Chapter 1162 of 1163

Revelation 21

For those who believe in Jesus Christ, the future means “all things new” (v. 5); but for those who reject Him, it means the same old sins for all eternity (vv. 8, 27; 22:11, 15).

Human history begins with a garden (Gen. 2:8–17) and ends with a city that is like a garden. However, the most important thing about the heavenly city is not the absence of sin but the presence of God in all His glory (vv. 3, 11, 23), for His presence makes “all things new.”

He is the temple (v. 22) and the light (v. 23); and His presence means there is no more sin, pain, death, sorrow, or crying (v. 4), and no more curse (22:3; Gen. 3:9–19). Heaven is so wonderful that the only way John can describe it is to tell us what will not be there! Its beauties and blessings are beyond human words to describe or explain.

Why did Jesus give John this preview of eternal glory? To encourage His people who go through testing and persecution. “I go to prepare a place for you” (John 14:1–6) is the best medicine for a broken heart and the best foundation for wavering feet.

“The hope of heaven under troubles is like the wind and sails to the soul.”

Samuel Rutherford

“No man ought to look for anything in heaven but what one way or another he has some experience in this life.”

John Owen

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