Page 38 - C063_Revelation 4-The Return

The New Jerusalem

The last three chapters of the book of Revelation detail God’s plan
for mankind’s future.

Chapter 20 describes the Millennial Reign, during which Satan is
bound and unable to deceive the nations while Christ sets up his
earthly kingdom. The rst resurrection is “the resurrection of life” or
the “resurrection of the just.” Tribulation martyrs, as well as the
redeemed from both the Old and New Testament eras, along with
believers still alive on earth when Christ returns, will enter the mil-

lennial reign of Christ.
There will also be a second resurrection, or the “resurrection of con-

demnation.” This is the nal judgment of all unbelievers through-
out the ages, The Great White Throne judgment. Books will be
opened in which have been recorded every sinful thought, word,
and deed, and which will provide the evidence for eternal condem-
nation. These thoughts, words, and actions will be judged against
God’s holy and perfect standard. Every place on the earth or in the
sea that holds remains of non-believers will yield them up and
these people will spend an eternity in Hell.

Chapter 21 begins to describe the eternal state. Sinners of all ages,
demons, Satan, the Antichrist, and the False Prophet will be cast
into the lake of re where they will exist forever. God destroys and
recreates earth as an eternal home for the righteousness, with the

New Jerusalem as its capital. Believers are both the church and the
bride who will live with Christ forever. This chapter also describes
the ornate grandeur of Heaven, which Christ has prepared for those
who love and follow him.

Chapter 22 describes how we will see God face-to-face in our glori-
ed bodies. Christ reiterates that he is coming soon and will richly
bless all who come to him thirsting for the free water of life.