Year of the Bible: Part Twelve of TwelveEgzanp

The New Jerusalem

Following the Great Tribulation, the Millenium, and the destruction of the enemies of God’s people, Jesus will make all things new! Dr. Tony Evans explains that while believers will dwell across the entire new creation, an angel focuses John’s attention on the new earth’s capital. The New Jerusalem will descend from the clouds to settle on the new earth! The description of New Jerusalem is awe-inspiring: 1,500 miles long, wide, and high is bigger than any city we have seen or visited. The materials used seem lavish, yet the resources of God are so vast that these materials are as common to Him as wood is to us. The names inscribed on the gates indicate that believers from the Old Testament dwell there. The twelve foundations with the names of the twelve apostles signify that believers from the New Testament church dwell there as well. Thus, old and new covenant believers will live together in the new creation.

There will be no temple because we will no longer need a representation of God’s presence. God and Jesus will be present, and their glory will provide the light! There will be no impurity or sin—only good. The nations will walk by the light of this capital city, and we will have no fear. There will be no night, which Dr. Evans says is probably because believers’ glorified bodies will never get tired or need sleep. No one will be bored, and the nations of the earth will bring their glory to the city to offer it to God most high. Visiting the city will likely be a highlight of life on the new earth!

After all the enduring and choosing and standing strong, we will live in beauty with God’s presence all around us. Nothing shameful, difficult, or sad will be allowed. We cannot fathom the new world or the peace we will experience when we visit the New Jerusalem!

Question: Can you imagine being surrounded by life, hope, freedom, and love?

Prayer: Ask God to renew your hope and anticipation for what is coming. Take some time to list the things you are looking forward to in the new heaven and earth.