REVELATION ITS GRAND CLIMAX AT HAND!/Chapter Forty Four - Revelation and You

 On reading the delightful description of New Jerusalem, you may be moved to ask: 'Can something so wonderful really come to be?' John answers that question by reporting the angel's next words: "And he said to me: 'These words are faithful and true; yes, Jehovah the God of the inspired expressions of the prophet sent his angel to show his slaves the things that must shorty take place. And, look! I am coming quicklly. Happy is anyone observing the words of the prophecy of this scroll.' " (Revelation 22:6, 7)  All  the wonderful promises of Revelation will really be fulfilled! Speaking in he name of Jesus, the angel declares that Jesus is coming soon, "quickly."  This must be Jesus' coming "as a thief" to destroy Jehovah's enemies and usher in the grand and happy climax of Revelation. (Revelation 16:15, 16) We should therefore, conform our lives to the words of "this scroll," Revelation, to be pronounced happy at the that time.

Next time: REVELATION ITS GRAND CLIMAX AT  HAND!/Chapter Forty Four - Revelation and You - Continue

From the jw.org publications

REVELATION ITS GRAND CLIMAX AT HAND!/Chapter Forty Three - Revelation's Happy Climax -Continue

 What joy we feel, then, as we draw to the close of our consideration  of the book of Revelation! We have seen the final efforts of Satan and his seed utterly frustrated and Jehovah's righteous judgments carried out to completion. Babylon the Great must go out of existence forever, to be followed by all other hopelessly corrupt elements of Satan's world. Satan himself and his demons will be abyssed and later destroyed.  New Jerusalem will rule with Chriset from the heavens as the resurrection and the judgment proceed, and  perfected mankind will finally come to enjoy everlasting life in  the Paradise earth. How vividly Revelation  portrays all these things! How it strengthens our determination to  'declare this everlasting good news as glad tidings to every nation and tribe  and tongue and people on eartht today!  (Revelation  14:6, 7)  Are you expending  yourself to the full in this great work?

With our hearts so full of gratitude, let us give attention to the concluding words of Revelation.

Next time: REVELATION ITS GRAND CLIMAX AT HAND!/Chapter Forty Four - Revelation and  You

From the jw.org publications

REVELATION ITS GRAND CLIMAX AT HAND!/Chapter Forty Three - Revelation's Happy Climax

 The revelation of this vision of New Jerusalem, the Lamb's bride, is the happy climax to which Revelation points, and fittingly so.  All of John's first century fellow Christians to whom  the book was initially addressed looked forward to entering into that city as immoral spirit corulers with Jesus Christ.  The remnant of anointed Christians still alive today on earth have the same  hope.  Thus Revelation moves on to its grand climax, as the completed bride is united with the Lamb.  Next, by means of New Jerusalem, the benefits of Jesus'  ransom sacrifice will be applied to mankind, so that eventually all faithful ones will enter into everlasting life. In this way the bride New Jerusalem, as a loyal helpmeet to her Bridegroom King, will share in building up for eternity a righteous new earth all to the glory of our Sovereign Lord Jehovah.- MATTHEW20:28; JOHN 10:10, 16; ROMANS 16:27.

Next time: REVELATION ITS GRAND CLIMAX AT HAND!/Chapter Forty Three - Revelation's Happy Climax - Continue 

From the jw.org publications

REVELATION ITS GRAND CLIMAX AT HAND!/Chapter Forty Three - No More Night - Conclusion

 John closes out this magnificent vision  by saying of these slaves of God: "And they will rule as kings forever and ever." (Revelation 22:5b) True, at the end of the thousand years, the benefits of the ransom will have been  applied to completion, and Jesus will present a perfect  human race to his Father. (1 Corinthians 15:25-28)  What Jehovah has in mind for Jesus and the 144,000 after that, we do  not know. But Revelation assures us that their privileged sacred service to Jehovah will continue into all eternity.

Next time: REVELATION ITS GRAND CLIMAX AT HAND!/Chapter Forty Three - Revelation's Happy Climax

From the jw.org pubications

REVELATION ITS GRAND CLIMAX AT HAND!/Chapter Forty Three - No More Night - Continue

 John continues:  "Also, night will be no more and they have no  need of lamplight nor do they have sunlight, because Jehovah God will shed light  upon them." (Revelation 22:5a)  Ancient Jerusalem, like any other city on earth, relied on the sun for light by day and on the moonlight and artificial light by night. But in  heavenly New Jerusalem, such lighting will be unnecessary.  The city will be illuminated by Jehovah himself. "Night" may also be used in a figurative sense, referring to adversity of separation from Jehovah. (Micah 3:6; John 9:4; Romans 13:11, 12) There could never be that kind of light at night om the glorious presence of the Almighty God. 

Next time: REVELATION ITS GRAND CLIMAX AT HAND!/Chapter Forty Three - No More Night -Conclusion

From the jw.org publications

 

REVELATION ITS GRAND CLIMAX AT HAND!/Chapter Forty Threee - No More Night - Continue

 Like John himself, all future members of that celestial city are "slaves" of God. As such,  They have God's name prominently written on their forehead, identifying him as their Owner.  (Revelation 1:1; 3:12) They will count it and inestimable privilege to render him sacred service as part of New Jerusalem.  While Jesus was on earth, he made a thrilling promise to such prospective rulers saying: "Happy are the pure in heart, since they will see God." (Matthew 5:8)  How happy these slaves will be actually to behold  and worship Jehovah in person!

Next time: REVELATION ITS GRAND CLIMAX AT HAND!/Chapter Forty Three - No More Night - Continue

From the jw.org publications

REVELATION ITS GRAND CLIMAX AT HAND!/Chapter Forty Three - No More Night

 Entry into  New Jerusalem-surely, there could be no more wonderous privilege!  Just think -those one lowly, imperfect humans will Jesus into heaven to become part of such a glorious arrangement! (John 14:2) John gives some idea of the blessings to be enjoyed  by these, saying: "And no more will there be any curse. But the throne of God and of the Lamb will be in the city, and his slaves will render  him sacred service; and they will see his face, and his name will be on their foreheads." (Revelation 22:3, 4)  When the Israelite priesthood became corrupt, it suffered Jehovah's curse. (Malachi 2:2) Jerusalem's faithless "house"  was pronounced abandoned by Jesus. (Matthew 23:37-39)   But in New Jerusalem, "no more will there be any curse." (Compare Zechariah 14:11.)  All its inhabitants have been tested in the fire of trials here on earth, and having gained  the victory, they will have to 'put on incorruption an immorality.' In their case, Jehovah knows just as he knew with Jesus thta they will never fall away. (1 Corinthians 15:53, 57) Further, "the throne of Gpod and of the Lamb" will be there, making the city's position secure for all eternity.

Next time: REVELATION ITS GRAND CLIMAX AT HAND!/ Chapter Forty Three - No More Night - Continue 

From the jw.org publications 

REVELATION ITS GRAND CLIMAX AT HAND!/Chapter Forty Three - Trees of LIfe - Conclusion

 Those trees, well watered by the river, may additionally picture the 144,000 members of the Lamb's wife. While on earth these also drink of God's provision for life through Jesus Christ and are called "big trees of righteousness." (Isaiah 61:1-3; Revelation  21:6)  They have already produced much spiritual fruitage to Jehovah's praise.  (Matthew 21:43) And during the Thousand Year Reign, they will have a part in dispensing the ransom provisions that will serve for "the curing of the nations" from sin and death. - Compare 1 JOHN 1:7. 

Next time: REVELATION ITS GRAND CLIMAX AT HAND!/Chapter Forty Three - No More Night

From the jw.org publications

REVELATION ITS GRAND CLIMAX AT HAND!/Chapter Forty Three - Trees of Life - Continue

 What  bounteous provison Jehovah mades for responsive humans!  Not only may they partake of those refreshing waters but  they may pluck from those trees a continuing variety of sustaining fruits.  Oh, if only our original parents had been satisified with a similar "desirable" position  in Eden's paradise!  (Genesis 2:9)  But  now a global paradise is here, and Jehovah even makes provision  through the leaves of those symbolic trees for  "the curing of the nations."  Far superior to any medicine, herbal or otherwise, that is dispensed today, the soothing application of those symbolic leaves will raise  believing mankind to spiritual body and perfection. 

Next time: REVELATION ITS GRAND CLIMAX AT HAND!/Chapter Forty Three - Trees of Life - Conclusion 

From the jw.org publications

REVELATION ITS GRAND CLIMAX AT HAND!/Chapter Forty Three - Trees of Life

 In Ezekiel's vision, the river even became a torrent, and the prophet saw growing on both sides of it all kinds of fruit-bearing trees. (Ezekiel 47:12)  But what does John see? This:  "And on this side of the river and on that side there trees of life producing twelve cups of fruit, yielding their fruits each month.  And the leaves of the  trees were for the curing of the nations." (Revelation 22:2b) These "trees of life" must also picture part of Jehovah's provision ofr giving eternal life to obedient mankind. 

Next time: REVELATION ITS GRAND CLIMAX AT HAND!/Chapter Forty Three - Trees of Life - Continue

From the jw.org publications

REVELATION ITS GRAND CLIMAX AT HAND!/Chapter Forty Three - The RIver of Water of Life - Conclusion

  During the Thousand Year Reign, the benefits of the ransom are  applied fully through the priesthood of Jesus and his 144,000 underpriest.  Fittingly, then, the river of water of life flows through the middle of the broad way of New Jerusalem.  This is  composed of  spiritual Israel, which along with Jesus makes  up the true seed of Abraham.  (Galatians 3:16. 29) Therefore, when the water of life flows in abundance through the middle of the broad way of the symbolic city, "all nations of the earth" will have the opportunity to bless themselves by means of Abraham'a seed.  Jehovah's promise to Abraham will be completely fulfilled. - GENESIS 22;17, 18. 

Next time: REVELATION ITS GRAND CLIMAX AT HAND!/Chapter Forty Three - Trees of Life 

From the jw.org publications

REVELATION ITS GRAND CLIMAX AT HAND!/Chapter Forty Three - The RIver of Water of Life - Continue

The river originates at "the throne of God and of the Lamb." This  appropriate, since the basis of Jehovah's life-giving provisions is the ransom sacrifice, and this  was provided  because Jehovah  "loved the world so  much that he gave his only-begotten Son, in order that everyone exercising faith in him migh not be destroyed but have everlasting life."  (John 3:16)  The water of life also involves God's Word, which is spoken of as water in the Bible. (Ephesians 5:26) However, the river of water of life includes not only the truth but also ever other provision of Jehovah, based on Jesus' sacrifice, for recovering obedient humans from sin and death and granting  them everlasting life. - JOHN 1:29; 1 JOHN 2:1, 2.

Next time: REVELATION ITS GRAND CLIMAX AT  HAND!/Chapter Forty Three - The River of Water of Life - Conclusion 

From the jw.org publications

REVELATION ITS GRAND CLIMAX AT HAND!/Chapter Forty Three - The River of Water of Life - Continue

What is this "river of water of life"?  Literal water is a vital element for life.  Without food, a man can survive for a number of weeks, but without water he will die in about a week. Water is also a cleansing agent  and vital for health.  Thus, the water of life ust represent somethibg essetial for the life and health of mankind. The prophet Ezekiel was also granted a vision of this "river of water of life,"  and in his visiob, the river flowd out from the temple in Jerusalem and down into the Dead Sea.  Then, miracle of miracles! That lifeless, chemically saturated body of water was coverted into fresh water teeming with fish!  (Ezekiel 47:1-12)  Yes, the visionary river bribgs back to life something that was previously dead, confirming that the river of water of life pictures God's provisio through Jesus Christ for restoring perfect human life to the "dead" human race.  This river is "clear as crystal," showig the purity and holiness of God's provisons. It is not like the blood-stained, death-dealing "waters" of Christendom. - REVELATION 8:10, 11. 

Next time: REVELATION ITS GRAND CLIMAX AT HAND!/Chapter Forty Three - The River of Water of Life. - Continue

From the  jw.org publications 

 

REVELATION ITS GRAND CLIMAX AT HAND!/Chapter Forty Three - The River of Water of Life - Continue

 This is not the first time that life-giving water has been offered to mankind.  When he was on earth, Jesus spoke of water that imparted everlasting life.  (John  4:10-14; 7:37, 38)  Further, John is about to hear the loving invitation: "The spirit and the bride keep on saying: 'Come!' And let anyone hearing  say: 'Come!' And let anyone thirsting come; let  anyone that wishes  take life's water free."  (Revelation 22:17) This invitation is being sounded even now, indicating that a measure of water of life is already available. But in the new world, those waters will flow from God's throne and through New Jerusalem as a veritable river.  

Next time: REVELATION ITS GRAND CLIMAX AT HAND!/Chapter Forty Three - The River of Water of Life - Continue

From the jw.org publications

REVELATION ITS GRAND CLIMAX AT HAND!/Chapter Forty Three -The RIver of Water of Life

 The resplendent New Jerusalem will channel great blessings to humankind on earth. This is what John next learns: "And he showed me a river of water of life, clear as crystal, flowing out from the throne of God and of the Lamb down the middle of its broad way." (Revelation 22:1, 2a) When does this "river" flow? Since it flows "out from the throne of God and of the Lamb," it could only be after the Lord's day began in 1914.  That was the time for the event heralded by the blowing of the seventh trumpet and the grand announcement: "Now have come to pass the salvation  and the power and the kingdom of our God and the authority of his Christ." (Revelation 11:15; 12:10) Previous to that date, "the Lamb" was not enthroned as Messianic King.  Additionally, since the river runs through the broad way of New Jerusalen, the time of the vision's fulfillment must be after the destruction of Satan's world, when New Jerusalem 'comes down out of heaveb from God.' -REVELATION 21:2.

Next time: REVELATION ITS GRAND CLIMAX AT HAND!/Chapter Forty Three -The River of Water of Life - Continue

From the jw.org publications 

REVELATION ITS GRAND CLIMAX AT HAND!/Chapter Forty Three - A Light for the Nations -Conclusion

 John continues: "But anythig not sacred and anyone that carries o  disgusting thing and a lie will in n o way enter into it; only those written in the Lamb's scroll of life will." (Revelation 21:27)  Nothing tainted by Satan's system  of thing can be a part of New Jerusalem. Even though its gates are permanently open, no one who carries on a disgusting thing  and a lie' will be allowed to enter.  There will be no apostates in that city or any members of Babylon the Great.  And if any try to desecrate the city by corrupting its future members while they are on earth, their efforts are brought to notheing.  (Matthew 13:411111111-43)  Only "those written in the Lamb's scroll of life," the  144,000, will finally enter into New Jerusalem." - REVELATION 13:8; DANIEL 12:3.

Next time: REVELATION ITS GRAND CLIMAX AT HAND!/Chapter Forty Three - The River of Water of Life

From the jw.org publications 

 

REVELATION ITS GRAND CLIMAX AT HAND!/Chapter Forty Three - A Light for the Nations -Continue

 Who, then,  ae "the kings of the earth" who "bring their glory into it?"  They are  not the literal kings of the earth as a group, for they go down to destruction fighting against God's Kingdom at Armageddon.   (Revelation 16:14, 16; 19:17, 18) Could the kings be some some high-ranking ones of the nations who become a part of the great crowd, or are they resurrected kings who submit to God's Kingdom in the new world?  (Matthew 12:42)  Hardly, because for the most part, the glory of such kings was worldly and has long since faded.   "The kings of the earth," then, who bring their glory into New Jerusalem must be the 144,000, who are "bought . . . outof every tribe and tongue and people and nation" to rule as kings with the Lamb, Jesus Christ.  (Revelation 5:9, 10; 22:5)  They bring their God-given glory into the city to add to its radiance. 

Next time: REVELATION ITS GRAND CLIMAX AT HAND!/Chapter Forty Three - A Light for the Nations - Conclusion

From the jw.org publications

REVELATION ITS GRAND CLIMAX AT HAND!/Chapter Forty Three - A Light for the Nations - Continue

 Who are these "nations" walking by means of the light of New Jerusalem?  They  are people,  once a part of the nations of this wicked world, who respond the light shed through this glorious heavenly city. Foremost among them are the great crowd, who have already come out of "all nations and tribes and peoples and tongues" and who worship  God day and night in company with the John class.  (Revelation 7:9, 15)  After New Jerusalem comes down from heaven and Jesus uses the keys of death and of Hades to resurrect the dead, they will be joined by millions more, originally from "the nations," who come to love Jehovah and his Son, the Lamb-like husband of New Jerusalem. - REVELATION 1:18.

Next time: REVELATION ITS GRAND CLIMAX AT HAND!/Chapter Forty Three - A Light for the Nations - Continue

From the jw.org publications

REVELATION ITS GRAND CLIMAX AT HAND!/Chapter Forty Three - A Light for the Nations

 This same prophecy also foretold: "And nation will certainly go your light, and kings to the brightness of your shining forth." (Isaiah 60:3) Revelation shows that these worlds would include New Jerusalem: "And the nations will walk by means of its light, and the kings of the earth will bring their glory into it. And its gates will not be closed all day, for night will not exist there. And they will bring the glory and the honor of the nations with it." - REVELATION 21:24-26.

Next time: REVELATION ITS GRAND CLIMAX AT HAND!/Chapter Forty Three - A Light for the Nations - Continue 

 From the jw.org publications

REVELATION ITS GRAND CLIMAX AT HAND!/Chapter Forty Three - A City of Lights - Conclusion

 When Jehovah's glory passed by Moses on Mount Sinai, it caused Moses' face to shine so brightly that he had to cover it from his fellow Israelites. (Exodus 34:4-7, 29, 30, 33)  Can you imagine, then, the brightness  of city that is permanently lighted  up with Jehovah's  glory? Such a city could have no nighttime.  It would have no need of a literal sun or moon.  It would eternally shedding  light. (Compare 1 Timothy 6:16)  New Jerusalem  is bathed i that kind of radiant brilliance.  Indeed,  this bride and Bridegroom King become the capital  of Jehovah'a universal organization- his "woman," "the Jersalem above "-concerning  which Isaiah prophesied: "For you the sun will no more prove to be a light by day, and for brightness the moon itself will no more give you light.  And Jehovah  must become to you an indefinitely lasting light, and your God your beauty. No more will your sun set, nor will you moon go on the wane; for Jehovah himself will become for you and indefinitely lasting light, and the days of your mourning will come to completion." - ISAIAH 60"1, 19, 20; GALATIANS 4:26. 

Next time: REVELATION ITS GRAND CLIMAX AT HAND!/Chapte Forty Three - A Light for the Nations

From the  jw.org publications 

REVELATION ITS GRAND CLIMAX AT HAND!/Chapter Forty Three - A City of Light

 In Solomon's time, Jerusalem was dominated by a temple  built at the city's highest eleveation on Mount Moriah to the north. But what of New Jerusalem? John says: "And I did not see a temple in it, for Jehovah God the Almighty is its temple. also the Lamb is. And the city has no need of the sun nor of the moon to shine  upon it, for the glory of God lighted it up, and its lamp was the Lamb." (Revelation 21:22, 23)  In truth, there is no need  to construct a literal temple here. The ancient Jewish temple was just a pattern, and the reality of that pattern, the great spiritual temple, has existed since Jehovah anointed Jesus as High Priest in 29 C.E.  (Matthew 3:16, 17; Hebrews 9:11. 12, 23, 24. ) A temple also presupposes a priestly class offering sacrifices to Jehovah on behalf of the people. But all those who are part of New Jerusalem are priests.  (Revelation 20:6)  And the great sacrfice, Jesus' perfect human life, has been offered once for all time. (Hebrews 9:27, 28) Moreover, Jehovah is personally accessible  to everyone living in the city. 

Next time: REVELATION ITS GRAND CLIMAX AT HAND!/Chapter Forty Three - A City of Light - Continue

From the jw.org publications 

REVELATION ITS GRAND CLIMAX AT HAND!/Chapter Forty Three - Precious Building Materials - Conclusion

 Even the city's foundations are beautiful, being adorned with 12 precioud gems. This calls to mind the ancient Jewish high priest who on ceremonial days wore an ephod studded wit 12 different precious stones somewhat similar to the one described here.  (Exodus 28:15-21)  Surely, this is no coincidence! Rather, it emphasizes the priestly function of New Jerusalem, of which Jesus the great High Priest, is the "lamp."  (Revelation 20:6; 21:23; Hebrews 8:1) Also, it is through New Jerusalem that the benefits  of Jesus' High-Priestly ministry ae channeled  to mankind.  (Revelation 22:1. 2)  The city's 12 gates, each being a pearl of great beauty, call to mind Jesus' illustration that likened the Kingdom to a pearl  of high value.  All who ener through those gates will have shown true appreciation for spiritual values. - MATTHEW 13:45, 45; compare Job 28:12, 17, 18. 

Next time: REVELATION ITS GRAND CLIMAX AT HAND!/Chapter Forty Three - A City of Light

From the jw.org publications

 

REVELATION ITS GRAND CLIMAX AT HAND!/Chapter Forty Three - Precious Building Materials - Continue

No human smelter could produce  gold of such purity.  But Jehovah is the Master Refiner. He sits "as a refiner ad a cleanser of silver," and he refines the individual, faithful members of spiritual Israel   "like gold ad like silver," removing from them all impurities.  Only individuals  who have truly been refined and cleansed will finally make up New Jerusalem, and in this way Jehovah builds up the city with living building materials that are aglow with the highest excellence of spiritual purity. -MALACHI  3:3, 4. 

Next time: REVELATION ITS GRAND CLIMAX AT HAND!/Chapter Forty Three - Precious Building Matereials - Conclusion

From the jw.org publications 

REVELATION ITS GRAND CLIMAX AT HAND!/Chapter Forty Three - Precious Building Materials - Continue

 The city's construction is truly resplendent.  Insted of mundane, earthly building materials like clay or stone, we read of jasper, refined gold, and "every sort of precious stone."  How fittingly  these portray celestial building materials!  Nothing could be more magnificent.  The ancient ark of the covenant was overlaid with pure gold, and in the Bible this element often represents things that are good and valuable.  (Exodus 25:11; Proverbs 25:11; Isaiah 60:6, 17)  But the entire New Jerusalem, and even its broad way, are constructed of  "pure gold like clear glass," portraying a beauty and intrinsic value that stagger the imagination. 

Next time:  REVELATION ITS GRAND CLIMAX AT HAND!/Chapter Forty Three - Precious Building Materials- Continue

From the jw.org publications

REVELATION ITS GRAND CLIMAX AT HAND!/Chapter Forty Three - Precious Building Materials

 John continues his description: "Now the structure of its wall was jasper, and the city was pure gold like clear glass.  The foundation of the "city's walls were adorned with ever sort of precious stone; the first foundation was jasper, the second saffire, the third chalcedony, the fourth emerald, the fifth sardonyx, the sixth sadius, the seventh chrysolite, the eight beryl, the ninth topax, the tenth chrysoprase, the eleventh hyacinth, the twelfth amethyst.  Also, the twelve gates were  twelve pearls; each one of the gates was made of one pearl.  and the broad way of the city was pure gold, as transparent glass." - REVELATION 21:18-21. 

Next time: REVELATION ITS GRAND CLIMAX AT HAND!/Chapter Forty Three - Precious Builing Materials - Continue 

From the jw.org publications

REVELATION ITS GRAND CLIMAX AT HAND!/Chapter Forty Three - Measuring the City - Conclusion

The 144-cubit high walls remind us that the city is made up of 144,000 spiritually adopted sons of God.  The figure 12 that appears in the 12,000-furlong measurement of the city-with the length, the breadth, and height being equal-is figuratively in organizational settings in Bible prophecy. Hence, New Jerusalem is a superbly designed organizational arrangement for accomplish God's eternal purpose.  New Jerusalem, together with the King Jesus Christ, is Jehovah's Kingdom organization.  Then there is  the shape of the city; a perfect cube. In Solomon's temple, the Most Holy, containign a symbolic representation of Jehovah's presence, was a perfect cube. (1 Kings 6:19, 20)  How fittingly, then, that New Jerusalem, illuminated by the glory of Jehovah himself, is seen as a perfect, large-scale cube!  All its measurements are perfectly balanced. It is a city without irregularities  or defects. - REVELATION  21:22. 

Next time: REVELATION ITS GRAND CLIMAX AT  HAND!/Chapter Forty Three - Precious Building Materials

From the jw.org publications 

REVELATION ITS GRAND CLIMAX AT HAND!/Chapter Forty Three - Measuring the City - Continue

 What a remarkable city this is! A perfect cube 12,000 fulongs (about 1,380 miles) in perimeter, surrounded by a wall 144 cubits, or 210 feet, in height. No literal city cold ever have such meaurements. It would cover a territory about 14 times as large as modern Israel, and it would tower almost 350 miles into outer space! Revelation was given in signs.  So, what do these measurements tell us about heavenly New Jerusalem?

Next time: REVELATION ITS GRAND CLIMAX AT HAND!/Chapter Forty Three - Measuring the City - Conclusion

From the jw.org publications 

REVELATION ITS GRAND CLIMAX AT HAND!/Chapter Forty Three - Measuring the City

 John continues his account:"Now the one was speaking with me was holding as a measure a goldeb reed, that he might measure the city and its gates and its wall. And the city lies foursquare, and its length and breadth and height are equal. Also, he measured its wall one hundred and forty -four cubits, according to a man's measure, at the same time an angel's." (Revelatin 21:15-17)  When the temple sanctuary  was measured, this guaranteed the fulfillment of Jehovah's purposes with regard to it.  (Revelation11:1)  Now,  the angel's measuring New Jerusalem show how unchangeable  Jehovah's purposes are with regard to this glorious city. 

Next time: REVELATION ITS GRAND CLIMAX AT HAND!/ Chapter Forty Three - Measuring the City - Continue

From the jw.org  publications

REVELATION ITS GRAND CLIMAX AT HAND!/Chapter Forty Three - The Resplendent City - Conclusion

 The symbolic city has a huge wall. In anciet times, city walls were built for security to keep out enemies.  New Jerusalem's "great and lofty wall" shows that she is spirituallt secure.  No enemy of righteousness, no one unclean or dishonest, will ever be able to gain enterance.  (Revelation 21:27) But for those allowed in, entering this beauteous city is like entering  Paradise. (Revelation 2:7) After Adam's expulsion, cherubs  were posted in front of the original Paradise to keep out unclean humans. (Genesis 3:24) Similarly, angels are posted at each entrance of the holy city Jerusalem to ensure spiritual security of the city. Indeed, throughout the last days, angels have been  guarding the congregation of anointed Christians, which becomes New Jerusalem  from Babylonish contamination. - MATTHEW 13:41. 

Next time: REVELATION ITS GRAND CLIMAX AT HAND!/Chapter Forty Three -Meauring the City

From the jw.org publications

REVELATION ITS GRAND CLIMAX AT HAND!/Chapter Forty Three - The Resplendent City - Continue

 On its gates, there are inscribed the names of the twelve tribes  of Israel.   Therefore, the symbolic city is made up of 144,000, who were sealed "out of every tribe of the sons of Israel. (Revelation 7:4-8) In harmony with  this, the foundation stone have o them the names of the 12 apostles of the Lamb. Yes, New Jerusalem is not the fleshly nation of Israel founded on the 12 sons of Jacob.  It is the spiritual Israel, founded on "the apostles and prophets." - EPHESIANS 2:20. 

Next time: REVELATIONS ITS GRAND CLIMAX AT HAND!/Chapter Forty Three - The Resplendent City - Conclusion 

From the jw.org publications

REVELATION ITS GRAND CLIMAX AT HAND!/ Chapter Forty Three - The Resplendent City - Continue

     Jerusalem is breathtaking in its beauty: "Its radiance was like a    most precious stone, as a  jasper stone shinning crystal-clear. It had a great and lofty wall and had twelve gates, and at the gates twelve angels and names were inscribed which are those of the twelve tribes of the sons of Israel. On the east were three gates,  on the north side three gates, and on the west three gates.  The wall of the city had twelve foundation stones, an don them the twelve names of the twelve apostle of the Lamb." (Revelaton 2`:11b-14) How fitting that the first impression john records is glowing brightness! Radiant as a new bride, New Jerusalem makes a fitting consort for Jesus Christ. It positively glows, as is  proper for a creation of "the Father of the celestial lights." - JAMES 1:17. 

Next time: REVELATION ITS GRAND CLIMAX AT HAND!/Chapter Forty Three - The Resplendent City - Continue

From the jw.org publications

REVELATION ITS GRAND CLIMAX AT HAND!/Chapter Forty Three - The Resplendant City - Continue

 Even earthly Jerusalem never had a glory such as this.  John tells us: "And there cme one of the seven angels who had the seven bowls which were full of the seven last plagues, and he  spoke with me and said:   'Come here, I will show you the bride, the Lamb's wife.' so he carried me away in the power  of the spirit to a great and lofty mountain, and he showed me the holy city Jerusalem coming down out of haven from God and having the glory of God." (Revelation 21:9-11a)  From the vantage point of that towering mountain. John surveys the beauteous city in all its lovely detail. Men of faith have been in eager expectation of its coming since mankind's fa;ll into sin and death. At last it is here!  (Romans 8:19;  1 Corinthians 15;22, 23; Hebrews 11:39, 40)  It is the magnificent spiritual city, composed of 144,000 loyal integrity keepers, resplendent in its holiness and reflecting the glory of Jehovah.  Here is the grand Revelation climax!

Next time: REVELATION ITS GRAND CLIMAX AT HAND!/Chapter Forty Three -The Resplendent City - Continue

From the jw.org publications

REVELATION ITS GRAND CLIMAX AT HAND!/Chapter Forty Three - The Resplendent City

 An Angel had taken John into a wilderness to show him Babylon the Great. Now one of the same angelic group conducts John to a  lofty mountain.  What a contrast he sees! Here is no unclean, immoral city like the Babylonish harlot, but New Jerusalem -pure spiritual, holy-andis descending from heaven  itself. - REVELATION 17:1, 5. 

Next time: REVELATION ITS GRAND CLIMAX AT HAND!/Chapter Forty Three - The Resplendent City - Continue

From the jw. org publications

REVELATION ITS GRAND CLIMAX AT HAND!/Chapter Forty Two - The Ones Conquering - Conclusion

 Outstanding as conquerors are: the Lamb, Jesus Christ, and his bride of 144,000, New Jerusalem. How fitting, then,  that Revelation should be brought to a sublimwe climax by a final transcendent  view of New Jerusalem! John now describes our last vision. 

Next time: REVELATION ITS GRAND CLIMAX AT HAND!/ Chapter Forty Three - The Resplendent City

From the jw.org publications

REVELATION ITS GRAND CLIMAX AT HAND!/Chapter Forty Two - The Ones Conquering

 Christendom, though  she claims to be the bride of Christ, is characterized by the disgusting practices that John here describes.  She goes down to eternal destruction with the rest of Babylon the Great. (Revelation 18:8, 21)  Likewise, any of the anointed or of the great crowd who take  up  the practice of any such evildoing, or start encouraging it, face everlasting destruction. If they persist in these actions, they will not inherit the promises.  And  in the new earth, any who try to introduce such practices will be destroyed speedily, going into to the second death without hope of a resurrection. - ISAIAH 65:20. 

Next time: REVELATION ITS GRAND CLIMAX AT HAND!/Chapter Forty Two - The Ones Conquering - Conclusion

From the jw.org publications

REVELATION ITS GRAND CLIMAX AT HAND!/Chapte Forty Two - The Ones Conquering - Conquering - Continue

 With this grand prospect in view, how important it is that Jehovah's Witnesses  now remain  clean from the defiling things of Satan's world! We need to be strong, resolute, and determined that the Devil will never drag us down into the company that Jehovah himself here describes "But it is for the cowards and those without faith and those who  are disgusting in their filth and murderers and fornicators and those practicing spiritism and idolaters and all the  liars, their portions will be in the lake that burns with fire and sulfur.  This means  the second death." (Revelation 21:8)  Yes, the would-be ineritor has to avoid the practices that have befouled this old system of thiings. He has to conquer  by remaining faithful in the face of all pressures and temptations. - ROMANS 8:35-39.

Next time: REVELATION ITS GRAND CLIMAX AT HAND!/Chapter Forty Two - The One Conquering - Continue

From the jw.org publications

REVELATION ITS GRAND CLIMAX AT HAND!/Chapter Forty Two - The Ones Conquering - Continue

 The great crowd out of all nations also look to this promise. They too must conquer, loyally serving God until they come out  of the great tribulation. Then they will  enter into their earthly inheritance, "the kingdom prepared for them from the founding of the world." (Matthew 25:34)  These and others of the Lord's earthly sheep who pass the test at the end of the thousand years are called "holy ones"  (Revelation 20:9) They will enter a sacred an dfilial relationship with their Creator, Jehovah God, as members of his universal organization. - ISAIAH 66:22; JOHN 20:31; ROMANS 8:21. 

Next time:  REVELATION ITS GRAND CLIMAX AT HAND!/Chapter Forty Two - The Ones Conquering - Continue

From the jw.org publications

REVELATION ITS GRAND CLIMAX AT HAND!/Chapter Forty Two - The Ones Conquering

 Those who drink of that refreshing "water" must also conquer, as Jehovah goes on to say: "Anyone conquering will inherit  these things, and I shall be his God and he will be my son." (Revelation 21:7)  This promise is similiar to the promises found in the messages to  the seven congregations; hence, these words must apply in the first place to anointed disciples.  (Revelation 2:7, 11,  17. 26-28; 3:5,12. 21) Christ's spiritual brothers throughout the ages have eagerly anticipaed the privileg of being part of  New Jerusalem. If they conquer, as Jesus conquered, their hopes will be realized. - JOHN 16:33.

Next time: REVELATION ITS GRAND CLIMAX AT HAND!/Chapter Forty Two - The Ones Conquering - Continue 

From  the jw.org publications

REVELATION ITS GRAND CLIMAX AT HAND!/Forty Two - "Water" for the Thirsty Ones

 It is Jehovah himself who declares: "To anyone thirsting, I will give the fountains of the water of life free." (Revelation 21:6b) To quench that thirst, a person has to be conscious of his spiritual need and be willing to accept "the water" that Jehovah provides. (Isaiah 55:1; Matthew 5:3)   What  "water"? Jesus himself answered that question when witnessing to a woman beside a well in Samaria.  He told her: "Whoever drinks from the water that I give him will never get thirsty at all, but the water that I give him will become in him a fountain of water bubbling up to impart everlasting life" That "fountain of  the water of life" flows from God through Christ as his provision for restoring mankind to perfection of life. Like the Samaritan woman,  how ready we should be to drop mundane interests in favor of telling others the good news! - JOHN 4:14, 15, 28, 29.

Next time: REVELATION ITS GRAND CLIMAX AT HAND!/Chapter Forty Two - The Ones Conquering

From the jw.org publications

 

REVELATION ITS GRAND CLIMAX AT HAND!/Chapter Forty Two - A New Heaven and a New Earth - Conclusion

 It is as though Jehovah himself were signing for faithful mankind a guarantee, or title deed, to these future blessings.  Who would dare question such a Guarantor?  Why, so certain are these promises of Jehovah that  he speaks as though they already fulfilled: "They have come to pass!" Is not Jehovah "the Alpha and the Omega . . ., the One who is and who was and who is coming, the Almighty"? (Revelation 1:8) Indeed he is! He himself declares: "I am the first and I am the last, and besides me there is no God."  (Isaiah 44:6)  As such, he can inspire prophecies and fulfill them in every detail. How faith strengthening! So he promises:"Look! I am making all things new"! Rather than questioning whether these marvels will really happen, surely we should be wondering 'What do I personally have to do to inherit such blessings?' 

Next time: REVELATION ITS GRAND CLIMAX AT HAND!/Chapter  Forty Two - "Water" for the Thirsty Ones

From the jw.org publications

 

REVELATION ITS GRAND CLIMAX AT HAND!/Chapter Forty Two - A New Heaven and a New Earth - Continue

 What magnificent foregleams fill our minds as we meditate on these promises!  Wonderous provisions are in store  for faithful mankind under heaven's loving government. Are such promises too good to be tru? Are they just the dreams of an old man exiled on the island of Patmos?  Jehovah himself answers: "And the one seated on the throne said:  'Look! I am making all things new.' Also, he says: 'Write, because these words are faithful and true.' And he said to me: 'They have come to pass! I am the Alpha and the Omega, the beginning and the end.' " - REVELATION 21:5, 6a.

Next time: REVELATION ITS GRAND CLIMAX AT HAND!/Chapter Forty Two - A New Heaven and a New Earth - Conclusion

From the jw.org publications 

REVELATION ITS GRAND CLIMAX AT HAND!/ Chapter Forty Two - A Heaven and a New Earth - Continue

"At that time," says Isaiah, "the eyes of the blind ones will be  opened, and the very ears of the deaf ones will be unstopped." Yes, "at that time the lame one will climb up just as a stag does, and the tongue of the speechless ones will cry out in gladness." (Isaiah 35:5, 6)  At that time, too, "they will certainly build houses and have occupancy; they will certainly plant vineyards and eat from their fruitage. They will not build and someone else  have occupancy; they will not plant  and someone else do the eating. For like days of a tree will the days of my people be; and the work of their hands my chosen one will use to the full." (Isaiah 65:21, 22)  So they will not be uprooted from the earth.

Next time: REVELATION ITS GRAND CLIMAX AT HAND!/Chapter Forty Two - A New Heaven and a New Earth - Continue

From the jw.org publications

REVELATION ITS GRAND CLIMAX AT HAND!/Chapter Forty Two - A New Heaven and a New Earth - Contnue

 John goes on to say: "And he will wipe out 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 ar 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 25:8;  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 thronem" 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: REVELATION ITS GRAND CLIMAX AT  HAND!/Chapter Forty Two - A New Heaven and a New Earth - Continue

From the jw.org publications

REVELATION ITS GRAND CLIMAX AT HAND!/Chapter Forty Two - A New Heaven and a New Earth - Continue

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 Jesius  hands over the Kingdom 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 4:2, 24) What a lofty privilege for restored humanity!

Next time: REVELATION ITS GRAND CLIMAX AT HAND!/Chapter Forty Two - A New Heaven and a New Earth - Continue 

From the jw.org publications

REVELATION ITS GRAND CLIMAX AT HAND!/Chapter Forty Two - A New Heaven and a New Earth - Continue

 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 nation of Israel, he promised:"I shall put my tabernacle in the midst of you, and my sould will not abhor  you. And I shall indeed walk 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 similar promise to faithful humans. During the thousand-year Judgment Day, they will become a very special people to him.

Next time: REVELATION ITS GRAND CLIMAX AT  HAND!/Chapter Forty Two - A New Heaven and a New Earth - Continue

From the jw.org publications 

REVELATION ITS GRAND CLIMAX AT HAND!/Chapter Forty Two - A New Heaven and a New Earth - Continue

 John continues: "I saw also the  holy city, New Jerusalem, coming down out of heaven from God and prepared as a bride adorned for her husband." (Revelation 21:2)  New Jerusalem is the bride of Christ, made up o the anointed Christias who remain faithful to death, and are raised to become kings and priests with the glorified Jesus.  (Revelation 3:12; 20:6)  Just as earthly Jerusalem became the seat of government in ancient Israel, the magnificent New Jerusalem and her Bridegroom make up the government of he new system of things. This is the new heaven. The 'bride' comes down out of heaven,' not literally, but the sense of directing attention to the earth.  The Lamb's bride is to be his loyal helpmeet in operating a righteous government over all mankind. A blessing indeed for the new earth!

Next time: REVELATION ITS GRAND CLIMAX AT HAND!/Chapter Forty Two - A New Heaven and a New Earth - Continue

From the jw.org publications

REVELATION ITS GRAND CLIMAX AT HAND!/Chapter Forty Two - A New Heaven and a New Earth - Continue

 Hundreds of years before John's day,  Jehovah had said to Isaiah; "For here I am creating new heavens and a new earth; and the former things will not be called to mind, neither will they come up into the heart."  (Isaiah 65:17; 66:22) This prophecy was initially fulfilled when faithful Jews returned to  Jerusalem in 537 B.C.E. after their 70-year exile in Babylon.  In that restoration, they formed a cleansed society, "a new earth," under a new governmental system, "new heavens." The apostle Peter, however, pointed to a further appication of the prophecy saying: "But there are new heavens and a new earth that were awaiting according to his promise,  and in these  righteousness is to dwell. (2 Peter 3:13)  John now shows that this promies  is fulfilled during the Lord's day.  "The former heaven and the former earth," Satan's organized system of things with its governmental structure influenced by Satan and his demons, will pass away. The turbulent "sea" of wicked, rebellious mankind will cease to exist.  In its place will be "a new heaven and a new earth"-a new earthly society under a new government, God's Kingdom. - Compare REVELATION 20:11.

Next time: REVELATION ITS GRAND CLIMAX AT HAND!?Chapter Forty Two - A New Heaven and a New Earth - Continue

From the jw.org publications

REVELATION ITS GRAND CLIMAX AT HAND!/Forty Two - A New Heaven and a New Earth

THIS glorious vision continues to unfold as the angel takes John back to the beginning of the Thousand Year Reign. What does  he describe?  "And I saw a new heaven and a new earth; for the former heaven and the former earth had passed away, and the sea is no more." (Revelation 21:1) A captivating panorama comes to view. 

Next time: REVELATION ITS GRAND CLIMAX AT HAND!/Forty Two - Continue

From the jw.org publications 

REVELATION ITS GRAND CLIMAX AT HAND!/Chapter Forty One - The End of Death and Hades - Conclusion

 Thus, the program that the apostle Paul describes in his letter to the Corinthians will come to completion:  "For [Jesus] must rule as king until God  has put all his enemies under his feet. As the last enemy, [Adamic]  death is to be brought to nothing." What happens next?  "When all things have been subjected  to him, then the Son himself will also subject himself to the One who subjected all things to him"  In other words, Jesus "hands over the kingdom to his God and Father." (1 Corinthians 15:24-28)   Yes, Jesus, having conquered Adamic death through the merit  of his ransom sacrifice, will handover a perfect human family to his Father, Jehovah. It is evidently at this point, at the end of the thousand years that Satan is released and the final test takes place to determine whose names will remain permently recorded in the scroll of life. "Exert yourselves vigorously" So that you name may be among them! - LUKE 13:24; REVELATION  20:5. 

Next time: REVELATION ITS GRAND CLIMAX AT HAND!/Chapter Forty Two - A New Heaven and a New Earth

From the jw.org publications

REVELATION ITS GRAND CLIMAX AT HAND!/Chapter Forty One - The End of Death and Hades

 Next, John describes something truly wonderful: "And death and Hades were hurled into the lake of fire.  This means the second death, the lake of fire. Furthermore, whoever was not found written in the book of life was hurled into the lake of fire." (Revelation 20:14, 15) By the end of the millennial Judgment Day, "death and Hades" are completely removed. Why does this  involve a thousand years?  Hades, the common grave of all mankind, is emptied when the last one in God's memory is resurrected. But as long as any humans are tainted by inherited sin, Adamic death is still with them. All those resurrected on earth, as well as the great crowd that survives Armageddon, will need to obey what is written in the scrolls until  Jesus' ransom merit has been applied in fully removing sicknesss, old age, and other inherited disabilities.  Then Adamic death  along with Hades, is "hurled into the lake of fire."  They will be gone forever!

Next time: REVELATION ITS GRAND CLIMAX AT HAND!/Chapter Forty One - The End of Death and Hades - Conclusion

From the jw.org publications

REVELATION ITS GRAND CLIMAX AT HAND!/Chapter Forty One - Opening Other Scrolls Conclusion

 With regard to the earthly resurrection, Jesus said that 'those  who did good things come out to a resurrection of lifee, those who practiced vile things to a resurrection of judgment.' Here "life"and "judgment" contrast with each other, showing that those resurrected ones who "practiced vile things  after being instructed in the inspired Scriptures and scrolls are judged to be unworthy life.  Their names will not be written in the scrollof book, of life.  (John 5:29) This would also be true of any who previously followed a faithful course but who, for some reason, turn aside during the Thousand Year Reign. Names can also be erased.  (Exodus 32:32. 33)  On the other hand, those who obediently follow the things written in the scroll will keep their names o the written record, the scroll of lifee, and continue living. For them, the resurrection  will have proved to be one "of life." 

Next time: REVELATION ITS GRAND CLIMAX AT HAND!/Chapter Forty One - The End of Death and Hades

From the jw.org  publications

REVE;LATION ITS GRAND CLIMAX AT HAND!/Chapter Forty One - Opening Other Scrolls - Continue

 What an extensive campaign of theocratic education will be needed!  In 1987 Jehovah's Witnesses worldwide were conducting on the average 3,005,048 Bible studies in various locations. But during the resurrection, countless millions of studies based on the Bible and the new scrolla, will no doubt be conducted!  All of God's people will need to become teachers and to exerty themselves. Resurrected ones, as they progres, will no doubt share   in this vast teaching program. Likely, the resurrection will proceed in a way that those who are alive may have the joy of welcoming and instructing former family  members and acquaintances, who, in their turn, may welcome  and instruct others. (Compare 1 Corinthians 15:19-28, 58)  The more than three million witnesses of Jehovah are active in spreading the truth today are laying a good foundation for the privileges they hope to have during the resurrection.  - ISAIAH 50:4; 54:13. 

Next time: REVELATION ITS GRAND CLIMAX AT HAND!? Chapter Forty One - Opening Other Scrolls - Conclusion

From the jw.org publications

REVELATION ITS GRAND CLIMAX AT HAND!/Chapter Forty One - Opening Other Scrolls - Continue

 However, John has just mentioned other scrolls that will be opened during the Millennium Reign.  (Revelation 20:12) What will these be?  At times, Jehovah has given specific instructions for particular situations.  For example, in Moses' day he provided a detailed series of laws that meant life for the Israelites if they obeyed.  (Deuteronomy 4:40; 32:45-47)  During the first century, new instructions  wee given to help faithfulones to follow Jehovah's  principles under the Christian system of things. (Matthew 28:19, 20; John14:34; 15:9, 10)  Now John reports  that the dead are to be "judged our of those things written in the scrolls   according to their "deeds."  Evidently, then, the opening of these scrolls will publish Jehovah's detailed requirements for mankind during the thousand years.  Byapplying in their lives the regulations and commandments of those scrolls, obedient humans will be able to lengthen their days, attaining finally to everlasting life. 

Next time: REVELATION ITS GRAND CLIMAX AT HAND!/Chapter Forty One - Opening Other Scrolls - Continue

From the jw.org publications

REVELATION ITS GRAND CLIMAX AT HAND!/Chapter Forty One - Opening Other Scrolls

 How must these resurrected ones demonstrate  their obedience? Jesus himself pointed to the two great commandments, saying: "The first is, 'Hear, O Israel, Jehovah our God is one Jehovah and  you must love Jehovah your God with your whole heart and with your whole soul and with your mind and with your whole strength.'  The second is this, 'You must love your neighbor as  yourself.' " (Mark 12:29-31) There are also Jehovah's well-established  principles that they must follow, such as to repudiate stealing, lying, murdering, and immorality. - 1 TIMOTHY 1:8-11; REVELATION 21:8. 

Next time: REVELATION ITS GRAND CLIMAX AT  HAND!/Chapter Forty One - Opening Other Scrolls - Continue 

From the jw.org publications

REVELATION ITS GRAND CLIMAX AT HAND!/Chapter Forty One - The Scroll of life - Conclusion

 What, then, will determine whether a person gets his name written in the opened scroll of life at that time?  The key factor will be the same  as it was in the days of Adam and Eve, obedience to Jehovah.  As the apostle John wrote to his beloved fellow Christians. "The world is passing away and so is its desire, but he that does the will of God remains forever."  (1 John 2:4-7, 17) In the matter of obedience, Jehovah's appointed Judge set the examplee: "Although [Jesus] was a Son, he learned obedience from the things he suffered; and after he had been made perfect he become responsible for everlasting salvation to all those obeying him." - HEBREWS 5:8, 9. 

Next time: REVELATION ITS GRAND CLIMAX AT HAND!/Chapter Forty One - Opening Other Scrolls 

From the jw.org publications