Catechism – Week 30 – The Eschaton, Part 2

What is the Ultimate Goal and Purpose of the People of God?

This animated explanation will be very helpful for students who are old enough:

Read John’s vision:

Revelation 21:1a, 3 – Then I saw a new heaven and a new earth for the first heaven and the first earth had passed away…And I heard a loud voice from the throne saying, “Behold, the dwelling place of God is with man. He will dwell with them, and they will be his people, and God himself will be with them as their God.” (ESV)

What does John see regarding heaven and earth?
A new heaven and earth replace our current heaven and earth.

How is this new heaven and earth different?
God has made his home there. We are fully connected to God.

Read how John’s vision continues:

V. 4 – He will wipe away every tear from their eyes, and death shall be no more, neither shall there be mourning, nor crying, nor pain anymore, for the former things have passed away. (ESV)

How is this experience different in the new heavens and earth?
All the bad things no longer happen: death, crying, and pain all go away.

Why do you think this is possible?
Christ dealt with sin on the cross which causes death, pain, and not being connected to God. Those who are joined to Christ will experience the fullness of this new creation.

Why is this important now?
First, we must hold fast to the gospel so we can be part of the new creation. Second, our lives should reflect in the present the world that God is creating for the future.

Scripture Memory Verse:

Revelation 21:5b – Behold, I (God) am making all things new. (ESV)

What is the ultimate goal and purpose of the people of God?
We are to participate in what God is creating on this world and in us through Jesus.

Adults and older students are encouraged to receive a fuller explanation from Dr. Tim Tennent (President of Asbury Theological Seminary) by clicking this link.