New heaven and new earth meaning
In Christianity, the phrase "new heaven and new earth" refers to a future state of existence that is described in the Bible, particularly in the book of Revelation and the book of Isaiah. It is a time of complete renewal and transformation, where God creates a new and perfect world, free from sin, suffering, and imperfection.
In Revelation 21:1-4, it is written:
"Then I saw a new heaven and a new earth, for the first heaven and the first earth had passed away, and there was no longer any sea. And I saw the holy city, the new Jerusalem, coming down out of heaven from God, prepared as a bride adorned for her husband. And I heard a loud voice from the throne saying, '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. 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.'"
In this new heaven and new earth, God dwells among his people, and there is no more suffering, pain, or death. The new Jerusalem, the city of God, is described as a beautiful and perfect place, where God's people live in harmony with each other and with God.
The concept of the new heaven and new earth is closely tied to the idea of redemption and salvation. It is a promise of a future where God's plan of salvation is fully realized, and where all things are made new and perfect.
Some of the key themes and characteristics of the new heaven and new earth include:
- A new and perfect creation, free from sin and imperfection
- The presence of God among his people, with no more separation or distance
- The absence of suffering, pain, and death
- The presence of joy, peace, and harmony among God's people
- The fulfillment of God's plan of salvation and redemption
- A new and perfect Jerusalem, the city of God, where God's people live in harmony with each other and with God.
The new heaven and new earth is often seen as a symbol of hope and promise, a reminder that God is working towards a future where all things will be made new and perfect. It is a reminder that God is a God of redemption and salvation, and that he is working to bring about a future where he will dwell among his people, and where all things will be made new and perfect.