Understanding Revelation 21:23

Verse: Revelation 21:23 - "And the city had no need of the sun, neither of the moon, to shine in it: for the glory of God did lighten it, and the Lamb is the light thereof."

Summary of Meaning

Revelation 21:23 presents a profound vision of the New Jerusalem, a place where divine light replaces natural illumination. The absence of the sun and moon signifies a transformed existence where God's glory permeates every aspect of life, highlighting the omnipresence of divine radiance. Commentators provide valuable insights into this verse, reflecting on the nature of God's glory and its implications for the believer's eternal life.

Commentary Insights

• Matthew Henry:

  Henry emphasizes that this verse symbolizes the perfect and eternal state of believers in the afterlife, where the presence of God provides an everlasting light that surpasses any earthly light source.

• Albert Barnes:

  Barnes interprets the absence of the sun and moon as a metaphor for the complete fulfillment of God's promises, indicating that in His presence, all darkness and need are eliminated.

• Adam Clarke:

  Clarke notes that the imagery used in this verse reflects a new order of existence, where divine glory is illuminating and transformative, signifying the ultimate victory of light over darkness.

Bible Verses Cross-Referenced with Revelation 21:23

This verse aligns with several key scriptures that deepen our understanding:

• Isaiah 60:19: "The sun shall be no more thy light by day; neither for brightness shall the moon give light unto thee: but the Lord shall be unto thee an everlasting light."
• John 8:12: "Then spake Jesus again unto them, saying, I am the light of the world: he that followeth me shall not walk in darkness, but shall have the light of life."
• 1 John 1:5: "This then is the message which we have heard of him, and declare unto you, that God is light, and in him is no darkness at all."
• Matthew 5:14: "Ye are the light of the world. A city that is set on a hill cannot be hid."
• Revelation 22:5: "And there shall be no night there; and they need no candle, neither light of the sun; for the Lord God giveth them light: and they shall reign for ever and ever."
• Philippians 2:15: "That ye may be blameless and harmless, the sons of God, without rebuke, in the midst of a crooked and perverse nation, among whom ye shine as lights in the world."
• 2 Corinthians 4:6: "For God, who commanded the light to shine out of darkness, hath shined in our hearts, to give the light of the knowledge of the glory of God in the face of Jesus Christ."

Thematic Connections

This passage is significant for understanding the themes of light and divine presence throughout the Bible. The seamless connections between these verses help to illustrate:

• The Nature of God: God as a source of light, contrast to the world's darkness.
• Hope for Believers: Assurance of an eternal state devoid of chaos and illuminated by divine glory.
• Transformation through Christ: The Lamb as the ultimate source of life and illumination for believers.

Tools for Bible Cross-Referencing

When studying scriptures like Revelation 21:23, utilizing various tools for Bible cross-referencing can enhance understanding:

• Bible Concordance: A comprehensive index of words and phrases used in the Bible.
• Cross-Reference Bible Study: Techniques to find related verses to deepen comprehension.
• Bible Reference Resources: Guides and materials that facilitate a more extensive study of interlinked scriptures.

Conclusion

Revelation 21:23 is not merely a statement about the absence of natural light; it's a profound declaration about the eternal presence and glory of God that will illuminate the lives of believers. The connections to other biblical texts enrich our understanding and reveal a consistent theme of God's transformative power and eternal promise.