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Revelation 21:12-13
As the most beautiful New Jerusalem descends from heaven in the glory of God, we are given a description of the shape of the city in Revelation 21:12-13. Not only was the New Jerusalem shining with the glory of God (Revelation 21:11), but there most likely was four sides to the city as the great walls are described as being on the north, south, east, and west (Revelation 21:12-13). We also learn that each great wall had three gates with an angel at each gate. The gates each had a name written on them; each named after one of the children of Israel.
This is an example of the shape of the New Jerusalem as it descends from heaven.
The names of the children of the tribes of Israel are the names of the sons of Jacob, named Israel by God in Genesis 32:28. The names of the children of Israel are Reuben, Simeon, Judah, Issachar, Zebulun, the two sons of Joseph: Ephraim and Manasseh, and then Benjamin, Dan, Asher, Gad, and Naphtali (Numbers 1:5-16). These are the people that God chose to be a representation to the world of His sovereignty. He simply commanded that they love Him with all their heart, soul, and strength; and that they keep these things in their heart and love their neighbor as themselves (Deuteronomy 6:5-6; Leviticus 19:18). These words were repeated by Jesus in Matthew 22:37-40 when He was asked of which is the great commandment.
In an ironic twist, the Israelites turned out to be more of an example of what we should not strive to be as they continued to make attempts to prove themselves to God and failed over and over. This shows us the need for a Savior – a need for Jesus as God came to us in Jesus and paid our price for sin to save us and redeem us back to Him. God allowed the Israelites to fail over and over in themselves to show the world that there is a need for something more than what we have to give – to show us that we need Him. Ask Jesus for help today and He will save you from sin; give God your obedience in your heart and He will preserve you for eternity – in Christ.
Dear LORD,
Your people Israel have earned a special place in heaven as they were Your example to the world. You allowed them to strive to prove themselves to You so that we could see the need for more than we can ever offer of ourselves. Thank You for sending Your Holy Spirit to speak to us through living within our heart. In Jesus name I pray, amen.