Steven Ow Kam Toi

Introduction to NT
Assignment 6: Q: Do you think that the language of Revelation 21 which describes the heavenly Jerusalem should be taken literally or figuratively? 1. Definition Literal is defined as the basic or original meaning of the word or expression. Figurative is defined as a word or expression being used in a different way from the usual meaning or literal meaning of a word or expression. Description of the Heavenly Jerusalem (Rev 21) 2.1. Description of the New Jerusalem The Holy City coming down from heaven from God (v2, v10). The New Jerusalem coming down from heaven cannot be literal. Behold, the dwelling place of God is with man (v3). Bride of the Lamb (v2, v9). The Bride is the church, the people of God. The city is lighted by the glory of God and there is no night (v11, v23). Radiance like a most rare jewel, like a jasper and clear as crystal (v11). Symbolizing Gods glory and holiness Streets are made of pure gold and transparent as glass (v18, v21). Walls were made of jasper and the city was pure gold, clear as glass (v18). Pure gold and transparent clear glass is a symbol of purity. The temple is the Lord God the Almighty and the Lamb (v22). 2.2. Numerical description 2.2.1. Twelve is the numerical symbol for governmental perfection or completeness of organization or nation. 12 gates, guarded by 12 angels, with the names of the 12 tribes of the sons of Israel inscribed on the gates (v12, v21). 12 gates made from 12 pearls, each gate is made of a single pearl (v21). 12 foundations of the wall were inscribed with the 12 names of the apostles of the Lamb (v14). The Bible recorded more than 14 apostles. Therefore the number 12 is figurative and may be a symbol of the completeness of the Church. The 12 apostles were the founding members of the early church. The wall measurement was 144 cubits (v17). 144 = 12 x 12, a symbol of completeness of strength or protection (wall). The length, width and height of the city was12,000 stadia (v16). 12,000 =12 x 1000. Again 12, the complete number, multiply by 1000, one millennium. 12 types of jewels adorned the 12 foundation of the wall (v19, v20). Archetypal of Aarons breastplate with 12 stones. A symbol to show that the apostles are high priests of the Church (foundation of the walls of the New Jerusalem).

2.

Steven Ow Kam Toi

2 Three is the numerical symbol for divine perfection. The 3 gates on the north, 3 gates on the east, 3 gates on the south and 3 gates on west (v13). The 4 directions is a symbol of the 4 corners of the earth. Again: 12 gates = 3 gates x 4 directions. Probably means divine perfection everywhere (omnipresence maybe) Four is the numerical symbol for the earthly or creation completeness. The city lies foursquare. Its length, width and height are equal (v16). Maybe foursquare symbolized creation completeness. Seven is the numerical symbol for the spiritual perfection. Then came one of the 7 angels who had the 7 bowls full of the 7 last plaques... (v9).

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Other Symbols in Rev 21 3.1. Lamb Lamb is the OT type of Jesus Christ (v9, v14, v22, v23, v27) Husband of the Bride (v2, v9). A picture of the perfect union of Christ and the church. As the lamp for Gods light (glory) (v23). The physical revelation of Gods glory. 3.2. Light Glory of God (v23). Light and radiance symbolize Gods glory. No night (v25) Nation kings walks by it on the earth (v24). Light in this verse could mean truth. Alpha and Omega Beginning and the last (v6). Symbol of everlasting, eternity. Sea The sea was no more (v1). There is no more evil in the heavenly Jerusalem. The sea represents unceasing turmoil. The beast came out of the sea. Therefore the sea is the symbol of evil and death. Water of life To the thirsty I will give from the spring of the water of life without payment (v6). Water of life is the symbol of salvation.

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Conclusion The language of Revelation 21 which describes the heavenly Jerusalem should be taken figuratively.