Revelation 21:24

KJV

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.

KJV (with Strong's)

And {G2532} the nations {G1484} of them which are saved {G4982} shall walk {G4043} in {G1722} the light {G5457} of it {G846}: and {G2532} the kings {G935} of the earth {G1093} do bring {G5342} their {G846} glory {G1391} and {G2532} honour {G5092} into {G1519} it {G846}.

Complete Jewish Bible

The nations will walk by its light, and the kings of the earth will bring their splendor into it.

Berean Standard Bible

By its light the nations will walk, and into it the kings of the earth will bring their glory.

American Standard Version

And the nations shall walk amidst the light thereof: and the kings of the earth bring their glory into it.

Commentary

### SUMMARY
Revelation 21:24 offers a breathtaking glimpse into the eternal state of the New Jerusalem, depicting a future where redeemed humanity, drawn from all nations, dwells perpetually in the radiant presence of God. It portrays the ultimate submission of all earthly authority and achievement, as the kings of the earth willingly consecrate their glory and honor to the divine majesty of the city, which is illuminated by the glory of God and the Lamb. This verse underscores the universal scope of God's salvation and the complete triumph of His sovereign reign.

### CONTEXT
* **Literary Context:** Revelation 21 begins with the magnificent vision of a [new heaven and a new earth](/revelation/21-1 "Revelation 21:1 - The New Creation"), signifying the culmination of God's redemptive plan and the eradication of all effects of sin. The focus quickly shifts to the descent of the [New Jerusalem](/revelation/21-2 "Revelation 21:2 - The Holy City, New Jerusalem"), described as a bride adorned for her husband, emphasizing its purity and intimate relationship with God. Central to this vision is the promise that [God Himself will dwell with His people](/revelation/21-3 "Revelation 21:3 - God Dwells with Humanity"), wiping away every tear and eliminating death, sorrow, crying, and pain ([Revelation 21:4](/revelation/21-4 "Revelation 21:4 - No More Death or Sorrow")). Verse 23 explicitly states that the city has no need of sun or moon, for [the glory of God illuminates it, and the Lamb is its lamp](/revelation/21-23 "Revelation 21:23 - God and the Lamb are its Light"). Revelation 21:24 builds directly upon this, detailing the consequence of such divine illumination: the nations and their kings are drawn to and participate in this glorious light, bringing their offerings.
* **Historical & Cultural Context:** John's vision in Revelation was given to Christians facing severe persecution under the Roman Empire. The concept of "nations" (Greek: *ethnē*) in the biblical context often referred to the Gentiles, the non-Israelite peoples. In the Old Testament, the nations were often seen as hostile to God's people, but prophetic texts also envisioned a future where all nations would come to worship the Lord ([Isaiah 2:2-4](/isaiah/2-2-4 "Isaiah 2:2-4 - All Nations to Zion"); [Zechariah 8:20-23](/zechariah/8-20-23 "Zechariah 8:20-23 - Many Nations Seek the Lord")). The "kings of the earth" would have resonated with John's audience as symbols of worldly power and authority, often oppressive and resistant to God's reign. The image of these kings bringing their "glory and honour" into the city would have been a profoundly counter-cultural statement, demonstrating the ultimate subjugation of all human power and pride to the absolute sovereignty of God, a stark contrast to the earthly empires that demanded such homage.
* **Key Themes:** This verse powerfully contributes to several overarching themes in Revelation and the broader biblical narrative. Firstly, it highlights **Universal Salvation and Inclusion**, demonstrating that God's redemptive plan extends beyond a single ethnic group to encompass all peoples who are saved, fulfilling prophecies that [all nations would come to worship God](/isaiah/60-3 "Isaiah 60:3 - Nations Come to Zion's Light"). Secondly, the theme of **Divine Light and Presence** is central; the city's illumination by God's glory signifies a state of perfect knowledge, truth, and intimate communion with the Creator, where darkness has no place ([1 John 1:5](/1_john/1-5 "1 John 1:5 - God is Light")). Thirdly, it underscores the **Ultimate Sovereignty of God and Christ's Reign**, as all earthly power and achievement are willingly laid down and consecrated to the King of Kings, acknowledging His supreme authority and worthiness of all praise. This foreshadows the scene where [every knee will bow and every tongue confess Jesus as Lord](/philippians/2-9-11 "Philippians 2:9-11 - Christ's Exaltation").

### EXPOSITION AND ANALYSIS

#### Key Word Analysis
* **nations (Greek, _éthnos'_):** From G1484, meaning "a race (as of the same habit), i.e. a tribe; specially, a foreign (non-Jewish) one (usually, by implication, pagan)." In this context, *éthnos* emphasizes the global, inclusive nature of salvation. It signifies that the redeemed community in the New Jerusalem will comprise people from every ethnic, cultural, and linguistic background, not limited to any single historical people group. This highlights the universal scope of God's grace and the fulfillment of His promise to Abraham that [all nations would be blessed through him](/genesis/12-3 "Genesis 12:3 - Abrahamic Covenant").
* **light (Greek, _phōs'_):** From G5457, meaning "luminousness (in the widest application, natural or artificial, abstract or concrete, literal or figurative)." Here, *phōs* refers to the literal, radiant glory of God and the Lamb that illuminates the New Jerusalem. It is not merely a metaphor but the very presence of God that provides perfect clarity, truth, and life. To "walk in the light" signifies living in constant, unhindered communion with God, fully guided and sustained by His divine presence and truth, a state of perfect spiritual and moral illumination.
* **glory (Greek, _dóxa'_):** From G1391, meaning "glory (as very apparent), in a wide application (literal or figurative, objective or subjective):--dignity, glory(-ious), honour, praise, worship." *Dóxa* here refers to the inherent splendor, majesty, and renown of the kings and, by extension, the achievements, cultures, and unique contributions of humanity. The act of bringing their "glory and honour" into the city signifies that these earthly accomplishments are not abolished but transformed, purified, and consecrated to God, finding their ultimate meaning and purpose in glorifying Him. It implies that the best of human culture and achievement, when redeemed, will contribute to the richness of the eternal city, all directed towards the worship of God.

#### Verse Breakdown
* **"And the nations of them which are saved shall walk in the light of it":** This clause describes the inhabitants of the New Jerusalem. "The nations" (Greek: *ethnē*) clearly indicates that the redeemed community is not ethnically exclusive but comprises people from every corner of the earth who have received salvation. To "walk in the light of it" means to live in constant, active communion with the divine presence, which is the source of the city's light. This "light" is explicitly identified in the preceding verse as the glory of God and the Lamb. Thus, the saved nations will perpetually experience and be guided by God's radiant truth, righteousness, and unmediated presence, signifying a state of perfect knowledge, joy, and spiritual vitality.
* **"and the kings of the earth do bring their glory and honour into it":** This second clause describes the ultimate submission and consecration of all earthly power and achievement to God's reign. "The kings of the earth" represent the highest forms of human authority, accomplishment, and cultural expression. Their act of "bringing their glory and honour into it" signifies a willing offering and dedication of all that humanity values and achieves—its dignity, prestige, wealth, and cultural contributions—to the New Jerusalem, and by extension, to God Himself. This demonstrates that in the eternal state, all human greatness finds its true purpose and ultimate fulfillment only when it is consecrated to and absorbed into the divine glory, acknowledging God's supreme sovereignty and worthiness of all praise.

#### Literary Devices
Revelation 21:24 is rich in **Symbolism** and **Imagery**. The "light" of the city is a profound symbol, not merely of physical illumination but of God's unmediated presence, truth, and glory, which dispels all darkness and brings perfect understanding and life. The "nations" symbolize the universal scope of God's redemptive plan, emphasizing that salvation is for all peoples, transcending ethnic and national boundaries. The "kings of the earth" symbolize all human power, authority, and cultural achievement. Their act of "bringing their glory and honour" into the city is symbolic of the ultimate subjugation and consecration of all earthly dominion to the divine reign of God and the Lamb. This act also carries **Metaphorical** weight, suggesting that the best of human culture and accomplishment, when redeemed, will not be annihilated but purified and offered as worship, contributing to the eternal city's splendor. The entire verse paints a vivid **Imagery** of a vibrant, inclusive, and divinely illuminated city where all creation finds its ultimate purpose in glorifying God.

### THEOLOGICAL AND THEMATIC CONNECTIONS
Revelation 21:24 is a profound theological statement on the consummation of God's kingdom and the universal scope of His salvation. It underscores the biblical narrative's trajectory from a particular people (Israel) to a global community of the redeemed, fulfilling the Abrahamic covenant's promise that [all families of the earth would be blessed through him](/genesis/12-3 "Abrahamic Covenant"). The "light" of the city, being the glory of God and the Lamb, connects to the Old Testament concept of God's *kabod* (glory) filling the tabernacle and temple, now fully realized in the New Jerusalem without any veil. The willing submission of "kings" and their "glory and honour" signifies the ultimate triumph of Christ's reign over all earthly powers and the complete reorientation of all creation towards His worship. It speaks to the transformation, not annihilation, of human culture and achievement when brought under divine sovereignty.

* [Isaiah 60:3](/isaiah/60-3 "Nations Come to Zion's Light")
* [Zechariah 14:16](/zechariah/14-16 "Nations Worship the King")
* [Philippians 2:9-11](/philippians/2-9-11 "Christ's Exaltation")

### REFLECTION AND APPLICATION
Revelation 21:24 offers immense hope and a powerful vision for believers today. It assures us that God's plan of salvation is truly global, encompassing people from every nation, tribe, and tongue. This should ignite a passion for missions and evangelism, knowing that God is actively drawing people from all backgrounds into His eternal family. Furthermore, the image of "walking in the light" calls us to live lives of transparency, truth, and holiness now, reflecting the character of God even in this present darkness. It reminds us that our ultimate citizenship is in this heavenly city, providing a profound eternal perspective that shapes our values and priorities. The verse also challenges us to consider how we use our "glory and honour"—our talents, resources, achievements, and cultural contributions. Rather than seeking self-glory, we are called to consecrate all that we are and have to God, allowing Him to purify and use them for His eternal purposes. This vision encourages us to live with intentionality, knowing that our faithful service and consecrated lives contribute to the ultimate glory of God in His coming kingdom.

#### Questions for Reflection
* **How does the vision of "nations... which are saved" walking in God's light inspire your view of global missions and the diversity of God's kingdom?**
* **What does it mean for you personally to "walk in the light" of God's presence in your daily life?**
* **In what ways can you "bring your glory and honour" (your gifts, talents, achievements) into God's service now, in anticipation of His eternal kingdom?**
* **How does the ultimate submission of earthly kings and their glory to God's reign shape your perspective on worldly power and success?**

### FAQ

**Does this verse mean that only "kings" and "nations" will be in the New Jerusalem?**

Answer: No, this verse uses "nations" and "kings of the earth" as representative terms to emphasize the universal scope of God's salvation and the ultimate submission of all earthly authority to His reign. The "nations of them which are saved" refers to all redeemed humanity from every people group, as seen in [Revelation 7:9](/revelation/7-9 "Revelation 7:9 - Multitude from Every Nation"). The "kings of the earth" symbolize the highest forms of human power, achievement, and culture. Their act of bringing their glory and honor into the city signifies that all human greatness, when redeemed, will be consecrated to God and find its ultimate purpose in glorifying Him, rather than being abolished. It's a comprehensive picture of all creation acknowledging God's supreme sovereignty.

**What is the "light" that the nations walk in?**

Answer: The "light" is explicitly identified in the preceding verse, [Revelation 21:23](/revelation/21-23 "Revelation 21:23 - God and the Lamb are its Light"), as "the glory of God" and "the Lamb is its lamp." This light is not a created light like the sun or moon, but the unmediated, radiant presence of God Himself and Jesus Christ. To "walk in the light of it" signifies living in perpetual, intimate communion with God, fully illuminated by His truth, righteousness, and love, with no darkness or misunderstanding. It represents a state of perfect knowledge, joy, and spiritual vitality in His direct presence.

### CHRIST-CENTERED FULFILLMENT
Revelation 21:24 finds its ultimate Christ-centered fulfillment in Jesus as the very embodiment of the divine light and the triumphant King to whom all glory is due. He is the [Lamb of God](/john/1-29 "John 1:29 - Jesus, the Lamb of God") whose sacrificial work on the cross made salvation possible for "the nations," breaking down the dividing wall between Jew and Gentile to create [one new humanity in Himself](/ephesians/2-14-16 "Ephesians 2:14-16 - Christ is Our Peace"). It is through His atoning blood that people from every tribe, tongue, people, and nation are redeemed and granted access to this glorious eternal city ([Revelation 5:9](/revelation/5-9 "Revelation 5:9 - Worthy is the Lamb")). Furthermore, Jesus is the [Light of the World](/john/8-12 "John 8:12 - Jesus, the Light of the World"), and in the New Jerusalem, He, as the Lamb, is the very lamp that illuminates the city with God's glory ([Revelation 21:23](/revelation/21-23 "Revelation 21:23 - God and the Lamb are its Light")). The "kings of the earth" bringing their glory and honor into the city is a profound acknowledgment of Jesus' ultimate sovereignty as the [King of Kings and Lord of Lords](/revelation/19-16 "Revelation 19:16 - King of Kings"). All human achievement, power, and cultural expression find their highest purpose and meaning only when consecrated to Him, the one who [holds all authority in heaven and on earth](/matthew/28-18 "Matthew 28:18 - All Authority Given to Christ"), and to whom [every knee will ultimately bow](/philippians/2-9-11 "Philippians 2:9-11 - Christ's Exaltation"). Thus, Revelation 21:24 is a testament to Christ's universal reign, His role as the source of eternal light, and the ultimate consummation of His redemptive work in bringing all things under His glorious dominion.

Note: Commentary is generated by AI with a directive for Biblical fidelity. Always rely on the Holy Spirit for discernment. The Scripture text and cross-references are from verified, non-AI sources.

Cross-References

Revelation 22:2

In the midst of the street of it, and on either side of the river, [was there] the tree of life, which bare twelve [manner of] fruits, [and] yielded her fruit every month: and the leaves of the tree [were] for the healing of the nations.

Revelation 21:26

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

Zechariah 8:22

Yea, many people and strong nations shall come to seek the LORD of hosts in Jerusalem, and to pray before the LORD.

Zechariah 8:23

Thus saith the LORD of hosts; In those days [it shall come to pass], that ten men shall take hold out of all languages of the nations, even shall take hold of the skirt of him that is a Jew, saying, We will go with you: for we have heard [that] God [is] with you.

Romans 15:10

And again he saith, Rejoice, ye Gentiles, with his people.

Romans 15:12

And again, Esaias saith, There shall be a root of Jesse, and he that shall rise to reign over the Gentiles; in him shall the Gentiles trust.

Zechariah 2:11

And many nations shall be joined to the LORD in that day, and shall be my people: and I will dwell in the midst of thee, and thou shalt know that the LORD of hosts hath sent me unto thee.