What does Revelation 21:1 mean?

And I saw a new heaven and a new earth: for the first heaven and the first earth were passed away; and there was no more sea. Revelation 21:1

Explanation

Revelation 21:1 is part of the vision that the apostle John received and recorded in the Book of Revelation. This verse depicts a dramatic transformation of the cosmos where the old order of things—represented by the first heaven and earth—have ceased to exist, and in their place, God introduces a renewed creation. The phrase “no more sea” is particularly significant. In ancient Jewish cosmology, the sea was often associated with chaos and disorder, and thus its absence signifies a state of perfect order and peace. This new creation is not just a restoration but an entirely unprecedented reality that surpasses the previous conditions of existence. It is seen as an eschatological promise of hope and redemption.

Historical Context

The Book of Revelation, also known as the Apocalypse, is traditionally believed to have been written by John the Apostle while he was in exile on the island of Patmos, around the end of the 1st century A.D. during the reign of Emperor Domitian. Christians faced persecution during this period, and Revelation provided comfort and hope for a future where God would ultimately triumph over evil. The book is apocalyptic literature, full of symbolism and imagery meant to convey truths through visions and allegory. The historical context of this verse reflects a time of distress for early Christians, and it offered them assurance of salvation and a future transformation of the world.

Theological Insights

From a theological perspective, Revelation 21:1 is rich with implications:

• Christian Eschatology: The verse is foundational for Christian eschatological beliefs, which concern the end times and the fate of the world. It speaks of a final consummation when God will establish a new, perfect creation.
• Covenant Theology: The imagery draws a parallel with the creation narrative in Genesis, symbolizing the completion of God’s redemptive plan that started with the old creation.
• Symbolism: Rather than a literal interpretation, some theologians view the “new heaven and a new earth” symbolically, referring to a transformed state of being and existence.

Practical Applications

In one’s daily life, Revelation 21:1 can be applied in several ways:

• It provides hope for the future, encouraging believers to remain steadfast in their faith despite challenges.
• It invites believers to view their current experiences in light of eternity, emphasizing the transient nature of current struggles.
• It can inspire Christians to work towards peace and righteousness, reflecting the promised new creation.

Cross-References

• Isaiah 65:17: “For, behold, I create new heavens and a new earth: and the former shall not be remembered, nor come into mind.”
• 2 Peter 3:13: “Nevertheless we, according to his promise, look for new heavens and a new earth, wherein dwelleth righteousness.”
• Revelation 20:11: “And I saw a great white throne, and him that sat on it, from whose face the earth and the heaven fled away; and there was found no place for them.”

Language Study

In the original Greek text:

• “New” (καινός, kainos) often indicates something that is not just new in time but is qualitatively new or superior.
• “Heaven” (οὐρανός, ouranos) is not merely the sky but can refer to the dwelling place of God or the realm of spiritual beings.
• “Earth” (γῆ, gē) generally references the material world or the planet.
• “Sea” (θάλασσα, thalassa) carries connotations beyond physical water, symbolizing chaos, danger, or the abyss.

Cultural and Religious Comparisons

This concept of a new creation can be likened to renewal myths found in various cultures and religions. For instance:

• Norse Mythology: The idea of Ragnarok, where the world is destroyed and reborn, shares thematic elements with Revelation’s vision.
• Hinduism: The concept of cyclical time and the periodic creation and destruction of the world.

Scientific Perspectives

From a scientific standpoint, the concept of a “new heaven and a new earth” is not taken literally but is seen as metaphorical. The universe is understood to be in a state of continuous change, and concepts like the “Big Bang” and “Heat Death” propose different beginnings and endings to the cosmos compared to biblical accounts.

Commentaries

Biblical scholars offer various insights on Revelation 21:1:

• John of Patmos: Views the vision as God’s ultimate triumph over evil and the final establishment of His kingdom.
• G.K. Beale: Suggests that the new creation represents the ultimate fulfillment of God’s purposes for humanity and the world.
• Craig S. Keener: Emphasizes the importance of hope in the context of persecution that the early church faced.
• N.T. Wright: Argues that John’s revelation is a vivid symbolism intended to encourage and admonish the church rather than a blueprint of future events.