Christ's rejection and ascension. Ultimately, he calls Christians to recognize their special calling and the significance of the church in God's eternal plan.
An Address to the Different Religious Societies on the Sacred Import of the Christian Name
By Rice Haggard0ISA 48:11ISA 62:2JHN 10:16JHN 17:11ACT 10:341CO 1:101CO 13:4EPH 4:3REV 21:9REV 22:18Rice Haggard preaches about the importance of unity and love among Christians, emphasizing the need to set aside denominational divisions and come together under the simple principles of the Gospel. He highlights the dangers of partyism, human inventions, and man-made rules that have led to division and strife within the church. Haggard calls for a return to the original teachings of Jesus Christ, promoting a church united in faith, love, and adherence to the Scriptures.
The Bride, the Lamb's Wife
By Lewis Sperry Chafer0JHN 14:1EPH 1:3EPH 2:6EPH 5:252TI 2:12JUD 1:24REV 5:10REV 21:9Lewis Sperry Chafer delves into the profound relationship between Christ and His church, using various figures from the New Testament to illustrate the vital connections. The church is depicted as sheep dependent on the Shepherd, branches drawing life from the vine, stones resting on the Corner Stone, a kingdom of priests interceded for by the High Priest, members of His body representing the Head, and the bride of the Lamb awaiting union with the Bridegroom-King. The church's ultimate destiny is to manifest the glory of the Bridegroom through His immeasurable love, wisdom, and power, as described in Ephesians 5:25-32.
Redeemed and Reconciled
By H.J. Vine0ROM 3:24ROM 5:102CO 5:20COL 1:14COL 1:21HEB 9:121PE 1:18REV 5:9REV 21:9H.J. Vine preaches about the profound concepts of redemption and reconciliation in the Bible. He emphasizes that believers are redeemed by the precious blood of Christ, securing eternal redemption through God's grace. While redemption deals with judicial rights, reconciliation addresses the desires of the heart, showing God's deep love and desire for communion with His people. Both redemption and reconciliation are based on Christ's completed work at the cross, bringing believers into intimacy and oneness with God.
The Appearing and Kingdom of the Lord Jesus.
By William Kelly0EZK 43:1MAT 19:28JHN 3:12JHN 17:22ROM 8:19EPH 1:10COL 1:202PE 1:16REV 20:6REV 21:9William Kelly preaches about the distinct proof that the appearing of the Lord Jesus will introduce His kingdom over the earth, emphasizing the immense importance of His coming in inaugurating a change for the world, restoring all things and putting down every opposing influence. The sermon highlights the need for repentance and conversion, especially for Israel, as a condition for the great revolution yet to take place. It contrasts the present state of the Church with the future millennial age, where earthly and heavenly elements will be united under the Lord Jesus in visible glory, showcasing a harmonious blending of the earthly with the heavenly.
The Importance and Value of God-Given Vision (Revelation 21:9)
By T. Austin-Sparks0God-Given VisionSpiritual GrowthEZK 41:7DAN 4:26HAB 2:4ACT 7:2ROM 8:28HEB 8:5REV 1:9REV 21:9T. Austin-Sparks emphasizes the critical role of God-given vision in the Church's history, asserting that its presence or absence can lead to either calamity or transformation. He explains that such vision is concrete, comprehensive, constantly enlarging, and always moves upward, guiding believers beyond the temporal towards the eternal. Sparks illustrates that God-given vision is foundational for training and prayer, urging the Church to remain open to God's unfolding purpose rather than clinging to past methods. He highlights biblical examples, such as Abraham and Ezekiel, to demonstrate how divine vision leads to spiritual growth and understanding. Ultimately, he calls for a renewed vision to prevent spiritual stagnation and to embrace God's greater plans.
The Nature of God
By T. Austin-Sparks0Spiritual RealityThe Nature of GodREV 21:9T. Austin-Sparks explores the profound nature of God as revealed in the concept of the heavenly Jerusalem, emphasizing that believers have already come to this spiritual reality despite its future implications. He highlights the context of persecution and spiritual decline faced by early Christians, drawing parallels to contemporary challenges within the church. Sparks asserts that understanding the nature of God is key to comprehending the significance of the heavenly Jerusalem, which symbolizes a spiritual reality rather than a literal city. He encourages believers to recognize that God's work in their lives is based on His divine nature, ultimately leading to a collective expression of that nature among His people. The sermon calls for a deeper understanding of what it means to be partakers of the divine nature and how this shapes the Christian experience.
The Bride of Christ.
By Gareth Evans0EXO 33:19LUK 10:20JHN 4:23EPH 2:201JN 2:121JN 3:3REV 21:9Gareth Evans preaches on the church as the Bride of Christ, emphasizing the characteristics of intimacy, preparation, destiny, and invitation highlighted in Revelation 21. He challenges believers to develop intimacy with God by focusing on purity, accountability, and growing in the Word to become overcomers. Evans stresses the importance of the local church as a training ground for believers, preparing them for their future role of co-reigning with Jesus in His kingdom. He encourages a kingdom mentality, expectant hope, and an evangelical vision within the church, ensuring a welcoming and hospitable environment for all.
- Adam Clarke
- Jamieson-Fausset-Brown
- John Gill
- Matthew Henry
- Tyndale
Adam Clarke Bible Commentary
The bride, the Lamb's wife - The pure and holy Christian Church.
Jamieson-Fausset-Brown Bible Commentary
The same angel who had shown John Babylon the harlot, is appropriately employed to show him in contrast new Jerusalem, the Bride (Rev 17:1-5). The angel so employed is the one that had the last seven plagues, to show that the ultimate blessedness of the Church is one end of the divine judgments on her foes. unto me--A, B, and Vulgate omit. the Lamb's wife--in contrast to her who sat on many waters (Rev 17:1), (that is, intrigued with many peoples and nations of the world, instead of giving her undivided affections, as the Bride does, to the Lamb.
John Gill Bible Commentary
And there came unto me one of the seven angels,.... Either the first of them, as one of the four beasts is the first of them, Rev 6:1 or it may be the last, and very likely the same as in Rev 17:1 which had the seven vials full of the seven last plagues; that is, the wrath of God poured out by them on the antichristian party; see Rev 15:1. And talked with me, saying, come hither; see Rev 17:1. I will show thee the bride, the Lamb's wife. The "Lamb" is Christ, who is often so called in this book; see Rev 5:6 Rev 19:7 and is the Son of God, the heir of all things, the Maker and Governor of the universe, the King of kings, and Lord of lords; and who, as Mediator, has all accomplishments and qualifications to recommend him as a bridegroom, such as beauty, riches, and wisdom: the bride, his wife, is not any particular believer, nor any particular church; not the Gentile church, nor the Jewish church only, but all the elect of God, consisting of the raised and living saints at the coming of Christ; who will make up one body, one general assembly, and be as a bride, prepared and adorned for her husband: these were first betrothed to Christ in eternity, and were openly espoused by him, one by one, at conversion; and now being all gathered in by the effectual calling, the dead being raised, and the living changed, and all glorified, the marriage is consummated, and they are declared publicly to be the bride, the Lamb's wife; See Gill on Mat 22:2. And now, though John had had a sight of her before, Rev 21:2 yet that was but a glimmering one, at a distance, he being in the wilderness, Rev 17:3 wherefore the angel calls him to him, and proposes to give him a clear, distinct, and particular view of her, in all her glory; and a glorious sight this indeed! to see the bride brought to the King in raiment of needlework, and the queen stand at his right hand in gold of Ophir. This is a sight of a quite different nature from that of the filthy strumpet, which the same angel proposed to give to John in Rev 17:1.
Matthew Henry Bible Commentary
We have already considered the introduction to the vision of the new Jerusalem in a more general idea of the heavenly state; we now come to the vision itself, where observe, I. The person that opened the vision to the apostle - one of the seven angels, that had the seven vials full of the seven last plagues, Rev 21:9. God has a variety of work and employment for his holy angels. Sometimes they are to sound the trumpet of divine Providence, and give fair warning to a careless world; sometimes they are to pour out the vials of God's anger upon impenitent sinners; and sometimes to discover things of a heavenly nature to those that are the heirs of salvation. They readily execute every commission they receive from God; and, when this world shall be at an end, yet the angels shall be employed by the great God in proper pleasant work to all eternity. II. The place from which the apostle had this glorious view and prospect. He was taken, in ecstasy, into a high mountain. From such situations men usually have the most distinct views of adjacent cities. Those who would have clear views of heaven must get as near heaven as they can, into the mount of vision, the mount of meditation and faith, whence, as from the top of Pisgah, they may behold the goodly land of the heavenly Canaan. III. The subject-matter of the vision - the bride, the Lamb's wife (Rev 21:10); that is, the church of God in her glorious, perfect, triumphant state, under the resemblance of Jerusalem, having the glory of God shining in its lustre, as uxor splendit radiis mariti - the bride comely through the comeliness put on her by her husband; glorious in her relation to Christ, in his image now perfected in her, and in his favour shining upon her. And now we have a large description of the church triumphant under the emblem of a city, far exceeding in riches and splendour all the cities of this world; and this new Jerusalem is here represented to us both in the exterior and the interior part of it. 1. The exterior part of the city - the wall and the gates, the wall for security and the gates for entrance. (1.) The wall for security. Heaven is a safe state; those that are there are enclosed with a wall, that separates them and secures them from all evils and enemies: now here, in the account of the wall, we observe, [1.] The height of it, which, we are told, is very high, seventy yards (Rev 21:17), sufficient both for ornament and security. [2.] The matter of it: It was as jasper; a wall all built of the most precious stones, for firmness and lustre, Rev 21:11. This city has a wall that is impregnable as well as precious. [3.] The form of it was very regular and uniform: It was four-square, the length as large as the breadth. In the new Jerusalem all shall be equal in purity and perfection. There shall be an absolute uniformity in the church triumphant, a thing wanted and wished for on earth, but not to be expected till we come to heaven. [4.] The measure of the wall (Rev 21:15, Rev 21:16): Twelve thousand furlongs each way, each side, which is forty-eight thousand furlongs in the whole compass, or fifteen hundred German miles. Here is room sufficient for all the people of God - many mansions in their Father's house. [5.] The foundation of the wall, for heaven is a city that hath her foundations (Rev 21:19); the promise and power of God, and the purchase of Christ, are the strong foundations of the church's safety and happiness. The foundations are described by their number - twelve, alluding to the twelve apostles (Rev 21:14), whose gospel doctrines are the foundations upon which the church is built, Christ himself being the chief corner-stone; and, as to the matter of these foundations, it was various and precious, set forth by twelve sorts of precious stones, denoting the variety and excellency of the doctrines of the gospel, or of the graces of the Holy Spirit, or the personal excellencies of the Lord Jesus Christ. (2.) The gates for entrance. Heaven is not inaccessible; there is a way opened into the holiest of all; there is a free admission to all those that are sanctified; they shall not find themselves shut out. Now, as to these gates, observe, [1.] Their number - twelve gates, answering to the twelve tribes of Israel. All the true Israel of God shall have entrance into the new Jerusalem, as every tribe had into the earthly Jerusalem. [2.] Their guards which were placed upon them - twelve angels, to admit and receive the several tribes of the spiritual Israel and keep out others. [3.] The inscription on the gates - the names of the twelve tribes, to show that they have a right to the tree of life, and to enter through the gates into the city. [4.] The situation of the gates. As the city had four equal sides, answering to the four quarters of the world, east, west, north, and south, so on each side there were three gates, signifying that from all quarters of the earth there shall be some who shall get safely to heaven and be received there, and that there is as free entrance from one part of the world as from the other; for in Christ there is neither Jew nor Greek, Barbarian, Scythian, bond, nor free. Men of all nations, and languages, who believe on Christ, have by him access to God in grace here and in glory hereafter. [5.] The materials of these gates - they were all of pearls, and yet with great variety: Every gate one pearl, either one single pearl of that vast bigness, or one single sort of pearl. Christ is the pearl of great price, and he is our way to God. There is nothing magnificent enough in this world fully to set forth the glory of heaven. Could we, in the glass of a strong imagination, contemplate such a city as is here described, even as to the exterior part of it, such a wall, and such gates, how amazing, how glorious, would the prospect be! And yet this is but a faint and dim representation of what heaven is in itself. 2. The interior part of the new Jerusalem, Rev 21:22-27. We have seen its strong wall, and stately gates, and glorious guards; now we are to be led through the gates into the city itself; and the first thing which we observe there is the street of the city, which is of pure gold, like transparent glass, Rev 21:21. The saints in heaven tread upon gold. The new Jerusalem has its several streets. There is the most exact order in heaven: every saint has his proper mansion. There is converse in heaven: the saints are then at rest, but it is not a mere passive rest; it is not a state of sleep and inactivity, but a state of delightful motion: The nations that are saved walk in the light of it. They walk with Christ in white. They have communion not only with God, but with one another; and all their steps are firm and clean. They are pure and clear as gold and transparent glass. Observe, (1.) The temple of the new Jerusalem, which was no material temple, made with men's hands, as that of Solomon and Zerubbabel, but a temple altogether spiritual and divine; for the Lord God Almighty, and the Lamb, are the temple thereof. There the saints are above the need of ordinances, which were the means of their preparation for heaven. When the end is attained the means are no longer useful. Perfect and immediate communion with God will more than supply the place of gospel institutions. (2.) The light of this city. Where there is no light, there can be no lustre nor pleasure. Heaven is the inheritance of the saints in light. But what is that light? There is no sun nor moon shining there, Rev 21:23. Light is sweet, and a pleasant thing it is to behold the sun. What a dismal world would this be if it were not for the light of the sun! What is there in heaven that supplies the want of it? There is no want of the light of the sun, for the glory of God lightens that city, and the Lamb is the light thereof. God in Christ will be an everlasting fountain of knowledge and joy to the saints in heaven; and, if so, there is no need of the sun or moon, any more than we here need to set up candles at noon day, when the sun shineth in its strength. (3.) The inhabitants of this city. They are described here several ways. [1.] By their numbers - whole nations of saved souls; some out of all nations, and many out of some nations. All those multitudes who were sealed on earth are saved in heaven. [2.] By their dignity - some of the kings and princes of the earth: great kings. God will have some of all ranks and degrees of men to fill the heavenly mansions, high and low; and when the greatest kings come to heaven they will see all their former honour and glory swallowed up of this heavenly glory that so much excels. [3.] Their continual accession and entrance into this city: The gates shall never be shut. There is no night, and therefore no need of shutting up the gates. Some one or other is coming in every hour and moment, and those that are sanctified always find the gates open; they have an abundant entrance into the kingdom. (4.) The accommodations of this city: All the glory and honour of the nations shall be brought into it. Whatever is excellent and valuable in this world shall be there enjoyed in a more refined kind, and to a far greater degree - brighter crowns, a better and more enduring substance, more sweet and satisfying feasts, a more glorious attendance, a truer sense of honour and far higher posts of honour, a more glorious temper of mind, and a form and a countenance more glorious than ever were known in this world. (5.) The unmixed purity of all who belong to the new Jerusalem, Rev 21:27. [1.] There the saints shall have no impure thing remaining in them. In the article of death they shall be cleansed from every thing that is of a defiling nature. Now they feel a sad mixture of corruption with their graces, which hinders them in the service of God, interrupts their communion with him, and intercepts the light of his countenance; but, at their entrance into the holy of holies, they are washed in the laver of Christ's blood, and presented to the Father without spot. [2.] There the saints shall have no impure persons admitted among them. In the earthly Jerusalem there will be a mixed communion, after all the care that can be taken. Some roots of bitterness will spring up to trouble and defile Christian societies; but in the new Jerusalem there is a society perfectly pure. First, Free from such as are openly profane. There are none admitted into heaven who work abominations. In the churches on earth sometimes abominable things are done, solemn ordinances profaned and prostituted to men openly vicious, for worldly ends; but no such abominations can have place in heaven. Secondly, Free from hypocrites, such as make lies, say they are Jews, and are not, but do lie. These will creep into the churches of Christ on earth, and may lie concealed there a long time, perhaps all their days; but they cannot intrude into the new Jerusalem, which is wholly reserved for those that are called, and chosen, and faithful, who are all written, not only in the register if the visible church, but in the Lamb's book of life.
Tyndale Open Study Notes
21:9–22:9 This symbolic vision of the new Jerusalem uses vivid word pictures to describe the bride, the wife of the Lamb—all those who respond to Christ’s message of salvation (see 21:2; 22:17; Eph 5:22-32).