I saw a new heaven and a new earth: for the first heaven and the first earth have passed away, and the sea is no more. Revelation 21:1 WEB
The book of Revelation is the only apocalyptic book in the New Testament. As such, it occupies a central place in Christian eschatology, the study of the end times. There is some debate about who wrote the letter. Some assert that the author is John the Apostle, one of Jesus’ first twelve disciples, while others remain unconvinced. It is obvious that the writer is known to the churches intended to receive his epistle and therefore accepted in his time as an authority in the word of God.
Further, it is clear that the author, who identifies himself as John, was on the island of Patmos, exiled for teaching the word of God and specifically for spreading the gospel message of Christ. The prophetic letter written to the seven churches of Asia Minor contains descriptions of a series of visions John experienced concerning the end times, culminating in the return of Jesus Christ.
God Makes All Things New
Chapter twenty-one of John’s Revelation begins with a statement about a new heaven and a new earth. This passage directly relates to a prophecy previously given in Isaiah 65:17 which says, ‘For, behold, I create new heavens and a new earth; and the former things will not be remembered, nor come into mind. WEB” Relating the source of his vision, John writes in 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. KJV”
John’s message about a new heaven and a new earth inspire confidence in the faithful, who hold fast to the word of God. His vision gives assurance of a new heaven and new earth without death or suffering. The Lord comes to earth to dwell with his devoted followers in a massive, ornate city described as the New Jerusalem. In the new earth, there is no sea. The river of life and the tree of life appear in Jerusalem to heal the nations and people of the world.
Prayer: “Father God, thank you for the promised return of Jesus Christ. Thank you for the promise of a new heaven and a new earth. Guide me with your holy word to live in obedience to your will. Help me to spread the truth of forgiveness through repentance and faith in Christ. In Jesus’ name – Amen”
Yesterday’s Devotional: Your Word Is Truth
