The Triumph of the Gospel in the New Heavens and the New Earth (Video)
John Piper explains how 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 assurance and hope found in the gospel, emphasizing the ultimate gift of the gospel as the beholding and enjoyment of God Himself through Christ. It explores the concept of the new heavens and the new earth, highlighting the continuity and discontinuity between the current world and the future redeemed creation. The sermon underscores that the gospel secures our hope for the new creation through faith, but ultimately points to the eternal joy of being in the presence of God.
Sermon Outline
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I. The Original Goodness of Creation
- God created the heavens and the earth very good
- No death, suffering, or evil existed initially
- Man created in God's image as the capstone of creation
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II. The Fall and Its Effects on Creation
- Adam and Eve's rebellion brought sin and curse
- Creation subjected to futility and bondage to corruption
- Natural evil as a vivid picture of moral evil's horror
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III. The Hope of Redemption and Renewal
- God promises liberation of creation from corruption
- The new heavens and new earth will replace the old
- Believers and creation share in the glory of redemption
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IV. Pastoral Implications and Encouragement
- Suffering is temporary compared to eternal glory
- Encourage believers with the hope of bodily redemption
- Use Scripture to provide theological framework for suffering
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 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
“If you lean on Him and not on your own understanding, He will not only make your way straight, it will be straight into some of the sweetest, deepest insights and experiences with Him that you could have had anywhere.” — John Piper
Application Points
- Trust God in suffering, knowing He is faithful to bring ultimate redemption.
- Encourage others with the hope of the new heavens and new earth where pain and death are no more.
- Use Scripture to provide comfort and a theological perspective in times of hardship.
Frequently Asked Questions
Why does God allow suffering and natural evil?
God allows suffering and natural evil as a consequence of sin and as a vivid signpost to the spiritual wickedness of sin, aiming to awaken us to our need for Him.
What does Romans 8 teach about creation's future?
Romans 8 teaches that creation is eagerly waiting to be liberated from its bondage to corruption and to share in the freedom and glory of God's children.
How should Christians view physical suffering?
Christians should view physical suffering as temporary and part of a fallen world, with the hope of future bodily redemption and eternal glory in the new heavens and new earth.
What is the significance of the new heavens and new earth?
The new heavens and new earth represent God's promise to renew and restore all creation, removing death, pain, and mourning forever.
How can pastors support those suffering?
Pastors can support the suffering by providing a biblical framework that acknowledges pain but points to the hope of redemption and eternal restoration.