Revelation 21:26

And they shall bring the glory and honour of the nations into it.

Revelation 21:26 (KJV)

Context

Revelation 21:26 appears in John’s vision of the New Jerusalem, the holy city descending from heaven. This city symbolizes the eternal dwelling place of God and the redeemed, where righteousness dwells in perfect beauty.

Meaning

The phrase “the glory and honour of the nations” refers to the God-given dignity and worth of redeemed people from every nation. The future indicative verb “they will bring” (Greek: oisousin) indicates a definitive action. The open gates and perpetual light of the city emphasize its openness and continual access. The glory and honour of the nations are not destroyed but transformed and brought into the eternal city, finding their proper place in the new creation.

Biblical connections

This verse echoes Isaiah 60:11, where Jerusalem’s gates are open continually so that the wealth of the nations may be brought in. It also fulfils God’s promise to Abraham that all nations would be blessed through him (Genesis 12:3). The New Jerusalem is not exclusive to one ethnic group; it includes the redeemed from all nations, and the best of human culture, when redeemed, will be offered to God.

Application

Believers are called to embrace cultural diversity and work toward unity in Christ, engaging in global missions to share the gospel with all peoples. This anticipates the day when the glory and honour of every nation will be offered in God’s presence.

Reflection

This verse assures believers that their labour in the Lord is not in vain, as their works will be brought into the eternal city. It calls us to live in a way that brings glory and honour to God now, anticipating the gathering of all that is good and true into His eternal kingdom.