Obviously John got his source
from the writing of the Prophet Ezekiel. Reading this chapter of Revelation shows
a close resemblance to Ezekiel’s writing. Whether we are aware of it or not, we
will see much of the footprint of Ezekiel in the measurement of the New
Jerusalem. So as John says, the angel has a gold measuring reed to measure the
holy city, the gates and the wall. We will recall that in Revelation 11:1–2,
John was instructed to measure the sanctuary of God with a measuring reed. But
for now the task is too mammoth for him and he cannot fulfil that role here. To
measure this great new city will require an angel to do it. Besides the angel
will need to do it with an appropriate measuring reed made of gold.
The result of the work of
the angel further affirms the impression we already have that this city is
beautiful, orderly and perfect in proportion. This is of course a great
contrast from the chaotic and disordered life in Babylon. The city we are told
is a perfect cube, equal in length, breath and height of 150 miles. This
essentially made the city of the bride into a temple because according to 1
Kings 6:20, the inner sanctuary of Solomon’s Temple was a cube covered in pure
gold.
The New Jerusalem is made
of pure gold like clear glass. This is to say that it is so dazzling in
appearance so as to allow the glory of God to shine through. Even as we imagine
what had been described literally, we get the idea that the city is sheer
enormous. We need to take note that this number in the book of Revelation is to
be taken symbolically, and it is intended to speak of the complete and perfect
dimension of this city.
Next
we are told that the wall of this city is made of jasper to allow God’s glory
to shine through. Even this wall is measured and we are told it is 72 yards in
thickness. Again this number is a symbol of completeness. And we are told that
the measurement for the thickness of the wall are the same for both human and
angelic measurement. The emphasis of the thickness is to tell us it is
impenetrable to invaders. Its thickness will ensure the difficulty for anyone
to break through.
Finally in verses 19-21
John describes the foundation stones of the city’s wall. These twelve
foundation stones are decorated with every kind of precious stone, one precious
stone for each of the foundations. All these remind us of the Aaronic priestly
garment. Perhaps it is about the redeemed community as a priestly community
with appropriate adornment to serve the Lord. Verse 21 tells us something of
the twelve gates of the city, inscribed with the names of the tribes. On them
are twelve pearls. The gates are not dressed with pearl like the foundation
stones are with precious stones; rather, each one is made from a single pearl.
Finally, John emphasizes again that the city is made of pure gold, like luminous
glass with which the city is constructed, adding to her dazzling effect.
This is just the second
instalment of the great new city. What we will see next would be the most
glorious, unparalleled part of that city. Meanwhile, let’s hear what David
Morris says in his song:
We’re a city n0t forsaken,
A city that can’t be shaken.
Raised up high, high above,
Guarded and protected by God’s own
love.
A city sought after
A city that’s filled with laughter.
A holy people redeemed of the Lord,
Standing together in one accord.
Hallelujah!!
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