The gates

 October 27 – The Gates – Rev 21:11-12

 

Vs 11-12  John tries to the best of his ability to paint a word picture of what this city will look like.  It is brilliant like a precious jewel.  It is clear as crystal and it could be red, brown, green or blue.  Now the reason for its brilliance is light.  Light always makes something more powerful in its powerful because light enhances its regular hue and coloring.  Remember here God himself is the light.

     The city has a great high walls with twelve gates and each gate is guarded by twelve angels.  On each entrance into this city is written the names of the twelve tribes of Israel.  Israel is the covenant people.  They have been waiting for their fulfillment and promise.  When God gives a promise He always keeps it.  This city is a memorial to a nation that has been set apart since Abraham for God himself.  All things have been fulfilled and renewed.  Through Israel came the Messiah and salvation and this city reminds all who came through its gates of that fact.  The gates are a symbol of how salvation came through Israel.