Discover Who Will Live in the New Jerusalem

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The New Jerusalem, as described in the Bible, is a vision of the ultimate dwelling place of God’s people, a city where His presence is fully realized and His promises come to fruition. But who exactly will inhabit this heavenly city? Let’s look at what Scripture says about who will live in the New Jerusalem and what it means for us today.

The Redeemed of the Lord

The book of Revelation provides a vivid picture of the New Jerusalem. Revelation 21:2-3 (NASB) says:

“And I saw the holy city, new Jerusalem, coming down out of heaven from God, made ready as a bride adorned for her husband. And I heard a loud voice from the throne, saying, ‘Behold, the tabernacle of God is among men, and He will dwell among them, and they shall be His people, and God Himself will be among them.'”

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These verses emphasize that the inhabitants of the New Jerusalem are those who have been redeemed by God. They are His people. This includes both Jews as well as the Gentiles who have put their faith in Jesus Christ, the mediator of the new covenant.

The Saints of All Ages

The New Jerusalem will be home to the righteous of all ages.

Hebrews 12:22-24 (NASB) describes a heavenly scene that includes:

“You have come to Mount Zion and to the city of the living God, the heavenly Jerusalem, and to myriads of angels, to the general assembly and church of the firstborn who are enrolled in heaven, and to God, the Judge of all, and to the spirits of the righteous made perfect, and to Jesus, the mediator of a new covenant, and to the sprinkled blood, which speaks better than the blood of Abel.”

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This includes the patriarchs, prophets, apostles, and all believers who have trusted in God’s promises throughout history. They are described as “the church of the firstborn” and “the spirits of the righteous made perfect,” highlighting their faith and the righteousness.

Those Whose Names Are Written in the Book of Life

Revelation 21:27 (NASB) provides a crucial detail about the residents of the New Jerusalem:

“And nothing unclean, and no one who practices abomination and lying, shall ever come into it, but only those whose names are written in the Lamb’s book of life.”

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The inhabitants of the New Jerusalem are those whose names are written in the Lamb’s book of life. This book symbolizes God’s record of those who belong to Him and have received eternal life. It underscores the importance of faithfulness and living a life aligned with God’s will.

Importantly, Revelation also mentions that the twelve tribes of Israel will have a significant place in the New Jerusalem. Revelation 21:12 (NASB) says:

“It had a great and high wall, with twelve gates, and at the gates twelve angels; and names were written on them, which are the names of the twelve tribes of the sons of Israel.”

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This highlights that God’s covenant with Israel remains integral to His plan.

The inclusion of the twelve tribes in the New Jerusalem signifies that both the people of Israel and those from all nations who are faithful to God are part of His eternal kingdom. This reflects the unity of God’s people, bringing together both Israel and the nations under His sovereign rule.

Those Who Overcome

The book of Revelation also talks about the overcomers. In Revelation 21:7 (NASB), it says:

“He who overcomes will inherit these things, and I will be his God and he will be My son.”

Overcomers are those who have persevered in their faith despite trials and tribulations. They have remained faithful to God. This promise assures believers that their steadfast faith will be rewarded with an eternal inheritance in the New Jerusalem.

A Community of Worshipers

The New Jerusalem is depicted as a place of continuous worship. Revelation 22:3-4 (NASB) states:

“There will no longer be any curse; and the throne of God and of the Lamb will be in it, and His bond-servants will serve Him; they will see His face, and His name will be on their foreheads.”

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This signifies that the inhabitants of the New Jerusalem will be devoted worshipers of God, living in His presence and serving Him eternally. Their relationship with God will be direct and personal, reflecting the intimate fellowship originally intended in the Garden of Eden.

Who Will Live in the New Jerusalem – Embracing the Promise

The New Jerusalem is the ultimate reward for those who have trusted in God’s promises and lived faithfully according to His Word. It is a place where God’s presence is fully realized, and His people dwell in eternal joy and peace.

The invitation to be part of this glorious city is extended to all who believe in and follow God, are written in the Lamb’s Book of Life, and have remained faithful through trials and triumphs.

At Worth Beyond Rubies, we are dedicated to helping you understand and embrace the profound truths of the Word of God. Our e-book, The New Jerusalem: Exploring God’s Eternal Promise From Prophecy to Fulfillment, dives deep into the biblical descriptions and theological significance of the New Jerusalem. It explores the Old and New Testament prophecies, the role of the Holy Spirit, and practical applications for living in light of this ultimate hope.

This e-book, which also includes discussion/journaling questions, is a great resource for anyone seeking to learn more about this eternal city, deepen their understanding of biblical prophecy and God’s eternal plan. It offers insights into the future dwelling place of God’s people and provides practical guidance for living a life that reflects the values and hope of the New Jerusalem.

To get your copy of The New Jerusalem: Exploring God’s Eternal Promise From Prophecy to Fulfillment, use the button below!

As we live our lives with the hope of the New Jerusalem in mind, let’s try to reflect its values—justice, love, holiness, and worship—in our daily lives, looking toward the day when we will dwell with God forever.

NASB – “Scripture quotations taken from the NASB. Copyright by The Lockman Foundation“
Note: Some edits and formatting have been done with the assistance of ChatGPT.

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