For the Lamb at the center of the throne will be their shepherd; ‘he will lead them to springs of living water.’ ‘And God will wipe away every tear from their eyes’” (Revelation 7:17).
At home in the Father’s house
Our eternal home is a city. God develops his plan in taking his new humanity (those in Christ), not to a garden, but to a city. Cities are marked by density and diversity. The New Jerusalem has both (Revelation 5:9-14; 21:15-17). What will the eternal city be like? Let’s think about our eternal destiny.
- It will be a new place (Revelation 21:2, 5). It is part of the new creation, suitable for the habitation of those who are new in Jesus Christ (2 Corinthians 5:17; Ephesians 2:15).
- It will be skillfully designed and built (Hebrews 11:10) by God (Revelation 21:2, 10), the master builder of all things.
- It will be beautiful (Revelation 21:2, 11). There will be no ugliness, no urban blight, no slums, no neighborhoods to avoid, and no pollution.
- It will be pleasant and joyful in the city. The curse of sin and its consequences will be totally removed (Revelation 21:4, 6-8; 22:3).
- It will be a place of safety (Revelation 21:12). The only fear will be a holy reverence for the majestic God.
- It will be the meeting place for all God’s people (Revelation 21:12, 14; cf. Hebrews 11:39-40) with God (Revelation 22:23; 22:4). We will always be near those that love the Lord and enjoy him
- It will be an immense city, about 1,400 miles cubed (Revelation 21:16), if this is intended literally or a figurative way of pointing out its enormity.
- It will have immeasurable wealth (Revelation 21:18-21). All poverty will be forever removed. There will be an plentiful supply from the God of all grace.
- It will shine with the splendor of God’s surpassing brilliance (Revelation 21:11, 22-23; 22:5).
- It will be a place of great human creativity, as we reflect the glory of likeness to Christ (Revelation 21:24-26; 22:3).
- It will have all we need for life and eternal renewal (Revelation 22:1-2).
- It will be marked by eternal victory and celebration (Revelation 22:5, 14).
How then should we live, since we have such a glorious destiny?
- We should worship God (Revelation 22:9).
- We should focus on the Lord Jesus Christ (Revelation 22:12-13, 16).
- We should invite others to join us there (Revelation 22:17).
- We should look for Christ’s return (Revelation 22:20).
- We should rely on his grace until he comes (Revelation 22:21).
So then, let’s do these things!
Grace and peace, David