The New Heaven and the New Earth

Revelation 21:1–8
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This chapter opens with a brief description of the new heaven and the new earth (v. 1). The Bible does not deal at length with the eternal state. Only a few references to it are made in Psalms, Isaiah, I Corinthians, Ephesians, II Peter and here in Revelation. This passage suggests a renovation of the present heaven and the present earth as other Scripture seems to confirm (Psa. 104:5, Heb. 1:12, Psa. 102.26, Eccl. 1:4, 1 Cor. 15:51). In contrast with the present earth, which is covered with a large percentage of water, no body of water will be on the new earth (v. 1). This will perhaps give a lot more land space on the eternal earth. No landmarks are given concerning the new earth and nothing is known of its characteristics, vegetation, or form. The Bible is silent on this except in Revelation 21:23 where it says there will be no need for the sun or moon (v. 1). 

Chapter 20 brought us to the end of the Millennium. Now we have a description given of the Holy City, the New Jerusalem “descending out of heaven as a bride beautifully dressed for her husband (v. 2).” Although it is not clearly stated how it all works, the saints will be in this dwelling place for the resurrected and translated saints during the millennium. This gives them immediate access to the earth to carry on functions of ruling with Christ. In eternity the saints will enjoy a new relationship with God that was impossible before in a world where sin and death were present (v. 3). There will be no more death, pain and sorrow and all tears will be wiped away (v. 4) (II Tim. 1:10).

Application

It is hard to imagine living in a place where there is no sin, no pain and no sorrow and I will be in the very presence of God. Even more amazing is that I will be living in a resurrected body with all the saints of every age, having access to heaven and earth. As I think about this change, I get very excited.