Revelation 21–22 mark the end of the New Testament and establish the promise of everlasting life for those in Christ. The culmination of every good gift of the Father, every promise He has given to His people, is found in His Son, to be experienced for all eternity.
In what ways will God’s new creation be unlike the world we live in today?
The apostle John described the beautiful new city of God as being like a bride adorned for her husband—glorious, radiant, faithful, and true. This new heaven and earth highlight the sweetness and sacredness of God’s covenant with us: “Look, God’s dwelling is with humanity, and he will live with them. They will be his peoples, and God himself will be with them and will be their God” (Revelation 21:3).
The earth as we know it today is a splendid example of our Creator’s workmanship and love for us, yet it has been broken by the sinfulness of His created beings. Sin has fractured our relationship with God, and though we are able to know and be known by Him, our understanding of His goodness cannot be fully experienced because of our sin. Here in today’s passage, we find the promise of what eternity is like: we will one day dwell in the fullness of God’s presence, experiencing the splendor of His radiance in perfect unity with one another and with our God.
In this new creation, there is no temple because God dwells among His people, His glory unceasingly illuminating the day. No falsehood, uncleanliness, grief, crying, or pain takes residence within God’s dwelling place; all is right and well, exactly as it was created to be.
Consider what it would look like if you lived each moment anticipating and readying yourself for the wonders yet to come. Would you be more inclined to persevere and to share the source of your eternal hope with others? Reflect on God’s goodness with gratitude, asking Him to prepare the hearts of the boys and girls you’ve been entrusted to teach it to. May this hopeful expectation change the way you view your Lord, your world, and those around you.
Listen to the Weekly Leader Training for Preschool & Kids
Every week, members of The Gospel Project for Kids team offer guidance to help you as you prepare to teach every session to preschoolers and kids.
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