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Visions of the New Earth and Eternal Realms

Will we really explore other inhabited worlds in the afterlife?

AdventAI

New Earth and New Jerusalem: Tell me all you can about life on the New Earth and in the New Jerusalem from what Scripture and Ellen White have written on the subject. What will we do each day and how will we worship God and His beloved Son?

AdventAI

Life in the New Jerusalem and on the New Earth is a state of perfect harmony, where the redeemed will dwell in the presence of God, free from the curse of sin, and engaged in joyful activities that unite heaven and earth Revelation 21:1-4.

The Beauty of the Holy City

The New Jerusalem is a glorious city with twelve gates of pearl and foundations of various colors, featuring streets of pure gold Revelation 21:19-21. At the center of the city is the throne of God, from which flows a pure, crystal-clear river of life that makes the city glad Revelation 22:1. On either side of this river stands the tree of life, bearing twelve manners of fruit and leaves that provide healing for the nations Revelation 22:2. There is no night in this city because the countenance of Jesus shines brighter than the sun, providing constant light.

Daily Life and Activities

Life in the new world is characterized by productive and peaceful activity rather than idleness.

  • Building and Planting: The saints will build glorious houses that have the appearance of silver and plant vineyards, enjoying the work of their own hands Isaiah 65:21.

  • Communion with Nature: The redeemed will wander through fields of living green, tall grass waving to the glory of King Jesus, and woods that are light and all over glorious.

  • Interaction with Animals: All creatures will live in perfect union; the lion, lamb, leopard, and wolf will dwell together, and the saints will pass through their midst without fear Isaiah 11:6-9.

  • Restoring Relationships: The 144,000 and the great multitude will recognize friends and loved ones torn from them by death, reuniting in a land where separation is no more.

Worship and Communion with God

Worship in the New Earth is a constant, joyful experience involving music, praise, and direct fellowship.

  • The Song of Moses and the Lamb: The redeemed will stand on the sea of glass with harps of gold and palms of victory, singing a song of triumph and praise to God and the Lamb Revelation 15:2-3.

  • Sabbath Observance: The Sabbath remains an eternal memorial of God's creative power; from one Sabbath to another, all inhabitants of the glorified earth will come to worship before the Lord Isaiah 66:23.

  • The Marriage Supper: Jesus will gird Himself and serve the redeemed at a table of pure silver miles in length, where they will eat of the tree of life, manna, almonds, figs, and pomegranates Revelation 19:9.

  • Direct Access: There will be no more veil between God and man; the pure in heart will see His face and walk in the light of His presence Matthew 5:8.

Our Preparation for the Future Home

To enter this beautiful city, we must form characters that are in harmony with heaven while we are still on earth. This involves:

  • Obedience to God’s Law: Entrance is granted to those who keep the commandments of God and have a right to the tree of life Revelation 22:14.

  • Purity of Heart: No crooked dealing or deceptive science will find a place there; only those with clean hands and a pure heart shall be able to stand Psalms 24:3-4.

  • Following the Pattern: We must be like Jesus on earth—meek and selfless—if we wish to be with Him in heaven.

  • Education for Eternity: The highest education is the knowledge of God expressed in character, which serves as the key to the portals of the heavenly city.

Heaven is worth everything to us, and in the presence of our Savior, all the trials and sufferings of this life will seem as nothingness. We are encouraged to keep our eyes fixed on Jesus, our faithful guide, as we travel along the narrow path to the New Jerusalem.

Sources · 29
  1. YI October 1, 1852, par. 2The Youth’s InstructorEllen Gould White
  2. DD 52Darkness Before DawnEllen Gould White
  3. CET 97.2Christian Experience and Teachings of Ellen G. WhiteEllen Gould White
  4. 2SG 32.1Spiritual Gifts, vol. 2Ellen Gould White
  5. Hvn 41.3HeavenEllen Gould White
  6. PT April 1, 1850, par. 12The Present TruthEllen Gould White
  7. DS January 24, 1846, par. 1The Day-StarEllen Gould White
  8. Broadside1 April 6, 1846, par. 3To the Little Remnant Scattered AbroadEllen Gould White
  9. 2SM 252.3Selected Messages Book 2Ellen Gould White
  10. AH 537.2The Adventist HomeEllen Gould White
  11. CET 231.1Christian Experience and Teachings of Ellen G. WhiteEllen Gould White
  12. RH August 18, 1910, par. 8The Review and HeraldEllen Gould White
  13. ExV 15.1A Sketch of the Christian Experience and Views of Ellen G. WhiteEllen Gould White
  14. GW 53.4Gospel Workers (1915 ed.)Ellen Gould White
  15. LDE 236.3Last Day EventsEllen Gould White
  16. 1888 1101.2The Ellen G. White 1888 MaterialsEllen Gould White
  17. ExV 18.1A Sketch of the Christian Experience and Views of Ellen G. WhiteEllen Gould White
  18. 5T 693.1Testimonies for the Church, vol. 5Ellen Gould White
  19. 11MR 212.3Manuscript Releases, vol. 11 [Nos. 851-920]Ellen Gould White
  20. LS80 250.1Life Sketches of James White and Ellen G. White (1880 ed.)Ellen Gould White
  21. ST June 10, 1889, par. 6The Signs of the TimesEllen Gould White
  22. Ev 313.2EvangelismEllen Gould White
  23. 6T 97.1Testimonies for the Church, vol. 6Ellen Gould White
  24. CTBH 149.1Christian Temperance and Bible HygieneEllen Gould White
  25. CCh 358.6Counsels for the ChurchEllen Gould White
  26. 7MR 222.2Manuscript Releases, vol. 7 [Nos. 419-525]Ellen Gould White
  27. RH February 13, 1908, par. 19The Review and HeraldEllen Gould White
  28. 1SM 62.1Selected Messages Book 1Ellen Gould White
  29. ST December 10, 1885, par. 3The Signs of the TimesEllen Gould White

Can you create for me an image of this glorious reality as described above, in Bible World?

Summarize the realities you just described to me as a prompt I can put into Bible World to make an image.

AdventAI

I would be happy to help you summarize these glorious scenes into a descriptive prompt for your image 🎨!

Here is a summary of the realities described in Scripture and the writings of Ellen White that you can use:

A magnificent landscape of the New Earth featuring the Holy City, New Jerusalem, with twelve gates of pearl and streets of pure gold like transparent glass Revelation 21:21. At the center of the city is the throne of God, with a crystal-clear river of life flowing from it Revelation 22:1. On both sides of the river stands the tree of life with bowing branches and fruit that looks like gold mixed with silver Revelation 22:2. The scene includes redeemed saints in white robes and glittering crowns, some standing on a sea of glass holding golden harps and palms of victory Revelation 15:2. In the surrounding fields are silver houses with pearl pillars nestled among tall, waving grass that reflects gold and silver light Isaiah 65:21. A lion and a lamb rest together in perfect peace among colorful mountains and fields of never-fading flowers Isaiah 11:6-9. The entire atmosphere is illuminated by the brilliant light of God’s presence and a glorious rainbow, with no shadows of night Revelation 21:23-25. 🌅✨

Sources · 5
  1. YI October 1, 1852, par. 2The Youth’s InstructorEllen Gould White
  2. DS January 24, 1846, par. 1The Day-StarEllen Gould White
  3. 2SG 32.1Spiritual Gifts, vol. 2Ellen Gould White
  4. Broadside1 April 6, 1846, par. 3To the Little Remnant Scattered AbroadEllen Gould White
  5. Hvn 41.3HeavenEllen Gould White

What descriptions are there in the Bible and Ellen White's writings that describe the new bodies that we will possess in the next life?

AdventAI

In the next life, the redeemed will possess glorified, immortal bodies that are raised in incorruption and power, perfectly reflecting the image of Christ 1 Corinthians 15:42-44.

The Nature of the Glorified Body

The transition from mortality to immortality is an instantaneous and marvelous change that occurs at the second coming of Christ.

  • A Spiritual and Incorruptible Frame: While the body is sown in corruption and weakness in this life, it is raised in incorruption and glory 1 Corinthians 15:42-43.

  • Fashioned Like Christ’s Body: Our vile bodies will be changed and fashioned like unto Christ’s most glorious body Philippians 3:21.

  • Preservation of Identity: In the resurrected state, our individual identity will be perfectly preserved, and we shall recognize our friends and loved ones just as the disciples recognized Jesus after His resurrection.

  • Removal of Defects: Though individuals may have been deformed, diseased, or disfigured in this mortal life, they will rise with a face radiant with light, free from all earthly infirmities.

  • Physical and Spiritual Harmony: The redeemed will have a converted body where the soul is in perfect harmony with the laws of God.

The Appearance of the Redeemed

The appearance of those who inherit eternal life will be marked by the beauty and luster of heaven.

  • The Finishing Touch: Those who have preserved their bodies and spirits in holiness during their time of probation will receive the finishing touch of immortality when the Lord comes.

  • Radiant with Light: The faces of the saints will be radiant with the light shining from the face of Jesus.

  • Immortal Crowns: The Savior Himself will place immortal crowns upon the brows of the redeemed as a sign of their victory over death.

  • Holy Flesh: When Christ calls the dead from their prison house, the saints will receive holy flesh that will never again be subject to decay.

Connection to the Life-Giver

Our hope for these new bodies is centered entirely in the power and sacrifice of Jesus Christ.

  • The Resurrection and the Life: Christ is the Great Life-giver who broke the fetters of the tomb to bring life and immortality to light John 11:25.

  • Vitalized by the Spirit: The mortal bodies are quickened by the same Spirit of Christ that dwelt in the believer during their earthly life Romans 8:11.

  • The Marks of Calvary: While the saints are made perfect, they will forever behold the marks of the crucifixion in Christ’s glorified body as a testimony of the price paid for their redemption.

Preparation for Transformation

The character we develop now determines the state of our existence for all eternity, as death brings no change to the character itself.

  • Preserving the Temple: It is a sacred duty to preserve the body in the best possible condition now, as it is the temple of the Holy Spirit 1 Corinthians 6:19-20.

  • Subjection of Appetite: Those fitted for translation must keep their appetites in subjection to the moral and intellectual organs, ensuring the body is a servant to the mind.

  • Living for Eternity: We are currently in God’s workshop, being fitted through obedience and grace for the society of heavenly angels and an immortal inheritance. 🌟✨

Sources · 21
  1. CCh 215.1Counsels for the ChurchEllen Gould White
  2. 9LtMs, Lt 65a, 1894, par. 6Letters and Manuscripts — Volume 9 (1894)Ellen Gould White
  3. 1T 36.1Testimonies for the Church, vol. 1Ellen Gould White
  4. 1EGWLM 294.2The Ellen G. White Letters and Manuscripts: Volume 1Ellen Gould White
  5. 19LtMs, Ms 167, 1904, par. 5Letters and Manuscripts — Volume 19 (1904)Ellen Gould White
  6. 6BC 1092.6EGW SDA Bible Commentary, vol. 6Ellen Gould White
  7. 20MR 283.2Manuscript Releases, vol. 20 [Nos. 1420-1500]Ellen Gould White
  8. 13LtMs, Lt 81, 1898, par. 9Letters and Manuscripts — Volume 13 (1898)Ellen Gould White
  9. 22LtMs, Ms 39, 1907, par. 10Letters and Manuscripts — Volume 22 (1907)Ellen Gould White
  10. 2T 70.1Testimonies for the Church, vol. 2Ellen Gould White
  11. 6Red 70.3Redemption: or the Resurrection of Christ; and His AscensionEllen Gould White
  12. ST October 31, 1895, par. 8The Signs of the TimesEllen Gould White
  13. Hvn 186.4HeavenEllen Gould White
  14. 13LtMs, Lt 97, 1898, par. 14Letters and Manuscripts — Volume 13 (1898)Ellen Gould White
  15. 4Red 93.2Redemption: or the Teachings of Christ, the Anointed OneEllen Gould White
  16. RH December 1, 1885, par. 11The Review and HeraldEllen Gould White
  17. LDE 236.2Last Day EventsEllen Gould White
  18. 9LtMs, Ms 20, 1894, par. 6Letters and Manuscripts — Volume 9 (1894)Ellen Gould White
  19. 1T 486.3Testimonies for the Church, vol. 1Ellen Gould White
  20. T18 3.1Testimony for the Church — No. 18Ellen Gould White
  21. 11LtMs, Lt 63, 1896, par. 1Letters and Manuscripts — Volume 11 (1896)Ellen Gould White

Is it true that the redeemed from earth will be part of the royal family like the angels and will repopulate heaven taking the place of Lucifer and the fallen angels?

AdventAI

Yes, it is true that the redeemed are destined to become members of the royal family and will fill the vacancies in heaven created by the fall of Satan and his host.

Members of the Royal Family

The Savior's work was to save the world from ruin so that through His divine power, human beings might become partakers of the divine nature. By His grace, they are elevated to become members of the royal family and children of the heavenly King. Christ, who is the Majesty of heaven, humbled Himself and clothed His divinity with humanity to reach the depths of human woe, making it possible for fallen natures to be lifted up. Through this sacrifice, the redeemed are adopted as sons and daughters of God and heirs of the eternal kingdom.

  • Relationship to Christ: Christ has pledged Himself to be our substitute and surety, taking our guilt upon Himself.

  • Adoption: Provision was made in the council of heaven that transgressors who exercise faith in Christ may be predestinated unto the adoption of children.

  • Transformation: Fallen man, though once a "worm of the dust," is transformed by the power of God's love to be a companion of God, Christ, and the holy angels through eternal ages.

Filling the Vacancies in Heaven

Heaven will ultimately triumph over the rebellion of the past. The vacancies made by the fall of Satan and his host will be filled by the redeemed of the Lord.

  • The Original Rebellion: Lucifer was originally a high and exalted angel, next in honor to the Son of God. However, he indulged in self-exaltation, desiring to be like the Most High and coveting the honor bestowed upon Christ.

  • The War in Heaven: After Satan and his sympathizers rebelled against the authority of the Son, they were expelled from heaven Revelation 12:7-9.

  • The Second Probation: Christ took humanity into a close relationship with His own, giving His life as a substitute so that the human family might have a second probation.

  • Standing in the Presence of God: Those who are saved through faith in Christ will stand guiltless before the throne of God. They will be fitted to be members of the heavenly family and to behold the glories of the eternal world.

The love of the Father in giving His Son to die to ransom the sinner is so great that it remains a mystery even to the angelic host. The redeemed will eventually possess a home where the first dominion is restored, and they will live forever in the presence of their Creator Micah 4:8.

Sources · 15
  1. 20MR 243.4Manuscript Releases, vol. 20 [Nos. 1420-1500]Ellen Gould White
  2. TA 287.1The Truth About AngelsEllen Gould White
  3. CE 119.2Christian EducationEllen Gould White
  4. RH July 17, 1888, par. 11The Review and HeraldEllen Gould White
  5. 6BC 1114.5EGW SDA Bible Commentary, vol. 6Ellen Gould White
  6. Con 16.3ConfrontationEllen Gould White
  7. 9MR 240.4Manuscript Releases, vol. 9 [Nos. 664-770]Ellen Gould White
  8. SR 13.1The Story of RedemptionEllen Gould White
  9. DD 2.1Darkness Before DawnEllen Gould White
  10. EW 145.2Early WritingsEllen Gould White
  11. 17MR 28.1Manuscript Releases, vol. 17 [Nos. 1236-1300]Ellen Gould White
  12. 7BC 914.6EGW SDA Bible Commentary, vol. 7Ellen Gould White
  13. YI July 20, 1899, par. 12The Youth’s InstructorEllen Gould White
  14. 1888 780.2The Ellen G. White 1888 MaterialsEllen Gould White
  15. RH October 22, 1908, par. 4The Review and HeraldEllen Gould White

Will the redeemed have the joy of travelling throughout the universe? How many inhabited worlds are in the universe of God and the Lamb?

AdventAI

The redeemed will indeed have the privilege of traveling to worlds afar, exploring all the treasures and handiworks of the universe in their immortal state. While the exact number of inhabited worlds is not specified, they are described as "worlds unfallen" and "other worlds" that circle the throne of Deity in their appointed order.

The Privilege of Universal Travel

The joy of the redeemed includes unfettered access to the vastness of God's creation, where they can study the riches of His power throughout the endless ages.

  • Tireless Flight: Unfettered by mortality, the children of earth will wing their flight to distant systems and suns.

  • A Promisory Privilege: The faithful are promised the special privilege of visiting all the worlds and viewing the handiwork of God.

  • Welcome Guests: The inhabitants of these sinless realms, who once watched the spectacle of human woe with sorrow, will welcome the ransomed souls with songs of gladness.

  • Enoch as a Visitor: Even now, those like the translated Enoch visit these other worlds, though their permanent home remains the City of God.

Descriptions of Other Inhabited Worlds

The Lord has provided glimpses into these distant, holy realms to encourage His people on earth.

  • Majestic Inhabitants: The inhabitants of these other worlds are noble, majestic, and lovely, bearing the express image of Jesus.

  • Unfallen Integrity: These beings have never tasted of the forbidden tree; they have lived in strict obedience to the commandments of God and have not fallen by disobedience.

  • Varied Features: Some of these worlds possess distinct features, such as one glorious world that is illuminated by seven moons.

  • Atmosphere of Love: The very atmosphere of this unfallen universe is defined by unselfish love and benevolence, which is the character of God.

Progressive Knowledge and Study

The science of redemption and the glory of creation will be the eternal study of the redeemed as they associate with unfallen beings.

  • Sharing Wisdom: The children of earth will enter into the joy and wisdom of unfallen intelligences, sharing in the knowledge they have gained through ages of contemplating God’s work.

  • The Science of Sciences: The plan of redemption is a marvel into which even the angels desire to look, and it will remain the highest study for all created intelligences throughout eternity.

  • The Testimony of the Redeemed: The redeemed alone have known the actual conflict with sin and fellowship in Christ's sufferings, and they will bear a unique testimony that is of great worth even to unfallen beings.

  • Eternal Security: Through the victory of Christ, the entire universe has been secured in eternal allegiance; the unfallen worlds are now made safe from the power of Satan and the deception of sin.

This vast, inhabited universe stands as a testimony to the fact that God is a great King above all gods, whose name is written upon all things, from the least to the greatest Psalms 95:3.

Sources · 13
  1. ExV 22.2A Sketch of the Christian Experience and Views of Ellen G. WhiteEllen Gould White
  2. Hvn 155.2HeavenEllen Gould White
  3. 12LtMs, Ms 40, 1897, par. 16Letters and Manuscripts — Volume 12 (1897)Ellen Gould White
  4. AH 548.1The Adventist HomeEllen Gould White
  5. TA 68.2The Truth About AngelsEllen Gould White
  6. TA 38.2The Truth About AngelsEllen Gould White
  7. 2MCP 452.4Mind, Character, and Personality, vol. 2Ellen Gould White
  8. ST April 18, 1906, par. 2The Signs of the TimesEllen Gould White
  9. Hvn 153.4HeavenEllen Gould White
  10. TA 297.4The Truth About AngelsEllen Gould White
  11. RH March 12, 1901, par. 8The Review and HeraldEllen Gould White
  12. YI August 5, 1897, Art. A, par. 6The Youth’s InstructorEllen Gould White
  13. ST August 27, 1902, par. 15The Signs of the TimesEllen Gould White

Does Ellen White mention unnumbered worlds? How many galaxies do scientists currently estimate there to be in the universe?

AdventAI

Yes, it is confirmed that God has unnumbered worlds that remain obedient to His laws and are conducted with reference to His glory. While human science currently estimates there are hundreds of billions to trillions of galaxies in the observable universe, the infinite power of the Creator sustains unnumbered worlds throughout immensity.

The Unnumbered Worlds of God

The scope of God's creation extends far beyond the limited range of finite human vision.

  • Immensity of Creation: The unseen hand of the Creator guides the planets in their circuits and sustains unnumbered worlds throughout the vast realms of space.

  • Orderly Revolutions: These innumerable worlds move in orderly revolutions, serving as objects of study and wonder for those who seek to understand the mysteries of the universe.

  • Obedience to Law: Unlike our world, which was temporarily divorced from heaven by sin, these unnumbered worlds have remained loyal and are governed by the same immutable laws that control the heavenly universe.

  • Witnesses to Redemption: The inhabitants of these unfallen worlds have watched the conflict on earth with intense interest, witnessing the sacrifice of Christ which secured the entire universe in eternal allegiance.

Science and the Infinite

Human scientific research, while valuable, can only reach a certain point before encountering the vastness of the Infinite.

  • Limits of Human Vision: If men could catch even a glimpse of the Eternal beyond their finite vision, all boasting would cease, for our world is but a small "atom" compared to the unnumbered worlds God maintains.

  • The Science of Redemption: While scientists study the physical universe, the "science of all sciences" is the study of redemption, which engages the attention of all the intelligences of unfallen worlds and will be the study of the redeemed for endless ages.

  • Divine Governance: The same God who upholds unnumbered worlds throughout immensity is so detailed in His care that He notices the fall of a single sparrow and hears every prayer.

The Future Study of the Redeemed

The treasures of the entire universe will eventually be opened to those who are saved.

  • Universal Travel: The redeemed will wing their tireless flight to these "worlds afar," which once thrilled with sorrow at the sight of human misery but now ring with songs of gladness over our restoration.

  • A Lesson Book: This "little atom of a world" has served as the lesson book of the universe, demonstrating the results of sin and the depths of God's love to all created beings.

  • Vindication of the Law: The death of Christ on Calvary has forever settled the question of the validity of God's law before the unfallen worlds, ensuring that rebellion will never again arise.

It is a beautiful thought that the same power that created the "shining stars" and "unnumbered worlds" is the power that works to restore the moral image of God in the human soul. 🌌✨

Sources · 23
  1. CT 66.2Counsels to Parents, Teachers, and StudentsEllen Gould White
  2. SpTEd 49.3Special Testimonies On EducationEllen Gould White
  3. Ed 99.1EducationEllen Gould White
  4. ST July 14, 1881, par. 14The Signs of the TimesEllen Gould White
  5. Hvn 157.1HeavenEllen Gould White
  6. CG 45.4Child GuidanceEllen Gould White
  7. CE 207.1Christian EducationEllen Gould White
  8. 8MR 40.4Manuscript Releases, vol. 8 [Nos. 526-663]Ellen Gould White
  9. MR926 68.3Manuscript Release No. 926Ellen Gould White
  10. ST June 20, 1895, par. 8The Signs of the TimesEllen Gould White
  11. RH March 12, 1901, par. 8The Review and HeraldEllen Gould White
  12. ST June 9, 1898, par. 12The Signs of the TimesEllen Gould White
  13. HLv 506.1From Heaven With LoveEllen Gould White
  14. Ed 126.2EducationEllen Gould White
  15. TA 298.3The Truth About AngelsEllen Gould White
  16. ST April 18, 1906, par. 2The Signs of the TimesEllen Gould White
  17. CE 54.4Christian EducationEllen Gould White
  18. GC88 677.3The Great Controversy (1888 ed.)Ellen Gould White
  19. LDE 31.1Last Day EventsEllen Gould White
  20. RH September 29, 1891, par. 1The Review and HeraldEllen Gould White
  21. FW 118.2Faith and WorksEllen Gould White
  22. 7LtMs, Ms 41, 1892, par. 32Letters and Manuscripts — Volume 7 (1891-1892)Ellen Gould White
  23. RH January 4, 1898, par. 5The Review and HeraldEllen Gould White

Does Ellen White also call our planet a mere speck in God's vast creation?

AdventAI

Yes, it is true that our planet is described as a tiny speck of a world in comparison to the vastness of the unfallen universe.

A Small Speck in a Vast Universe

While humans often view their interests as magnified, the realities of eternity show that this earth is but a small atom or a speck compared to the unnumbered worlds God has created.

  • The Inhabitants of the Speck: Christ endured the cross and the shame of a lingering death not only for the inhabitants of this speck of a world but for the benefit of the whole universe.

  • A Lesson to the Universe: Although this world is a mere speck, it was the stage where the plan of salvation was wrought out for the good of all created worlds.

  • The Humiliation of Christ: To save the residents of this speck, the Majesty of Heaven descended to the lowest depths of humiliation to lift man from moral degradation.

The Value of the "One Lost Sheep"

Despite being called a "speck," an "atom," or a "little world," this planet is of infinite value to God because it is the one that went astray.

  • The One Lost World: This world is but an atom in God's vast dominions, yet this one fallen world is more precious in His sight than the ninety and nine that never sinned.

  • Bought at an Infinite Price: The salvation of even one soul from this speck is worth more to the Lord than costly mansions, silver, or gold.

  • A Center of Heavenly Interest: On this little atom of a world were enacted the grandest scenes known to humanity, as the Father sent His Son to clothe His divinity with humanity for our sakes.

Shifting Our Perspective

When we truly contemplate the glory of the infinite God and the treasures of eternal life, our view of this present world changes.

  • Worldly Interests as Atoms: Those blinded by the world see the merest atoms of temporal interest as having magnified proportions, while eternal things drop out of their reckoning.

  • Correcting Our Vision: Without the Holy Spirit, men often mistake phantoms for realities, calling a world an atom and an atom a world.

  • Bringing Eternity into View: Jesus came to bring eternity within our vision so that the present world would appear as it truly is—a mere atom.

... deemed of small account in view of the results that He was working out, in behalf, not only of the inhabitants of this speck of a world, but of the whole universe—every world that God had created. All this humility of the Majesty...

This World a Speck in Comparison to the Universe—He endured the cross, despised the shame. He made it of small account in consideration of the...

...ace by bringing eternity within the range of their vision. If eternal things once attract the mind, the present world will appear as it is, a mere atom. The infinite treasures of the eternal life will reveal, in comparison, the littleness of the tempo...

...es He became poor that we through His poverty might be made rich. The Father sent His Son here, and right here on this little atom of a world were enacted the grandest scenes that were ever known to humanity

...n, if they could catch a glimpse of the Eternal, every mouth would be stopped in its boasting. Men, living in this little atom of a world, are finite; God has unnumbered worlds that are obedient to his laws, and are conducted with reference to his g...

Sources · 19
  1. 17MR 340.2Manuscript Releases, vol. 17 [Nos. 1236-1300]Ellen Gould White
  2. EGWSRGES 24.1Ellen G. White Statements Relating to Geology and Earth SciencesEllen Gould White
  3. SpTEd 49.3Special Testimonies On EducationEllen Gould White
  4. YI October 10, 1895, par. 2The Youth’s InstructorEllen Gould White
  5. 5BC 1127.3EGW SDA Bible Commentary, vol. 5Ellen Gould White
  6. 5LtMs, Lt 11, 1887, par. 18Letters and Manuscripts — Volume 5 (1887-1888)Ellen Gould White
  7. EGWSRGES 22.11Ellen G. White Statements Relating to Geology and Earth SciencesEllen Gould White
  8. ST April 25, 1892, par. 1The Signs of the TimesEllen Gould White
  9. 16LtMs, Ms 141, 1901, par. 16Letters and Manuscripts — Volume 16 (1901)Ellen Gould White
  10. COL 190.3Christ’s Object LessonsEllen Gould White
  11. 17MR 197.4Manuscript Releases, vol. 17 [Nos. 1236-1300]Ellen Gould White
  12. 11LtMs, Lt 7, 1896, par. 6Letters and Manuscripts — Volume 11 (1896)Ellen Gould White
  13. 5LtMs, Ms 7, 1888, par. 3Letters and Manuscripts — Volume 5 (1887-1888)Ellen Gould White
  14. 7LtMs, Lt 16a, 1891, par. 10Letters and Manuscripts — Volume 7 (1891-1892)Ellen Gould White
  15. RH June 21, 1877, par. 10The Review and HeraldEllen Gould White
  16. CS 221.2Counsels on StewardshipEllen Gould White
  17. RH October 31, 1893, par. 7The Review and HeraldEllen Gould White
  18. Ev 593.2EvangelismEllen Gould White
  19. RH July 30, 1901, Art. A, par. 13The Review and HeraldEllen Gould White

Share with me, in detail, the various descriptions of God and His only begotten Son from an eternal perspective, showing their power and majesty and their roles as Creator and the Sovereign of the universe.

AdventAI

God the Father and His only begotten Son, along with the Holy Spirit, constitute the eternal Godhead, ruling the universe with infinite power, matchless love, and supreme majesty. Jesus Christ is the Creator and the Sovereign of heaven, possessing original, unborrowed life, and existing as the exact image of the invisible God from all eternity.

👑 The Supreme Majesty of the Godhead

The Godhead consists of three distinct, divine, and co-eternal persons who are perfectly united in their purpose of love and redemption.

  • The Sovereign Ruler: God is the Omnipotent One, the Ruler of the universe, whose judgments are unsearchable and whose ways are past finding out Romans 11:33.

  • A Foundation of Righteousness: Though clouds and darkness surround Him, righteousness and judgment are the very foundation of His eternal throne Psalms 97:2.

  • The Great Giver: He is the great and bountiful Giver of all good things, maintaining supreme rulership over all creation and holding the destiny of nations in His own hands.

  • Master of Nature: The material world, from the mighty winds to the tiny blades of grass, is under His direct supervision and yields implicit obedience to His will.

✨ Christ's Eternal Pre-existence and Equality

Jesus Christ is the only begotten Son of God, possessing absolute equality with the Creator of the universe John 3:16.

  • One with the Father: He was in the presence of the Father from the very beginning, serving as the acknowledged Sovereign of heaven and participating in all the divine counsels.

  • From All Eternity: Any doctrine claiming that Christ had no existence prior to His advent on earth is a dangerous error that contradicts His own plainest statements.

  • The Divine Image: He is the express image of the invisible God, completely one in power and authority with the Father.

  • Reverenced in Heaven: Before descending to our world, He was clothed with wisdom and glory, and angels delighted to execute His commands.

🌍 The Omnipotent Creator and Sustainer

The Son of God is the Creator of all worlds and the Author of all blessings.

  • Architect of Nature: He has reared every arch and pillar in the great temple of nature.

  • Sustainer of the Universe: The very hand that sustains the world in space is the same hand that was later nailed to the cross for our redemption.

  • Maker of All Things: By Him all things were created that are in heaven and on earth, visible and invisible, and in Him all things consist.

💧 The Fountain of Original, Unborrowed Life

In Christ is life that is original, unborrowed, and underived.

  • Exclusive Property of God: While physical life in humanity is something received and taken back by the Life-giver, the eternal life possessed by the Son of God is exclusively His own property.

  • The Infinite Source: He is the absolute fountain of life, whereas the life within created beings is merely a tiny streamlet flowing from that infinite source.

  • Our Assurance: This absolute divinity of Christ is the believer's steadfast assurance of eternal life.

🕊️ The King of Glory Veiled in Humanity

To bridge the gulf made by sin, the Majesty of heaven laid aside His royal robe and kingly crown to clothe His divinity with humanity.

  • Divinity Cloaked: Because sinful human beings could not have endured the sight of His heavenly glory, He veiled His divine nature with the garb of human flesh, yet He never parted with His divinity.

  • Grace and Truth: The Word was made flesh and dwelled among humanity, full of grace and truth John 1:14.

  • Flashes of Majesty: Even while walking the earth as a humble man, He preserved the dignity of a king, occasionally allowing His divinity to flash through His humanity so that His majesty could not be hidden.

  • Eternal Adoration: Today, He is enthroned amidst the adoration of the angels, and the entire universe joins in praising Him that sits on the throne and the Lamb forever and ever Revelation 5:11-14.

Sources · 27
  1. PH148 5.3The Second TitheEllen Gould White
  2. GC 495.1The Great ControversyEllen Gould White
  3. 9MR 126.1Manuscript Releases, vol. 9 [Nos. 664-770]Ellen Gould White
  4. 6T 385.2Testimonies for the Church, vol. 6Ellen Gould White
  5. 8LtMs, Ms 100, 1893, par. 15Letters and Manuscripts — Volume 8 (1893)Ellen Gould White
  6. 17MR 58.1Manuscript Releases, vol. 17 [Nos. 1236-1300]Ellen Gould White
  7. 2SP 167.2The Spirit of Prophecy, vol. 2Ellen Gould White
  8. DD 10.1Darkness Before DawnEllen Gould White
  9. GC88 524.2The Great Controversy (1888 ed.)Ellen Gould White
  10. LP 256.2Sketches from the Life of PaulEllen Gould White
  11. TA 24.2The Truth About AngelsEllen Gould White
  12. ULe 173.7Unlikely LeadersEllen Gould White
  13. Ev 616.2EvangelismEllen Gould White
  14. MM 7.3Medical MinistryEllen Gould White
  15. 5BC 1130.3EGW SDA Bible Commentary, vol. 5Ellen Gould White
  16. 1SM 296.2Selected Messages Book 1Ellen Gould White
  17. DA 530.3The Desire of AgesEllen Gould White
  18. SpTB19 23.1The Spirit of SacrificeEllen Gould White
  19. ST February 13, 1912, par. 3The Signs of the TimesEllen Gould White
  20. HLv 354.6From Heaven With LoveEllen Gould White
  21. 13LtMs, Ms 22, 1898, par. 45Letters and Manuscripts — Volume 13 (1898)Ellen Gould White
  22. 20LtMs, Ms 54, 1905, par. 12Letters and Manuscripts — Volume 20 (1905)Ellen Gould White
  23. 23LtMs, Ms 95, 1908, par. 9Letters and Manuscripts — Volume 23 (1908)Ellen Gould White
  24. ST June 30, 1881, par. 18The Signs of the TimesEllen Gould White
  25. 3SP 120.1The Spirit of Prophecy, vol. 3Ellen Gould White
  26. RH March 26, 1901, par. 12The Review and HeraldEllen Gould White
  27. AA 38.3The Acts of the ApostlesEllen Gould White

What does the last chapter of the Great Controversy by Ellen White tell us about the eternal realms and what the redeemed will do there?

AdventAI

In the eternal realms, the redeemed will experience a life of boundless joy, continuous spiritual and intellectual growth, and perfect communion with God and holy beings. They will actively build homes, plant vineyards, travel to unfallen worlds, and engage in the highest enterprises of learning and worship throughout the ceaseless ages of eternity.

🌿 The Glory of the Restored Earth

The earth, originally given to humanity, is completely restored and purified from every trace of the curse to become the eternal home of the saved.

  • The Holy City: The New Jerusalem serves as the magnificent metropolis of this glorified new earth, illuminated entirely by the glory of God and the Lamb, meaning there will be no night and no need for the sun.

  • Perfect Peace: It is a peaceful habitation where the redeemed will wander beside ever-flowing streams clear as crystal and rest beneath waving trees.

  • No More Sorrow: Pain, sickness, tears, badges of mourning, and death will never exist in this heavenly atmosphere Revelation 21:4.

🏛️ Joyful Pursuits and Grand Enterprises

Life in the eternal world will be beautifully productive and fulfilling, free from all weariness.

  • Building and Planting: The saved will build houses and inhabit them, plant vineyards and eat their fruit, and long enjoy the work of their hands.

  • Limitless Growth: Every mental and physical faculty will be fully developed, and every capacity for understanding will be continuously increased. The acquirement of new knowledge will never weary the mind or exhaust the energies.

  • Highest Ambitions: The grandest enterprises will be carried forward, the loftiest aspirations reached, and the highest ambitions realized, with fresh wonders always arising to call forth the powers of mind and soul.

🌌 Universal Travel and Cosmic Study

The treasures of the entire universe will be fully open to the study of God's redeemed.

  • Exploring Worlds Afar: Unfettered by mortality, the saved will wing their tireless flight to distant worlds—worlds that once watched human woe with sorrow but now ring with gladness over ransomed souls.

  • Shared Wisdom: They will share in the treasures of knowledge and understanding gained by unfallen beings who have spent ages upon ages contemplating God’s handiwork.

  • Eternal Delight: Immortal minds will study the glorious wonders of creative power and the deep mysteries of redeeming love with never-failing delight.

🙏 Perfect Communion and Worship

The social and spiritual life of the redeemed will be a continuous experience of love and adoration.

  • Face to Face: There is no physical temple in the Holy City, for the Lord God Almighty and the Lamb are its temple. The people of God will have the supreme privilege of holding open communion with the Father and the Son, seeing Him face to face without any dimming veil between.

  • Harmonious Society: They will enjoy a pure, harmonious social life with blessed angels and the faithful from all ages, forming one united family in heaven and earth.

  • Rapturous Praise: As Jesus opens before them the riches of redemption and His amazing achievements in the great controversy, their love, reverence, and happiness will increase. With rapturous joy, the ransomed will sweep their golden harps, joining millions of voices in a mighty chorus of praise to God and the Lamb Revelation 5:13.

The great controversy is forever ended, sin and sinners are no more, and from the minutest atom to the greatest world, the entire universe is clean and beats with one pulse of harmony, joyfully declaring that God is love. ✨

Sources · 13
  1. GC 677.1The Great ControversyEllen Gould White
  2. GC 677.2The Great ControversyEllen Gould White
  3. GC 675.2The Great ControversyEllen Gould White
  4. GC 677.3The Great ControversyEllen Gould White
  5. GC 674.1The Great ControversyEllen Gould White
  6. GC 674.3The Great ControversyEllen Gould White
  7. GC 676.2The Great ControversyEllen Gould White
  8. GC 676.3The Great ControversyEllen Gould White
  9. GC 675.1The Great ControversyEllen Gould White
  10. GC 676.1The Great ControversyEllen Gould White
  11. GC 678.1The Great ControversyEllen Gould White
  12. GC 676.4The Great ControversyEllen Gould White
  13. GC 678.3The Great ControversyEllen Gould White