The Triumph of the Gospel in the New Heavens and the New Earth (Video) (Clip)
John Piper explains that the gospel promises the ultimate liberation and renewal of creation, culminating in the new heavens and new earth where suffering and death are no more.
This sermon delves into the deep theological implications of the new heavens and the new earth, exploring the continuity and discontinuity between the current world and the future redeemed creation. It emphasizes the ultimate hope of the gospel, which is not just the new earth or redeemed bodies, but the eternal enjoyment of God's glory through Christ. The speaker highlights the centrality of the cross and the eternal significance of Christ's sacrifice, pointing to a future where believers will forever sing of the grace displayed at Calvary.
Sermon Outline
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I. The Original Goodness of Creation
- God created the heavens and earth very good
- Man created in God's image
- No death, suffering, or evil originally
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II. The Fall and Its Consequences
- Adam and Eve's rebellion brought sin
- Creation subjected to futility and corruption
- Suffering and death entered the world
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III. The Significance of Natural Evil
- Natural disasters and diseases reveal sin's horror
- Physical suffering as a picture of spiritual wickedness
- Call to recognize sin's repugnance
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IV. The Hope of Redemption and New Creation
- Creation will be liberated from corruption
- New heavens and new earth promised in Scripture
- Believers await the redemption of their bodies
Key Quotes
“God disordered the natural world because the disorder of the moral and spiritual world is so great and we don't feel it.” — John Piper
“The natural world is shot through with horrors that aim to wake us up from the dream world that thinking demeaning God is no big deal.” — John Piper
“The creation itself will be set free from its bondage to corruption and obtain the freedom of the glory of the children of God.” — John Piper
Application Points
- Trust God’s faithfulness even in suffering, knowing He is working for ultimate renewal.
- Use the reality of natural evil as a call to repent and recognize the seriousness of sin.
- Encourage hope in the promised new heavens and new earth for yourself and others facing trials.
Frequently Asked Questions
Why does God allow suffering and natural evil?
God allows suffering and natural evil as a vivid picture of the horror of sin and to awaken us to the seriousness of our moral condition.
What does Romans 8 teach about creation?
Romans 8 teaches that creation was subjected to futility because of sin but will be set free from its bondage to corruption and share in the glory of God's children.
What is the new heavens and new earth?
The new heavens and new earth refer to the renewed creation where suffering, death, and pain are no more, and righteousness dwells eternally.
How should Christians view present suffering?
Christians should view present suffering as temporary and incomparable to the eternal glory that awaits, encouraging patient hope and trust in God's promises.
What practical hope does this sermon offer to parents of disabled children?
It offers the hope that their children will be fully restored and free from disability in the new creation, where they will enjoy eternal life and joy.