A city of gold - O se aai e fausia i le auro

Scripture Focus: Faaaliga 21:15-21

And he that talked with me had a golden reed to measure the city, and the gates thereof, and the wall thereof. And the city lieth foursquare, and the length is as large as the breadth: and he measured the city with the reed, twelve thousand furlongs. The length and the breadth and the height of it are equal. And he measured the wall thereof, an hundred and forty and four cubits, according to the measure of a man, that is, of the angel. And the building of the wall of it was of jasper: and the city was pure gold, like unto clear glass. And the foundations of the wall of the city were garnished with all manner of precious stones. The first foundation was jasper; the second, sapphire; the third, a chalcedony; the fourth, an emerald; The fifth, sardonyx; the sixth, sardius; the seventh, chrysolite; the eighth, beryl; the ninth, a topaz; the tenth, a chrysoprasus; the eleventh, a jacinth; the twelfth, an amethyst. And the twelve gates were twelve pearls; every several gate was of one pearl: and the street of the city was pure gold, as it were transparent glass.
- Revelation 21:15-21 (KJV)

Study:

The passage from Revelation 21:15-21 gives us a vivid description of the New Jerusalem, the holy city coming down from heaven. This city is measured by a golden reed, symbolizing perfection and purity. It is described as having equal length, breadth, and height, showing its completeness and divine design. The walls are made of jasper, and the city itself is pure gold, as transparent as glass, signifying holiness, glory, and the presence of God. The foundations of the city walls are adorned with precious stones, each unique and beautiful, representing the diversity and richness of God's promises. The twelve gates are pearls, symbols of great value and beauty, and the streets are also pure gold, showing that God’s kingdom surpasses all earthly wealth and splendor. This passage points us toward the eternal, unblemished community of God’s people, where everything is perfected and sanctified.

Application:

Today, this description inspires believers to keep their hearts pure and to live in holiness, reflecting the glory of God in their lives. We are reminded that God's kingdom is beyond any earthly treasure and that our hope lies in eternal life with Him. Just as the city is built on precious foundations, our faith is built on the solid rock of Christ. This encourages us to cultivate a life that mirrors the beauty and purity of the New Jerusalem through holiness, love, and perseverance in faith. It also challenges us to fix our eyes on eternal things rather than temporary riches, knowing that the true treasure is found in God's presence.

Reflection Questions:

• What does the imagery of the city made of gold and precious stones teach us about the nature of God's kingdom?
• How can I apply the call to holiness in my daily life?
• In what ways am I building my life on solid foundations like the precious stones described here?
• How does this passage encourage me in times of trials or challenges?
• What earthly things am I placing above the eternal treasure that is found in God?

Prayer:

Lord, thank You for the promise of the New Jerusalem, a city of pure gold and precious stones. Help me to live a life worthy of Your kingdom, to pursue holiness and reflect Your glory. Strengthen my faith to trust in Your eternal promises above all earthly things. May my heart be fixed on You alone, and may I find joy in the hope of eternal life with You. Amen.

Tags: Revelation 21, New Jerusalem, Holy City, gold, precious stones, holiness, eternal life, biblical study, Christian faith, Bible reflection