What does it mean that heaven and earth will pass away?

The concept of heaven and earth passing away is a profound and compelling aspect of Christian eschatology. This phrase, found in passages such as Matthew 24:35, Mark 13:31, and Luke 21:33, is often interpreted to mean that the current physical universe, as we know it, will undergo a radical transformation at the end of time. To fully understand this concept, we must delve into the biblical texts, theological perspectives, and the broader narrative of God's redemptive plan.

Biblical Foundations

The phrase "heaven and earth will pass away" is first and foremost rooted in Scripture. In Matthew 24:35, Jesus states, "Heaven and earth will pass away, but my words will never pass away." This declaration is part of the Olivet Discourse, where Jesus speaks about the end times, His second coming, and the signs that will accompany these events. The same phrasing is echoed in Mark 13:31 and Luke 21:33, emphasizing its significance.

In the Old Testament, similar themes are present. Isaiah 65:17 prophesies, "See, I will create new heavens and a new earth. The former things will not be remembered, nor will they come to mind." This prophecy is reiterated in Isaiah 66:22 and finds its fulfillment in the New Testament, particularly in the book of Revelation.

Theological Perspectives

From a theological standpoint, the idea that heaven and earth will pass away can be understood in several ways. One prominent interpretation is that this phrase signifies the end of the current fallen world order and the inauguration of a new creation. This view aligns with the biblical narrative of creation, fall, redemption, and consummation.

The Present Age and the Age to Come

The Bible often contrasts the present age with the age to come. The present age is characterized by sin, suffering, and death, while the age to come is marked by the fullness of God's kingdom, where righteousness, peace, and eternal life prevail. In this context, the passing away of heaven and earth represents the transition from the present age to the age to come.

In 2 Peter 3:10-13, the apostle Peter provides a vivid description of this transition: "But the day of the Lord will come like a thief. The heavens will disappear with a roar; the elements will be destroyed by fire, and the earth and everything done in it will be laid bare. Since everything will be destroyed in this way, what kind of people ought you to be? You ought to live holy and godly lives as you look forward to the day of God and speed its coming. That day will bring about the destruction of the heavens by fire, and the elements will melt in the heat. But in keeping with his promise, we are looking forward to a new heaven and a new earth, where righteousness dwells."

Peter's description underscores the idea that the current heavens and earth will be purged and purified, making way for a new creation. This new creation is not merely a return to the original state of Eden but a fulfillment of God's ultimate redemptive plan.

Renewal or Replacement?

The question arises: will the current heavens and earth be completely annihilated and replaced, or will they be renewed and transformed? The language of "passing away" can suggest either scenario. However, many theologians argue for a renewal rather than a total annihilation. This perspective is supported by Romans 8:19-21, where Paul writes, "For the creation waits in eager expectation for the children of God to be revealed. For the creation was subjected to frustration, not by its own choice, but by the will of the one who subjected it, in hope that the creation itself will be liberated from its bondage to decay and brought into the freedom and glory of the children of God."

Paul's words suggest that creation itself will be liberated and transformed, rather than completely destroyed. This view is further supported by Revelation 21:1-5, where John writes, "Then I saw 'a new heaven and a new earth,' for the first heaven and the first earth had passed away, and there was no longer any sea. I saw the Holy City, the new Jerusalem, coming down out of heaven from God, prepared as a bride beautifully dressed for her husband. And I heard a loud voice from the throne saying, 'Look! God's dwelling place is now among the people, and he will dwell with them. They will be his people, and God himself will be with them and be their God. He will wipe every tear from their eyes. There will be no more death' or mourning or crying or pain, for the old order of things has passed away."

John's vision of the new heaven and new earth emphasizes continuity and transformation. The former things pass away, but they give way to a renewed and glorified creation where God dwells with His people.

The Broader Narrative of Redemption

To fully grasp the meaning of heaven and earth passing away, we must situate it within the broader narrative of God's redemptive plan. The story of the Bible is one of creation, fall, redemption, and consummation. God created the heavens and the earth, and they were "very good" (Genesis 1:31). However, sin entered the world through Adam and Eve's disobedience, bringing corruption and decay to all of creation (Genesis 3).

God's redemptive plan unfolds through the covenants with Noah, Abraham, Moses, and David, culminating in the life, death, and resurrection of Jesus Christ. Through Christ, God reconciles all things to Himself, making peace through His blood shed on the cross (Colossians 1:20). This reconciliation extends to all of creation, which eagerly awaits its redemption.

The consummation of God's redemptive plan is depicted in Revelation 21-22, where the new heaven and new earth are fully realized. The New Jerusalem descends from heaven, and God dwells with His people in a renewed creation. The imagery of a wedding feast, a river of life, and the tree of life all point to the fulfillment of God's promises and the restoration of all things.

Practical Implications

Understanding that heaven and earth will pass away has profound practical implications for how we live our lives today. As Jesus and the apostles exhort, this knowledge should inspire us to live holy and godly lives, characterized by faith, hope, and love.

Living with Eternal Perspective

Knowing that the current world is temporary and that a new creation awaits should shape our priorities and values. Jesus teaches in Matthew 6:19-21, "Do not store up for yourselves treasures on earth, where moths and vermin destroy, and where thieves break in and steal. But store up for yourselves treasures in heaven, where moths and vermin do not destroy, and where thieves do not break in and steal. For where your treasure is, there your heart will be also."

Our focus should be on eternal treasures, investing in relationships, acts of kindness, and spreading the gospel. This eternal perspective helps us navigate the challenges and sufferings of this life with hope and resilience.

Stewardship of Creation

While the current heavens and earth will pass away, this does not mean we should neglect our responsibility to care for God's creation. On the contrary, we are called to be good stewards of the earth, reflecting God's love and care for all He has made. As Paul writes in 1 Corinthians 10:26, "The earth is the Lord's, and everything in it."

Our stewardship of creation is an act of worship and obedience, acknowledging that the earth belongs to God and that we are entrusted with its care. This includes advocating for environmental justice, conserving resources, and promoting sustainable practices.

Anticipating the New Creation

Finally, the promise of a new heaven and new earth fills us with hope and anticipation. This hope is not a passive waiting but an active participation in God's redemptive work. As we pray in the Lord's Prayer, "Your kingdom come, your will be done, on earth as it is in heaven" (Matthew 6:10), we are invited to be agents of God's kingdom, bringing glimpses of the new creation into the present world.

In conclusion, the phrase "heaven and earth will pass away" encapsulates the biblical promise of a radical transformation of the current world order. It signifies the end of the present age, characterized by sin and decay, and the inauguration of a new creation where righteousness dwells. This profound truth calls us to live with an eternal perspective, steward God's creation faithfully, and actively participate in His redemptive work as we await the fulfillment of His promises.