What does Revelation 21:3 mean?

And I heard a great voice out of heaven saying, Behold, the tabernacle of God is with men, and he will dwell with them, and they shall be his people, and God himself shall be with them, and be their God. Revelation 21:3

Explanation

Revelation 21:3 is a verse in the New Testament of the Christian Bible, part of the book of Revelation, which is a prophetic text revealing the apocalyptic visions of John the Apostle. This specific verse speaks to the ultimate hope of Christian eschatology: the new creation where God will establish His full and permanent presence among humanity. The “tabernacle of God” refers to the dwelling place of God, reminiscent of the portable sanctuary used by the Israelites during the Exodus. “With men” indicates the close and intimate relationship that God will have with humanity. The repetition of “and he will dwell with them, and they shall be his people, and God himself shall be with them, and be their God” amplifies the promise of God’s enduring presence and the establishment of an eternal covenant relationship between God and His people.

Historical Context

The Book of Revelation was likely written toward the end of the first century A.D. during a period of persecution of Christians under Roman rule. At that time, Christians were experiencing severe trials, and Revelation provided them with a message of hope, encouraging them to remain faithful. This verse, in particular, offers a vision of ultimate salvation and restoration, serving as a reassurance that God’s presence and sovereignty will ultimately prevail over all forms of evil and suffering.

Theological Insights

Theologically, this verse is rich with the themes of God’s presence, salvation, and the fulfilment of divine promises. It aligns with the biblical narrative of God’s plan to reconcile and live among His people, from the Garden of Eden to the tabernacle in the wilderness, the temple in Jerusalem, and ultimately, in the person of Jesus Christ. From a Christian perspective, this verse underlines the final phase of redemption, where the separation caused by sin is fully removed, and God’s presence is permanently restored among His people. Different denominations may place varying emphasis on the timing and nature of these events but agree on the fundamental hope it represents.

Practical Applications

The promise in Revelation 21:3 provides believers with comfort and assurance particularly in times of hardship, loss, or injustice. It encourages a perspective that transcends the present troubles and focuses on the hope for a future where God will make all things right. The verse can inspire acts of compassion, ethical living, and a community focused on reflecting the love and holiness of God in anticipation of this future reality. It motivates believers to live as ‘God’s people’ even now, fostering unity, respect, and genuine care within the body of Christ.

Cross-References

• Revelation 7:15: “Therefore are they before the throne of God, and serve him day and night in his temple: and he that sitteth on the throne shall dwell among them.”
• Revelation 21:22: “And I saw no temple therein: for the Lord God Almighty and the Lamb are the temple of it.”
• Ezekiel 37:27: “My tabernacle also shall be with them: yea, I will be their God, and they shall be my people.”
• Leviticus 26:11-12: “And I will set my tabernacle among you: and my soul shall not abhor you. And I will walk among you, and will be your God, and ye shall be my people.”
• 2 Corinthians 6:16: “And what agreement hath the temple of God with idols? for ye are the temple of the living God; as God hath said, I will dwell in them, and walk in them; and I will be their God, and they shall be my people.”

Language Study

• “Tabernacle” (Greek: σκηνή – skēnē): This word originally referred to a tent or temporary dwelling. It evokes the historical context of the wilderness period when God dwelled in the Tabernacle among the Israelites.
• “Dwell” (Greek: σκηνόω – skēnoō): This is related to the word for tabernacle, implying to live or take up residence. It underscores the concept of God’s continued and personal presence.
• “Behold” (Greek: ἰδού – idou): This imperative is used to draw attention to something of great importance, signaling the grandeur and significance of the announcement.

Cultural and Religious Comparisons

In many ancient religions, the idea of gods dwelling with humans is common, but it usually manifests in myths of gods walking the earth in physical form, engaging with humanity episodically or whimsically. In contrast, Revelation presents a monotheistic view where the one true God commits to an unbreakable, eternal covenant with His people, distinguishing it from the more transient interactions within other ancient mythologies.

Scientific Perspectives

Scientifically, the verse does not intersect with empirical data or natural laws, as it speaks to the metaphysical and eschatological hope of Christianity. The concept of God dwelling with humanity is beyond the scope of scientific inquiry. However, it holds psychological importance as it relates to human hope, longing for meaning, and the desire for a restored world, all concepts that can be subjects of study in fields like psychology or sociology.

Commentaries

Many biblical scholars and theologians have provided interpretations of this verse. Generally, commentators like Matthew Henry view it as a depiction of heaven’s glories, where pain and death are no more, with God’s presence signifying the greatest joy. Others, such as John Gill, understand it as an encouragement to the persecuted church, affirming God’s faithfulness and ultimate victory. Still, some suggest that this promise begins in the present age in a spiritual sense, with its fullness to be realized in the age to come. The unanimity lies in the realization that this verse presents the final consummation of God’s redemptive plan.