Revelation 21:16 – “The city was laid out like a square, as long as it was wide. He measured the city with the rod and found it to be 12,000 stadia in length, and as wide and high as it is long.”
Extended Explanation of the Verse
In this verse, John continues to describe the New Jerusalem—the eternal city where God will live with His people forever. An angel measures the city and reveals something astonishing: it’s perfectly square, and not just in width and length, but also in height. Each side of the city measures 12,000 stadia, which is about 1,400 miles. That’s hard to imagine—a city that size stretching straight upward as well as outward.
The shape and size aren’t random. They’re meant to show that this city is complete, perfect, and beyond anything we’ve ever known. Its exact symmetry tells us that nothing is out of place. Its enormous size tells us that there is room for everyone who belongs to God. The city isn’t cramped or rushed—it’s big, beautiful, and built to last.
Historical Context
In biblical times, measurements were used not just for practicality, but also to communicate meaning. For example, in the Old Testament, the inner room of the temple—the Most Holy Place—was a perfect cube (1 Kings 6:20). That’s where God’s presence dwelled, and only the high priest could enter once a year.
Now, in Revelation, we see that the entire city is shaped like a giant cube, just like the Most Holy Place. This means that the whole city is holy. It’s not just a small space where one person can approach God. Now, God’s presence fills the entire place, and His people live in it forever. No barriers. No fear. Just full access to the presence of God.
Theological Implications
This verse shows that God’s eternal home is completely unlike anything on earth—but it’s not unfamiliar to those who know the Scriptures. By echoing the shape of the temple’s inner room, God is showing that He is now fully with His people. Holiness is no longer distant or limited. It’s everywhere.
The huge size of the city shows us the greatness of God’s plan. His grace and salvation are wide enough to include people from every nation, tribe, and tongue. And its perfect shape reminds us that God’s ways are not random or chaotic—He is a God of order, beauty, and purpose.
Literary Analysis
John uses specific numbers and descriptions to paint a picture of perfection and holiness. The number 12 (and multiples of 12) shows up again and again in this chapter—12 gates, 12 foundations, 12,000 stadia. In Scripture, the number 12 often symbolizes God’s people (12 tribes of Israel, 12 apostles of Jesus). The repeated use of this number here shows that the city is built for God’s people and reflects God’s plan.
The cube shape stands out in the entire Bible as a rare and sacred design. It immediately draws a line back to the temple and emphasizes the holiness of the city. By measuring the city so precisely, the angel is making clear that this place is finished, flawless, and meant to last forever.
Relevant Biblical Cross-References
- 1 Kings 6:20 – “The inner sanctuary was twenty cubits long, twenty wide and twenty high. He overlaid the inside with pure gold…”
- Exodus 26:33-34 – Describes the Most Holy Place, where God’s presence would dwell.
- Hebrews 9:24 – “For Christ did not enter a sanctuary made with human hands… he entered heaven itself, now to appear for us in God’s presence.”
- John 14:2-3 – Jesus says He is preparing a place for His followers.
- Revelation 7:9 – Describes a multitude from every nation standing before God.
What This Verse Means for Today’s Christian
This verse gives every believer a reason to be filled with hope. The home God is preparing isn’t small, temporary, or fragile. It’s massive, permanent, and perfect. There is room for all who trust in Him, and the design is made with great care.
It also tells us that we won’t just visit God—we will live with Him. His presence, which used to be hidden behind temple curtains, will be open and all around us. We don’t have to wonder if we belong. If we belong to Jesus, we have a place in this holy city.
How This Verse Relates to a Loving God
A loving God doesn’t just save people—He builds a home for them. This home is not halfway finished. It’s measured, designed, and made beautiful in every way. Its size shows us the wide reach of God’s mercy. Its shape shows the beauty of His perfection.
This verse reflects the heart of a Father who isn’t just trying to rescue His children but to bring them into His presence forever. God has taken time and care to build something worthy of His people, and that speaks volumes about His love.
How This Verse Connects to Jesus Christ
Jesus is the one who makes this city possible. Through His death and resurrection, He tore the curtain that once separated people from God’s presence (Mark 15:38). Now, because of Him, we’re not only allowed into the Most Holy Place—we’re going to live there.
In John 14:2, Jesus said, “In my Father’s house are many rooms… I am going there to prepare a place for you.” Revelation 21:16 shows us that place. Jesus is not only the Savior who forgives, but also the Builder who prepares our forever home.
Questions for Reflection and Discussion
- What does the cube shape of the city tell you about God’s presence and holiness?
- How does the enormous size of the New Jerusalem encourage you about your future with God?
- What do you think it means to live forever in a place that is fully filled with God’s presence?
- How does this verse help you better understand the promises Jesus made in John 14:2-3?
- How can this vision of your future home affect the way you live today?
- What part of this description fills you with the most hope or wonder?