New Testament

Revelation 21:14

Read the Bible in clear, modern English—easy to understand, faithful to the meaning, and written for everyday readers.

ClearClear Bible Translation

The city wall had 12 foundations, and inscribed on them were the names of the 12 apostles of the Lamb.

Compare translations
KJVKing James Version

And the wall of the city had twelve foundations, and in them the names of the twelve apostles of the Lamb.

What Revelation 21:14 means

Plain-English insight for readers

In Revelation 21:14, we learn about the New Jerusalem, a heavenly city described in the book of Revelation. The verse highlights that the city's wall is supported by twelve foundations, each representing one of the twelve apostles of Jesus Christ. This signifies the importance of the apostles in establishing the Christian faith and their foundational role in the early church. The names inscribed on the foundations symbolize the authority and teachings of the apostles, which continue to guide believers today. The imagery of the city and its foundations reflects the unity and strength of the church built upon the teachings of Christ and His apostles. This verse emphasizes the connection between the past and the future, showing how the apostles' work laid the groundwork for the eternal kingdom of God. It serves as a reminder of the legacy of faith that believers inherit and the importance of standing firm in that faith as they look forward to the fulfillment of God's promises.

How to apply Revelation 21:14 to your life

This verse encourages believers to appreciate the foundational role of the apostles in their faith. It reminds us to study their teachings and apply them in our lives, ensuring that we build our spiritual lives on solid ground. Embracing this legacy can strengthen our faith and community.

Curated for this public verse page. Revelation Summary

Explore more of the Bible

Learn the Bible through its people and places

Get to know the people in Scripture through illustrated stories, and explore the places where they lived and traveled.

A painting of young Saul guarding the cloaks at the stoning of Stephen

Illustrated scene from Paul's story: The Stoning of Stephen (Acts 7:57–8:2)

Meet the people of the Bible

Follow their lives in order, with illustrated scenes and Bible passages that tell their stories.

Paul

The low dark stone ruins of Capernaum, with the Sea of Galilee and hills behind.

Photo: zeevveez, via Wikimedia Commons. License: CC BY 2.0. Source. Location: Capernaum, on the northern shore of the Sea of Galilee. Resized for the web.

Explore the places of the Bible

See where biblical events happened, why each place matters, and what archaeology helps us understand.

Capernaum

Jesus' home base by the Sea of Galilee, and the town where Peter lived.

Get full access with one subscription

Explore the people and places of the Bible. Read summaries of every book, with images and clear explanations covering every chapter. Access all these features and our Bible study tools with one subscription.

See Plans

Ask AI about Revelation 21:14

Ask a question about this verse and get a clear answer, with Bible references you can read for yourself.

Every Bible book, explained chapter by chapter

Explore summaries of every book of the Bible, with images and easy-to-understand explanations covering every chapter.

Keep studying Revelation 21:14

At a Glance — the Book of Revelation

Author
John the apostle
Written
Around AD 95
Genre
Apocalyptic prophecy
Original Audience
The seven churches of Asia Minor

Frequently Asked Questions

Quick, clear answers about this verse

What does Revelation 21:14 mean?

Revelation 21:14 describes the New Jerusalem, emphasizing that its wall has twelve foundations, each representing one of the twelve apostles of Jesus. This highlights the apostles' foundational role in the Christian faith and signifies their enduring influence on believers.

What is the significance of the twelve apostles in Revelation 21:14?

In Revelation 21:14, the twelve apostles symbolize the foundational teachings and authority of the early church. Their names inscribed on the city's foundations reflect their critical role in establishing the Christian faith and guiding future generations.

What does the New Jerusalem represent in Revelation 21:14?

The New Jerusalem represents the ultimate fulfillment of God's promises to His people, symbolizing a perfect and eternal community built on the teachings of Christ and His apostles.

How does Revelation 21:14 relate to Christian unity?

Revelation 21:14 emphasizes Christian unity by showing that the church is built upon the foundational teachings of the apostles. This unity is essential for believers as they strive to live out their faith together.

Daily Verse — straight to your inbox

A verse and a 2-sentence plain-English explanation, every morning. Free. Unsubscribe anytime.