◄ Revelation 21 ►
Book Study • Verse Study • Study Que
Summary A New Heaven and a New Earth Revelation 21 paints an awe-inspiring picture of the future for all believers. Despite the struggles and trials faced in life, there is the glorious promise of a new heaven and earth. God Himself will dwell with us, providing comfort and erasing all sorrows. The details of the New Jerusalem inspire hope and awe, giving believers a taste of the majesty and splendor awaiting them. Above all, the chapter serves as a reminder that God is the beginning and the end, the creator of all things new. The New Heaven and the New Earth (Verses 1-2) John begins the chapter with a vision of a new heaven and a new earth, replacing the old ones which have passed away. He then describes the holy city, the New Jerusalem, coming down out of heaven from God, adorned like a bride prepared for her husband. God Dwelling with His People (Verses 3-4) A loud voice from the throne declares the dwelling of God is now among men. God will live with them, and they will be His people. He will wipe away every tear, and there will no longer be any death, mourning, crying, or pain, for the old order of things has passed away. All Things Made New (Verses 5-8) God, seated on the throne, proclaims that He is making everything new. He assures that these words are trustworthy and true. He declares Himself as the Alpha and the Omega, the beginning and the end. To the thirsty, He will give freely from the spring of the water of life. Those who overcome will inherit all this, while the cowardly, faithless, detestable, murderers, sexually immoral, sorcerers, idolaters, and all liars will be condemned to the second death in the lake of fire. The New Jerusalem (Verses 9-21) One of the seven angels who had the seven bowls full of the seven last plagues shows John the Bride, the wife of the Lamb, which is the Holy City, Jerusalem, coming down from heaven. The city is described in great detail, including its great high wall with twelve gates, and the foundations of the city walls adorned with precious stones. The city and its street are made of pure gold, as clear as glass. No Temple in the City (Verses 22-27) John notes there is no temple in the city because the Lord God Almighty and the Lamb are its temple. The city does not need the sun or the moon for light, for the glory of God illuminates it, and the Lamb is its lamp. The nations will walk in its light, and the kings of the earth will bring their splendor into it. Its gates will never be shut, and there will be no night there. Only those who are written in the Lamb's book of life can enter the city. Revelation 21 presents a vision of hope and glory, depicting the renewal of heaven and earth, the dwelling of God among people, and the promise of a life free from sorrow. This chapter serves as the climax of the book, where all the tribulations and trials fade away, giving way to a future where God's people live in a state of eternal peace and joy. Teaching Points The New Creation Revelation 21:1 states, Then I saw a new heaven and a new earth, for the first heaven and earth had passed away, and the sea was no more. This signifies the complete renewal of creation, free from the corruption of sin. God Dwelling with His People Verse 3 declares, And I heard a loud voice from the throne saying: 'Behold, the dwelling place of God is with man, and He will dwell with them. They will be His people, and God Himself will be with them as their God.' This emphasizes the intimate relationship between God and His people in the new creation. The End of Suffering Verse 4 promises, He will wipe away every tear from their eyes, and there will be no more death or mourning or crying or pain, for the former things have passed away. This is a powerful assurance of the end of all suffering and the beginning of eternal joy. The Alpha and Omega In verse 6, God declares, I am the Alpha and the Omega, the Beginning and the End. This highlights God's eternal nature and His sovereign control over all history. The Inheritance of the Faithful Verse 7 states, The one who overcomes will inherit all things, and I will be his God, and he will be My son. This is a promise of eternal inheritance for those who remain faithful to God. Practical Applications Live with Hope Let the promise of a new heaven and new earth inspire you to live with hope and anticipation, knowing that God has a glorious future prepared for you. Cultivate Intimacy with God As God desires to dwell with His people, seek to deepen your relationship with Him through prayer, worship, and studying His Word. Find Comfort in God's Promises In times of suffering, remember that God will one day wipe away every tear and eliminate all pain. Let this truth bring you comfort and strength. Persevere in Faith Be encouraged to overcome challenges and remain faithful, knowing that your perseverance will lead to an eternal inheritance with God. People 1. God Described as the Alpha and the Omega, the Beginning and the End. He is the one who declares, "Behold, I make all things new" (Revelation 21:5). The Greek term used here for God is "Θεός" (Theos), emphasizing His divine nature and sovereignty. 2. The Lamb Refers to Jesus Christ, who is central to the vision of the New Jerusalem. The Lamb is mentioned as the temple of the city, alongside God (Revelation 21:22). The Greek word "ἀρνίον" (arnion) is used, symbolizing Jesus as the sacrificial Lamb. 3. The Bride Represents the Church, described as the "wife of the Lamb" (Revelation 21:9). The Greek term "νύμφη" (nymphē) is used, indicating the Church's intimate and covenantal relationship with Christ. 4. The One Who Sat on the Throne This figure is often understood to be God Himself, who speaks authoritatively about the new creation (Revelation 21:5). The throne symbolizes His ultimate authority and rule. 5. The Angel An angel is mentioned as showing John the vision of the New Jerusalem (Revelation 21:9). Angels, or "ἄγγελος" (angelos) in Greek, are messengers of God, guiding and revealing divine truths. 6. The Nations Refers to the peoples who will walk by the light of the New Jerusalem and bring their glory into it (Revelation 21:24). The Greek term "ἔθνη" (ethnē) is used, indicating diverse groups of people. 7. The Kings of the Earth These are the rulers who bring their splendor into the New Jerusalem (Revelation 21:24). The Greek word "βασιλεῖς" (basileis) is used, denoting their authority and honor. 8. The Overcomers Those who conquer will inherit the blessings of the new creation, as stated in Revelation 21:7 . The Greek term "νικῶν" (nikōn) is used, meaning those who are victorious through faith. 9. The Cowardly, Unbelieving, and Other Sinners These are the individuals who are excluded from the New Jerusalem and face the second death (Revelation 21:8). The passage lists various sins, emphasizing the moral purity required to enter the holy city. Places 1. New Heaven and New Earth Revelation 21:1: "Then I saw a new heaven and a new earth, for the first heaven and earth had passed away, and the sea was no more." This represents the renewed creation where the old order has passed away. The Greek word for "new" (καινός, kainos) implies something fresh and unprecedented. 2. Holy City, New Jerusalem Revelation 21:2: "I saw the holy city, the new Jerusalem, coming down out of heaven from God, prepared as a bride adorned for her husband." The New Jerusalem symbolizes the dwelling place of God with His people. The Greek term for "holy" (ἅγιος, hagios) denotes something set apart for God. 3. The Sea Revelation 21:1: "and the sea was no more." The absence of the sea signifies the removal of chaos and evil, as the sea often symbolizes turmoil and separation in biblical literature. 4. The Tabernacle of God Revelation 21:3: "And I heard a loud voice from the throne saying: 'Behold, the dwelling place of God is with man, and He will dwell with them. They will be His people, and God Himself will be with them as their God.'" The term "dwelling place" (σκηνή, skēnē) refers to the tabernacle, indicating God's presence among His people. 5. The Throne of God and the Lamb Revelation 21:5: "He who was seated on the throne said, 'Behold, I am making all things new.'" The throne represents God's sovereign rule and authority. The Greek word for "throne" (θρόνος, thronos) is a symbol of divine kingship. Events 1. The New Heaven and New Earth Revelation 21:1 - "Then I saw a new heaven and a new earth, for the first heaven and earth had passed away, and the sea was no more." This event marks the creation of a new heaven and earth, signifying the renewal of all things. The Greek word for "new" (καινός, kainos) implies something fresh and unprecedented. 2. The New Jerusalem Revelation 21:2 - "I saw the holy city, the new Jerusalem, coming down out of heaven from God, prepared as a bride adorned for her husband." The New Jerusalem descends from heaven, symbolizing the dwelling place of God with His people. The imagery of a bride highlights purity and the intimate relationship between God and His people. 3. God Dwelling with Humanity Revelation 21:3 - "And I heard a loud voice from the throne saying: 'Behold, the dwelling place of God is with man, and He will dwell with them. They will be His people, and God Himself will be with them as their God.'" This event emphasizes God's presence among His people, fulfilling the covenant promise. The Greek word for "dwelling" (σκηνή, skēnē) is akin to "tabernacle," indicating God's intimate presence. 4. The End of Suffering Revelation 21:4 - "He will wipe away every tear from their eyes, and there will be no more death or mourning or crying or pain, for the former things have passed away." This signifies the end of all suffering and the complete restoration of creation. The Greek word for "wipe away" (ἐξαλείφω, exaleiphō) conveys the idea of complete removal. 5. The Declaration from the Throne Revelation 21:5-6 - "And the One seated on the throne said, 'Behold, I make all things new.' Then He said, 'Write this down, for these words are faithful and true.' And He told me, 'It is done! I am the Alpha and the Omega, the Beginning and the End. To the thirsty I will give freely from the spring of the water of life.'" God declares the renewal of all things and offers the water of life, symbolizing eternal satisfaction and life. "Alpha and Omega" (ἄλφα καὶ τὸ ὦ) signifies God's eternal nature. 6. The Inheritance of the Overcomers Revelation 21:7 - "The one who overcomes will inherit all things, and I will be his God, and he will be My son." Overcomers are promised an inheritance, emphasizing the familial relationship with God. The Greek word for "overcomes" (νικάω, nikaō) implies victory through faith. 7. The Fate of the Unbelieving Revelation 21:8 - "But to the cowardly and unbelieving and abominable and murderers and sexually immoral and sorcerers and idolaters and all liars, their place will be in the lake that burns with fire and sulfur. This is the second death." This event describes the judgment of those who reject God, highlighting the seriousness of sin and the finality of the second death. 8. The Vision of the New Jerusalem Revelation 21:9-11 - "Then one of the seven angels with the seven bowls full of the seven final plagues came and said to me, 'Come, I will show you the bride, the wife of the Lamb.' And he carried me away in the Spirit to a mountain great and high, and showed me the holy city of Jerusalem, coming down out of heaven from God, shining with the glory of God." The New Jerusalem is described in detail, symbolizing the glory and purity of God's eternal kingdom. 9. The Description of the City Revelation 21:12-21 - The city is described with high walls, twelve gates, and foundations adorned with precious stones. The detailed description emphasizes the beauty, security, and divine order of the New Jerusalem. 10. The Absence of a Temple Revelation 21:22 - "But I saw no temple in the city, because the Lord God Almighty and the Lamb are its temple." The absence of a physical temple signifies direct access to God, as His presence fills the city. 11. The Eternal Light Revelation 21:23-24 - "And the city has no need of sun or moon to shine on it, because the glory of God illuminates the city, and the Lamb is its lamp. By its light the nations will walk, and into it the kings of the earth will bring their glory." God's glory provides eternal light, symbolizing His presence and guidance. 12. The Open Gates Revelation 21:25-26 - "Its gates will never be shut at the end of the day, because there will be no night there. And into the city will be brought the glory and honor of the nations." The open gates represent security and the inclusion of all who are redeemed. 13. The Exclusion of the Impure Revelation 21:27 - "But nothing unclean will ever enter it, nor anyone who practices an abomination or a lie, but only those whose names are written in the Lamb’s Book of Life." Only those redeemed by Christ are allowed in, emphasizing purity and holiness. Connections to Additional Scriptures Isaiah 65:17 For behold, I will create new heavens and a new earth. The former things will not be remembered, nor will they come to mind. 2 Peter 3:13 But in keeping with God’s promise, we are looking forward to a new heaven and a new earth, where righteousness dwells. John 14:2-3 In My Father’s house are many rooms. If it were not so, would I have told you that I am going there to prepare a place for you? And if I go and prepare a place for you, I will come back and welcome you into My presence, so that you also may be where I am. Prayer Points Thanksgiving for God's Promise Thank God for the promise of a new heaven and new earth and the hope it brings to our lives. Desire for God's Presence Pray for a deeper longing to dwell in God's presence and to experience His love and peace. Strength to Overcome Ask God for the strength and perseverance to overcome life's challenges and remain faithful to Him. Comfort for the Suffering Pray for those who are suffering, that they may find comfort in the promise of a future without pain or sorrow. Bible Study Questions 1. What does the promise of a new heaven and a new earth signify to you? 2. What emotions or thoughts does the description of the New Jerusalem evoke in you? 3. How does the vision of God dwelling among His people influence your understanding of God's relationship with humanity? 4. How does the absence of a physical temple in the New Jerusalem shape your view of worship? 5. How does the concept of the second death in the lake of fire influence your understanding of divine judgment and reward? 6. In what ways do you see God making things new in your life today? 7. How can the promise of a life without mourning, crying, or pain bring comfort in your present situations? 8. How can the detailed description of the New Jerusalem inspire you to live in anticipation of this glorious future? 9. How can the vision of the New Jerusalem impact the way you handle trials and tribulations in your life? 10. How does the vision of God as the Alpha and Omega influence your view of God's sovereignty? 11. What does it mean to you to be called to "overcome," as mentioned in verse 7? 12. How does the concept of "the Lamb's book of life" impact your understanding of salvation? 13. How does the vision of the kings of the earth bringing their splendor into the New Jerusalem shape your understanding of the Kingdom of God? 14. How can this vision of eternal life with God influence your daily decisions and actions? 15. In your own life, how can you prepare yourself, as the Bride of Christ, for the coming of the New Jerusalem? 16. How does Revelation 21 influence your understanding of the end times? 17. What steps can you take to ensure your name is in the Lamb's Book of Life? 18. How can the vision of the holy city, the New Jerusalem, serve as a motivation in your Christian walk? 19. In your daily living, how can you strive to be part of those who "overcome" and inherit the promises of God? 20. How can the glory and purity of the New Jerusalem challenge you to live a life of purity and righteousness? Topics 1. The New Heaven and New Earth Revelation 21:1 describes the vision of a new heaven and a new earth, as the first heaven and earth have passed away. The Greek word for "new" (καινός, kainos) implies something fresh and unprecedented, indicating a complete renewal of creation. 2. The New Jerusalem In Revelation 21:2, John sees the holy city, the New Jerusalem, coming down out of heaven from God. This city is described as a bride beautifully dressed for her husband, symbolizing purity and divine preparation. 3. God Dwelling with His People Revelation 21:3 emphasizes God's presence with humanity: "Behold, the dwelling place of God is with man." The Greek term for "dwelling place" (σκηνή, skēnē) is reminiscent of the tabernacle, signifying God's intimate presence with His people. 4. The End of Suffering Revelation 21:4 promises the end of death, mourning, crying, and pain, as the former things have passed away. This reflects the ultimate fulfillment of God's redemptive plan, where suffering is eradicated. 5. The Alpha and Omega In Revelation 21:6, God declares Himself as the Alpha and Omega, the beginning and the end. This title underscores God's eternal nature and sovereign control over all history. 6. The Inheritance of the Overcomers Revelation 21:7 speaks of the inheritance for those who overcome, promising that they will be God's children. The Greek word for "overcome" (νικάω, nikaō) conveys victory and perseverance in faith. 7. The Fate of the Unbelieving Revelation 21:8 lists those who will face the second death, including the cowardly, unbelieving, and immoral. This serves as a warning of the consequences of rejecting God's salvation. 8. The Description of the New Jerusalem Revelation 21:9-21 provides a detailed description of the New Jerusalem, including its radiant appearance, high walls, and twelve gates. The imagery reflects the city's divine origin and perfection. 9. The Temple and the Glory of God Revelation 21:22-23 reveals that there is no temple in the city, for the Lord God Almighty and the Lamb are its temple. The city's illumination by God's glory signifies His direct presence and the absence of any need for a physical temple. 10. The Nations and the Kings Revelation 21:24-26 describes the nations walking by the city's light and the kings bringing their splendor into it. This portrays the universal scope of God's kingdom and the inclusion of all peoples in His eternal plan. Themes 1. The New Heaven and New Earth Revelation 21:1 describes the creation of a new heaven and a new earth, indicating the renewal and restoration of all things. The Greek word "καινός" (kainos) is used for "new," suggesting something fresh and unprecedented. 2. The Holy City, New Jerusalem In Revelation 21:2, the New Jerusalem is depicted as a bride beautifully dressed for her husband. This symbolizes the purity and holiness of the city, prepared by God for His people. 3. God Dwelling with His People Revelation 21:3 emphasizes God's presence with humanity: "Behold, the dwelling place of God is with man." The Greek word "σκηνή" (skēnē) for "dwelling" reflects the idea of God's tabernacle among His people. 4. The End of Suffering and Death Revelation 21:4 promises the end of tears, death, mourning, crying, and pain. This theme highlights the complete removal of the former things, as God makes all things new. 5. The Alpha and Omega In Revelation 21:6, God declares Himself the "Alpha and Omega," the beginning and the end. This underscores His eternal nature and sovereign control over history. 6. The Inheritance of the Overcomers Revelation 21:7 speaks of the inheritance for those who overcome, promising that they will be God's children. The Greek word "νικάω" (nikaō) for "overcome" implies victory through faith. 7. The Fate of the Unbelieving and Wicked Revelation 21:8 lists those who will face the second death, including the cowardly, unbelieving, and immoral. This theme serves as a warning of judgment for those who reject God. 8. The Splendor of the New Jerusalem Revelation 21:9-21 describes the beauty and majesty of the New Jerusalem, with its precious stones and gates of pearl. This imagery reflects the glory and perfection of God's eternal city. 9. The Absence of a Temple Revelation 21:22 notes that there is no temple in the city, for the Lord God Almighty and the Lamb are its temple. This signifies direct and unmediated access to God. 10. The Light of the City Revelation 21:23-24 highlights that the city does not need the sun or moon, for the glory of God illuminates it, and the Lamb is its lamp. This theme emphasizes the divine presence as the source of light and life. 11. The Nations and Kings Bringing Glory Revelation 21:24-26 describes the nations walking by the city's light and the kings bringing their splendor into it. This suggests the inclusion and unity of all peoples in God's kingdom. 12. The Purity of the City Revelation 21:27 concludes with the assurance that nothing impure will enter the city, only those whose names are written in the Lamb's Book of Life. This underscores the holiness required to dwell with God. Bible Hub Chapter Summaries and Bible Study Questions