Our Sinless Eternity Where We See Our Lord Clearly!
Revelation 21:18 – “And the building of the wall of it was of jasper: and the city was pure gold, like unto clear glass.”
For The SIH Devotional On This Subject:
The Revelation Of Jesus Christ: “pure gold, like unto clear glass.”
Revelation 21:18 – “And the building of the wall of it was of jasper: and the city was pure gold, like unto clear glass.”
John describes the New Jerusalem as “pure gold, like unto clear glass”.
The symbolism that lies behind the gold is very apparent. Biblically, gold is a symbol of:
- greatly valued or desired (Psa 19:1)
- a kingly authority (2 Sam 12:30)
- the true God, and false deities (Exo 20:23, 37:2, Isa 60:6-9)
- indestructibility (Zech 13:9)
Knowing this, it is very easy to see why John saw this eternal city of God symbolized by “pure gold’… It is greatly desired by God’s people; It is ruled over by the Lord, the King of Kings; It is the city of the True God; It will not be destroyed but will exist throughout eternity.
Why would this gold be described as “like unto pure glass”? Pure glass pictures something that can be easily seen through, without cracks, dirt, smoke, or any other material that could obstruct our view. It presents to us the truth that this eternal city is sinless, not touched by the filth of sin, nor will our eyes be spiritually blinded due to sinful flesh.
1 Corinthians 13:12 – “For now we see through a glass, darkly; but then face to face: now I know in part; but then shall I know even as also I am known.”
May we all praise and honor our Lord the wonderful future that awaits us… we will be able to see Him as He is, because we will no longer be touched by sin. This will all take place in His dwelling place that He reigns over, that will never fade away!
For an in depth look at these sections of the Revelation:
Share The Word Of God With Others On Labor Day!
The SIH Labor Day Devotionals:
The Christian’s Labor Day (Text & Video)
Laboring For Eternity (Text & Video)
Share the need of salvation with the unsaved …
Share the need of faithful service for the Christian…
Our Eternity With The Lord… The Gospel Gives Access To A Sinless Eternity!
Revelation 21:12 – And had a wall great and high, and had twelve gates, and at the gates twelve angels, and names written thereon, which are the names of the twelve tribes of the children of Israel:
For the SIH devotional on this subject:
“Laboring For Eternity”
The US holiday we commonly call “Labor Day” was “dedicated to the social and economic achievements of American workers. It constitutes a yearly national tribute to the contributions workers have made to the strength, prosperity, and well-being of our country.” (The History of Labor Day”, US Gvt DOL website – http://www.dol.gov/opa/aboutdol/laborday.htm)
In times past, Labor Day was commonly referred to as the “working man’s holiday”. Specifically set aside in appreciation for the hard work of the American citizen (especially members of the Labor Unions).
When we look back at our lives, we can see our lives are filled with labor. We find ourselves laboring both at the workplace and at home to meet the needs of our families and to be productive citizens in our society.
But this morning I would like us to look at another type of labor that is absolutely necessary for each one of us…. laboring for eternity. For the next few minutes, we will try to take a quick look at this type of labor and why it is so important for each and every one of us.
THE SCRIPTURE:
John 6:26-27 KJV…
“Jesus answered them and said, Verily, verily, I say unto you, Ye seek me, not because ye saw the miracles, but because ye did eat of the loaves, and were filled.
Labour not for the meat which perisheth, but for that meat which endureth unto everlasting life, which the Son of man shall give unto you: for him hath God the Father sealed.”
THE STUDY:
In our text, the Lord clearly compares two different types of labor… labor for “the meat that perisheth” and labor for “the meat which endureth unto everlasting life”.
The Lord is speaking to those who had expended great effort to accompany him during his earthly ministry. Perhaps, they had walked many miles just to be with Him as He traveled from city to city.
This sounds like a great thing, right? To expend great effort to follow our Lord!
However, the Lord looked beyond their outward actions and looked at the reason why they were laboring to follow Him. When the motives in their heart were examined, the nature and value of their outward labors was greatly diminished.
You see, the motives behind their labors were entirely earthly in nature. The Lord explained to them that “Ye seek me, not because ye saw the miracles, but because ye did eat of the loaves, and were filled.” In other words, they were going to such great lengths to follow the Lord solely to meet the earthly needs of their flesh.
They were NOT following the Lord because they saw His great miracles, recognized Him as the Messiah (the One sent from God) and then desired to be taught and learn of Him. No, they simply saw His miracles, recognized He could meet the needs of their flesh, and followed Him for fleshly satisfaction. All of their effort was expended to simply meet the needs of their flesh…. How sad indeed!
Please do not misunderstand, there is nothing wrong with working to meet the needs of our flesh, in actuality, the Lord commands us to do so…
2 Thessalonians 3:12 KJV – “Now them that are such we command and exhort by our Lord Jesus Christ, that with quietness they work, and eat their own bread.”
1 Timothy 5:8 KJV – “But if any provide not for his own, and specially for those of his own house, he hath denied the faith, and is worse than an infidel.”
The issue at hand is one of PRIORITY. Although it is important, and good, for one to labor to meet the needs of their physical flesh, there is a MUCH MORE important type of labor that is to be done…. Labor that is done to meet our eternal and spiritual needs.
This is what Christ meant when He said, “Labour not for the meat which perisheth, but for that meat which endureth unto everlasting life”. He was not minimizing the need to labor for our fleshly needs, He was simply emphasizing the much greater importance of laboring for our spiritual needs.
The multitudes following Him would have benefited in a much greater way if they were expending the effort to follow Christ with the motive of having their spiritual needs fulfilled. If they had done this, they would find themselves concentrating on His teachings and lifestyle. They would have understood that through His teachings and life they could have come to an understanding of their sinful condition, their need of a Savior and the way of salvation through this same Christ.
The same Jesus that supplied their physical needs, was the One that could supply their spiritual needs as well. Christ revealed the source of their greatly needed spiritual meat when He said “that meat which endureth unto everlasting life which the Son of man shall give unto you:” This was the reason they should have been following Christ… to receive the spiritual food that would give them everlasting life with Christ.
PRACTICAL APPLICATION:
Why do we follow Christ?
Is it because we know that claiming the name of Christ makes us more popular in our neighborhood? Do we own a business and know we can increase our volume of customers by claiming we are a Christian?
Are we claiming Christ to please a spouse, other family member, or one we are currently dating? Perhaps, we are running for a public office and we are hoping to gain the “Christian vote” by outwardly following Christ?
All of these motives, and many others, are ways we can follow Christ to meet our fleshly wants and needs. Are these the central motives that strengthen us to follow Christ?
Or do we see the great need for expending our efforts towards securing everlasting life with Christ above all else?
Are we following Him because we recognize who He is and what He has done for us?
Do we see Him as the One sent by God to be the Saviour of the world?
Are we giving our full attention to Christ, so we can learn of Him, seek His face, recognize our sinful ways, and find deliverance from those sins through repentance and faith in Him and His work on the cross of Calvary?
And then, will we place our energies into sharing this same Christ with others, so that they may find forgiveness of their sins through Him?
This is the great choice that Christ has placed before us this Labor Day…
Going forward into the rest of this year and in the years to come, are we going to give first priority in our lives to seeking Christ for our spiritual needs?
Or, will we find ourselves following Christ to simply meet the physical needs of our lives while ignoring the great spiritual, eternal needs that we have?
The decision we make holds eternal consequences for each one of us… may the Lord grant us grace to put first things first and be laboring for “that meat which endureth unto everlasting life which the Son of man shall give unto you:”
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The Revelation Of Jesus Christ: “had a wall great and high, and had twelve gates”
Revelation 21:12
“And had a wall great and high, and had twelve gates, and at the gates twelve angels, and names written thereon, which are the names of the twelve tribes of the children of Israel:”
John, in his vision of the New Jerusalem, sees the dwelling place of God on the New Earth, has a wall with gates in it. Why would this wondrous city have a wall? We are told that it is used to keep out sin (21:27), its effects (21:4), and those who are enslaved by it (21:8).
Why does this city have gates? To give entrance to those whose names are written in the Book of Life (21:27).
Folks, stop and think about the amazing symbolism that is set before us… in these symbols of the wall with gates we find the truth that those who are the People of God will gain entrance to a sinless, eternal existence in the very presence of God Himself. The sinless eternity awaiting the people of God is promised throughout the Holy Word…
Isaiah 35:8 – “And an highway shall be there, and a way, and it shall be called The way of holiness; the unclean shall not pass over it; but it shall be for those: the wayfaring men, though fools, shall not err therein.”
Joel 3:17 – “So shall ye know that I am the LORD your God dwelling in Zion, my holy mountain: then shall Jerusalem be holy, and there shall no strangers pass through her any more.”
Zechariah 14:20-21 – “In that day shall there be upon the bells of the horses, HOLINESS UNTO THE LORD; and the pots in the LORD’S house shall be like the bowls before the altar. Yea, every pot in Jerusalem and in Judah shall be holiness unto the LORD of hosts: and all they that sacrifice shall come and take of them, and seethe therein: and in that day there shall be no more the Canaanite in the house of the LORD of hosts.”
2 Peter 3:13 – “Nevertheless we, according to his promise, look for new heavens and a new earth, wherein dwelleth righteousness.”
What a blessing that will be! To no longer have bodies touched by sin, no longer feel any effects of sin in our lives, no longer be tempted nor be struggling with our sinful desires, no longer being mistreated by those who hate our Lord and all He stands for!
May we all keep our eyes on this glorious future that is awaiting the people of God and know that no matter what we may face in this life, and no matter what effects of sin we might feel, there is coming a day when we all truly be liberated from sin and its effects and jejoice in the hope of the glory of God.
Romans 8:28 – “And we know that all things work together for good to them that love God, to them who are the called according to his purpose.”
Romans 5:1-2 – “Therefore being justified by faith, we have peace with God through our Lord Jesus Christ: By whom also we have access by faith into this grace wherein we stand, and rejoice in hope of the glory of God.”
For an in depth look at these sections of the Revelation:
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Does the glory of God shine from your words and works?
Revelation 21:10-11
And he carried me away in the spirit to a great and high mountain, and shewed me that great city, the holy Jerusalem, descending out of heaven from God, Having the glory of God: and her light was like unto a stone most precious, even like a jasper stone, clear as crystal;
For the SIH devotional on this subject:
Revelation 21:12-21 “The Walls And Gates Of New Jerusalem”
THE TEXT:
Revelation 21:12-21
(12) And had a wall great and high, and had twelve gates, and at the gates twelve angels, and names written thereon, which are the names of the twelve tribes of the children of Israel:
(13) On the east three gates; on the north three gates; on the south three gates; and on the west three gates.
(14) And the wall of the city had twelve foundations, and in them the names of the twelve apostles of the Lamb.
(15) And he that talked with me had a golden reed to measure the city, and the gates thereof, and the wall thereof.
(16) And the city lieth foursquare, and the length is as large as the breadth: and he measured the city with the reed, twelve thousand furlongs. The length and the breadth and the height of it are equal.
(17) And he measured the wall thereof, an hundred and forty and four cubits, according to the measure of a man, that is, of the angel.
(18) And the building of the wall of it was of jasper: and the city was pure gold, like unto clear glass.
(19) And the foundations of the wall of the city were garnished with all manner of precious stones. The first foundation was jasper; the second, sapphire; the third, a chalcedony; the fourth, an emerald;
(20) The fifth, sardonyx; the sixth, sardius; the seventh, chrysolite; the eighth, beryl; the ninth, a topaz; the tenth, a chrysoprasus; the eleventh, a jacinth; the twelfth, an amethyst.
(21) And the twelve gates were twelve pearls; every several gate was of one pearl: and the street of the city was pure gold, as it were transparent glass.
THE INTRODUCTION:
In Revelation 20: John’s attention was placed upon the first phase of the Christian’s eternity with Christ on the New Earth… the period of one thousand years, which has been set aside by the Lord for the judgment and reward of His people. This was then followed by the event that closes the 1000 year time period, the judgment of Satan and his kingdom (including lost mankind) for their sins and their consignment to the Lake of Fire.
Now, in Revelation 21:-22:, John begins to share with us a wonderful description of new Jerusalem, the eternal dwelling place of the people of God….
- Rev 21:1-11 – New Jerusalem on the New Heavens and Earth
- Rev 21:12-21 – The Walls and Gates of New Jerusalem
- Rev 21:22-22:5 – New Jerusalem, the Glory of Eden restored
- Rev 22:6-20 – The Conclusion to the Book of Revelation
THE EXPOSITORY STUDY:
Revelation 21:12-21
John now begins to share with us a description of the gates and the walls of New Jerusalem…
(12) And had a wall great and high,
John sees a wall large, strong and tall. They are not used to keep men inside but they are used to control who is given access to the city (Rev 21:27). These walls separate God’s people from those who are yet in their sins and condemned for an eternity. They symbolize the security, and sanctity that the Lord’s people will enjoy throughout eternity.
These walls are taken from several passages in the OT, one of which is Isaiah 60:18-21…
Isaiah 60:18-20 – “Violence shall no more be heard in thy land, wasting nor destruction within thy borders; but thou shalt call thy walls Salvation, and thy gates Praise. The sun shall be no more thy light by day; neither for brightness shall the moon give light unto thee: but the LORD shall be unto thee an everlasting light, and thy God thy glory. Thy sun shall no more go down; neither shall thy moon withdraw itself: for the LORD shall be thine everlasting light, and the days of thy mourning shall be ended.”
In this passage, we see the walls given the name of “salvation” (or deliverance) and their gates given the name “praise” (or to give tribute, to honor). Why is this?
For the Christian these walls represent the ultimate deliverance that the Lord will grant His people throughout eternity. it will be not only deliverance from the penalty of sin, but also deliverance from the results and presence of sin. This wonderful eternal dwelling for God’s people is the place of ultimate security, peace and holiness for the people of God prepared and kept by the power of God.
For the Christian the gates represent the Christian’s praise and tribute of the Lord. The Christians understand that by His workings and grace alone they are given entrance to their wonderful, eternal home, He is the One that receives all the credit for their entrance into this city…. He alone deserves all their praise.
and had twelve gates, and at the gates twelve angels, and names written thereon, which are the names of the twelve tribes of the children of Israel:
John now begins to describe these gates named “praise”. In this section of John’s description the number twelve is very prevalent. The number 12 is the number of eternal perfection. And is representative of God’s people set apart for His use and will share eternity with Him (12 tribes of Israel, 12 apostles). In this vision, 12 helps us to understand that these gates are reserved for the use of the people of God, the complete number of them, that will make up the citizenship of this eternal city (John 6:39):
- There are 12 gates which give God’s people access to the city. These gates give access to all of the people of God.
- At each gate an angel is present, guarding the door from intruders… much like the cherubim placed at the entrance to Eden to keep it (Gen 3:24).
- Each of the 12 gates had one of the names of the 12 tribes of Israel. God’s spiritual nation of Israel, the Israel of God, (those who have believed in Christ) is represented in its entirety by these twelve names…. This shows us that the citizenship of spiritual Israel is given access to this city. No one who is a spiritual descendant of Abraham (Gals 3:29) will be left out, nor excluded from entrance into these gates.
(13) On the east three gates; on the north three gates; on the south three gates; and on the west three gates.
The twelve gates are evenly distributed… 3 gates on each of the 4 sides of the walls (N,S,E,W). This helps us to understand that the Lord saves and gives access to this eternal city to people from all parts of the globe. No nation, race, language or family is excluded. There can be found saved individuals from every division of mankind.
Keep in mind, Revelation 5:9-10 described the redeemed as being “out of every kindred, and tongue, and people, and nation; And hast made us unto our God kings and priests: and we shall reign on the earth.”
(14) And the wall of the city had twelve foundations, and in them the names of the twelve apostles of the Lamb.
The wall had 12 foundations, each one having the names of one the twelve apostles. The complete number of New Testament saints is represented by the names of the twelve apostles.
Remember each gate had the name of one of the 12 tribes. When we see this together, we can see that the inhabitants of this city will include all the saints from both the times of the Old Testament and the times of the New Testament. Also we can see that the ministry of the OT prophets and NT apostles formed the foundation of the gospel message and opened salvation to all of God’s people…
Through the teachings of the apostles, we find the foundation of the new covenant and the gospel message through which all of God’s people gain access to this city. Through the ministry of the OT saints, we have the many promises of Christ, the OT symbols of Christ recorded and handed down through the generations. They both worked in harmony to bring God’s people into His spiritual nation of Israel.
This same principle is brought out in Ephesians 2:19-22…
“Now therefore ye are no more strangers and foreigners, but fellowcitizens with the saints, and of the household of God; And are built upon the foundation of the apostles and prophets, Jesus Christ himself being the chief corner stone; In whom all the building fitly framed together groweth unto an holy temple in the Lord: In whom ye also are builded together for an habitation of God through the Spirit.”
(15) And he that talked with me had a golden reed to measure the city, and the gates thereof, and the wall thereof.
The angel possesses a “golden reed”. The gold is symbolic of divinity and royalty. This reed is owned by, and proceeds from our Lord, the King of Kings.
In Rev 11:1, we saw that measuring things represents ownership and control. As the angel measures this city with the reed of God, he is symbolizing that this great heavenly city is owned by God and controlled by God. All those who are citizens are a part of His spiritual nation, purchased by His blood and under the control of the King of Kings.
(16) And the city lieth foursquare, and the length is as large as the breadth: and he measured the city with the reed, twelve thousand furlongs. The length and the breadth and the height of it are equal.
John now tells us the measurements of this city. It is a perfect cube with its length, width and height all the same length, twelve thousand furlongs (which equals 1380 miles).
The measurement of 12,000 (12 x1000) show us that this city is perfect, holy, sinless (12), and complete (1000). It will be sinless, the perfect size for its inhabitants, needing nothing, going far beyond all of our expectations in every direction, in every nook and cranny of it.
(17) And he measured the wall thereof, an hundred and forty and four cubits, according to the measure of a man, that is, of the angel.
The walls of the city were 144 (12 x 12) cubits thick. Although these walls were measured by the angel, the measurement was performed using the measuring system of man (cubits, furlongs etc.).
(18) And the building of the wall of it was of jasper: and the city was pure gold, like unto clear glass.
The wall was made of “jasper” (symbolic of preciousness and purity). The city was made of “pure gold” (symbolizing that it was the city of our God and our King). The gold was so “pure” it was clear like glass emphasizing its sinlessness and holiness)
The walls existed to keep, unite and protect the saved (21:24-26) while it kept out the lost and sin (21:27).
(19) And the foundations of the wall of the city were garnished with all manner of precious stones. The first foundation was jasper; the second, sapphire; the third, a chalcedony; the fourth, an emerald;
(20) The fifth, sardonyx; the sixth, sardius; the seventh, chrysolite; the eighth, beryl; the ninth, a topaz; the tenth, a chrysoprasus; the eleventh, a jacinth; the twelfth, an amethyst.
The foundations of the wall were decorated with various precious stones, all of which are found on the breastplate of the priests:
| Stone | Color | Symbolism | References |
| Jasper | Clear, Brown, Red | Purity, Communion | Ex 28:20 |
| Sapphire | Blue | StrengthPurity, Communion | Song Of Sol 5:14Ex 28 :18 |
| Chalcedony | Green, Red, Blue | Purity, Communion | Ex 28:17 |
| Emerald | Light Green | Purity, CommunionValue | Ex 28:18Ezek 27:16 |
| Sardonyx | White, Blue, Red, Brown | Purity, CommunionIsraelWorship | Ex 28:26Ex 28:91 Chron 29:2 |
| Sardius | Yellow, Brown, Red | Purity, CommunionGod’s Glory | Ex 28:17Rev 4:3 |
| Chrysolite | Gold, Copper | Purity, CommunionValue | Ex 28:19Job 28:19 |
| Beryl | Sea Green | Purity, CommunionWork of ChristBody of God | Ex 28:20Song of Sol 5:14Dan 10:6 |
| Topaz | Yellow | Purity, CommunionValue | Exo 28:17Job 28:19 |
| Chrysoprasus | Light Gold, Light Green | Purity, CommunionEternal, Permanence | Exo 28:18Jer 17:1 |
| Jacinth | Blue, Yellow, Red | Purity, Communion | Exo 28:19 |
| Amethyst | Dark Red, Purple | Purity, Communion | Exo 28:19 |
This helps us to see many different attributes to this Godly city. Especially, when we realize all of these stones were found on the breastplate of the OT priest (Exo 28: – mostly listed in reverse order?), we can see this great city of God will provide a place of communion, worship, and purity. It also helps us to see that the intercessory work of Christ is the foundation of our eternity with Him. Apart from His constant intervention for us, we would be forever condemned.
Also note the variety of colors. Almost every major color is represented in this combination of stones. This reminds us of the rainbow which signifies the Lord’s faithfulness to His promises (Gen 9:10-20). Our hope of dwelling in this wonderful city, and our entire experience of eternity with Christ, is founded upon His promises to us. His faithfulness to those promises will be declared as we experience our eternal abode with Him.
(21) And the twelve gates were twelve pearls; every several gate was of one pearl: and the street of the city was pure gold, as it were transparent glass.
Each of the twelve gates were made of one pearl.
A pearl is representative of:
- wisdom – Job 28:18
- Truth of Word – Mat 7:6
- Good News of Christ – Matt 13:45-46
The way of access to Christ and this eternal abode is found through the gospel of Christ, the truth of the Word, the wisdom of God.
The street of the city (the path of salvation) is made up of pure gold. Again, we can see the way of salvation is found in the truths of God, His gospel message. It is sinless, without deception, without corruption and never changes. This is why the gospel message is perfectly reliable, pure, and of immense value to mankind.
CHRIST REVEALED:
In this section of John’s vision we come face to face with the absolute need of Christ for our future security and peace. The walls, gates, and foundation of this wonderful dwelling place for the people of God pointed our attention solely to Christ, His work, His truth and His faithfulness. Because of Christ’s work and His continuing intercession on behalf of His people, He will keep us secure to, and throughout, eternity….
Hebrews 7:24-25 – “But this man, because he continueth ever, hath an unchangeable priesthood. Wherefore he is able also to save them to the uttermost that come unto God by him, seeing he ever liveth to make intercession for them.”
THE PRACTICAL APPLICATION (SUMMARY)
This vision not only gives us many principles concerning the wondrous eternity we possess through His work and faithfulness to us. It also gives us many foundational truths about salvation from sins and the way to that leads to salvation.
Please note a quick basic summary of these teachings:
- The City pictures our salvation and the resultant eternal security
- The Gates picture the gospel message which gives access to that salvation
- The Angels guarding the gates are God’s messengers that possess and proclaim gospel
- The Foundation represent the Apostles, OT Prophets and Christ, their teachings which make up God’s Word
Folks, as we are reminded of the wonderful eternity that awaits the people of God, let us also be reminded of the importance of the gospel message and its role in securing the salvation of God’s people. It is only through this salvation that the eternal blessings of the Lord can be received.
May we all seek to live in such a way that Christ, and His glorious gospel message be revealed in each of our lives. In doing so, we will be sharing with others around us the only way of salvation and entrance into this wonderful eternity!
1 Timothy 6:11-12 – “But thou, O man of God, flee these things; and follow after righteousness, godliness, faith, love, patience, meekness. Fight the good fight of faith, lay hold on eternal life, whereunto thou art also called, and hast professed a good profession before many witnesses.”
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The Revelation Of Jesus Christ: “Having The Glory Of God”
Revelation 21:10-11
And he carried me away in the spirit to a great and high mountain, and shewed me that great city, the holy Jerusalem, descending out of heaven from God, Having the glory of God: and her light was like unto a stone most precious, even like a jasper stone, clear as crystal;
The glory of God. We read about it, we talk about it, we hear preaching on it, but what does the Bible mean when it talks about God’s glory?
The glory of God describes different, but related ideas in the Bible:
- A literal illumination that radiates from the very presence of God (Revelation 21:23)
- Honoring God in our lives through our words, deeds, and thought life (John 11:4)
- The perfection of God’s person, attributes, and works (Romans 3:23)
Why are these three distinct ideas described as “the glory of God”?
They share one principle in common… each one of the three draw men’s attention to God. Each one of these is like a spotlight that shines upon an object, bringing it to men’s awareness and concentration…
- In the Old Testament and New Testament, when the illuminating glory of the Lord was shown to men, they were in awe as their attention was riveted to the greatness of the Lord being on display in His radiant glory.
- When our lives honor the Lord and tell others about Him, it attracts men’s attention to Him. They think about Him, see Him illustrated in our lives, and recognize His presence in our life.
- The perfect character and workings of the Lord set the ultimate standard for which mankind is to strive. When we recognize the greatness in His perfection, not only is our attention driven to Him but also to our weaknesses and our great need of Him.
Folks, this is one of the key ideas behind God’s glory that is carried throughout the Scriptures. However the glory of the Lord is manifested, whether by illumination, the testimony of His people, or a recognition of His greatness… our attention is drawn to Him. This then, leads us to see His greatness more clearly and have a better understanding of our weaknesses and our need of Him.
May we all seek to get a glimpse of His glory, and then seek to share it with others, as we strive to be shining lights pointed at Christ, in the midst of a sin darkened world!
For an in depth look at these sections of the Revelation:
Our Eternal Lord… the beginning and ending of all things!
Revelation 21:6 – “And he said unto me, It is done. I am Alpha and Omega, the beginning and the end. I will give unto him that is athirst of the fountain of the water of life freely.”
For the SIH devotional on this subject:
The Revelation Of Jesus Christ: “I am Alpha and Omega, the beginning and the end.”
Revelation 21:6 – “And he said unto me, It is done. I am Alpha and Omega, the beginning and the end. I will give unto him that is athirst of the fountain of the water of life freely.”
Here, we see the Lord giving Himself the titles “Alpha and Omega” and “the Beginning and the End”. These titles reveal the Lord as:
- The One who has existed from the beginning and will continue to exist through the end of time…
Psalms 90:2 – “Before the mountains were brought forth, or ever thou hadst formed the earth and the world, even from everlasting to everlasting, thou art God.”
- The One who has begun all things and the One that will bring this world to an end…
Psalms 102:24-27 – “I said, O my God, take me not away in the midst of my days: thy years are throughout all generations. Of old hast thou laid the foundation of the earth: and the heavens are the work of thy hands. They shall perish, but thou shalt endure: yea, all of them shall wax old like a garment; as a vesture shalt thou change them, and they shall be changed: But thou art the same, and thy years shall have no end.”
Folks, this knowledge is a wonderful blessing for each one of us….
Just stop and think the same Lord that brought the world into existence is the same Lord that we now serve. The same Lord that existed in the Old Testament times, constantly working on behalf of His people, is the same Lord that is now working on our behalf.
Psalms 111:2-4 – “The works of the LORD are great, sought out of all them that have pleasure therein. His work is honourable and glorious: and his righteousness endureth for ever. He hath made his wonderful works to be remembered: the LORD is gracious and full of compassion.”
Moreover, the same Lord that gives us promises of eternity with Him will never be defeated, nor go out of existence, He will live eternally. He will not leave us nor forsake us, as time continues forward, He will forever be by our side protecting us, enabling us, and keeping His promises to us.
Psalms 103:17-18 – “But the mercy of the LORD is from everlasting to everlasting upon them that fear him, and his righteousness unto children’s children; To such as keep his covenant, and to those that remember his commandments to do them.”
Folks may we honor our Lord with our lives today knowing that He is always existent and forever caring for us…. even throughout eternity!
For an in depth look at these sections of the Revelation:
Have You Been Made New In Christ?
Revelation 21:5 – “And he that sat upon the throne said, Behold, I make all things new. And he said unto me, Write: for these words are true and faithful.”
For the SIH devotional on this subject:
The Revelation Of Jesus Christ: “I make all things new.”
Revelation 21:5
“And he that sat upon the throne said, Behold, I make all things new. And he said unto me, Write: for these words are true and faithful.”
Following John’s glimpse of the new life that Christians will enjoy in eternity, the Lord tells John “Behold, I make all things new”. This is in direct relation to the new life that Christians will experience throughout eternity. However, the great change that takes place in the life of a Christian is not limited to our eternal experience.
There is another verse that gives us insight into a new type of life received by the Christian as one of the blessings of Christ’s work on the cross…
2 Corinthians 5:17 says … ““Therefore if any man be in Christ, he is a new creature: old things are passed away; behold, all things are become new.” This verse tells us that we are changed in all aspects of our life (“all things”).
There are many, many ways in which our life is changed “in Christ”, actually too many to cover in this devotion. But there is one outstanding change that touches every area of our life that cannot be overlooked or overemphasized. It is a change made in our desires.
When we experience a genuine salvation experience, turning from our sins to Christ and accepting Him as our Savior, He becomes the Lord of our lives. He becomes number one above all else. Our greatest desire is then pointed to pleasing Him. Much like the Psalmist that said in Psalm 40:8…“I delight to do thy will, O my God:…”
This burning desire touches us in every area of our life, as we become “living sacrifices” for Christ which results in no longer being “conformed to this world” but now are“transformed by the renewing of our minds” (Romans 12:1-2). Put very simply this means our lives are radically changed, our desires, goals and purpose for living is now to honor and glorify Christ in all we do…
Our actions, reactions, and times of inaction all take place in an effort to show Christ to those who are around us; our words, both public and private, are now spoken with an intent to encourage, strengthen and help others, which reveals Christ’s love; and our dreams and hopes are no longer centered on the things of this world but are now centered upon things above, the eternity that awaits us in Christ.
Truly, when Christ becomes our Lord and our desires become pointed towards Him, every aspect of our lives will be radically made “new”.
Are we living a “new” life in Him? If so, we can be confident we have been saved by His grace and have become a new creature in Christ!
For an in depth look at these sections of the Revelation:
We Will Worship Our Lord Eternally in His Very Presence!
Revelation 21:3 – “And I heard a great voice out of heaven saying, Behold, the tabernacle of God is with men, and he will dwell with them, and they shall be his people, and God himself shall be with them, and be their God.”
For the SIH devotional on this subject:
The Revelation Of Jesus Christ: “the tabernacle of God is with men”
Revelation 21:3 – “And I heard a great voice out of heaven saying, Behold, the tabernacle of God is with men, and he will dwell with them, and they shall be his people, and God himself shall be with them, and be their God.”
Ezekiel 37:27 – “My tabernacle also shall be with them: yea, I will be their God, and they shall be my people.”
As you can see, the event described in Revelation 21:3 is a fulfillment of the promise that God gave to His people in Ezekiel 37:27.
There are several different aspects to this promise of God. When He promises that “the tabernacle of God is with men”, He is promising His people that they will possess His eternal presence in their midst.
Keep in mind, one of the greatest aspects of the OT tabernacle was God’s presence abiding within it….
Exodus 25:8 – “And let them make me a sanctuary; that I may dwell among them.”
Exodus 40:34-35 – “Then a cloud covered the tent of the congregation, and the glory of the LORD filled the tabernacle. And Moses was not able to enter into the tent of the congregation, because the cloud abode thereon, and the glory of the LORD filled the tabernacle.”
Nowhere in the Bible does the Lord promise a literal tabernacle, or temple, will be present throughout eternity. There will be no need for them to symbolically reveal Christ to us, because He will be present and revealed clearly to us in His person.
They simply were a shadow and example of what we will experience now throughout eternity…. the very ministry and presence of Christ Himself…
Hebrews 8:5-6 – “Who serve unto the example and shadow of heavenly things, as Moses was admonished of God when he was about to make the tabernacle: for, See, saith he, that thou make all things according to the pattern shewed to thee in the mount. But now hath he obtained a more excellent ministry, by how much also he is the mediator of a better covenant, which was established upon better promises.”
God’s presence among them gives His people access to Himself…
Once a year, on the Day of Atonement, the High Priest could enter into the tabernacle’s holy of holies, entering into God’s presence to make intercession for His people. In the OT Jewish mind, the tabernacle was where they went to meet with God and obtain forgiveness for their families and nation.
Leviticus 16:2-3,16 – “And the LORD said unto Moses, Speak unto Aaron thy brother, that he come not at all times into the holy place within the vail before the mercy seat, which is upon the ark; that he die not: for I will appear in the cloud upon the mercy seat. Thus shall Aaron come into the holy place: with a young bullock for a sin offering, and a ram for a burnt offering…. And he shall make an atonement for the holy place, because of the uncleanness of the children of Israel, and because of their transgressions in all their sins: and so shall he do for the tabernacle of the congregation, that remaineth among them in the midst of their uncleanness.”
Also, God’s presence among them gave them a much greater understanding of His person and attributes…
Remember the materials and colors that made up the tent of the tabernacle, along with all the furniture within the tabernacle, clearly declared Christ, His work and His attributes to His people.
Below is a very basic look at how Christ is revealed in the OT Tabernacle. (Christ is revealed in many more ways than is listed below. This is simply a quick glimpse at how we can see Christ in the Tabernacle for those who are unfamiliar with this teaching.)
| Tabernacle Materials / Furnishings | Symbolism | |
| Coverings | Deity, Royalty, Humanity and Purity of Christ | |
| Altar of Burnt offerings | The death / shed blood of Christ on the cross | |
| Laver | Confession / repentance of sin and purification | |
| Table of Shewbread | Partaking of Christ’s work, Becoming one with Christ, Christ’s enablement of His people | |
| Golden Altar Of Incense | Prayer / Communion / Fellowship with God | |
| Golden Lampstand | Christ the light of the world / Christ revealing His truths to His people. | |
| Ark Of Covenant | The Deity/Humanity of Christ. Christ as Lawgiver, Christ as Bread of Life, Christ as Enabler of His People. | |
| …. And many, many more |
This is why Christ’s eternal presence with His people is pictured as the tabernacle in the midst of His people.
To quote the hymn of old….
“What a day that will be, when my Jesus I shall see. And I will look upon His face, the One who saved me by His grace… And forever I will be with the One who died for me… what a day glorious day that will be!”
(Partial lyrics to “What A Day That Will Be” written by Jim Hill.)
AMEN! Truly the tabernacle of God will be with men and we will enjoy His presence for an eternity!
For an in depth look at these sections of the Revelation:
Our Glorious Eternal Dwelling…. Heaven On Earth!
Revelation 21:2
“And I John saw the holy city, new Jerusalem, coming down from God out of heaven, prepared as a bride adorned for her husband.”
For the SIH devotional on this subject:
The Revelation Of Jesus Christ: “The holy city, New Jerusalem”
Revelation 21:2 – “And I John saw the holy city, new Jerusalem, coming down from God out of heaven, prepared as a bride adorned for her husband.”
John sees the eternal abode of the Lord and His people presented symbolically as a city that he describes as “holy” and gives to it the title “New Jerusalem”. These descriptions by John teach us several truths about our dwelling place throughout eternity.
When John describes the city as “holy”, he is saying that this city is separated from sin and dedicated to the use of Christ and His people. When he calls the city “New Jerusalem” he is telling us that this city, although different from the earthly city of Jerusalem, shares many similarities with it.
Some of those similarities include:
- the worship of the Lord takes place within it.
- the presence and dwelling place of the Lord is found in it.
- the gathering of God’s people are centered in it.
- the glory of God will be found in it.
Please keep in mind, the Jerusalem of the OT times was the home of the tabernacle where God could be found, worshipped and served. This makes a perfect picture of our abode in the future. Although we are clearly told by John that no literal temple will be found in this eternal Jerusalem, God’s fullness could be found there….
Revelation 21:22 – “And I saw no temple therein: for the Lord God Almighty and the Lamb are the temple of it.”
This helps us to see why there is such a close connection between the two cities. In this eternal abode, God’s people will have the privilege of experiencing the closest possible relationship with their Lord. We will live with Him, commune with Him, serve Him, and worship Him in absolute truth…
1 John 3:1-3 – “Behold, what manner of love the Father hath bestowed upon us, that we should be called the sons of God: therefore the world knoweth us not, because it knew him not. Beloved, now are we the sons of God, and it doth not yet appear what we shall be: but we know that, when he shall appear, we shall be like him; for we shall see him as he is. And every man that hath this hope in him purifieth himself, even as he is pure.”
Hebrews 13:14-16 – “For here have we no continuing city, but we seek one to come. By him therefore let us offer the sacrifice of praise to God continually, that is, the fruit of our lips giving thanks to his name. But to do good and to communicate forget not: for with such sacrifices God is well pleased.”
Please note in both of these verses, where our eternal dwelling place is mentioned, it is linked to our faithful service NOW.
In the 1 John passage, we see that because we have the confident assurance that we will be personally in His presence (“see Him as He is”), we are to live Godly lives for his glory (“purifieth himself, even as He is pure” ).
In the Hebrews passage we see that, because we have no eternal dwelling on this earth but look forward to the one that is to come (“here have we no continuing city, but we seek one to come.”), we are to glorify God in our lives continually, verbally tell others of our thankfulness to the Lord, serve the Lord, and sacrifice ourselves to meet the needs of others (“offer the sacrifice of praise to God continually, that is, the fruit of our lips giving thanks to his name. But to do good and to communicate forget not“)
May we all remember the wonderful eternity that awaits us in the very presence of our Lord in New Jerusalem. Because of this wonderful blessing may we seek to serve Him and meet the needs of others around us.
For an in depth look at these sections of the Revelation:
Will You Partake Of The Second Death?
Revelation 20:14
“And death and hell were cast into the lake of fire. This is the second death.”
For the SIH devotional on this subject:
Revelation 21:1-11 “New Jerusalem On The New Earth”
THE TEXT:
Revelation 21:1-11
(1) And I saw a new heaven and a new earth: for the first heaven and the first earth were passed away; and there was no more sea.
(2) And I John saw the holy city, new Jerusalem, coming down from God out of heaven, prepared as a bride adorned for her husband.
(3) And I heard a great voice out of heaven saying, Behold, the tabernacle of God is with men, and he will dwell with them, and they shall be his people, and God himself shall be with them, and be their God.
(4) And God shall wipe away all tears from their eyes; and there shall be no more death, neither sorrow, nor crying, neither shall there be any more pain: for the former things are passed away.
(5) And he that sat upon the throne said, Behold, I make all things new. And he said unto me, Write: for these words are true and faithful.
(6) And he said unto me, It is done. I am Alpha and Omega, the beginning and the end. I will give unto him that is athirst of the fountain of the water of life freely.
(7) He that overcometh shall inherit all things; and I will be his God, and he shall be my son.
(8) But the fearful, and unbelieving, and the abominable, and murderers, and whoremongers, and sorcerers, and idolaters, and all liars, shall have their part in the lake which burneth with fire and brimstone: which is the second death.
(9) And there came unto me one of the seven angels which had the seven vials full of the seven last plagues, and talked with me, saying, Come hither, I will shew thee the bride, the Lamb’s wife.
(10) And he carried me away in the spirit to a great and high mountain, and shewed me that great city, the holy Jerusalem, descending out of heaven from God,
(11) Having the glory of God: and her light was like unto a stone most precious, even like a jasper stone, clear as crystal;
THE INTRODUCTION:
In Revelation 20: John’s attention was placed upon the first phase of the Christian’s eternity with Christ on the New Earth… the period of one thousand years, which has been set aside by the Lord for the judgment and reward of His people. This was then followed by the event that closes the 1000 year time period, the judgment of Satan and his kingdom (including lost mankind) for their sins and their consignment to the Lake of Fire.
Now, in Revelation 21:-22:, John begins to share with us a wonderful description of new Jerusalem, the eternal dwelling place of the people of God….
- Rev 21:1-11 – New Jerusalem on the New Heavens and Earth
- Rev 21:12-21 – The Walls and Gates of New Jerusalem
- Rev 21:22-22:5 – New Jerusalem, the Glory of Eden restored
- Rev 22:6-20 – The Conclusion to the Book of Revelation
THE EXPOSITORY STUDY:
Revelation 21:1-11
(1) And I saw a new heaven and a new earth: for the first heaven and the first earth were passed away; and there was no more sea.
John now turns our attention towards the New Heavens and New Earth.
There are two Greek words that is translated “new” in the Bible:
- kainos – to be “new” in the sense of nature – different or changed from what previously existed, to supercede the first
- neos – to be “new” in the sense of time – existing only short period of time, recent or young
The word translated “new” in the terms “New Heavens” and “New Earth” is the word kainos. The term new is simply saying that these heavens and earth are changed from the fallen heavens and earth. They are different, they are the replacement for the fallen heavens and earth. It in no way implies a new creation of God, neos would have been used to imply this. They are simply a renovated version of the Old.
John also emphasizes a very obvious change between the old and the new… no sea existed on the new heavens and earth. Keep in mind the “sea” is symbolic of unrest and wicked mankind (Isaiah 57:20-21, Rev 20:13). Also, it was the source of the religious kingdoms of Satan (Rev 13:1). John is not, necessarily, saying that there will be no bodies of water on the New Heavens and Earth, he is saying that no longer will there be unrest, confusion, wickedness, nor any result of sin on this renovated earth. (Rev 21:4-8).
Compared to the previous heavens and earth, the New (“kainos’) Heavens and Earth will be a radically changed. See Isaiah 65:-66: for another look at this radically changed New Earth.
Remember, this New Heavens and New Earth had been renovated from the old heavens and earth at the second coming of Christ…
2 Peter 3:10-13 –
“But the day of the Lord will come as a thief in the night; in the which the heavens shall pass away with a great noise, and the elements shall melt with fervent heat, the earth also and the works that are therein shall be burned up. Seeing then that all these things shall be dissolved, what manner of persons ought ye to be in all holy conversation and godliness, Looking for and hasting unto the coming of the day of God, wherein the heavens being on fire shall be dissolved, and the elements shall melt with fervent heat? Nevertheless we, according to his promise, look for new heavens and a new earth, wherein dwelleth righteousness.”
In verses 10 & 12, we can see that at the second coming of Christ (“the day of the Lord will come as a thief in the night” and “The coming of the day of God”) the heavens and earth will go away (“pass away”) and be dissolved (“melt” and “dissolved”).
In verse 13 we are told that, although we are told the old heavens and old earth will go away, according to His promises to us, we look for a renovated, changed, replacement (“new”) heavens and earth.
In other words, the actual renovation of the heavens and earth into the New Heavens and new Earth took place as the wrath of God was falling upon mankind (see Rev 19:). The same Lord that came with His saints, sending wrath against the lost, and renovating the earth, is the same Lord that sat judging lost mankind for their sins (Revelation 20:11).
Beginning in Revelation 21:, John now gives us a detailed description of this New Heavens and Earth, that came into existence previously (at His second coming in Rev 19:).
(2) And I John saw the holy city, new Jerusalem, coming down from God out of heaven, prepared as a bride adorned for her husband.
John now sees the dwelling place of God descend from heaven to the New Earth. This heavenly city will become the dwelling place of Christ and His saints on the renovated earth.
This is the ‘better country” and the “heavenly city” spoken of in Hebs 11:13-16… “These all died in faith, not having received the promises, but having seen them afar off, and were persuaded of them, and embraced them, and confessed that they were strangers and pilgrims on the earth. For they that say such things declare plainly that they seek a country. And truly, if they had been mindful of that country from whence they came out, they might have had opportunity to have returned. But now they desire a better country, that is, an heavenly: wherefore God is not ashamed to be called their God: for he hath prepared for them a city.”
This is the ‘Heavenly Jerusalem” spoken of in Hebrews 12:22-24…“But ye are come unto mount Sion, and unto the city of the living God, the heavenly Jerusalem, and to an innumerable company of angels, To the general assembly and church of the firstborn, which are written in heaven, and to God the Judge of all, and to the spirits of just men made perfect, And to Jesus the mediator of the new covenant, and to the blood of sprinkling, that speaketh better things than that of Abel.”
This is the continuing city spoken of in Hebrews 13:14…“For here have we no continuing city, but we seek one to come.”
And the place prepared for us by Christ in John 14:1-3 … “Let not your heart be troubled: ye believe in God, believe also in me. In my Father’s house are many mansions: if it were not so, I would have told you. I go to prepare a place for you. And if I go and prepare a place for you, I will come again, and receive you unto myself; that where I am, there ye may be also.”
John describes this city as being “prepared as a bride adorned for her husband.” In other words, she is prepared and made very beautiful for her husband, Christ (Rev 21:9). They will be joined together and share each other’s presence throughout eternity. The city is prepared for Christ and His people with the beauty of Christ’s righteousness (Isa 61:10-11).
The relationship between the bride and groom is the most intimate of all earthly relationships… this is a wonderful picture of the Lord’s intimate relationship with His people…
(3) And I heard a great voice out of heaven saying, Behold, the tabernacle of God is with men, and he will dwell with them, and they shall be his people, and God himself shall be with them, and be their God.
John then hears a voice speaking to him saying…
- “Behold, the tabernacle of God is with men” – New Jerusalem, the dwelling and worship place of God will be accessible to His people. He will live in NJ and will be worshipped in NJ.
- “he will dwell with them” – The God will permanently inhabit this place with His people
- “they shall be his people” – God has purchased His people with His blood. He owns them, they joyfully follow Him, worship Him, and obey Him.
- “God himself shall be with them, and be their God.” – God will personally be with His people and be worshipped by them.
Please note: Ezekiel 40:-on – The temple (dwelling and worship place of God) is a picture of our glorious eternity with God.
(4) And God shall wipe away all tears from their eyes; and there shall be no more death, neither sorrow, nor crying, neither shall there be any more pain: for the former things are passed away.
In the New Jerusalem, on the New Earth, there will be no effects of sin’s curse:
- “And God shall wipe away all tears from their eyes” – No more crying due to pain, sorrow, frustrations or loss. All exist because of sin.
- “and there shall be no more death” – There will be no physical or spiritual death. God’s people will eternally possess glorified bodies in the presence of Christ.
- “neither sorrow, nor crying” – No more mourning due to loss, or outward displays of grief
- “neither shall there be any more pain” – No more physical, mental, emotional pain will be felt.
“for the former things are passed away.” – None of these will exist because the previous effects of sin and the curse upon mankind has been sent away and replaced with a sinless existence in the presence of God Himself.
(5) And he that sat upon the throne said, Behold, I make all things new. And he said unto me, Write: for these words are true and faithful.
Following the description of some of the great changes that will take place in New Jerusalem on the New Earth, God, in the person of Christ, speaks from His throne. He reminds John how these changes have taken place. It is through His renovation of the old earth. “I make all things new” ie “I change all of these things”.
Then He reemphasizes the truthfulness of this great change that will take place by telling John to be sure to write these things down to share them with others. God emphasizes that these things are “true” (actual to fact) and “faithful” (trustworthy, can be relied upon).
(6) And he said unto me, It is done. I am Alpha and Omega, the beginning and the end. I will give unto him that is athirst of the fountain of the water of life freely.
The Lord continues to speak to John:
- “It is done” – These things are certain to take place in the future. They have been made a part of God’s sovereign plans for his people. They are as good as done. (Dan 4:35, Job 25:13, Psa 33:9-11, 115:3)
- “I am the Alpha and Omega” – This is the title given to Jesus (Rev 1:8, 22:13). The beginning and the ending letters of the Greek alphabet, in other words….
- “I am … the beginning and the end” – The One who existed in eternity past, beginning cause and Creator of all. the One who will bring all these to a close and exist throughout eternity future.
- “I will give unto him that is athirst of the fountain of the water of life freely.” – Christ is offering salvation and spiritual life as a free gift to sinners. (Isa 55:1-4, John 4:10-14, 7:37-38) The fountain of the water of life is a symbolic representation of the source of spiritual, eternal life. In comparison, drinking of the wine of fornication results in the receipt of God’s wrath upon mankind (Rev 17:2)
(7) He that overcometh shall inherit all things; and I will be his God, and he shall be my son.
Those who are victors in Christ, through the indwelling spirit: (John 16:33, 1 John 2:13-14, 4:4, 5:4-5)
- shall be heirs with Christ of all these shared future blessings. – (Roms 8:17,32, Prov 3:35)
- will have Christ as their God. – We will worship and serve Him (1 Cor 3:21-23)
- will be an adopted member of God’s family – We will have a close, personal relationship based upon love and appreciation. (Roms 8:14-18)
Remember, being victors over sin, death, and this world is a mark of a true believer. If we are true believers then we will also be heirs with Christ as our God and ourselves as His son (or daughter).
(8) But the fearful, and unbelieving, and the abominable, and murderers, and whoremongers, and sorcerers, and idolaters, and all liars, shall have their part in the lake which burneth with fire and brimstone: which is the second death.
Just as being victorious over sin, death, the powers of darkness and the fallen world is a mark of a true believer, John is now given a list of marks of those who are unbelievers and will partake of the second death… banished from Christ’s presence throughout eternity in the Lake of Fire.
A lost person lives a lifestyle practicing these sins, without regret nor desire to change (1 John 3:9-10) :
- fearful – timid, no confidence, full of dread
- unbelieving – faithless,
- abominable – to be disgusting, abhorred by God
- murderers – to take life intentionally, unlawfully
- whoremongers – sexually or morally unrestrained
- sorcerers – to make drugs, poisons
- idolaters – serve & worship images, serve and worship false gods
- liars – untruthful, deceptive, concealing
Proverbs 6:16-19 gives us another listing of marks of the lost which encompass all other Biblical references on this subject…
| PRIDE | DECEPTION | MURDER | WICKED THOUGHTS | EVIL MISCHIEF | FALSE WITNESSES | DISCORD | |||
| Proverbs 6:16-19 | Proud Look | Lying Tongue | Hands shed innocent blood | Heart deviseth wicked imaginations | Feet that be swift in running to mischief | False witness that speaketh lies | Soweth discord among brethren | ||
| 1 Corinthians 6:9-10 | Idolaters, Covetous, | Fornicators,Adulterers,Effeminate,Abusers of Self With Mankind,Drunkards, | Thieves, Revilers,Extortioners | ||||||
| Galatians 5:19-21 | Murderers, | LasciviousnessIdolaters,Hatred,Emulations,Wrath,Envyings,
|
Adulterers,Fornication,Uncleaness,Witchcraft,Drunkeness, | Heresies, | Variance,Strife,Seditions,Revelings. | ||||
| Ephesians 5:5 | Covetous, Idolaters | Whoremonger,Unclean Persons, | |||||||
| Revelation 21:8 | Unbelieving | Liars, | Murders | Fearful,Idolaters, | Abominable, Whoremongers,Sorcerers, | ||||
Proverbs 6:16-19 – “These six things doth the LORD hate: yea, seven are an abomination unto him: A proud look, a lying tongue, and hands that shed innocent blood, An heart that deviseth wicked imaginations, feet that be swift in running to mischief, A false witness that speaketh lies, and he that soweth discord among brethren.”
1 Corinthians 6:9-10 – “Know ye not that the unrighteous shall not inherit the kingdom of God? Be not deceived: neither fornicators, nor idolaters, nor adulterers, nor effeminate, nor abusers of themselves with mankind, Nor thieves, nor covetous, nor drunkards, nor revilers, nor extortioners, shall inherit the kingdom of God.”
Galatians 5:19-21 – “Now the works of the flesh are manifest, which are these; Adultery, fornication, uncleanness, lasciviousness, Idolatry, witchcraft, hatred, variance, emulations, wrath, strife, seditions, heresies, Envyings, murders, drunkenness, revellings, and such like: of the which I tell you before, as I have also told you in time past, that they which do such things shall not inherit the kingdom of God.”
Ephesians 5:5 – “For this ye know, that no whoremonger, nor unclean person, nor covetous man, who is an idolater, hath any inheritance in the kingdom of Christ and of God.”
Revelation 21:8 – “But the fearful, and unbelieving, and the abominable, and murderers, and whoremongers, and sorcerers, and idolaters, and all liars, shall have their part in the lake which burneth with fire and brimstone: which is the second death.”
(9) And there came unto me one of the seven angels which had the seven vials full of the seven last plagues, and talked with me, saying, Come hither, I will shew thee the bride, the Lamb’s wife.
One of the angels which delivered the seven vials of wrath (Rev 16:), now offers to show to John the details of the city of New Jerusalem, referred here as the Bride of the Lamb.
Why would one of these angels be given the responsibility and privilege to deliver this vision to John? Perhaps it is because it was through their work (the purifying of the world during the last portions of God’s wrath) that this New Jerusalem on this sinless world was brought into existence.
This refers back to verse 2 where we are told that the city is adorned like a bride for her wedding.
(10) And he carried me away in the spirit to a great and high mountain, John then is taken away “in the spirit” in other words, he was physically unmoved while being overwhelmed by the Holy Spirit and given the ability to see this great vision “in his mind’s eye”. John sees himself taking a place on a great, high mountain.
Keep in mind, many times God revealed Himself, and His truths to man (Exo 19:20, Neh 9:13). Also, based on Isa 2:2 and Ezek 40:1-2, it is possible that this city will be literally located upon a mountain.
And shewed me that great city, the holy Jerusalem, descending out of heaven from God, (11) Having the glory of God: and her light was like unto a stone most precious, even like a jasper stone, clear as crystal;
New Jerusalem, heaven come down to earth, is now described as:
- that great city – big, large, exceeding
- holy Jerusalem – sacred, blameless, separated for God’s use… Jerusalem means “founded in peace” or “city of peace”
- descending out of heaven (the third heaven) from God. – God’s dwelling place come down to earth.
- having the glory of God – the very presence of God dwells there, just like the OT tabernacle and temple (Ex 40:34, 2 Chr 5:13-14, 1 King 8:11)
- her light was like a jasper stone, clear as crystal – His glory shown within the city like light reflecting from a precious clear gemstone. Jasper is symbolic of holiness (Ex 28:20, 39:13). Also Jasper is a stone of great value (Job 28:17), its clarity represents sinlessness.
The Lord is symbolized by the Jasper stone… He is holy, of overwhelming value, and sinless and transparent.
CHRIST REVEALED:
As we see the great symbolic beauty of the bride of Christ, the heavenly city of New Jerusalem, we are reminded of Christ’s prominence and grace that he has shown to His people.
Stop and think about it… the reason why New Jerusalem is such a beautiful city is because it was prepared by Christ Himself. This city is a direct reflection of the beauty, greatness and wisdom of its Creator, Jesus Christ.
John 14:2-3 – “In my Father’s house are many mansions: if it were not so, I would have told you. I go to prepare a place for you. And if I go and prepare a place for you, I will come again, and receive you unto myself; that where I am, there ye may be also.”
THE PRACTICAL APPLICATION (SUMMARY)
As we consider the wonders of the eternity that awaits us, may we all with grateful hearts honor and glorify our Lord. He is the One that saved us, He is the One that has given us a share of His inheritance, He is the One that created this wonderful abode for us.
Oh what worship and dedication we owe Him. He truly is our all… throughout eternity.
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The Revelation Of Jesus Christ: “This is the second death.”
Revelation 20:14
“And death and hell were cast into the lake of fire. This is the second death.”
When we consider what is meant by ‘the second death”, it is important to recognize the context of our passage… the verses immediately preceding this verse speak of the resurrection of the lost, the judgment of the works of the lost, and the destruction of physical death.
When we are told that ‘This is the second death”, the Bible is referring, in a very general way, to the final judgment and disposition of the lost. They are resurrected (never to physically die again), found guilty at the final judgment, removed from God’s presence, and cast into the Lake of Fire for an eternity. This series of events make up what is known as the second death.
Although the term “second death” is used four times in the Book of Revelation, it is used nowhere else throughout the Bible. Let’s look and see what we can learn from the other three Revelation passages of scripture…
Revelation 2:11
“He that hath an ear, let him hear what the Spirit saith unto the churches; He that overcometh shall not be hurt of the second death.”
Here, we are told that those who are overcomers in Christ will not be harmed by the second death. How very true. If we have turned from our sins and turned to Christ, in faith, we are overcomers in Christ (1 John 4:4; 5:4-5). In doing so, we have overcome the powers of darkness and their effects in our lives (1 John 2:13-13:4).
Revelation 20:6
“Blessed and holy is he that hath part in the first resurrection: on such the second death hath no power, but they shall be priests of God and of Christ, and shall reign with him a thousand years.”
Christ’s victory over Satan, sin, and death has become ours through faith in His name. Because of this, we have given us escape from the judgment for our sins, an eternity in the very presence of Christ and, then, rewarded with a share of His ruling authority. (Romans 8:17)
Revelation 21:8
“But the fearful, and unbelieving, and the abominable, and murderers, and whoremongers, and sorcerers, and idolaters, and all liars, shall have their part in the lake which burneth with fire and brimstone: which is the second death.”
Those who will suffer this second death are those whose sins remain upon their account. They are the ones who stand before God and are found guilty of the sins which they have committed. Their only possible hope is found in the shed blood of Christ which can secure redemption and Christ’s righteousness on their behalf (2 Cor 5:21, Eph 1:7, 1 Peter 1:18-19).
As Christians, may we all praise and honor our Lord, who has so graciously made a way of escape from the second death and its eternal effects upon sinful mankind. May we all strive to serve Him in greater ways sharing the good news of Christ and His death with the lost men around us …those who so desperately need it.
For an in depth look at these sections of the Revelation:
Settled In Heaven Blog 