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The Enduring Word: A Study on the Passing of Heaven and Earth

This study explores the biblical prophecies concerning the temporary nature of the current heavens and earth, and the glorious promise of a new creation. We will examine the divine power behind creation and re-creation, and the eternal hope for believers.

1. The Divine Architect and the First Creation

1.1 The Sole Creator of All Things

Verses: John 1:1-3; Colossians 1:16-17; Isaiah 44:24
  • All things were made by Him, and without Him was not anything made that was made.
  • He is before all things, and by Him all things consist.
  • He alone stretched out the heavens and spread abroad the earth.

1.2 The Perfection and Purpose of the Original Creation

Verses: Genesis 1:31; Psalm 19:1-4
  • God saw everything that He had made, and behold, it was very good.
  • The heavens declare the glory of God and the firmament shows His handiwork.
  • Creation speaks of the invisible attributes and eternal power of the Creator.

2. Prophecies of the Present Creation's End

2.1 The Temporary Nature of the Physical Universe

Verses: Psalm 102:25-27; Isaiah 51:6; Hebrews 1:10-12
  • The heavens and earth will perish and wear out like a garment.
  • They will be changed and folded up, but the Lord remains the same.
  • All creation is subject to the will and power of its Maker.

2.2 The Day of the Lord and the Dissolution of Elements

Verses: 2 Peter 3:10-12
  • The day of the Lord will come as a thief in the night.
  • The heavens will pass away with a great noise, and the elements will melt with fervent heat.
  • The earth and the works that are in it will be burned up.

2.3 The Reason for the Passing Away

Verses: 2 Peter 3:13; Revelation 21:1
  • To make way for new heavens and a new earth, wherein dwells righteousness.
  • The former things must pass away for God's ultimate plan to be fulfilled.
  • This transformation is a divine act of purification and renewal.

3. The Promise of a New and Eternal Creation

3.1 The New Heavens and New Earth

Verses: Isaiah 65:17; Isaiah 66:22; Revelation 21:1
  • God declares, 'Behold, I create new heavens and a new earth.'
  • The former things shall not be remembered, nor come into mind.
  • This new creation is a place of righteousness and eternal dwelling.

3.2 The New Jerusalem and God's Dwelling with Humanity

Verses: Revelation 21:2-4; Revelation 22:3-5
  • The holy city, New Jerusalem, comes down from God out of heaven.
  • God Himself will dwell with His people, and they shall be His people.
  • There shall be no more death, sorrow, crying, or pain.

3.3 The Eternal Nature of the New Creation

Verses: Revelation 21:5-7; Daniel 7:14
  • He who sits on the throne says, 'Behold, I make all things new.'
  • His dominion is an everlasting dominion, which shall not pass away.
  • Those who overcome shall inherit all things and be His children forever.