Revelation 21:12-21 - The twelve gates were twelve pearls

21:12-14

Twelve signifies government in the Old Testament. There were twelve gates, each with an angel. The names of the twelve tribes of Israel were written on the gates. The city had twelve foundations, each with the names of the twelve apostles. So there is heavenly rulership, and the twelve tribes of Israel are not irrelevant. Yes, Israel sinned against God again and again (just like the whole of mankind), but she will be saved through Christ. And the teachings of the apostles are foundational to the new Jerusalem.

21:15-21

In the vision in Zechariah 2:1-5 the man with the measuring rod is told to stop for it won’t be needed. Here a “measuring rod of gold” is used to measure the city. This is a warning not to over interpret visions. The imagery used should be understood within its immediate context, and probably no further! The city is enormous. The numbers are essentially representing the perfection of the place. The city is like nothing anyone has ever seen.