Studying the book of Revelation at BSF at the moment so found this bit of data interesting – and it adds more weight to the argument that the Bible is trustworthy and unique.
In describing the gem stones that will be in Heaven, the Bible details the names of the 12 gems that will be there. Amazingly, every single Gem stated is classified as ‘anisotropic’.
Scientists have only discovered that gems can be classified as either anisotropic or isotropic in the last century, but Revelation was written nearly 2000 years ago.
Out of the 28 common gems, only 16 are anisotropic, meaning the odds of John, while in a primitive Island setting, selecting 12 anisotropic gems in this section of the Bible are 1 in 16,715. 1Actually it is a lot lower due to the fact that not many of the gems are more precious than others There are *far* more compelling reasons to believe the Bible is credible, but an honest assessment of these facts alone, points convincingly towards Biblical reliability.
And for those who have discovered its’ message – that Jesus the King died & rose again as predicted, reigns in Heaven & will return – will one day see the glorious reality of these gems being anisotropic…
You see, scientists have (very) recently discovered an intriguing characteristic of isotropic / anisotropic gems.
When cross-polarized pure light is shone into isotropic gems, the result is dull, grey or black, boring.
But when this same light is shone at Anisotropic stones?
Bright and colourful arrays and patterns result. Bright patterns with the colours of the rainbow, unique to each stone – a *far* cry from the isotropic stones…
WOW! The beauty of Heaven will be breathtaking to say the least. Jesus, the purest Light of all, shining into these brilliant gems, the cascading light & reflections a dazzling backdrop to streets made of solid gold.
But as overwhelming as all this sounds, when there it will all pail into insignificance when compared to the presence and sight of the Holy One who sits on the throne. How majestic is His name, the focal point of Heaven, the Creator & King of Heaven…
The *only* Way you can understand these things or be there, is not a religion or by being good, but to respond to what Jesus offers: new life. He calls it being ‘born again’ – a spiritual reality that only God can orchestrate.
Unless you are born again, you will never see the Kingdom of Heaven
– Jesus
Lord, please open our eyes to Your love and Truth. Please forgive us for what we have done against You, not because we deserve it, not because we do ‘good’, but because Your Son Jesus paid the price for all sin. Awaken us & give us the desire to help others end up with You for eternity. Help us look forward to that day when we dance on the streets that are golden, surrounded by brilliant colours and revel in your presence.
Footnotes:
- 1Actually it is a lot lower due to the fact that not many of the gems are more precious than others