Revelation 21:24 – “The nations will walk by its light, and the kings of the earth will bring their splendor into it.”
Extended Explanation of the Verse
This verse gives us a glimpse of the wide-reaching impact of the New Jerusalem, the eternal city where God will dwell with His people forever. It says “the nations will walk by its light,” meaning that people from all over the world will live in the brightness and truth of God’s presence. It also says “the kings of the earth will bring their splendor into it,” which shows that honor, glory, and beauty will be brought to God as an offering.
This is a picture of peace, unity, and worship. Nations that once warred or walked in darkness now live in harmony, guided by the light of God. Earthly leaders who once ruled with pride now humbly give all glory to God. The glory of God and the Lamb, Jesus Christ, lights the city—and that light shines out and draws people in.
Historical Context
In John’s time, nations were often at odds with one another, and kings were known for building their own power and glory. Cities were filled with political rivalry, idolatry, and corruption. Revelation had already shown the downfall of the wicked world system—what John called “Babylon”—which represented everything opposed to God.
Now, by contrast, John describes a new city filled with light, truth, and peace. This was a bold and hopeful vision for Christians living under Roman rule. They were often treated as outsiders, oppressed for their faith. But this verse reminds them (and us) that God’s kingdom is bigger than any empire, and His light will one day shine over all the earth.
Theological Implications
This verse shows the complete fulfillment of God’s plan to bring people from every tribe, language, and nation into His eternal kingdom. It reflects the promise God made to Abraham—that all nations would be blessed through his descendants (Genesis 12:3). In the New Jerusalem, this blessing reaches its fullness.
It also tells us that earthly greatness—kings, glory, splendor—has a purpose when it’s surrendered to God. The honor of the nations is not destroyed, but brought into the city as a gift. This shows that in God’s kingdom, diversity is not erased but redeemed. Everything good and beautiful that once existed in the world now finds its true meaning in God.
Literary Analysis
This verse uses rich and hopeful imagery: nations walking and kings bringing splendor. Walking in light is a familiar image in Scripture—it suggests living in truth, clarity, and righteousness. Bringing splendor implies not just submission, but celebration and worship.
It’s important to notice the contrast. Revelation earlier described kings of the earth as resisting God (Revelation 19:19). But now, in the new heaven and new earth, they are no longer enemies. They bring what they have in honor to the King of kings. This shows transformation and peace.
Relevant Biblical Cross-References
- Genesis 12:3 – “All peoples on earth will be blessed through you.”
- Isaiah 60:3, 11 – “Nations will come to your light… your gates will always stand open, they will never be shut… the wealth of nations will be brought to you.”
- Psalm 72:10-11 – “The kings… will bring presents… all kings will bow down to him.”
- Revelation 5:9 – “With your blood you purchased for God persons from every tribe and language and people and nation.”
- Philippians 2:10-11 – “At the name of Jesus every knee should bow… and every tongue acknowledge that Jesus Christ is Lord.”
What This Verse Means for Today’s Christian
This verse reminds us that God’s plan is global. His light is not just for one nation or one group—it’s for the whole world. This encourages us to care about the gospel reaching all nations, and to remember that God is gathering people from every background into His kingdom.
It also helps us hold power and success in this world lightly. Earthly glory fades, but in God’s kingdom, everything good that is offered in worship to Him becomes part of the beauty of eternity. We should live our lives now in a way that reflects that future—walking in the light, and bringing all we have to honor God.
How This Verse Relates to a Loving God
A loving God doesn’t only care for one group—He invites all people to come into His light. This verse shows a God who welcomes nations, dignifies kings, and brings peace where there was once strife. His light shines for all who will walk by it.
His love is also redemptive. Even those who once rebelled can be transformed. In the end, God gathers His people not with force, but with glory and grace, drawing them to Himself through the light of His presence.
How This Verse Connects to Jesus Christ
Jesus is the Lamb who gives light to the city (Revelation 21:23). Through His death and resurrection, He opened the way for people of every nation to come to God. He said in John 8:12, “I am the light of the world.” This verse shows the full result of that promise—people walking in His light forever.
Jesus is also the true King, above all others. Earthly kings will one day bring their splendor to Him, acknowledging that He alone is worthy. What they once ruled, they now return to the One who gave them life.
Questions for Reflection and Discussion
- What does this verse teach you about God’s heart for the nations?
- How does the image of walking in God’s light apply to your life today?
- What might it look like to bring your “splendor” or gifts into God’s presence?
- How can you reflect God’s light to others around you, especially those from different backgrounds?
- What does it say about Jesus that even the kings of the earth will honor Him?
- How does this vision of unity and peace encourage you in today’s divided world?