10.6 The continuation of the plan of salvation

10.6 The continuation of the plan of salvation nor light of the sun, for the Lord God gives them light. And they shall reign forever and ever” (Revelation 22: 3–5). The expectation recorded in 2 Peter 3: 13 will then become reality: “Never- theless we, according to His promise, look for new heavens and a new earth in which righteousness dwells” (Isaiah 65: 17). God will replace the old cre- ation with a new one, and the words will be fulfilled: “He [God] will dwell with them, and they shall be His people. God Himself will be with them and be their God” (Revelation 21: 3). This kingdom of God will be eternal, and then God will be all in all (1 Corinthians 15: 28). SUMMARY The rapture of the bridal congregation is followed by the marriage of the Lamb. This image for the eschatological marriage feast is a reference to the everlasting fellowship of the firstlings with the Lord. (10.2) Jesus Christ as the Lamb signifies that the abased and crucified Son of God is, at the same time, the Triumphant and Victorious One. He is the bridegroom. (10.2) After the return of Christ, a time in which both human beings and the cre- ation will be exposed to the power of Satan will begin: the great tribulation. The image of the woman clothed with the sun—after she has given birth to the male child—refers to those Christians who were not caught up to Jesus Christ. They continue to experience divine support and spiritual nourish- ment. (10.3) After the marriage in heaven the Son of God will return to the earth with the firstlings and put an end to the time of the great tribulation. Satan’s followers will then be judged. (10.4) After Satan’s power has been taken away, the resurrection of the martyrs from the great tribulation will take place. (10.4) All those who were caught up in the rapture at the return of Christ, as well as the martyrs from the great tribulation, will share in the first resurrection. They will not have to partake in the Last Judgement. (10.5) 371 10 The doctrine of future things After the conclusion of the first resurrection, Christ will establish His king- dom of peace on earth. At the end of the kingdom of peace all human beings of all time periods will have received the gospel of Christ. After Satan has been given one last opportunity to tempt mankind, he will be permanently defeated and judged. Evil in all forms will from then on be rendered powerless forever. (10.6) This is followed by the resurrection of the dead for judgement. Those who find grace in the Last Judgement will become inhabitants of God’s new cre- ation and have eternal fellowship with Him. (10.6) 372 Part 11 From the history of Christianity 11