Chapter Forty-Two -A New Heaven and a New Earth

John tells us further: "With that I heard a loud voice from the throne say:  'Look!  The tent of God is with mankind, and he will reside with them, and they will be his peoples. And God himself will be with them.' " (Revelation 21:3)  When Jehovah made the Law covenant with the then new nations of Israel, he promised: "I shall certainly put my tabernacle in the midst of you and prove myself your God, and you, on your part, will prove yourselves my people." (Leviticus 26:11,12) Now Jehovah is making a similar promise to faithful humans.  During the thousand-year Judgment Day, they will become a very special people to him. 

During the Millennial Reign, Jehovah will "reside" among mankind in a temporary arrangement, he being represented by his royal Son, Jesus Christ. At the end of the Thousand Year Reign, however, when Jesus hands the Kingdom over to his Father, no royal representative or intercessor will be needed.  Jehovah will reside spiritually with "his peoples" in a permanent  and direct way. (Compare John 4:23, 24) What  a lofty privilege for restored humanity!

John goes on to say:  "And he will wipe every tear from their eyes, and death will be no more, neither will mourning nor outcry nor pain be anymore.  The former things have passed away." (Revelation 21:4)  Once again, we are reminded of earlier inspired promises. Isaiah also looked forward to  the time when death and mourning would be no more and grief would be replaced by exultation. (Isaiah 25:6; 35:10; 51:11; 65:19)  John now confirms that these promises have a wonderful fulfillment during the thousand-year Judgment Day.  First the great crowd will enjoy the blessings.  "The Lamb, who is in the midst of the throne," continuing to shepherd them, "will guide them to fountains of waters of life. And God will wipe out every tear from their eyes."  (Revelation 7:9, 17)  But eventually all those who are resurrected and exercise faith in Jehovah's provisions will be there with them, enjoying a paradise that is both spiritual and physical.

Next time: Chapter Forty-Two - A New Heaven and a New Earth 

From the book of Revelation