Revelation 21:24
And the nations of them which are saved shall walk in the light of it: and the kings of the earth do bring their glory and honour into it.
Revelation 21:24 (KJV)
Context
Revelation is the last book of the Bible, also called the Apocalypse. The apostle John wrote it while exiled on the island of Patmos. The book contains visions and prophecies about the end times and the ultimate triumph of God’s kingdom. Revelation 21:24 is part of John’s description of the New Jerusalem, the holy city that descends from heaven after the final judgment. It depicts the glorious future of God’s people, the redeemed, and the everlasting reign of God.
Meaning
The phrase “the nations of them which are saved” refers to people from every nation and tribe who have accepted Jesus Christ as Lord and Saviour. Through His death and resurrection, Jesus made salvation available to all people, not just to a specific ethnic or cultural group. This phrase also distinguishes the redeemed from those who are deceived by Satan and condemned (Revelation 20:8). Not all nations or individuals will be saved; there is a world that will be judged. The nations here are not exclusively Gentiles but represent the redeemed from all peoples who will enter the eternal city.
“Walk in the light of it” implies living in the presence of God’s glory and under His guidance. In the New Jerusalem, the saved will enjoy a close relationship with God, free from sin and darkness. The light of the city is the glory of God and the Lamb (Revelation 21:23). The nations walking in this light signifies their eternal, righteous conduct in the presence of God. They will live in perfect fellowship with Him, experiencing His divine illumination and direction.
The “kings of the earth” are earthly rulers or leaders. In this context, their bringing glory and honour into the city signifies the honour and submission of the world’s powerful and influential individuals to God. Despite their earthly authority, they bring their glory and honour into the New Jerusalem as an act of reverence and worship to the King of kings, Jesus Christ. This also signifies that all earthly power, prestige, and wealth, once used in opposition to God, will be humbled and laid at the feet of Christ, contributing to the glory of the New Jerusalem. The glory they bring is not their own inherent glory, but the glory that has been given to them by God, which they now offer back to Him.
Biblical connections
The verse emphasises the inclusive nature of God’s salvation. It reveals that people from every nation will be partakers in the eternal kingdom of God, demonstrating His love for all people regardless of nationality, ethnicity, or background. The kings of the earth bringing their glory and honour into the New Jerusalem signifies the ultimate submission of earthly authorities to God’s sovereign rule. It reminds us that no earthly power or authority can compare to the glory and majesty of God’s kingdom. This is a picture of complete redemption, where even the political and social structures of the world are transformed and brought into the service of God’s kingdom.
Application
Embrace the inclusivity of God’s salvation and share the message of the Gospel with people from all nations.
Surrender earthly ambitions and submit to God’s authority, recognising that His kingdom surpasses all worldly powers.
Walk in the light of God’s presence, seeking His guidance and living according to His Word.
Fix your hope on the eternal dwelling that awaits you, knowing that the sufferings of this present world are temporary compared to the glory to come.
Reflection
Revelation 21:24 offers a glimpse into the future where people from all nations will walk in the light of God’s presence in the New Jerusalem. It signifies the inclusive nature of God’s salvation, the surrender of earthly powers to God, and the eternal dwelling of the redeemed. The ultimate destiny of the redeemed is not merely a private salvation, but a communal existence in a city where all nations and their rulers are united in worship and bring honour to God. This verse serves as a source of hope and encouragement for believers today.
