2024-07-21 The New Jerusalem: A Glimpse of Eternity

Title: Navigating Your Journey to Eternity

You might wonder how to navigate the journey of life, especially when thinking about eternity. Just like using a GPS or a road atlas for a trip, we need guidance for our spiritual journey. In Revelation 21 and 22, we find a divine roadmap that leads us to the New Jerusalem, a place of eternal refuge and rest. Let's explore what God has in store for us and how we can prepare for this incredible destination.

The New Jerusalem: A Glimpse of Eternity

In Revelation 21:9-22:5, John gives us a vivid description of the New Jerusalem. This city is not just a physical place but a symbol of God's promise and fulfillment for those who trust in Jesus. The New Jerusalem is a place where God's glory shines brightly, and His people dwell in perfect harmony.

1. The City's Members: Holy Residents

The New Jerusalem will be filled with holy residents, both from believing Israel and the Church. These residents are glorified and purified by God, reflecting His glory. As Paul writes in Romans 8:28-30, God's purpose is to conform us to the image of His Son. This journey of sanctification will be completed in the New Jerusalem, where we will be arrayed with God's glory.

2. The City's Measurements: A Place of Permanence and Protection

The city's measurements, described as a 1400-mile cube, symbolize the Holy of Holies, where God's presence dwelled in the Old Testament. This immense city represents the permanence and protection God provides for His people. No longer will we face persecution or fear; we will have eternal refuge and rest in God's presence.

3. The City's Materials: Reflecting God's Glory

The materials used to build the New Jerusalem are precious and transparent, allowing God's glory to shine through. The foundations, adorned with various jewels, remind us of the high priest's breastplate and the manifold beauty of God. This city is a testament to God's creativity and His desire to dwell with His people.

4. The City's Main Purpose: Displaying God's Glory

The New Jerusalem's main purpose is to display the radiant glory of God. There will be no need for a temple or created sources of light because God's glory will illuminate the city. Jesus, the Lamb, will be the lamp, shining God's light throughout the new creation. We will walk by the knowledge of God, perfectly obeying Him and experiencing His presence fully.

5. The City's Majesty: God's Presence at the Center

At the heart of the New Jerusalem is God's throne, from which flows the river of life. The tree of life, spanning the river, provides healing for the nations. This garden-like description echoes the Garden of Eden, where God's presence was fully experienced. In the New Jerusalem, we will have complete access to God, enjoying eternal life and His protection.

Taking the Next Step

So, what does this mean for you? How can you prepare for this incredible destination?

1. Trust in Jesus

If you haven't already, place your trust in Jesus. He is the way, the truth, and the life (John 14:6). By believing in Him, you can secure your place in the New Jerusalem and experience the eternal life He offers.

2. Embrace the Journey of Sanctification

As believers, we are on a journey of becoming more like Christ. Allow God to work in your life, shaping your character, attitudes, and desires to align with His. Remember, God is faithful to complete the work He began in you (Philippians 1:6).

3. Share the Hope of Eternity

Share the hope of the New Jerusalem with others. Many people around you need to hear about the eternal life and refuge God offers. Be a light in their lives, pointing them to Jesus and the incredible future He has prepared.

Conclusion

The New Jerusalem is a place of unimaginable beauty, glory, and peace. It's a destination where we will dwell with God forever, experiencing His presence and protection. What will you do this week to prepare for this journey? Will you trust in Jesus, embrace the process of sanctification, and share the hope of eternity with others?

Prayer

Heavenly Father, thank You for the promise of the New Jerusalem. Help us to trust in Jesus and embrace the journey of becoming more like Him. Give us the courage to share the hope of eternity with those around us. May Your glory shine through our lives as we look forward to dwelling with You forever. In Jesus' name, Amen.

2024-07-07 A BIRD'S-EYE VIEW OF THE NEW CREATION

Title: Embracing God's New Creation: A Journey to Eternity

Have you ever wondered what heaven will be like? Maybe you've imagined it as a place where all your dreams come true, where you can eat anything you want, or be as fit as you desire. But what if heaven, or more accurately, the new creation, is not about what we want, but about what God wants for us?

In our recent sermon, we explored the concept of the new creation as described in Revelation 21. This isn't just a theological idea; it's a promise of a future where God makes everything new, a place where He will dwell with us forever. Let's dive into what this means for you and how it can transform your life today.

The New Creation: A Place of New Beginnings

The Bible tells us in Revelation 21:1, "Then I saw a new heaven and a new earth, for the first heaven and the first earth had passed away, and the sea was no more." This new creation is not just a refurbished version of our current world; it's a completely renewed and restored place, free from the effects of sin and death.

Imagine a world where there is no more pain, no more grief, and no more death. Revelation 21:4 promises, "He will wipe away every tear from their eyes, and death shall be no more, neither shall there be mourning, nor crying, nor pain anymore, for the former things have passed away." This is the life that awaits those who have placed their trust in Jesus.

Why Should You Care?

You might be wondering, "What's in it for me?" The answer is profound: God wants to live with you. Revelation 21:3 says, "Behold, the dwelling place of God is with man. He will dwell with them, and they will be his people, and God himself will be with them as their God." This isn't just about a future promise; it's about a relationship that starts now and lasts for eternity.

God's desire to dwell with us is not new. From the Garden of Eden to the Tabernacle in the wilderness, to Jesus walking among us, and now through the Holy Spirit living in us, God's plan has always been to be with His people. The new creation is the culmination of this divine desire.

What Should You Do?

So, what does this mean for you today? Here are some concrete steps you can take to align your life with God's eternal plan:

1. Trust in Jesus: If you haven't already, place your trust in Jesus. He lived a perfect life, died for your sins, and rose again to give you eternal life. This is the first step to experiencing the new creation.

2. Live with Eternity in Mind: Start living your life with the new creation in mind. This means prioritizing your relationship with God, loving others, and seeking to do His will in all areas of your life.

3. Share the Hope: Tell others about the hope of the new creation. Many people are living without hope, and you have the opportunity to share the good news of what God has prepared for those who love Him.

Conclusion

The point is clear: God wants to live with you forever in a new creation that is free from sin, pain, and death. What will you do this week to draw closer to Him? Will you trust in Jesus, live with eternity in mind, and share this hope with others?

Prayer

Heavenly Father, thank You for the promise of a new creation where You will dwell with us forever. Help us to trust in Jesus, live with eternity in mind, and share this hope with those around us. May we always seek to align our desires with Your perfect plan. In Jesus' name, Amen.