interview 2

Summary

In this interview, a pastor discusses the theological perspective on the new heaven and new earth, emphasizing that the earth will not be destroyed but restored by God. He also addresses the second coming of Christ, offering practical advice for Christians to prepare: placing hope in Jesus, living a holy life, and longing for Christ’s return. The pastor encourages believers to focus on eternal values rather than earthly desires, pointing out that true preparation for Christ's return comes from desiring a personal relationship with Him.

Takeaways

• 😀 The earth will not be completely destroyed but will be restored by God, according to a more recent Christian perspective.
• 😀 The concept of a 'new heaven and new earth' means the earth will be renewed, with heaven coming down to dwell with believers.
• 😀 In the past, many Christians believed the earth would be destroyed entirely, but theologians today emphasize restoration instead.
• 😀 The passage from 2 Peter 3 is often cited to support the idea of the earth being exposed and restored rather than destroyed.
• 😀 The imagery of mopping a dirty floor is used to explain how the earth will be cleansed and revealed in its true, restored form.
• 😀 Revelation 21 describes the new Jerusalem coming down from heaven, symbolizing the union of heaven and earth for eternity.
• 😀 Christians are encouraged to preserve and care for the earth since it will be restored rather than destroyed.
• 😀 To prepare for the second coming of Christ, believers should focus on putting their hope in Jesus, rather than in worldly desires.
• 😀 Living a holy life is essential for Christians, as the earth will be renewed, and believers are called to live in holiness and godliness.
• 😀 Christians should long for the return of Jesus, desiring a personal relationship with Him, as this longing leads to hope and holiness in daily life.

Q & A

What is the traditional Christian belief about the fate of the earth and heaven?

Traditionally, many Christians believed that the earth would be completely destroyed at the second coming of Jesus, with believers being taken up to heaven. The focus was on waiting for heaven after death.

How has the theological perspective on the earth's fate changed over time?

In the 20th century, a shift occurred, especially among Reformed theologians, who began to believe that the earth would not be destroyed completely but restored. This perspective emphasizes that heaven will come down to the earth, blending the two.

What verse from 2 Peter is often used to support the idea of the earth's restoration?

2 Peter 3:10 is often cited, which speaks about the day of the Lord, where the elements of the earth will be exposed, not destroyed, much like cleaning a dirty floor to reveal a shiny surface beneath.

How does Mr. Oki explain the Greek word used in 2 Peter 3:10?

Mr. Oki explains that the Greek word translated as 'burned up' in some versions of the Bible is more accurately translated as 'exposed.' He compares it to mopping a dirty floor, where the dirt is removed, revealing a shiny floor underneath.

What does Revelation 21 say about the new heaven and earth?

Revelation 21:1-2 describes a new heaven and a new earth, where the first heaven and earth have passed away, and the new Jerusalem comes down from heaven, prepared as a bride for her husband. This passage indicates that heaven will blend with earth.

What does Mr. Oki believe will happen to believers when Jesus returns?

Mr. Oki believes that when Jesus returns, believers will stay on the restored earth, and the new heaven and new earth will merge. The presence of God will dwell with believers on the renewed earth.

What are the three things Mr. Oki suggests Christians do in preparation for the second coming of Jesus?

The three things Mr. Oki suggests are: 1) Put hope in Jesus and eternal things rather than the world. 2) Live a holy life, preparing for the second coming. 3) Long for the person of Jesus and desire His return.

How does Mr. Oki suggest we should live in light of Jesus’ second coming?

Mr. Oki suggests that Christians should live holy lives, as this is in line with the expectation of Jesus' return. He refers to 2 Peter 3:11, which calls believers to live lives of holiness and godliness, anticipating the day of the Lord.

Why is longing for Jesus considered the most important preparation for His return?

Longing for Jesus is seen as the most important because it naturally leads to putting hope in Him and living a holy life. If Christians truly desire to meet Jesus, their actions and hopes will align with His return.

What does Mr. Oki mean when he says that many Christians are not truly waiting for Jesus' return?

Mr. Oki suggests that many Christians are not eagerly anticipating Jesus' return because they are too focused on earthly pleasures and accomplishments, such as marriage, wealth, or travel. Their attachment to the world makes them reluctant to welcome Jesus' return.