| Scripture |
Expanded Comments |
| |
|
| 1 And I saw a new heaven and a new earth; for the first heaven and the first earth had passed away, and the sea exists no more. |
And I saw – The fifth [fourth--R501:5] view of the Kingdom (verses 1 through 8) represent the blessedness of the Millennial age. R397:5[R397:15], 330:3[R333:7]
As Paul was given a glimpse of the next dispensation, or, as he calls it, "the world to come." (2 Cor. 12:2-4) A70[A70:1]; HG539:2
A new heaven – Heavens are used symbolically as representing ecclesiastical or spiritual powers. Q231:3
Consisting of the new spiritual ruling powers of the future, Christ, and the glorified church, as the present heavens consist of the nominal religious systems which, claiming Christ for their head, in a very large degree bow to Antichrist, the god of this world. R2832:3, 6014:5, 4706:1; C258
The spiritual dominion of Christ. R333:2
This will be the third heavens and third earth, differing from present conditions in that it will be righteous, whereas the present is unrighteous, imperfect. R2832:2; Q231:2
Not a new place of God's throne, but new conditions. Not another planet, but a new social order on this planet. R2832:3; Q231:2
It will the same physical earth, the same rocks, the same matter will be here, the sky we now have will be here just the same as before the flood. Q231:2
Not new worlds, nor heavens ranged one above another. R2832:2
The third heaven and third earth--the final and perfect ones. R210:3*
A new earth – The reconstructed condition of society. R333:2
Passed away – All present institutions are to utterly perish in the great time of trouble with which this age is very shortly to end. R2832:3
The first passed away at the flood. The heavens and earth "which are now," the present order of things, are reserved of God to pass away with a great fire of trouble, revolution, etc. (2 Pet. 3:7) R2832:2
The Mediator will have effected his grand work of destroying sin and bringing in everlasting righteousness. NS359:2
If this were literal, it would be a contradiction of Eccl. 1:4 "the earth abideth forever." R716:1*
Although God's creatures will still be free moral agents, they will have been thoroughly tested. OV131:T
There was – As a matter of course, there will be no more sea--people unrestrained. R333:2
No more sea – The sea is a symbol of the masses of people in a restless and unstable anarchistic condition, just as the land represents the social order. R2832:3; D638; Q842:2
No more restless people, no more dissatisfaction, no more anarchists; everything will be reduced to law and order. R2832:4; Q232:T, 842:2
In the time of trouble, the sea and the waves will roar. (Luke 21:5-36) In Psa. 46:1-3, the kingdoms of earth will go down, overwhelmed by the symbolic sea, in an anarchistic storm. Q842:2
We are not wise enough to know whether or not this will have a literal fulfillment. Q842:3
|
| 2 And I saw the holy city, new Jerusalem, coming down out of the heaven from God, prepared as a bride adorned for her husband. |
I John saw – This glorious city will not be visible to the natural eye--neither Christ nor the saints in glory can be seen of men. Only those changed from human to spiritual nature see these matters in the full. R2832:5[R2832:9]
The holy city – Government of God. R334:2, 2606:3; CR216:3[CR216:1]
A "city" signifies a religious government backed by power and influence. D25; R3571:1; CR216:3; Q789:4[Q789:4]
In Scripture a city represents a government. For instance, symbolic Babylon is denominated "that great city [government] which ruleth over the kings of the earth." (Rev. 17:18) R2832:4, 2606:3, 2231:1, 1352:5
In contrast, in Rev. 14:8 and 18:21 Babylon's unrighteous character is described, and its sudden and violent overthrow predicted. R1352:5
The symbol represents the established Kingdom of God. Q789:4
The city as a whole comprises all the saints, from our Lord, the Head, down to and including the last member of the Church, which is his Body. R3570:6, 2231:1
The wilderness symbolizes disrespect, outcast condition. City represents the reverse--popularity, honor, dominion, kingdom. He takes the Church out of the wilderness into the city condition. R307:1
As "a city on a hill" which "cannot be hid;" (Matt. 5:14). This heavenly city "shall be established in the tops of the mountains, and shall be exalted above the hills, and all nations shall flow unto it." (Isa. 2:2) R421:6, 338:2
This is the stone cut out of the mountains without hands (but by the power of God), and it will then have become a great mountain (Kingdom), filling the whole earth. (Dan. 2:34, 35) R2606:3, 654:5
New Jerusalem – The Church in glory. R5189:5, 4387:5, 3571:3, 3496:5; CR216:3; OV36:1, 396:1; Q6:T
The Gospel Church in glory and Kingdom power, spiritual and invisible to men, yet all-powerful. C258
The symbol of the new Millennial government, the Church, the Bride united to her Lord. F209; R2832:4
The New Jerusalem and the new heavens are synonymous, signifying the new spiritual ruling power. C258
Stands for or represents in pictorial language the great salvation of all who will come into harmony with God through the merit of Christ's sacrifice. NS841:1
Thus Washington represents the United States government, Paris the French government, Rome the Italian, Berlin the German, London the British, etc. R3571:1
Coming down – Its descent to earth marks the fulfillment of that petition of our Lord's prayer which says, "Thy Kingdom come." C258
Our thought is that the Church will be very closely associated with the earth, just as Satan's kingdom is. Satan's seat of government is in Tartarus--the atmosphere. R5182:1
Though invisible to human eyes. R5182:1
It's coming will be gradual, not sudden. C258
Not until all the saints have been fitted and prepared for their places will this city descend to earth in power and come into possession or control the earth. R3571:1; SM441:1
It is already "coming down," coming into control, and as a result we see the preliminary steps leading to the re-establishment of the old Jerusalem. C258
During the time of trouble it will be coming down, and before the end of it, it will have touched the earth. R2606:3, 654:5, 219:3
"The manifestation of the sons of God." (Rom. 8:19) R56:2; SM143:2
From the commencement of the reign of Christ, the Kingdom of God will commence; it will continue to overthrow evil and establish right until, in the end of the time of trouble, it shall touch the earth. R219:3
From God – It is not earth-born. It is not reared by men. It is spiritual in every sense of the word--of God and not of men. R2832:4
Perhaps it will be necessary for the new creation to be absent from the immediate presence of the Father, and approximate the earth. R5181:6
Out of heaven – Whether the new creation are afar off, or on the earth, they will ever be of the spirit nature. R5181:6
Prepared – The entire Gospel age has been the time for the preparation of this New Jerusalem. R3570:6
As a bride – The Church in glory--beautiful, pure, gorgeous, resplendent. R3570:6, NS291:6
As his espoused, waiting for the marriage, that she may become the Bride. F363, NS291:6
The espoused virgin no more, because she will have passed from her espoused state into the more exalted one of the Bride, married or united to her Lord or Bridegroom. HG409:6
Implies its grandeur and beauty and perfection, as a bride's adornment on such an occasion is particular and elaborate to the last degree. R2832:4
His Church are called to the obtaining of the glory of their Lord, that they may be with him, as his Bride, and be like him, members of his glorious body. R5748:6
Let no one think from the figure that the Lord's intention is that his followers shall lose their personal identity and become merged in one person. NS291:4
Joint-heirs with Christ in his Kingdom of glory and in the work of blessing, judging and uplifting the world. NS340:2, 653:2; R2832:5; OV410:2; SM152:3
Counted as one and treated collectively. R1879:5
"If ye be Christ's (his Bride and joint-heir) then are ye Abraham's seed and heirs according to the (oath-bound) promise." (Gal. 3:29) NS291:3
In contradistinction to the saved of the world of mankind, who will be recognized as the children of Christ, and of whom he will be the "Everlasting Father." R2652:3; OV124:6
As a lesson of divine sovereignty, and in contradiction to all Evolution theories, God elected to call to this place of honor, not angels or cherubs, but some from among redeemed sinners. E395; R1879:4
This same figure is represented in the type of Isaac and Rebecca. F363; NS293:1
|
| 3 And I heard a loud voice out of the heaven, saying, Behold, the tabernacle of God is with men, and he shall tabernacle with them, and they shall be his people, and God himself shall be with them, their God. |
Tabernacle – God's dwelling, the glorified Church. T76; R2832:6
Dwelling. God will dwell in this glorious city. It will be his Temple. Mankind will approach God as Israel approached the typical Tabernacle and Temple in their religious services. R2832:6
Messiah's Kingdom is called a Tabernacle because it is not to be a permanent or eternal condition of things. CR404:5
With men – For a thousand years. CR404:5[CR404:9]
Dwell with them – He will pour out his Spirit upon all flesh. NS535:6[NS535:7]
Be his people – Shall become his people. T76
When the work of reconciliation is complete, God will recognize the world of mankind, and place his sanctuary among men. T76
All mankind will be treated from the standpoint of reconciliation, the propitiation price for the sins of the whole world being paid at Calvary. R2832:6
God's sons, earthly sons, as Adam before he sinned was an earthly son. (Luke 3:38; 1 Cor. 15:47, 48) R382:1
God himself – While the Millennial Kingdom will be the Kingdom of God's dear Son, it will also be the Kingdom of God, because God's dear Son, and his joint-heir, the Church, will be in absolute accord with the Father. R2832:6
Be with them – God, represented in his Church (The Christ, Head and Body) will dwell with men, mankind, during the Millennium. R2832:6
|
| 4 And he shall wipe away every tear from their eyes; and death shall not exist any more, nor grief, nor cry, nor distress shall exist any more, for the former things have passed away. |
And God shall – During and as a result of Messiah's reign of a thousand years. R4980:2
Though it will be Christ and the Church who will be doing it, nevertheless, the Heavenly Father will be recognized as the first cause. R2833:1, 5214:5
When mankind has been thoroughly submitted to the leveling processes of the great time of trouble, and has been humbled and made teachable by it, then the same wise Judge will turn to bless. R1869:3
God himself. It was God's plan from the very first. The Millennial work is still his. R333:3
Yet he will use agencies--Christ Jesus and his Bride. R333:3
Wipe away – Through his various agencies and provinces. NS535:6
Implying a gradual work. Man will not be exempt from every weakness and trial and difficulty at the beginning. R2833:1[R2832:13], 333:4; T77
The tears will last so long as their cause--imperfection, pain, and death exists. R333:4
Wiping represents a gradual process, and sins and sorrows, pains and tears, are incidentals and concomitants of the death sentence. NS476:1, 801:5; PD48/59
Day by day the well-doer, walking on the highway of holiness, will be coming nearer to human perfection. HG616:3
All these blessings will result from the establishment of God's residence, or sanctuary, among men. T76
Other accounts show us unmistakably that there will be imperfections and chastisements and stripes throughout the age, while mankind is being lifted up. R2833:2
Christians are still praying for the blessed day of Messiah, for Satan's binding. Then blessings will displace sin, sorrow and pain. PD13/23
From the very beginning God foreknew all, and had planned the redemption of Adam, Eve and their children. To this end Jesus came and "died, the Just for the unjust." (1 Pet. 3:18) PD11/18
All tears – Instead of groanings they may have joy and peace, through accepting the blessed arrangements of the New Covenant. R2129:4
From their eyes – The marks of sin, not only in the deeds of mankind, but in the very facial expressions of all, will then be wiped out. NS476:1
Not only of the living world at the time, but also the blessing of the thousands of millions who have gone down into the tomb. NS567:6
There shall be – In the ages of blessedness to follow the Millennial age. A73
No more death – Not because the victors of the Millennial age will be crowned with immortality, but because they shall have formed characters in full accord with God and righteousness. E402; R1879:6
God will not awaken them now, because it would be to their disadvantage. He will keep them in the sleep of death until the Kingdom of righteousness is thoroughly established. CR479:4
So long as divine condemnation, the curse, the sentence of death, rests against the world, it is evident that God is not yet reconciled to the world nor the world to him. R3707:4
The New Covenant provisions are the forgiveness of sins, the renewing of a right heart and a restitution of all that was lost through the original transgression and its curse. R3684:1
When the sufferings of the Body of Christ are ended, then will ensue the great work of filling the world ocean-deep with the knowledge of the Lord, and the blotting out of sins. R2000:3; SM544:1
The great mass of mankind will be brought forth that they may learn the ways of righteousness and in due time be lifted out of sin and death. SM544:1
The deliverance of the groaning creation is to be into the same glorious liberty that the sons of God will then be enjoying. R616:2*
The opening chapters of Genesis give the entrance of the curse of sin and death, and the last chapters of Revelation reveal the success of God's plan. R98:3
Now is the time to suffer and die. It cannot be done in the next age. This is the age of sin and evil and crucifying; the next will be for glory and restitution. R131:3
Neither sorrow – Not a stain of sin mars the harmony and peace of a perfect society; not a bitter thought, not an unkind look or word; love, welling up from every heart, meets a kindred response in every other heart, and benevolence marks every act. A192
Those who attain to life everlasting will attain bliss everlasting. There is no provision in God's great plan for an everlasting condition in woe, sorrow or pain or trouble. SM766:2
The result of the thousand years of that reign of righteousness will be the development of mankind as one holy nation or people, whose happiness will be complete and everlasting. R4768:5
How comparatively valueless would all the other features of blessing be, if sickness and pain and imperfection continued. R2580:6
As a consequence of sin and all who love sin being destroyed. NS645:6
His guarantee is that sin and sinners shall not go beyond the Millennium, to endanger the happiness, peace and blessedness of the great eternity beyond. D644; R4400:3
It is merciful on God's part to destroy the incorrigibly wicked because such characters, be they ever so few, would mar the enjoyment of those who do love peace and righteousness. R3083:6; D644 Sickness, sorrow and pain would not be proper for any who are God's people. The prevalence of these conditions attests the fact that God is dealing with the world as criminals under death sentence. OV377:5
The opportunity of manifesting a fullness of zeal for the service of God will not come to the sons of God in the next age. The sacrificing then will be at an end. R5250:5
All traces and marks of sin. R573:6
Sin and evil in their various forms. Q773:4
All the liberties and privileges proper to the sons of God. OV388:4
Any more pain – The general healing of disease will doubtless be a prominent feature of Messiah's Kingdom--not only the ailments of the flesh, but also sin, disease and imperfection. R4979:5
We may reasonably assume that after perfection is reached there will be no more accidents, just as we have reason to suppose that in heaven there is no necessity for surgeons, doctors, ambulances, etc. R5031:3; Q6:T
Death conditions prevailing in the animal and vegetable world will bring no pain, neither sorrow, nor crying. R2640:6
The former things – Former conditions. E30
The reign of Satan, sin and death. T76; R4973:2; CR116:2; OV147:1, 192:4, 351:3
The former things of sin and darkness. R3228:3, 4400:3
The former things of Adamic sin and its penalty and blight. R2690:2, 382:1; NS379:4, 519:5
No more sin, and none of the penalties for sin. R4794:1
All the things of sin, and whom have sympathy or love for sin. R2331:4
No sin, and hence none of its results. R769:6
The evil incurred through Adam's transgression. R587:5
Prisons, insane asylums, hospitals, doctors or cemeteries. OV373:3
To make doubly clear and to prove beyond question the end of evil and its train of pain, misery and death. R726:5
This will mean an end of famines, an end of pestilences, an end of storms and floods and droughts. R2076:2
Amongst these will be present misconceptions by which we are inclined to attribute to the lower animals human feelings and sentiments--some even carrying these mistaken notions to flowers. R2640:6
Are passed away – There shall be no more discontent, no more unhappiness, and God's will shall be done in the Paradise of earth as it is done in heaven itself. NS523:5; R5776:5
Messiah's great work of redemption will obliterate unsatisfactory conditions from the earth. Their abolition will be the result of Jesus' Kingdom work of one thousand years. OV373:3
Put away legally by the "sacrifice of himself (Christ);" and put away in fact by his glorious reign. R587:6
The promise made to Abraham was that in his spiritual seed all mankind would receive the divine blessing--the rolling away of the curse of sin and death. R5273:4, 5531:1
From the very beginning of Messiah's reign, God's blessing will begin to come to the world; but the full blessing will not be here, and the curse not entirely removed until about the end of the Millennium. R5780:1, 5694:6, 4587:2, 2833:2
If there is to be a release from the second death, it must come after the Millennium. This would involve the thought of a continuance of sin, contrary to this promise. R1454:6
The intrusion of sin was not unforeseen by divine wisdom, and its permission for six thousand years has not in any degree altered the original divine purpose. R2397:6
"Transitory" is written upon everything human. SM538:3
|
| 5 And he that sat on the throne said, Behold, I make all things new. And he says to me, Write, for these words are true and faithful. |
He that sat – Our Redeemer--Jesus, the great King of kings and Lord of lords. R4973:3
The throne – Of earth's dominion. R2833:3
I make – Millennial blessings are not coming to the world by a process of Evolution, but as a result of God's lifting the veil from our eyes and permitting us to see what to do and how to do it. OV384:3
Our great inventors acknowledge that their work is not so much the result of personal effort, but rather a kind of inspiration. OV384:4
It is the same respecting Bible study. It came, not by plodding study, but rather as an illumination of the mind by the holy Spirit, for God's due time had come. OV384:4
All things new – A new heaven or spiritual power will have supervision of earth's affairs, and a new earth or social order will obtain amongst men. CR350:4; 406:1; Q580:2
Regeneration--that glorious moral, social, political, religious and physical change which will be introduced by the Messiah. (Matt. 19:28) Q822:3
It is the work of reconstruction, the time of Jubilee, the time of joy. NS433:4[NS433:6]
The making over of mankind and the thorough reconstruction of all the affairs of man will require the entire Jubilee year or Millennial epoch. NS433:5; R5839:1
"I create new heavens and a new earth." (Isa. 65:17) R4411:1*; Q580:1
Some have realized the impending change, and have governed and taught accordingly. Others have invoked still further the powers of ignorance to continue the present order of things. OV386:4
It will mean more than the bringing back to a heart harmony--it will mean the taking away of the stony heart of the flesh. NS433:5
In this new dispensation the proud, the haughty, the unjust, will be much discredited. NS16:4
Not merely rocks and trees, but the great work which our Lord undertook--the regeneration of humanity. R2833:3
Paradise restored--not a garden merely, but the entire earth made beautiful, fruitful, sinless, happy. R5057:5, 4673:6
Paradise, the garden of God, was applicable as a name to the garden of Eden; and the same term is Scripturally applied to the new earth when restitution blessings are brought to perfection. R2832:1; SM130:3
Renew all things. This restitution of earth to its designed perfection typed in Eden delays until the coming of our Master as the King of Glory as soon as the elect Church has been found faithful. CR116:2
A clean world in which the unholy and abominable and all who love and make lies will have no place. R3083:6, 893:2, 382:4
The perfection originally possessed by Adam, which must have been in the man Jesus, will be found in all the restored race in the close of his glorious reign. R573:6
Included in the Lord's prayer--"as it is in heaven"--is the thought that when sin and death have been effaced, the world of mankind will be as happy in God's favor as are the angels now. R5379:4, 2832:4, 2253:1
We are living in the beginning of the New Era. Growing intelligence is bringing emancipation, and shortly the Messianic Kingdom will multiply the blessings and wipe out the curse. PD48/59
This topic of the Kingdom has not had sufficient consideration [in the International Sunday School Lessons], considering its prominence in the Bible--from Genesis to Revelation. R5048:3
We now taste and see that the Lord is good, but the fullness of his favor will be realized when he hath made all things new. R1117:2
Thus the Father committed the work of reconciliation of man to the Son, and will receive it back again under divine jurisdiction, when, through the Son, he shall have made all things new. R2434:6
These words are true – This asseveration of truthfulness implies that present conditions seem so contrary to all this grand restitution outcome that it cannot be fully believed and trusted, except by those who walk with the Lord. R2833:3
|
| 6 And he said to me, It is done. I am the Alpha and the Omega, the beginning and the end. I will give to him that thirsts of the fountain of the water of life freely. |
And he said – The Christ declares at the conclusion of the Millennial age. R2833:4
It is done – My great contract is accomplished. R2833:4
Alpha and Omega – The A and the Z. R2833:4, 333:4
The first and last of Jehovah's direct creation. R1278:3, 1060:4; R446:5*[R446:9]*
Not only was the Logos the beginning, or Alpha--but he was also the last, the Omega of divine creation, the first and only begotten Son of Jehovah, given an exclusive place. R5351:3
Authentic here, though not found in the oldest Greek manuscripts and properly omitted in the Revised Version of Rev. 1:8. R3569:2
The beginning – "He was the beginning of the creation of God." (Rev. 3:14) PD54/67
He it is who in all things has the pre-eminence in Jehovah's plan and work. R1278:3
That our Lord had a pre-existence we are must positively assured. R1161:4
And the end – He is the beginner and finisher of its wondrous plan, though not its author. R1060:4
Him that is athirst – "The table of the Lord" is spread for every one that is hungering and thirsting after righteousness. R1899:2
They must desire it and this desire must be manifested by obedience to the terms. R2833:4
Water of life – Everlasting life; the privilege of perpetual existence. R2833:4
The Lord will pour out his Spirit upon all flesh, and the knowledge of the Lord shall cover the earth as the waters cover the great deep. (Isa. 11:9; Hab. 2:14) R4990:3
|
| 7 He that overcomes shall inherit these things, and I will be to him God, and he shall be to me son. |
He that overcometh – Not the Bride class, selected during the Gospel age, but the sheep class of Matthews 25--during the Millennial age. R2833:5
The salvation made possible by the ransom-sacrifice is a new trial for life everlasting, the results of which are expressed in this and the following verse, as well as in John 3:36. R1598:4
Those who are worthy of the perfect human life then are called overcomers. R333:5
Inherit all things – "Inherit these things"--the earthly Kingdom, just as the overcomers of this Gospel age inherit spiritual things. R333:5, R2833:5
They are not invited to inherit the Kingdom prepared for us; but they shall inherit the earth, the purchased possession. R2833:5
The spiritual seed of Abraham will not share the earthly inheritance with the fleshly seed. While the fleshly seed will sit, each man, under his own vine and fig tree, the spiritual seed will be reigning with Christ in glory. R4071:3
The Law of Primogeniture--the Church of the first-born is soon to have the entire inheritance, as well the land as the power and dominion, the glory and the honor. R1164:2
Let us call to mind our high calling to become his Bride, and as such to be joined in heirship with him whom God hath appointed to be heir of all things. R422:6
|
| 8 But to the fearful and unbelieving, and sinners, and those who make themselves abominable, and murderers, and fornicators, and sorcerers, and idolaters, and all liars, their part is in the lake which burns with fire and brimstone; which is the second death. |
But the fearful – At the conclusion of the world's coming judgment. A144
The true character of the goat class is portrayed in this verse. R2609:4; A144
Such company would be repulsive to any honest, upright being. R2609:4, 1443:6
Unbelieving – Those who will not trust God. R2609:4, 893:6
Abominable – Who, knowing the truth, yet love unrighteousness. R2608:6
Who at heart are. R2609:1
Those who in spirit are. R1391:6
Murderers – Brother-haters. R2609:4[R2609:9], 893:6
Not that a man who has once been a murderer might not reform and become a saint and an heir of the Kingdom. One murderer, guilty of the murder of Stephen, was Saul, who afterward became an Apostle. R4992:4
Sorcerers – The instruction to Israel was very explicit, that they should not have any communion with those who work miracles by means of sorcery or incantations. R2172:1; HG726:1
Idolaters – Such as misappropriate and misuse divine favors, who give to self or any other creature or thing that service and honor which belong to God. R2609:4, 893:6
Liars – In a word, all who do not love the truth and seek it, and at any cost defend and hold it. R2609:4, 893:6
Shall have their part – The two classes will have been completely separated--the obedient and the disobedient; those in harmony with the letter and spirit of God's law, and those out of harmony with it. A144
Such as willfully spurn God's favor and cling to sin when able to avoid it, are fit subjects for destruction--the second death. R912:2; OV362:5
That will not be a time for pardoning wicked men, but for pardoning those who desire to forsake their wicked ways and thoughts. R1364:3
Some, even after a hundred years will be but partially developed; but their willful rejection is reckoned as the same as though they had reached perfection, and then rebelled against God's laws. R1261:6
No one shall be destroyed who is worthy of life, whose living would be a blessing to himself or to others in harmony with righteousness. R893:3
None need suppose that God is too loving to cut some off in second death, or that if he did so, he would give them other and yet other chances. This would lead some to take advantage of God's grace and use it as a license for willful sin. R893:4, 382:4
The lake which burneth – More properly the "abyss of fire and brimstone." NS309:1
Symbolic. R912:4; B153; NS309:1
Greek, gehenna, symbol of utter destruction. R2609:4, 893:3
The city was pictured by Jerusalem, and the "fire" by Gehenna. As the offal of the literal city was put in the Valley of Hinnom for destruction, so all the offal of the Millennial Kingdom will be destroyed, and be kept outside of the Golden Jerusalem. R4992:5, 2601:3; NS309:2, 841:1
As the literal Gehenna was not a place of torment or grief, but represented the utter destruction and hopelessness of those (already dead) cast into it, so must its antitype teach the same lesson. HG304:5
All those rejecting the ministries of reconciliation will have been cut off in the second death. NS359:5
God has determined to "make an end of sin and to bring in everlasting righteousness." (Dan. 9:24) R1364:3
"Everlasting fire prepared for the devil and his angels." (Matt. 25:41) R2607:6
Before their destruction comes the evildoers will have had fullest opportunity to repent. Satan will have had the opportunity of seven thousand years, and yet remain incorrigible, ample proof to all. R1443:6; B153
Being on as fair and full a trial as Adam was, and with greater experience, they will be as culpable as he, and as worthy of condemnation to death under the law. R912:6
The death which will come upon some for willful sins will not be an enemy in God's sight, not an enemy to those in harmony with God who will rejoice to see his will done in cleansing the universe. R1219:4
The trial being ended, the gift of life of which these shall have proved themselves unworthy, shall be taken from them. R2609:4
In the end of that age Satan is to be loosed for a little season for the final testing of mankind, and at its close he and those who follow his spirit and leadership shall be destroyed. R763:6
Then all the remainder he will present before the Father, perfect and unreprovable. R1601:4
Fire and brimstone – Fire is always a symbol of destruction, and when brimstone is added in the symbol, the destruction is intensified. Brimstone is a most destructive agent against life in any form and degree. R912:4, 382:4: NS309:2
Even today, if we were making symbols, we could think of nothing that would more thoroughly, more completely represent utter destruction of life than the figure that the Lord has here used. NS309:2
Second death – Literal. R912:4
Plainly stating the meaning of the symbol of the lake of fire and brimstone. NS841:4
The term "second death" is specific and cannot refer to a figurative use of the word death. R891:2
When anything is called a "second" it recognizes one, and only one preceding it, of the same kind. R891:2, 381:1
Neither an apple nor a pear would be a second peach; so the second death, like the first, must be a cessation of life or being. R381:1
As the first death terminates the first life, so the second death may terminate the second life. R1324:1
There is a radical difference between the law regulating the first death and that regulating the second. The first comes upon the entire human race, the second death will reach no man independent of his will. R1324:1
The first death must be abrogated or set aside in some manner, before the second death would be possible. R381:1
Before there was any second death there was the second sin; before there was any second sin there was the second judgment; before there was any second judgment there was the second life. R1478:1*
The second death is the second penalty, the result of failure during the second trial of the world, of a class not worthy of a place in the "book of life." R891:3
Every trial must reach a conclusion and have a sentence. The first trial, in Eden, ended with a sentence. The second trial is to have a sentence also. R891:6
Distinguishing it from the first sentence which came upon all men as the result of the first or representative trial. R891:6
The second trial is individually, and not representatively. R892:1, 381:2
If they then willfully sin, they will die for their own sin. (Jer. 31:30; Acts 3:23) R541:5*, 381:2
Death is the wages of sin. The first was the wages of Adam's sin. The second death will be the wages of their own, not Adam's sin. R381:1, 2
The first, or Adamic death, is called a sleep because in due time all should be made alive. The second death is not a sleep, because there is no hope of resurrection from it. R381:3
From which there will be no redemption, no resurrection, no recovery. It is everlasting punishment, everlasting destruction--not everlasting torment. NS403:1
The second trial is final. A third trial is never suggested in Scripture; consequently there could not be a third death, and none is mentioned. R892:2; HG356:4
There seems no reasonable question as to whether or not second death means future life or annihilation. The word itself stands for the opposite of life. HG356:4
The first death is recorded in the first part of the Bible, and the second death is never once met with until the last part of the Bible is reached. This fact is highly suggestive. R1478:1*
Second death will never be destroyed. R381:4
Since "Christ dieth no more," (Rom. 6:9) it follows that none one of such condemned ones can be redeemed or ransomed as Adam was. R912:6, 892:3, 381:4; OV362:5
Second death will receive the incorrigible at the close of the Millennium. At that time Christ's Kingdom, the thousand year day of judgment, comes to an end. R1454:6, 4794:1;
We make no claims of universal salvation, but distinctly speak of some who will die the second death. CR51:6; HG654:6
The term death signifies destruction, extinction. R891:3
The second destruction (or death) begins quite early in the new judgment--with the systems of error, But it does not reach men as individuals until they have first had full trial. R892; 2
Nowhere is second death applied to symbols or systems. If systems are mentioned as dying a second death, it would prove that such systems had once existed, died, revived, and then died again. R381:5
The Bible plainly says that the devil and those following him shall be destroyed. R1648:4
This death is for their own sins, and is everlasting. R333:5
If any, enlightened by the truth, and restored (either actually or reckonedly) to human perfection, "draw back" they, with the unbelievers, will be destroyed. A107; HG344:5
|
| |
|
| 9 And there came one of the seven angels which had had the seven bowls full of the seven last plagues, and spoke with me, saying, Come here, I will shew thee the bride, the Lamb's wife. |
And there came – The sixth [fifth--R501:4] view of the Kingdom (verses 9 through 27) show the glorified Church more especially. R397:5, 330:3
Full of – In the Greek the word full is emphatic as if to call our attention to the matter. R113:2
The Temple is filled with glory just before the pouring out of the seven plagues. R169:5*
The seven last plagues – If you examine closely it shows that we shall be taken up into the Mount or Kingdom before the seven last plagues are poured out on the world. R113:2
See comments on Rev. 15 and 16.
Come hither – To a yet future standpoint, and see how the Bride will then appear. R1388:6
Let us endeavor to take God's standpoint of observation, to think as he thinks, and to act as he acts. R1211:6*
The bride – This Bride is to be made up of a class, the elect overcomers of the Gospel age. When completed and glorified, the Bride will be the helpmeet of Christ, and will be to his honor and glory. Q803:1
She will not become the Bride of Christ until, at the time of the Bridegroom's presence, when the marriage of the Lamb shall take place, and the marriage supper shall follow. Q838:2
Let all who claim to be virgins, pure ones, be found of him in peace, seeking first the Kingdom and his righteousness, alert, watching for opportunities, and helping the Bride make herself ready. R5400:5
One of many titles for the Church, including: "joint-heirs," "living stones," "the Royal Priesthood" and "members in particular of the Body of Christ." R1855:1; NS332:1
Signifying the closest possible intimacy and union of these elect ones with the great King of glory. NS379:5
His associates in judging the world. NS393:5; SM15:T
Contrasted, in parallel columns, with the "great whore," Babylon the great of Rev. 17. R471:6
We know of his presence, not as men, recognizing a man, but as new creatures recognizing our Head, our Bridegroom. R454:4
The Lamb's wife – No longer the espoused virgin. HG409:6; CR216:3
The Church, after her change, after the marriage has taken place. CR216:3; SM15:T
Eternally united to him. NS395:4
The Kingdom cannot come until the royal family is ready to take the throne. Then for a thousand years the restitution privileges will be open to the whole world of mankind. R5919:6
A wife shares her husband's honors and name; just as the Church bears the name of Christ as members of the Body of Christ--the name "Jehovah-Tsidkenu." (Jer. 23:5,6; 33:16) E42
The Scriptures further represent that the glorified Jesus, who is the heavenly Bridegroom, and the glorified Church, who is the heavenly Bride, will figuratively beget children. R4755:3; OV124:6
Jesus will be the Everlasting Father, and the Church will be the mother or caretaker of mankind to uplift, instruct and develop them in the ways of righteousness. R4755:3; OV125:T
|
| 10 And he carried me away in the Spirit, and set me on a great and high mountain, and shewed me the holy city, Jerusalem, coming down out of the heaven from God, |
Carried me away – To thus recognize it, we must get away from the world and its standpoint of view. R333:6
In the spirit – Thus, it is evident that we should "spiritualize" this narrative. John viewed the wonders of this city in a spiritual sense, and not in a literal sense. Q789:4
Mentally. R1211:2*
By and by in person. R333:6
A great and high mountain – The Church of translation must go up into the great Kingdom--enter into the joys of our Lord and be in his likeness before we can see as we are seen. The Bride can only be seen from the standpoint of the Kingdom. R113:1[R113]
Before he could an see it, he had to go, in spirit, as high as possible above the earthly level. R333:5
And shewed me – So we, the antitype, may now see the Kingdom of God coming. R333:5
All cannot see this Kingdom as already on its way to earth--"coming down." R333:6
That great city – This is given to mark the change of the symbol from a bride to a city; just as elsewhere the figure was shown to change from "wheat" to "the sun." R1388:6
The city as a whole is called the Bride--and yet we see some members higher than others. There are superiors--rulers--in the city, but the city as a whole is a ruling power over the nations. R81:6*
There has been no occasion for the use of such a symbol during the Gospel age, because the Church has not been in ruling power; and when glorified with the Lord the figure of a virgin-bride waiting for full union with the Bridegroom will not longer be appropriate as now. R1388:6
Holy Jerusalem – The Church in glory. R5002:6, 3570:6
The Sarah covenant is represented in "the exalted Jerusalem" whose offspring and heirs through Christ we already are. This is The government of which Jerusalem the literal was but an imperfect type. R1389:4
The center of God's blessing and instruction to all the families of the earth during the Millennium. R2987:2
See comments on Rev. 21:2.
|
| 11 having the glory of God. Her shining was like a most precious stone, as a crystal-like jasper stone; |
The glory of God – Majesty and power. R333:6
Truly she is a glorious Bride--"without spot, or wrinkle, or any such thing." (Eph. 5:27) R1211:1*
The divine nature, of which she was promised to be made partaker with her Lord. R1210:6*
We may by faith behold her glory; but let us not forget that we have not yet proved our worthiness. R1211:2*
A jasper stone – Supposedly the diamond. Being the most brilliant of all gems, it fittingly symbolizes the glory of God; the light (or source of light) of the New Jerusalem. R529:3*, 333:6
|
| 12 having a great and high wall; having twelve gates, and at the gates twelve angels, and names inscribed, which are those of the twelve tribes of the sons of Israel.
|
A wall – The walls are living stones, such as the Apostle Peter describes. (1 Pet. 2:5) R3570:6, 2832:5
Whose walls signify salvation, protection and blessing to all who enter. A295
"Walls of salvation." (Isa. 60:18) Protection and security abide in it. R333:6
Twelve angels – Messengers. This would seem to teach that Israel will in due time be the messengers to communicate the love and knowledge of the Lord to all creatures. R334:
The twelve gates – The Ancient Worthies from the various tribes of Israel will be the visible representatives of the heavenly Kingdom in earth, through whose instrumentality the nations may enter into the blessings of the Kingdom. R1353:1
|
| 13 On the east three gates; and on the north three gates; and on the south three gates; and on the west three gates. |
|
| 14 And the wall of the city had twelve foundations, and on them twelve names of the twelve apostles of the Lamb. |
Twelve foundations – Foundation stones. R4992:5
"Thou art Peter [a stone], and upon this rock [this great truth which you have enunciated] I will build my church." (Matt. 16:18) R3789:2
Peter, petros, rock, signifies a larger stone than lithos, "living stones." All the apostles, as "foundation stones" would have a larger importance than their brethren. F221
Peter and the other apostles represented to us as foundation stones built upon this great truth, that Christ is the Redeemer, the Savior, the Messiah. R3789:2, 2656:6
The words of the apostles would be supervised by divine power. They still speak to us. We need no others. R5280:5
The most we have ever claimed for our own presentations, written or oral, is that they are in line with the words of the apostles, that they harmonize with them. R5280:6
All the faithful in Christ being built upon the foundation of the divine plan, and upon the testimony of these twelve apostles. R2656:6
The foundation which sustains the Church is destined ultimately to sustain the whole world. R1522:1
These foundation stones were not laid on the sand, but upon the sure and steadfast rock, Christ Jesus. (Matt. 7:25-27; 16:16-18; 1 Pet. 2:4-8) R1522:1
The truth, thus divinely inspired and first announced by the apostles, even they themselves, had they fallen away, could not nullify. R1524:4
Although there were multitudes within the hearing of our Lord's voice, all of whom belonged to the typically consecrated nation, yet our Lord addressed himself specially to the twelve chosen disciples. R2589:1
The apostles occupied a special place in connection with his Kingdom, his Church, assigned to no others. R2820:1
Their decision would bind on earth the things bound in heaven, and loose on earth things loosed in God's sight. PD73/87
The declaration, "Whosoever sins ye remit they are remitted, and whosoever sins ye retain they are retained," (John 20:23; Matt. 18:18) is not applicable to all of the Church, but chiefly to the apostles. R2658:1
The death of James doubtless served to increase the appreciation of the people for the apostles, causing them to give more earnest heed to their teachings, and to realize how greatly the cause of the Lord had been made dependent upon them. R4347:4
While there is an inspiration of all the Lord's servants, yet such an inspiration should be distinguished from the special inspiration of the twelve apostles. R1149:1
If Paul's plain teachings belied the facts just once, it would be sufficient to shake and break all confidence in him as one inspired and infallibly guided, so that we might be sure in building upon the foundations of faith God provided through him. R1793:6
Whose foundations, laid in justice, can never be moved. A295
As foundations, they represent the whole Church. For this reason the terms "ye" and "you" addressed to them refer to the whole Church. R66:6*
Orders, titles, authorities and offices in the Christian church were not organized by the apostles or under their guidance. F203
The salvation walls rest securely on the finished redemption--the completed foundations as expressed by Jesus, the apostles, and prophets. R333:6
Twelve apostles – No more, no less. Any others were, as the Apostle Paul suggests, "false apostles." (2 Cor. 11:3) F209; CR216:4; Q812:T; SM461:2, 671:1
"And thou hast tried them that say they are apostles, and are not, and hast found them liars." (Rev. 2:2) SM670:1
The Lord chose but twelve apostles, and said nothing about any successors to them. R4165:1, 1149:1; NS657:5; OV410:2
He not only has never recognized others, but clearly indicates that he never will recognize others in that office. R1149:1
There were only to be twelve apostles, and they are promised [when the Kingdom takes possession of earth] twelve thrones. None but the twelve are to rule over the twelve tribes of Israel. R162:5
About the year 325 AD, the Bishops of the Church, misled by Satan, proclaimed themselves to be successors to the apostles in power and divine authority. SM549:3, 673:1
It is through some very serious blunder that our Roman Catholic, Church of England and Greek Catholic friends have bishops claiming to be apostolic bishops. OV410:3; Q521:2; SM550:T, 670:4
The error of supposing apostolic succession in the Church's bishops was a costly one. It led to many grievous errors. PD72/86; CR268:2
No man or congregation is competent to appoint or elect an Apostle. Q521:3
The Antioch Church did not ordain the Apostle Paul to be an Apostle, but ordained him to be their missionary. He accepted their ordination and rendered reports to them. (Acts 14:26-28) Q521:3
There is no room for any of us today to become apostles. There may not be opportunities for all of us to do great things in the Lord's service but there are opportunities for every one of us to be true yokefellows. R3128:1
The number of the apostles corresponded to the number of the sons of Jacob, the founders of the tribes of Israel. In one sense they stood for the entire Gospel Church, in another for the whole world. R1522:1; B246
The twelve apostles have no successors and need none. They are the "twelve stars," the crown of the Church. (Rev. 12:1) E207; CR78:5
How then could bishops either possess or give apostolic blessings? CR78:5; OV247:4
There is a difference between apostleship and discipleship. There are but "twelve apostles of the Lamb," but the number of disciples is considerably larger. R3308:5
No man or congregation is competent to appoint an apostle. That is a function of divine appointment only. The Lord Jesus appointed only twelve apostles, Paul taking the place of Judas. R5940:4, 5741:6, 732:6, 162:5; PD72/86; Q521:2; SM461:2
Which place the eleven had unauthorizedly conferred upon Matthias before their anointing with the holy Spirit at Pentecost. R1455:4
Assuring us that the courses of Paul and the other eleven apostles were successful ones. R1884:3, 1524:4, 1041:3
"Unlearned men" (Paul being the noted exception)--to demonstrate to all that the truth, as presented, was not of their concoction and elaboration. R2925:3
|
| 15 And he that spoke with me had a golden reed as a measure, that he might measure the city, and its gates, and its wall. |
|
| 16 And the city lies four-square, and its length is as much as the breadth. And he measured the city with the reed--twelve thousand stadia: the length and the breadth and height of it are equal. |
Foursquare – A cube, a perfect figure. This is another way of showing its perfection; it is perfect toward God, as well as toward earth. R333:6
Twelve thousand furlongs – If reduced to miles, it measured 1,500 miles in length, and breadth, and height! Surely no such literal city will ever be established on this little globe of ours. Q790:T
|
| 17 And he measured its wall, a hundred and forty-four cubits, a man's measure, that is, the angel's. |
|
| 18 And the building of its wall was jasper; and the city pure gold, like pure glass: |
Pure gold – A divine institution. R1944:1
|
| 19 the foundations of the wall of the city were adorned with every precious stone: the first foundation, jasper; the second, sapphire; the third, chalcedony; the fourth, emerald; |
|
| 20 the fifth, sardonyx; the sixth, sardius; the seventh, chrysolite; the eighth, beryl; the ninth, topaz; the tenth, chrysoprasus; the eleventh, jacinth; the twelfth, amethyst. |
|
| 21 And the twelve gates, twelve pearls; each one of the gates, respectively, was of one pearl; and the street of the city pure gold, as transparent glass. |
Twelve gates – To show Israel's position as channels, gateways, by which the world may approach to the heavenly government, and through which may come the blessings to mankind. R334:1
One pearl – When we look at a pearl, we look at an annoyance which has been ennobled. The oyster by itself is of merely nominal value. But the result of the oyster's treatment of its irritation--the pearl--is something "of great price." R1756:2[R1756:8]
Pure gold – Divine untarnishing glory--the glory of God. R333:6
All of its highways are of divine appointment. R1944:1
|
| 22 And I saw no temple in it; for the Lord God Almighty is its temple, and the Lamb. |
Are the temple – The Lord Almighty and the Lamb will always be an inner Temple in the great Temple, which God has provided for the world's blessing during restitution times. R2834:1
The Tabernacle was pitched hither and thither in the "wilderness of sin" and had no continuing place. The Temple was permanently established, not only in Jerusalem, but in the top of the mountain. R172:1
The firmament inlaid with suns is the dome of the real cathedral. The interpreters of nature are the true and only priests. R1969:1*
|
| 23 And the city has no need of the sun nor of the moon, that they should shine for it; for the glory of God has enlightened it, and the lamp thereof is the Lamb. |
No need of the sun – As in Rev. 12:1, the sun signifies the light of this Gospel age. R2833:6, 334:1
Neither of the moon – The moon signifies the typically reflected light of the Gospel in the Law and the prophets of the previous dispensation. R2833:6
The Gospel reflection--the Mosaic Law. R334:1
Nothing in this statement indicates that the world will not have and need both sunlight and moonlight during the Millennial age and subsequently--"as long as the sun and moon endure." (Psa. 72:5) R2833:6
The glory of God – The Church will be so filled with the glory of God that from her, as from the Sun of Righteousness, shall proceed the light of the glory of God. (Matt. 13:43; Mal. 4:2) R2833:6
To thus by faith behold afar off the blessed land of rest and peace, all radiant with the glory of the King in his beauty, the heart must be in sympathy with that glory and that beauty of holiness. R2087:6*
Did lighten it – Now we know in part, and see as through a smoked glass dimly; then, we shall know even as we are known, being made perfect as divine beings, having the glory of God. R334:1
Lamb is the light – The city was lighted by the Temple; for the Lord God Almighty and the Lamb are the Temple of it, and their glory did lighten the city. R169:6*
Not only will the knowledge of the Lord flow out from the open books but the city (government) will be such as to shed light upon them. R334:2
The Lord Almighty and the Lamb will always be an inner Temple in this great Temple. R2834:1
|
| 24 And the nations shall walk by its light; and the kings of the earth bring their glory to it. |
The nations – Not that the world during the Millennial age will be divided into nationalities and kingdoms. The word "nations" here signifies peoples. It is intended to show that all peoples, and not merely the people of Israel will be favored with the Kingdom. R2834:1; A296
Of them which are saved – Not in the old manuscripts. Indeed, it is because they are not saved that they need this special light during the Millennial age. R2834:1, 2231:1, 334:2; A296
After the nations are saved, brought into harmony with God, they will no longer be "nations" (Gentiles, heathen), but parts of the one holy nation, the Kingdom of God. R2231:3
Shall walk – On the highway of holiness, up to perfection and full harmony with God. A296
The light of it – The teaching. R1951:1
The light of truth shed abroad from it. R701:1, 501:4
Then this "true light shining in its strength, from the exalted divine Christ--Head and Body, will enlighten every man that cometh into the world." (John 1:9) R421:6, 420:5, 338:5, 166:6
Not until the marriage of the Lamb will the enlightening and blessing of the nations come. R238:4*
"Then shall the righteous shine forth as the sun in the kingdom of their Father." (Matt. 13:43) R124:4, 25:2*
The greater than Solomon will be the light of it. R3285:2
As the light of truth increases darkness (ignorance) must flee away. R430:6*
The nations will still need the symbolic (also the natural) sun and moon. When "the books shall be opened," the pure and full light of the Gospel and Law will shine out and bless mankind. R334:1
Kings of the earth – The princes or chief ones of earth who will be the chief representatives of the heavenly invisible Kingdom of Christ--Abraham, Isaac, Jacob and all the faithful prophets. R2834:2
All, in proportion as they understand and come into accord with the Kingdom conditions, may quickly reach perfection. Perfected, they will be kings in the sense that Adam was a king, and become more or less associated with the "princes" in the dominion of the earth. R4555:4; A296
Saints. (Rev. 5:10) R334:2
Bring their glory – Their acknowledgement of the heavenly Kingdom, their rendering of tribute of praise, thanks, worship, and obedience to it as God's agency. R2834:4
The willing and obedient shall then present their homage and riches and spices and odors (prayers and good deeds). R2068:1
The glory and honor of themselves. R334:2
As the Queen of Sheba brought rich treasures to Solomon. R3285:2, 2068:1
And honour – Not found in the old manuscripts. R2834:1; A296
Into it – The princes will make known to the people that not in their own names or authority do they rule, but in the name and as representatives of the glorified Christ. R2834:4
|
| 25 And its gates shall not be shut at all by day, for night shall not be there. |
Shall not be shut – Compare with Isa. 26:2. R2338:6, 1951:1, 1352:5
No night there – The Lamp of Truth, the Word of God, will not be necessary to the world in the new dispensation because "the Sun of Righteousness" shall arise. (Mal. 4:2) NS349:1
See Isa. 60:20, 21. R1900:5
|
| 26 And they shall bring the glory and the honour of the nations to it. |
They shall bring – Each earthly one, as soon as he learns of the goodness and love of God, will seek and be assisted, to approach the New Jerusalem. R219:3
All the people will ascribe honor and praise and majesty and glory to the Lord's Anointed, through whom their redemption and restitution was and is being accomplished. R2834:4
Glory – The choice, bright, perfected, of the nations. R334:2
And honour – These words are omitted by the most authentic ancient manuscripts. A296
Into it – Those improving their opportunities will come into it, or become associated, in the Kingdom of God. R501:4
True civil service reform. None but perfect beings will be allowed to hold office, or be identified with the government. R219:3
Thus this government will at first contain the glory of the spiritual Kings of earth, and afterward, as the Millennial age progresses, the Kingdom will include all of earth's pure and good. R334:2
|
| 27 And nothing common, nor that maketh an abomination and a lie, shall at all enter into it; but those only who are written in the book of life of the Lamb. |
In no wise enter – There is no intimation that God will ever compel any one to accept the gift of life everlasting. R890:6
Into it – Or, become a part of it. R654:5
Any thing that defileth – Sinful. R219:3
Anything common. R2834:4
The heady, the high-minded. the proud, the self-conscious and self-righteous have no promise of the Kingdom; and cannot inherit it, nor enter into it. R2139:4*
Maketh a lie – The voice that prophesies smooth things, contrary to the Word of God, is not the voice of the good Shepherd. R1648:4
The dishonest are not now worthy of the truth. By and by they will get honest enough to receive the truth or else be cut off in the second death as those who make and love a lie. R1037:5
Which are written – If they do not remain faithful, their names will be blotted out of the book of life. If they do, their names will not be blotted out, and they will attain all the glorious things promised. R5669:4
Lamb's book of life – The Lamb's book of life includes those, and only those, who attain to position of joint-heirship with Christ, whose names are written in heaven during this age. R2834:4[R2834:3]; SM555:T
Including the Great Company. All will attain life on the spirit plane whose names are written in the Book of the Lamb. R5105:2; Q309:1
To be distinguished from the book of life of Rev. 20:12, which will include all of Adam's race found worthy of eternal life. NS858:4
Not an earthly roll of membership. R5615:1
|