What’s in a name?

The concept appears in several passages, most notably Zechariah 2, where an angel is sent “to measure Jerusalem to determine its width and length.” At first glance, it seems like the angel is measuring an existing city, but the context reveals a deeper truth. At this point in history, Jerusalem was still in ruins, its temple incomplete and its walls yet to be rebuilt. The measuring line, then, represents not just observation but God’s active involvement in ensuring Jerusalem would be restored.

The Hebrew word for “determine” in Zechariah 2 is ra’ah, meaning “to see.” This word carries a sense of intentionality—God doesn’t merely observe; he ensures. The measuring line, in this context, symbolizes God’s commitment to see Jerusalem rebuilt, reflecting his care and oversight for his people. But the passage also shifts focus. A second angel appears, proclaiming that this city will be built “without walls,” pointing to a broader, spiritual reality: the New Jerusalem, God’s eternal dwelling with his people.

This spiritual city, unlike its physical counterpart, would be limitless in size, open to all who come to God, and protected by his presence—a “wall of fire” around it. Zechariah’s vision shows that the ultimate purpose of this city is relationship: God dwelling with his people. The New Testament echoes these themes in Revelation 21, where the New Jerusalem is revealed not as a physical location but as the people of God, the bride of Christ. The measuring line reappears, representing God’s work of gathering and building up his people into a unified, eternal community.

The name also connects to the Greek word canon, meaning “measuring stick,” which refers to the Bible itself. Scripture provides the standard by which God gathers, restores, and defines his people. Just as the measuring line reflects God’s promise to restore and protect his people, the canon reflects his revealed truth, guiding and shaping his community.

At The Measuring Line, we embrace this vision of God’s intentional care and redemptive work. Our name reflects our desire to be part of this divine activity—gathering people into God’s community and helping build them up in faith and love. Just as the measuring line symbolizes God’s promise to restore and protect his people, we pray that our church serves as a place where God’s truth, goodness, and beauty are lived out, drawing people closer to him.