Revelation 21:2
Then I, John, saw the holy city, New Jerusalem, coming down out of heaven from God, prepared as a bride adorned for her husband.
How fitting it is that, as we have a New Earth, we should have a brand new metropolis–the principal and capital city of the new world of the redeemed! But it’s more than a city–it’s a holy city. It doesn’t need a temple–it’s a temple.
Note that New Jerusalem symbolises the People of God (Rev 21:9–10, 12–14) from the Old Covenant and the New as well as the Place where He will dwell with them (Rev 21:3, 7–8, 24, 26). We know this firstly because John hears of “the bride, the wife of the Lamb,” and sees “the Holy City, New Jerusalem” (see Rev 21:9–10).
Thus the holy city’s gates are named for the 12 Tribes and the foundations for the 12 Apostles and all its people are priests and kings (see Rev 22:3-4).
We also know that New Jerusalem is a temple-city because it’s materials recall Israel’s sanctuary and the high priest’s breastplate (Rev 21:11, 18–20), its dimensions expand the temple’s most holy place into a world-wide city (Rev 21:16), its brilliant materials reflect God’s splendid glory, and all impurity is excluded (Rev 21:22–27).
How wonderful it is that, unlike the sin-infested cities of our day, our new city shall be totally pure! But, does it matter what shall happen in the supposedly distant future? Indeed it does because we walk by faith and not by sight. Such a revelation of our glorious destiny inspires our anticipation. Such a living hope enables us to live right even in the midst of a wicked and perverse generation. Such a revelation sets us apart from mere men. Our eternal vision defines our earthly walk. May that be your portion today!
Pastor Josh