Revelation 21:25

• the nations: God’s promise to Abraham comes true (Genesis 12:3; see Isaiah 2:3).

• In Revelation, the kings of the world often represent God’s enemies (Revelation 6:15; 17:18; 18:3, 9). Now that these enemies are destroyed (Revelation 16:9, 11; 19:1–2, 19–21), the image is of God’s glory shown in those who have repented (Revelation 14:6–7; compare 11:13) and walk with God (5:9; 15:4).

• The gates that are never closed contrast with ancient times when closed gates protected cities from enemies, especially at night. The people experience peace and security under God’s rule (see Isaiah 60:11). God’s enemies are gone, and fear and failure have ended (see Zechariah 14:7; John 11:8–10; 12:35–36).

The final scenes of the new heaven and earth show a new community and home for God's people, created and given by God. These scenes uplift persecuted Christians. John shares his main vision (Revelation 21:1–8) and expands on it in two parts:

1. In Revelation 21:9–27, he describes the new Jerusalem as a place of holy perfection;

2. in Revelation 22:1–5, he portrays the new Jerusalem as the ultimate garden of Eden, which Adam and Eve could have experienced if they had not sinned.