The reference to the twelve “apostles” is important. Had the Holy Spirit here used the word “disciples,” we would have been confronted with the work of men who were learning. The term “apostles,” however, lays a finger on their status as ambassadors who were sent, and hence as persons who spoke with authority (Matthew 28:19). Further, their Sender is “the Lamb” (and not “Jesus” or “the Lord”), a term that underscores why he came into the world (John 1:29) and what he accomplished (and so why he could be enthroned, Revelation 5:1–14). That this city now bears the names of these apostles on its foundation stones communicates that this city is typified by Jesus’ work and words. Those who enter can do so only because of the gospel of grace these twelve apostles proclaimed. This speaks to the apostolicity of the church.
14 And the wall of the city had twelve foundations, and on them were the twelve names of the twelve apostles of the Lamb.