This is the symbol of future perfection-God dwelling with man.

New Jerusalem is referred to twice in the book of Revelation. It is an idea connected with the creation of a new heaven and earth-the restoration of the world as the Kingdom of God. New Jerusalem is described as being impossibly large by human standards, in the form of a cube, and made of gold, precious stones and pearls, shining with the glory of God, and coming down from heaven to earth (in Revelation chs.21-22). It cannot be a literal city for human habitation. It should not be confused with the fact that the prophets write of Jerusalem as the capital city of the world in Christ's kingdom. John uses human concepts to help us understand the perfection and beauty of life in the future when God is with man, something which we in our present state cannot fully appreciate.

In this other sense there will be a new Jerusalem on earth in the future. When Jesus returns as king, he will make the existing city of Jerusalem, restored and made beautiful, his capital city, from which he will rule the world. It will be the centre of practical administration, and worship for all people (see Isaiah 24:23; 27:12-13; Zechariah ch.2; 8:20-23; 9:8-10; ch.14).

"Do not swear at all: either by heaven, for it is God's throne; or by the earth, for it is His footstool; or by Jerusalem, for it is the city of the Great King." (Matthew 5:34-35).

The writer to the Hebrews perhaps links both these thoughts when he encourages us to think of ourselves now as citizens of the New Jerusalem, and to rejoice in the prospect of the world to come: "But you have come to Mount Zion, to the heavenly Jerusalem, the city of the living God.… Therefore, since we are receiving a kingdom that cannot be shaken, let us be thankful, and so worship God acceptably with reverence and awe, for our 'God is a consuming fire.'" (Hebrews 12:22-29).

(See also JERUSALEM; ZION).

Nations
Nazarene
Nazarite
New Birth
New Jerusalem
Numbers