Revelation 21:2 - Exposition

And I John saw the holy city, new Jerusalem. "John" must be omitted, according to all the best manuscripts. "The holy city" is the Church of God (see on Revelation 11:2 ), now glorified and prepared for perfect communion with her Redeemer (cf. the promise in Revelation 3:12 , which is now fulfilled; cf. also Galatians 4:26 ; Hebrews 11:10 , Hebrews 11:16 ). Contrast this figure of the holy city with that of Babylon (see on Revelation 18:1-24 .). Coming down from God out of heaven. Connect "out of heaven" with "coming down." The same words occur in Revelation 3:12 (which see). Prepared as a bride adorned for her husband. Here is the contrast to the "harlot" (see on Revelation 17:1 ). Though many of those forming the bride are rewarded according to their works (see Revelation 20:13 ), yet their own works are insufficient to fit them for their future life; they are prepared by God. This appearance is anticipated in Revelation 19:7 (which see).