Here, unlike the Garden of Eden, there can be no invasion
or temptation. The wall, great and high, would also bring
out the total exclusion of all unbelievers.
The 12 gates and 12 angels, the gates are named after the 12
tribes of Israel, with three gates at each side of the city,
east, north, south, and west. The 12 angels stress the
security of the city as well as its glory. The gates also
indicate there will be free travel in and out of the city.
The fact that the gates are named after the 12 tribes of
Israel and that the foundation stones are inscribed with the
names of the 12 apostles indicate that both Israel and the
church will be a part of this city, yet note that they still
remain distinct groups within the people of God.
Verse 15, the angel that spoke to John had “A gold measuring
rod to measure the city, and its gates and its wall.” Why is
it measured and why these measurements? God is infinite and
without limits or measurements, but man, even with his
glorified body, is still but a creature, not God, and
therefore limited.
When we compare the size of the city with its wall, the wall
seems extremely small, probably because the wall is
symbolic. There are really no enemies to keep out. It will
never again be possible for a fall or rebellion to occur
because every enemy will have been defeated. No matter what
the shape, a city of this size would be necessary to hold
the redeemed of all ages. In fact, some have said that even
a city of this size could not hold that many people. But
remember the city is as high as it is wide and long, and it
is not necessary to hold all that will at all times be
living in the city. Many will be perhaps in various parts of
the new universe carrying out responsibilities for the Lord.
The emphasis of the passage is on the priceless value and
beauty of our eternal home and on the immeasurable grace of
God. Our inheritance is beyond our comprehension. Truly,
with such a future inheritance which is imperishable and
undefiled, and that will not fade away, reserved and kept by
the power of God, certainly we should live now as sojourners
with a view to our eternal home.
