FromNowUntilForeverBook8.5x5.5 REV.indd

forth from God’s throne.

Finally, note the bountiful yield harvest made possible by the river. Specifically mentioned is the tree of life, which will yield a crop of fruit every month. This tree was originally de- signed to provide nourishment to Adam and Eve. After the fall, however, it became off limits.That will all change in the new Paradise. God’s children from throughout the ages, joined by Adam and Eve, will be able to enjoy this tasty, perpetual fruit, without retribution. The leaves of this tree serve to heal the nations. A skeptic might wonder why healing would be necessary in a perfectly healthy environment. “The healing leaves indicate the complete absence of physical and spiritual want. The life to come will be a life of abundance and perfection.” 643 In addition to the new city and prominent river, the new earth will contain the literal presence of God in the midst of His people.With the coming of the Holy City, “The tabernacle of God is among men, and He will dwell among them, and they shall be His people, and God Himself will be among them” (Revelation 21:3). Throughout redemptive history, God’s presence has been manifested in various ways. “In the Old Testament it was medi- ated through the prophetic word, theophanies, dreams, angels, and the cult. To come face to face with the living God meant death” (Exodus 33:20). 654 God became one of us when Jesus appeared the first time 2000 years ago. Since He died, rose, and ascended to His original home, the Holy Spirit has repre- sented the Trinity on earth (John 16:7). As detailed previously, Christ will return at the end of the great tribulation. And final- ly, God Himself will come to live among us at the conclusion of the millennium and culmination of the End Times. Finally and gloriously, we shall see His face (Revelation 22:4).

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