Revelation 21:24-27 - Nations will walk by its light

21:24

“The nations will walk by its light”. Jerusalem was meant to be a light to the world, if only the people of Israel had lived according to the Law. But they did not and could not do so. But there will come a time when the perfect Jerusalem is made, and we are made perfect, then we will be the light to the world, for the light of Christ will truly shine through us. “The kings of the earth will bring their splendour into it”. One might wonder why this is necessary, but a little thought will show why. It is not that God is lacking in splendour and so needs a top up from us! Rather it is that man is meant to achieve things and then give glory to God. Instead, since the fall, man has claimed glory for himself. These days will come to an end and the proper order will be established.

21:25-27

Gates are closed at night because it is dark and it is easier for evildoers to do their worst. So gates are locked for protection. But this is all part of the fallen world order, and the New Jerusalem is part of the eternal world order, a godly world order. So there will be no night. Everything will give honour to the Lord, including the nations. The old Jerusalem was full of impurity, as the prophets testified again and again, but not so with the new Jerusalem. Nothing impure will enter it, nor anyone who does shameful or deceitful things. It is only those whose names are written in the “Lamb’s book of life” who will be allowed in. So when the world puts enormous pressure on Christians, we need to remember that the world system is a kingdom that is founded on evil, and is destined for destruction. God’s kingdom is founded on all that is good and is eternal. We must make the right choice!