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.

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}.

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

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

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

Commentary

Context

Revelation 21 describes the breathtaking vision of the New Heaven and New Earth, and the glorious descent of the New Jerusalem from God out of heaven. This chapter paints a picture of humanity's eternal dwelling with God, where God Himself will dwell with His people (Revelation 21:3) and there will be no more pain or tears (Revelation 21:4). Verse 24 continues the description of this holy city, emphasizing its radiant light, which is the glory of God and the Lamb, and the universal homage it receives.

Key Themes

  • Universal Inclusion and Redemption: The phrase "the nations of them which are saved" powerfully illustrates that salvation and entrance into God's eternal city are not limited to one specific people group. It encompasses redeemed humanity from every tribe, tongue, people, and nation (Revelation 7:9), all united in their worship and walk in God's presence.
  • Divine Light and Guidance: To "walk in the light of it" signifies living in perpetual communion with God, guided by His perfect truth, righteousness, and radiant glory. This light is not metaphorical but the literal presence of God and the Lamb, illuminating the entire eternal city and providing perfect understanding and joy.
  • Submission of Earthly Authority to God's Reign: "And the kings of the earth do bring their glory and honour into it" signifies the ultimate and complete submission of all earthly power, achievements, and human greatness to the sovereignty of God. It's a vision where every form of human accomplishment, culture, and authority finds its true purpose and highest expression in being offered as worship to the King of Kings.

Linguistic Insights

The Greek word for "nations" here is ethnΔ“, which often refers to Gentiles or non-Israelite peoples. Its usage in this context strongly emphasizes the global and inclusive nature of redemption, showing that people from all backgrounds will be part of the New Jerusalem. The terms "glory and honour" (Greek: doxa kai timΔ“) represent the highest forms of human dignity, achievements, and esteem. The verse indicates that these will not be abolished but consecrated and offered to God, finding their ultimate meaning and purpose in glorifying Him.

Practical Application

This verse offers immense comfort and a vivid picture of the believer's eternal hope. It assures us that in the New Jerusalem, all divisions will be healed, and redeemed humanity will dwell in perfect peace and light. For believers today, it encourages us to live with an eternal perspective, knowing that our ultimate citizenship is in this heavenly city (Philippians 3:20). It also reminds us that all our gifts, talents, and earthly accomplishments, when offered to God, contribute to His glory and will ultimately find their place in His eternal kingdom. This vision motivates us to participate in the global mission of sharing the Gospel, knowing that people from every nation are called to walk in the light of God.

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Cross-References

  • Revelation 22:2 (7 votes)

    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 (7 votes)

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

  • Zechariah 8:22 (7 votes)

    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 (7 votes)

    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 (6 votes)

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

  • Romans 15:12 (6 votes)

    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 (6 votes)

    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.