The Meek Will Inherit the Earth: Clarifying Jesus Teachings on Kingdom and Paradise
The Meek Will Inherit the Earth: Clarifying Jesus' Teachings on Kingdom and Paradise
The concept that all good people go to heaven and the earth will be destroyed is a widespread belief among many Christian denominations. However, this belief does not align with the teachings found in the Bible. The Bible does not teach that the heaven-bound individuals will cause the earth to be destroyed, nor does it promote a focus on the end times as a reason for salvation. Rather, it emphasizes a future where the righteous will possess the earth and live in peace.
Understanding Psalms and Jesus' Teachings
Psalm 37:9-11 and Matthew 5:5 provide insights into the Kingdom of Heaven and the inhabitants of the earth. Psalms 37:9-11 talks about the wicked being removed and the righteous possessing the earth, enjoying peace and abundance. Jesus reiterates this teaching in Matthew 5:5, stating that the meek will inherit the earth. These teachings are not about people being taken to heaven but about a future where the earth is restored and those who possess peace and humility will thrive.
The Future on Earth
According to the Bible, the earth will remain as it is foretold in Psalms 37:29: "He commits to the earth his love forever." This means that the earth, despite its current state of destruction and chaos, will eventually be restored to a pristine condition. The righteous will possess the earth permanently, living in peace and enjoying the abundance that comes with a redeemed earth.
The Return of Christ and the Future Kingdom
When Jesus returns, the righteous will be resurrected to live on a renewed earth. This is different from the idea of an eternal heaven. The New City, the new Jerusalem, will return to the earth, and it will be a home for the righteous. As the wicked are removed, the earth will be cleansed and restored to its original purpose as a paradise for humanity. This is not just about a spiritual existence but about a physical, restored earth where humans can live freely and in peace.
The Role of Humans in the Future
The Bible teaches that the earth is God's creation and has a purpose. Genesis 2:7-14 and Genesis 1:28 highlight the original purpose of the earth as a place where humans can live and flourish. The earth is not meant to be destroyed but to be cared for and restored. Those who will inherit the earth will have a significant role in its rehabilitation, a task that will be carried out with peace and joy.
Faith and Salvation
Faith in Jesus is about more than just a personal heavenly reward; it is about living a life of peace and love, ultimately leading to a future where the earth is a perfect place. As individuals, we are called to live virtuous lives, not for the sake of gaining entry into heaven but for the restoration and enjoyment of the earth. This is the promise and the future that many have overlooked.
Conclusion
The meek, the humble, and those who live with peace will indeed inherit the earth. This inheritance is not about spiritual kingdoms but about a physical, restored earth where humanity can live in harmony with nature and each other. The teachings of Jesus and the psalms provide clear insights into this future, a future where the earth becomes a paradise, a place of peace and abundance for all who live on it.