Revelation 21:1-8
Announcments
Night of Worship & Prayer - May 20th, 7PM at Portico Church
Neighborhood Cookout - May 30th, 2PM
Joint Service with Portico Church - May 31st
Newcomer’s Lunch - June 14th
READ
Revelation 21:1-8
Explore
What stands out to you in the passage?
John notes that the first heaven, the first earth, and the sea had passed away. In biblical imagery, the sea often represents chaos, danger, and separation. What does the absence of the sea and the arrival of a "new" creation suggest about the nature of God’s final Kingdom compared to our current world?
In verse 3, a loud voice from the throne declares that "the dwelling place of God is with man." In verse 6, John says that God will give the thirsty the spring water of life without payment. How does this "New Jerusalem" coming down from heaven flip the script on humanity’s usual attempts to reach God? What does this tell us about God's primary desire for His people?
APPLY
In verse 4, John lists the things that will no longer exist in the new heavens and new earth: death, mourning, crying, and pain. When you are walking through a season of suffering, how does the concrete promise of a future without these realities change your perspective on your current circumstances?
God is referred to as the Alpha and Omega, the beginning and end. He is also the One who will actively wipe away every tear from our eyes. How do these titles and actions of God provide peace and comfort today?
Verse 8 describes behaviors and heart-postures that have no place in God’s Kingdom, and on Judgement Day these will be purged and separated from the new heaven and earth. How should this understanding of Judgement Day affect the way in which we live today? How does it affect the way we know, love, and serve Jesus?
PRAY
For the needs of one another, our city, and our world