The story of the Bible ends where it began: in a perfect world. John saw “a new heaven and a new earth: for the first heaven and the first earth were passed away” (Revelation 21:1). God keeps His promise: “we, according to his promise, look for new heavens and a new earth, wherein dwelleth righteousness” (2 Peter 3:13).
The best thing about the new earth is that God will live with His people. “Behold, the tabernacle of God is with men, and he will dwell with them… 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” (Revelation 21:3-4). No more hospitals, funerals, fear or hunger.
It will be a real place, not a cloud. The redeemed “shall build houses, and inhabit them; and they shall plant vineyards, and eat the fruit of them” (Isaiah 65:21). The wolf and the lamb will feed together (Isaiah 65:25), and the river of the water of life will flow from the throne of God (Revelation 22:1). Jesus said, “Blessed are the meek: for they shall inherit the earth” (Matthew 5:5). God has prepared a place for you there. Will you be there?
Key Bible verses
- Revelation 21:1-5Behold, I make all things new.
- 2 Peter 3:13New heavens and a new earth, wherein dwelleth righteousness.
- Isaiah 65:17-25They shall build houses, and inhabit them.
- Isaiah 35:5-10The lame shall leap; everlasting joy.
- Revelation 22:1-5The river of water of life.
- John 14:2In my Father’s house are many mansions.
- Matthew 5:5The meek shall inherit the earth.
Tap a reference to read it in the Bible.
Think about it
- What are you looking forward to most in the new earth?
- Which pain or sorrow in your life will you be glad to see God wipe away?
- How does the hope of the new earth change the way you live today?
