Revelation 21:26

Revelation 21:26 presents a profound image of the New Jerusalem, emphasizing its universal appeal and the culmination of God's redemptive plan. This verse describes a future reality where all that is good and honorable from humanity's diverse cultures will be brought into the eternal city, consecrated to God.

Context of the New Jerusalem

This verse is part of John's magnificent vision of the New Jerusalem, detailed in Revelation chapter 21. Following the creation of a new heaven and a new earth, and the descent of the holy city from God, John describes a city that needs no sun or moon, for the glory of God illuminates it. The preceding verse, Revelation 21:24, states that "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." Verse 26 reiterates and expands on this, highlighting the inclusion of all peoples.

Key Themes and Messages

• Universal Inclusion and Worship: The phrase "the nations" signifies that God's redemptive plan extends beyond any single group. In the New Jerusalem, people from every tribe, tongue, and nation will participate in worship and contribute their redeemed uniqueness to the city's splendor. This echoes earlier prophecies like Isaiah 60:3, which speaks of Gentiles coming to Zion's light.
• Consecration of All Good Things: "The glory and honour" refers not to earthly wealth or political power, but to the very best of human achievement, culture, and character—anything that is truly valuable and praiseworthy. It suggests that redeemed humanity's finest contributions, once purified and consecrated to God, will find their ultimate purpose and expression in His eternal kingdom. It's a vision where human creativity and excellence, when directed towards God, are not discarded but perfected and glorified.
• Divine Sovereignty and Fulfillment: This verse underscores God's ultimate victory and the comprehensive nature of His kingdom. The New Jerusalem is the culmination of history, where all legitimate glory and honor are finally directed to their rightful source—God Himself. The nations willingly bring their best, acknowledging His supreme reign.

Linguistic Insights

The Greek words translated as "glory" (doxa) and "honour" (timē) are significant. Doxa often refers to splendor, majesty, or renown, particularly divine glory. Timē denotes value, esteem, or respect. Together, they represent the highest tributes and inherent worth. The verse implies that the very essence of what makes each nation unique and valuable, when redeemed by Christ, will be offered as worship to God in the eternal city, not as a display of human pride, but as a testament to His transforming power.

Practical Application and Reflection

Revelation 21:26 offers immense hope and a profound perspective on our current lives. It reminds us that:

• Our diverse gifts matter: Every culture and every person, when redeemed, has a unique contribution to make to God's eternal kingdom. This encourages us to appreciate diversity within the body of Christ today.
• All true glory belongs to God: Our ultimate purpose in life is to bring glory and honor to God, whether through our work, our creativity, or our character. This verse shows that this principle extends into eternity.
• Anticipate the future: This vision provides comfort and motivation, knowing that a perfect future awaits where all things are made new and all worship is directed to God. It encourages us to live now as citizens of that coming city, striving to bring glory to God in all we do, anticipating the day when there will be no more night and God Himself will be our light.