Revelation 21:25 – “On no day will its gates ever be shut, for there will be no night there.”
Extended Explanation of the Verse
This verse gives another glimpse into the glory and peace of the New Jerusalem—the eternal city where God lives with His people. John says the gates of the city will never be shut, and that there will be no night there.
In ancient cities, gates were opened during the day and closed at night. Closing the gates was for protection—against thieves, wild animals, or enemy attacks. But in this new city, the gates stay open all the time. Why? Because there’s no threat, no danger, and no darkness. The city is filled with the presence of God and lit by His glory. There’s never a moment when people need to be afraid or feel unsafe. Night, often symbolic of fear or evil, simply doesn’t exist there.
Historical Context
In biblical times, a city’s gates were the key to its security. During the day, gates welcomed trade, travelers, and community activity. But at sunset, the gates were shut and guarded. Darkness brought risk and uncertainty.
The fact that the New Jerusalem has open gates day and night (with no night) would have been a powerful image for John’s original readers—many of whom faced real danger for their faith. This verse promises that, in God’s eternal city, there will be no more enemies, no need for caution, and no fear of what might come.
It would also remind readers of the prophecies in the Old Testament, where God promised a day when peace would never end and His people would be fully safe in His presence (see Isaiah 60).
Theological Implications
This verse teaches us about the complete peace and security of eternity with God. In our current world, we live with boundaries, fears, and limits. We lock doors, we plan for emergencies, and we brace for what might go wrong. But in the New Jerusalem, none of that is needed. God’s presence makes everything secure.
The open gates also reflect God’s welcome. His people have free access. There is no closing time, no separation, no waiting. The city is always open to those who belong to Him, and His light never fades.
It also shows that evil has been completely defeated. Night often represents sin, evil, and the unknown. But here, night is no more—because God’s light shines everywhere and all the time.
Literary Analysis
John uses contrast and imagery here: open gates versus closed gates, day versus night. The absence of night is not just about time—it’s about freedom from fear, sin, confusion, and death. In a city where God’s light never dims, there’s no need for barriers or protection.
The statement that the gates will “never be shut” is absolute. It speaks of permanent peace. There is no longer any reason to keep anyone out or to guard the city, because all that is harmful has been removed forever.
Relevant Biblical Cross-References
- Isaiah 60:11 – “Your gates will always stand open… the wealth of the nations will be brought to you.”
- Zechariah 14:7 – “It will be a unique day… with no distinction between day and night.”
- John 8:12 – Jesus said, “I am the light of the world. Whoever follows me will never walk in darkness.”
- Revelation 21:23 – “The city does not need the sun or the moon… for the glory of God gives it light.”
- Psalm 121:4 – “Indeed, he who watches over Israel will neither slumber nor sleep.”
What This Verse Means for Today’s Christian
For believers today, this verse is a reminder that the worries and fears we face now will not follow us into eternity. The pain, sin, loss, and fear of the night will be gone. We are headed for a city where peace never ends and light never fades.
It also speaks to the open-hearted welcome of God. In His city, the gates stay open because His people are always welcome. There is no distance between God and His people, no interruption in their joy, and no threat to their peace.
This gives us strength to endure the struggles of today, knowing that a forever peace is coming.
How This Verse Relates to a Loving God
A loving God doesn’t just save His people—He gives them safety, freedom, and joy. The open gates show His constant welcome. The absence of night shows His care and protection. He doesn’t want His people to live in fear, so He builds a place where they never have to again.
His love makes a home where everything that once hurt, threatened, or confused us is gone. All that remains is His presence, His peace, and His light.
How This Verse Connects to Jesus Christ
Jesus is the Light that makes night unnecessary. He said in John 12:46, “I have come into the world as a light, so that no one who believes in me should stay in darkness.” Because of Him, the fear and judgment that darkness represents are taken away.
Through Jesus, the gates are open. He is the door (John 10:9), and everyone who enters through Him finds safety and life. His death and resurrection broke the power of darkness. In the New Jerusalem, His victory is complete—and His people live in everlasting light.
Questions for Reflection and Discussion
- What does it mean to you that there will be no night in the New Jerusalem?
- How does the image of open gates help you understand God’s welcome and care?
- What fears or concerns in your life today could be comforted by this vision of eternity?
- How does Jesus‘ role as the Light of the World shape your understanding of this verse?
- What would change in your life if you lived more fully in the light of God’s presence today?
- How does this verse inspire you to look forward to the future God has promised?