The Descent of the New Jerusalem: God's Promise of All Things Made New

When wearied by the turmoils of the present age, how delightful to hear from the blessed source of all grace: "Behold, I make all things new!" (Revelation 21:5). This promise encompasses science, literature, arts, commerce, and above all, religion itself—all shall be renewed.

Joseph S. Exell (1887) interpreted John's vision of the golden, crystal city as a symbol of a New Church descending from Adonai out of heaven—the Bride, the Lamb's wife. Jerusalem in Scripture signifies the Church; therefore a New Jerusalem must mean a New Church, not originating with man but descending from God, the Father and Author of all good.

When the Lord planted the kingdom of God within men (Luke 17:20–21), the prophet Isaiah spoke in similar terms: "Behold, I create new heavens and a new earth" (Isaiah 65:17–18). To transform society's principles and practices is to change heaven and earth themselves.

Paul declared: "If any man be in Christ, he is a new creature; old things have passed away; behold, all things have become new" (2 Corinthians 5:17). When this transformation occurs individually, all things take on new reality. One's view of the Lord becomes bright where once it was dark; thoughts, hopes, and prospects grow confident and cheerful; outward life becomes virtuous and renewed.

Society itself has changed immensely. Where now are the bigoted principles that taught persecution in God's name? Where are maxims teaching nations to regard others as natural enemies?