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In Rev. 22:1-5, John completes his description of the New Jerusalem. This passage identifies three basic things necessary for life: water, food, and health. John tells us that in the New Jerusalem there will be an abundance of each of these three commodities. We will drink from the River of Life; we will eat from the Tree of Life; and we will be enjoy health and prosperity simply by touching the leaves of the Tree of Life. In the New Jerusalem, God will fully satisfy all the needs of his people.

These verses bring Paul’s second letter to the Corinthians to a close. They include a benediction, probably the most well-known benediction other than Aaron’s, found in Numbers 6. What is a benediction? It’s noteworthy that these final verses are dripping with optimism and joy. How could Paul write such things to a church that was so dysfunctional and had hurt him so deeply?

In Rev. 21:9-27, John presents a marvelous vision of the New Jerusalem. While we may be tempted to think of the New Jerusalem as a place, John makes it clear that he is talking about a people – the eschatalogical community of the redeemed. He describes the eternal church as a beautiful bride walking down the aisle to meet her groom, Jesus Christ. And she is not only radiant in her beauty, she is also strong, secure and perfect in her holiness. The Lord God dwells within her gates, and the light of his countenance provides abundant illumination for all who are privileged to live there.

One last time Paul applies the principal of strength in weakness as he pastors the church in Corinth. What does it mean for us to likewise “pastor” one another?

When we turn the page to Rev. 21, we are at threshold of eternity. The original creation has passed away, and God re-makes the heavens and the earth. And while the original creation is more amazing than humanity will ever be able to fully understand, the New Creation will be far more glorious. In the New Creation, the unveiled presence of God will permeate everything; and every vestige of pain, suffering, sin and death will vanish completely, and the perfected community of saints will glorify God and enjoy him forever and ever!

Having vividly expressed the theme of the letter in 12:1-10, Paul now applies that theme to the normal, everyday Christian life. What are the characteristics of a life upon which the power of Christ rests (12:9)? Here are some of the most beautiful (and attractive) expressions of humility and self-denial in all of Scripture. C.S. Lewis wrote that humility is not thinking less of yourself, but thinking of yourself less. What does that practically look like, and why can only grace produce it?