Revelation 21:23 – “The city does not need the sun or the moon to shine on it, for the glory of God gives it light, and the Lamb is its lamp.”
Extended Explanation of the Verse
This verse describes something breathtaking about the New Jerusalem—the city where God’s people will live with Him forever. Unlike our world today, this city doesn’t need the sun or the moon for light. Why? Because “the glory of God gives it light,” and “the Lamb is its lamp.”
In other words, God’s presence fills the entire city with His brightness. Jesus, called here “the Lamb,” is like the lamp that shines God’s light everywhere. It’s not just physical light—it’s the light of truth, holiness, life, and joy. Nothing is hidden, dark, or confusing. The light comes directly from God, and it never goes out.
Historical Context
In Bible times, people depended completely on the sun and moon for light. There were no streetlights or electric bulbs. The absence of sunlight meant darkness, danger, and fear. The presence of light meant safety, work, and life.
Throughout the Old Testament, God’s glory is described as a radiant light—so intense that people could not look directly at it. For example, when Moses met with God, his face glowed afterward (Exodus 34:29–35). And when God’s glory filled the tabernacle or temple, it was so overwhelming that people could not enter.
But in the New Jerusalem, that light doesn’t come and go. It fills everything. There is no need for created light sources, because the Creator Himself is there, shining constantly.
Theological Implications
This verse shows us that God is not only the source of life—He is the source of light, both physically and spiritually. His glory is so complete that it removes the need for anything else. And Jesus, the Lamb, is the one through whom that light shines in full.
It also points to the fulfillment of all God’s promises. In the beginning, God said, “Let there be light,” and light entered the world. But now, in the end, there is a new kind of light—God’s very presence—and it never fades or fails. This is the ultimate end to the brokenness and darkness of sin. In God’s city, there is no more night, no more fear, and no more separation from His presence.
Literary Analysis
This verse uses powerful imagery—light without sun or moon—to show something completely new and eternal. In most of Revelation, John builds contrast: what is broken in this world is made whole in the next. Where there was once darkness, there is now constant light. Where there was once separation, there is now unity with God.
The phrase “the Lamb is its lamp” ties together Jesus’ sacrificial role (as the Lamb of God) and His role as the light of the world. Lamps were important symbols of guidance and presence in ancient times—so to say that Jesus is the lamp of the eternal city means He is the one who lights our way, forever.
Relevant Biblical Cross-References
- Genesis 1:3 – “And God said, ‘Let there be light,’ and there was light.”
- Exodus 40:34 – “Then the cloud covered the tent of meeting, and the glory of the Lord filled the tabernacle.”
- John 1:4-5 – “In him was life, and that life was the light of all mankind. The light shines in the darkness…”
- John 8:12 – “I am the light of the world. Whoever follows me will never walk in darkness.”
- Isaiah 60:19-20 – “The sun will no more be your light by day… the Lord will be your everlasting light.”
What This Verse Means for Today’s Christian
This verse is a reminder that our ultimate hope is not in the things of this world—not even the sun and moon, which seem so dependable. Our true light is found in God Himself. Even now, through the Spirit and the Word, we live by His light.
It also encourages us when we walk through dark times. In the eternal city, there will be no more darkness. No more confusion, depression, fear, or sin. Only light. Only truth. And that light will never fade.
It helps us to lift our eyes and live in hope, knowing that a day is coming when we will live in the full, warm, joyful presence of God forever.
How This Verse Relates to a Loving God
A loving God doesn’t leave His people in the dark. From the beginning, He’s been lighting the way—through His Word, through His presence, and ultimately through His Son. In the New Jerusalem, He finishes what He started: the darkness is gone forever, and His people live in unbroken light.
He doesn’t just give light—He is the light. That’s how close He wants to be. A God who is far away might send something to help, but a loving God comes close and stays with His people, filling every corner of their lives with peace, clarity, and joy.
How This Verse Connects to Jesus Christ
Jesus is at the center of this verse. He is called the Lamb, reminding us of His sacrifice. And He is the lamp—the one through whom God’s light shines fully and forever.
In His earthly life, Jesus said He was the light of the world. He healed, taught, and forgave in a way that brought people out of spiritual darkness. In the New Jerusalem, His light shines without end. His work of salvation is complete, and those who belong to Him live forever in the brightness of His presence.
Questions for Reflection and Discussion
- What does it mean that the New Jerusalem doesn’t need the sun or the moon?
- How does this verse help you understand the fullness of God’s presence in eternity?
- In what ways is Jesus your “lamp” today—guiding, lighting, and revealing truth?
- How can this promise of eternal light encourage you during hard or dark seasons of life?
- What changes when you realize that God’s light is not just a gift, but His very presence?
- How can you live more fully in the light of Christ right now, as you wait for eternity?