Will heaven have literal streets of gold?

WHAT DOES THE BIBLE SAY?

The Bible describes the future heavenly city as having at least one street of pure gold, as mentioned in Revelation 21:21. There is no explicit indication that the gold is symbolic or metaphorical; thus many interpret this literally, meaning a golden street is a literal feature of the heavenly Jerusalem. There are also symbolic interpretations and implications. The quality of the gold in the city is described as being like clear glass, which could symbolize the full radiance of God's glory. This imagery brings to life God’s unmatched splendor and divine beauty that will fill the new heavens and earth, where nothing lacks perfection. The street of gold—whether a literal street or a metaphorical description—is a powerful symbol of God's supreme worth and the eternal glory that will fill His kingdom.

FROM THE OLD TESTAMENT

• Isaiah 60:19–20 talks about God's light shining on His people and describes precious materials, but it does not explicitly mention streets of gold.

FROM THE NEW TESTAMENT

• Revelation 21:21 speaks of the new heavenly Jerusalem, saying, "And the twelve gates were twelve pearls, each of the gates made of a single pearl, and the street of the city was pure gold, like transparent glass." The question, then, is whether this reference is to be understood as referring to a literal golden street. Since no indication is given that the verse is merely symbolic, it is likely that the future heavenly city will have a literal street covered with gold. Note that this "street" is singular, likely referring to a main street in the main part of the city. The Greek plateia is used; it is the word generally used of the main street of an ancient city or town. While all streets in the heavenly Jerusalem could be made of gold, here only one main street is specifically mentioned.
• Revelation 21:10–11 reveals "the holy city Jerusalem coming down out of heaven from God, having the glory of God, its radiance like a most rare jewel, like a jasper, clear as crystal." This was not a city made by people; it was a holy city coming down from the sky and radiating with the glory of God.
• The city was measured with a golden rod (Revelation 21:15) and "the city was pure gold, like clear glass" (Revelation 21:18).
• Revelation 21 also emphasizes the quality of the gold involved. The highest quality of gold is mentioned in verse 18, a pure gold, like clear glass that is transparent or nearly transparent in nature. The idea is perhaps to reflect God's great glory that will be on full display at this time.
• Revelation also discusses a new heavens and new earth (Revelation 21—22). The contrast between life on earth now and what ultimately awaits God's people is vast. Believers will rejoice both in God's presence and in the abundant beauty of the surrounding area.

IMPLICATIONS FOR TODAY

In ancient culture, similar to today, gold was the precious stone of highest value or worth. In the future heavenly city, what is most valuable on earth is in abundant supply. Even the streets, generally consisting of dirt or rock in biblical times, will be made of gold. This extravagant imagery emphasizes the unparalleled greatness of God's kingdom, where nothing is lacking and all things are transformed by His glory. The new heavens and earth will be a manifestation of God's supreme value, where His presence will fill every corner of creation, and everything will radiate His majesty, beauty, and worth. The materials and structures that might signify human achievement or wealth on earth will serve as mere reflections of His infinite splendor, reinforcing that in His kingdom, all earthly splendor fades in the light of His eternal glory.

UNDERSTAND

• The heavenly Jerusalem likely has a literal street of pure gold.
• The gold's clarity reflects God's unmatched glory.
• The streets symbolize God's supreme worth and eternal kingdom.

REFLECT

• How does the imagery of streets of gold shape your understanding of heaven and God's glory?
• What earthly treasures do you value most, and how does Revelation 21 challenge your perspective on their worth?
• How can the certainty of God's eternal kingdom influence the way you live today?

ENGAGE

• What do the descriptions of the heavenly Jerusalem reveal about God's character and His priorities for His people?
• How does the contrast between earthly and heavenly treasures impact the way we view success and wealth?
• What does the Bible’s emphasis on God’s glory in the new heavens and new earth teach us about what we should long for most?