Revelation 21:25

Revelation 21:25 offers a vivid glimpse into the nature of the New Jerusalem, the eternal city of God, as revealed to the Apostle John. This verse highlights the profound security, openness, and divine illumination that will characterize the new creation, a stark contrast to the vulnerabilities and cyclical nature of our present world.

Context

This verse is situated within John's breathtaking vision of the New Jerusalem descending from heaven, after the old heaven and earth have passed away. Following the foundational promises of God dwelling with humanity and the elimination of tears, death, and pain (Revelation 21:4), John proceeds to describe the city's glorious structure, its precious materials, and its unique source of light. The preceding verses emphasize that the city has no need for sun or moon because the glory of God and the Lamb are its perpetual light (Revelation 21:23).

Key Themes

• Perpetual Security and Peace: The declaration that "the gates of it shall not be shut at all by day" is highly symbolic. In ancient times, city gates were closed at night or during times of war to protect against invaders. The fact that the gates of the New Jerusalem remain perpetually open signifies absolute security. There is no threat, no enemy, and therefore no need for defensive measures, assuring an eternal state of peace and safety for its inhabitants.
• Constant Access and Divine Openness: Open gates also convey a sense of constant welcome and unhindered access. There are no barriers to communion with God or to entering His presence, reflecting complete freedom and uninhibited fellowship in the new creation.
• Absence of Darkness and Evil: The reason provided, "for there shall be no night there," is profoundly significant. Night often represents spiritual darkness, evil, fear, and concealment. Its complete absence means a realm utterly purged of anything contrary to God's holy and loving nature. This is a perpetual day, filled with the pervasive presence of God's glory.
• Divine Illumination: The lack of night is intrinsically linked to God's radiant presence. The city requires no created light source because the Lord God Himself gives them light (Revelation 22:5). This divine light is not merely physical illumination but embodies truth, holiness, and the unwavering glory of God.

Linguistic Insights

The phrase "no night there" (Greek: οὐκ ἔσται νὺξ ἐκεῖ - *ouk estai nyx ekei*) is a powerful and definitive statement. It signifies not just the absence of literal darkness, but also the absence of all that darkness symbolizes: danger, fear, sin, sorrow, and the need for rest from toil. This concept echoes Old Testament prophecies, such as Isaiah 60:19-20, which foretells the Lord being an everlasting light and the end of all mourning.

Practical Application

For believers, Revelation 21:25 provides immense hope and a profound vision of our eternal future. It paints a picture of a destiny free from all forms of fear, danger, and the cycles of weariness and darkness that characterize our present existence. This glorious vision encourages us to:

• Live in Hope: Look forward with anticipation to a secure, eternally bright future in God's presence, where His light dispels every shadow.
• Trust in God's Protection: Rest in the assurance that God's ultimate plan includes perfect peace, safety, and well-being for His redeemed people.
• Walk in the Light Now: Be inspired to reflect the light of Christ in our daily lives, remembering that He is the true light that overcomes all darkness (John 8:12).