Will Heaven and Earth Pass Away — Meaning Explained
The Bible teaches that the present heavens and earth will be destroyed and replaced by a new heavens and new earth where righteousness dwells.
The Bible teaches that the present heavens and earth will be destroyed and replaced by a new heavens and new earth where righteousness dwells.
"But the day of the Lord will come as a thief in the night; in the which the heavens shall pass away with a great noise, and the elements shall melt with fervent heat, the earth also and the works that are therein shall be burned up." — 2 Peter 3:10 (KJV)
What "Will Heaven and Earth Pass Away?" Actually Means
Peter describes a future day when 'the heavens shall pass away with a great noise, and the elements shall melt with fervent heat, the earth also and the works that are therein shall be burned up' (2 Peter 3:10). Isaiah prophesied new heavens and a new earth (Isaiah 65:17, 66:22). Revelation 21:1 confirms: 'I saw a new heaven and a new earth: for the first heaven and the first earth were passed away.' Jesus Himself said: 'Heaven and earth shall pass away, but my words shall not pass away' (Matthew 24:35). Theologians debate whether this involves complete annihilation and re-creation or a transformative renewal (similar to a believer's new nature). Either way, the eternal state will be free from sin, decay, and death—a perfect environment for redeemed humanity to dwell with God forever.
Anchor Verses (KJV)
2 Peter 3:10
"But the day of the Lord will come as a thief in the night; in the which the heavens shall pass away with a great noise, and the elements shall melt with fervent heat, the earth also and the works that are therein shall be burned up."
Revelation 21:1
"And I saw a new heaven and a new earth: for the first heaven and the first earth were passed away; and there was no more sea."
Isaiah 65:17
"For, behold, I create new heavens and a new earth: and the former shall not be remembered, nor come into mind."
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