Scripture: Revelation 21:2-3 I saw the Holy City, the new Jerusalem, coming down out of heaven from God, prepared as a bride beautifully dressed for her husband. And I heard a loud voice from the throne saying, “Look! God’s dwelling place is now among the people, and he will dwell with them. They will be his people, and God himself will be with them and be their God.”
Devotional: Throughout the Old Testament, Jerusalem is a notable place. It is the first and only city where God resided within a holy house. This house was permanent. Prior to this, the Lord dwelled in the tabernacle, which moved with the people of Israel. King Solomon eventually was called by God to build the temple in Jerusalem, a permanent place for God to dwell. Jerusalem was the city that God chose to put his name, as it says in 2 Chronicles 6:6. This city was also at the center of the Israelites’ Promised Land.
But beyond being at the center of what was promised to the Israelites, Jerusalem also represents the ultimate Promised Land. This ultimate Promised Land is restored creation. In the vision that John is sharing in Revelation, he depicts a new Jerusalem coming down when heaven meets earth. Again, there is significance with Jerusalem. It was God’s chosen city. So, John recognizing reunion of heaven and earth as being a new Jerusalem is symbolic in nature.
While Jerusalem as it was in Scripture was God’s chosen city for His name and where he dwelt in the tabernacle, it was corrupt. It was also subject to the result of the fall and the sin that entered the world. Jerusalem was often led by kings that did not honor God at all. They sought to please their people and ultimately, glorify themselves.
The new Jerusalem will be much different than this. As we know, Jesus will wipe away every tear in the new heaven and new earth. There will be no more mourning, sickness, or pain. He will be the ruler over the new Jerusalem. It will be a city built by God and ruled by a heavenly king. Imagine what it will be like to live in such a place.
Reflect:
- Have you ever experienced a corrupt leader? Or who are some crooked leaders throughout history that you can think of? What did that do to their business, relationships, or country?
- Praise God that Jesus sits on the throne and is just, righteous, and good.