Dr. David Jeremiah: The Celestial City | Dr. David Jeremiah | Revelation 21 & 22

The Eternal City of God: A Glimpse of Heaven’s Glory

Revelation 21 and 22 unveil one of the most breathtaking visions in all of Scripture—the Celestial City, the New Jerusalem, the eternal home of God’s people. Dr. David Jeremiah reminds us that this is not a dream or metaphor, but a real, tangible city—built by God Himself, prepared for those who belong to Christ.

From the very beginning, humanity has longed for a place of peace, beauty, and belonging. Abraham waited for “the city whose builder and maker is God” (Hebrews 11:10). And now, John gives us a glimpse of that promise fulfilled. He sees the holy city descending from heaven, radiant as a bride adorned for her husband—complete, pure, and ready.

This city is unlike any other. Its brilliance outshines the greatest metropolises of our time. Imagine a place vast beyond comprehension—fifteen hundred miles in every direction—its walls gleaming with jasper, its gates formed from single pearls, and its streets shining with gold so pure it appears like glass. Twelve foundations uphold it, each adorned with precious stones, and on them are written the names of the apostles—an eternal reminder that this city is built upon the faith of those who followed Christ.

Every detail speaks of redemption. Every foundation, every gate, every shimmer of light tells the story of how we got there—through the blood of Jesus. The gates of heaven will never close because there will be no darkness, no danger, and nothing unholy. The light of the Lamb fills the city, radiating with the very glory of God. There will be no need for sun or moon, for “the Lamb is its light.”

At the heart of this divine city flows the River of Life, clear as crystal, streaming from the throne of God and of the Lamb. Along its banks stands the Tree of Life, bearing twelve kinds of fruit—one for every month—and its leaves bring healing to the nations. In this paradise restored, food will not be needed for survival but enjoyed for joy and fellowship—a picture of the perfect life God intended from the beginning.

But the most powerful truth about the Celestial City is this: not everyone will enter. Revelation 21:27 says, “Nothing impure will ever enter it… but only those whose names are written in the Lamb’s Book of Life.” This glorious city is reserved for those who have placed their trust in Jesus Christ. It’s not enough to be good, moral, or even religious. Heaven is not earned—it is given through grace, received by faith in the One who died and rose again.

Jesus Himself promised, “I go to prepare a place for you. And if I go and prepare a place for you, I will come again and receive you to Myself.” That promise is for you. The city is real, the invitation is open, and the Savior is waiting.

One day, those who have believed will walk upon those golden streets, their hearts filled with awe and eternal joy. There will be no more pain, no more night, and no more separation. Just the everlasting presence of God—our light, our peace, and our home forever.

So the question is simple, yet eternal: Is your name written in the Lamb’s Book of Life?

Because heaven isn’t just a place to imagine. It’s a home prepared for those who love Him.

And one day, when the gates of that Celestial City open wide, may you walk through them—welcomed, redeemed, and finally home.