The Road to the New Jerusalem
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Introduction
I want to share an important message about the New Jerusalem. This city is not just a place on a map; it has a deep spiritual meaning for many people, especially for the Jewish community. Since a long time ago, Jerusalem has been seen as a sacred city and the centre of the world where God lives. For many Jews around the world, when they pray, they turn toward Jerusalem. But today, we’re going to focus not just on the physical Jerusalem, but on the "Spiritual Jerusalem" that we, as believers, are meant to seek out.
In Psalm 122:1-9, the writer talks about how happy they feel when they go to the house of the Lord in Jerusalem. This passage reminds us how important it is to pray for this holy city and to find peace there.
The Spiritual Jerusalem
Now, let’s think about the meaning of Jerusalem. It stands for more than just a physical place; it represents a special relationship between God and His people. The Apostle Paul talks about this by explaining that there are two Jerusalem’s: one that is earthly and one that is heavenly.
In Galatians 4:22-26, Paul tells us that "the Jerusalem which is above is free," showing that our true home as believers is in this heavenly Jerusalem, where we are free from worries and troubles.
Determining the Right Path
As we go through our lives, we need to look to Jesus, who set His sights on Jerusalem to fulfil God’s plan. His determination teaches us how important it is to have a clear goal and to be ready for the journey ahead.
In Luke 9:51-53, we see that Jesus was focused on going to Jerusalem, showing us that we should also prepare ourselves for what God wants us to do. Isaiah 40:3 reminds us to "prepare the way of the Lord," which means we should be ready for His arrival.
Finding Peace in Christ
As we walk this journey toward the New Jerusalem, we learn that true peace comes from our relationship with Jesus. He guides us and helps us understand that God’s Kingdom is within us, changing our lives for the better.
Luke 17:21 tells us that "the Kingdom of God is within you," meaning that we can experience God’s presence in our hearts. John 14:5-6 reminds us that Jesus is the only way to get to God, which is why we need Him in our lives.
The Cost of the Journey
It's important to know that following Jesus on this path requires commitment. It might ask a lot from us, but it is also a free gift that we can accept without paying anything.
In Mark 8:34-36, Jesus tells us to deny ourselves and take up our cross, showing that there is a cost to being His follower. At the same time, Isaiah 55:1-2 invites us to come and receive what we need for free, reminding us that God’s grace is available to everyone.
The Simplicity of the Journey
Jesus encourages us to come to Him with the innocence and trust of a child. This journey is open to everyone, no matter what their past looks like.
In Mark 10:13-16, Jesus welcomes children, teaching us the importance of approaching Him with childlike faith. 1 Peter 1:13-14 encourages us to be obedient children, putting aside our old ways to embrace our new life in Christ.
The Call to Prepare
As we get ready for this important journey, we are called to leave behind the distractions and sins of the world. Understanding that we are chosen by God helps us to live with purpose.
Revelation 18:4 tells us to come out of the world’s sinful ways, and 1 Peter 2:9 reminds us that we are a royal priesthood, called to share God’s praises and shine His light in our lives.
The Individual Journey
Remember, this journey is personal. Each of us must decide to follow Jesus on our own. No one can make that choice for you.
Galatians 6:4-5 reminds us that we each have our own responsibilities and must take charge of our faith journey.
The Invitation to the Bride
In the end, we are invited to see the Lamb's bride, the Holy Jerusalem, coming down from heaven. This is a beautiful picture of our future as believers. Revelation 21:9-10 describes the Holy Jerusalem, reminding us that we are already part of God’s family through Christ.
Preparing for the Journey
For those of us who believe in Christ, getting ready for this journey is not scary; it is a joyful process. It means focusing on heavenly things and remembering who we are as God’s children.
Colossians 3:1-4 encourages us to seek the things above, while 1 Peter 1:23 talks about being born again through God’s Word, which lasts forever.
The Power of the Word
Understanding the Gospel is crucial as we prepare for the New Jerusalem. It is through the Gospel that we learn about God’s love and salvation.
Romans 1:16-17 tells us that the Gospel is the power of God for salvation, showing us how to live by faith as we move toward the New Jerusalem.
The Consequences of Neglect
We should be careful not to ignore the call to prepare. If we neglect this important invitation, it can lead to serious issues in our spiritual lives.
Hebrews 2:3 warns us about the dangers of not paying attention to the great salvation that God has offered us.
The Assurance of Salvation
God’s love through Jesus guarantees us the gift of eternal life. He came to save us, not to judge us, and offers us hope and a new beginning.
John 3:16-17 beautifully explains that God loves the world and wants everyone to have everlasting life through faith in Jesus.
Walking the Road
As we journey toward the New Jerusalem, let’s walk with diligence, patience, and humility. This path requires us to actively participate and stay committed.
Hebrews 11:5-6 teaches us that faith is needed to please God, while Micah 6:8 reminds us to walk humbly with God and seek justice and kindness.
Conclusion
So, friends, the road to the New Jerusalem is not just a distant dream; it is a reality for all of us who believe in Christ. We are called to prepare our hearts, follow Him faithfully, and embrace who we are as God’s children. So, I ask you: Are you on the road to the New Jerusalem? Let’s seek Him together as we walk this beautiful journey of faith. Amen.