Both prophets see visions of a new heaven and a new earth. Isaiah condemns his listeners because they did not respond to God’s call, so they will experience judgment, not the promised blessing. Instead, the blessing will go to another chosen people that God himself will bring forth for his servant’s sake (8-9). John writes to encourage a church struggling to stay alive in the midst of oppression, persecution and impurity. He shows them the heritage of the conquerors: holiness, glory, eternal life and the presence of God among them. He does not write to a people who already possess that inheritance. Until Christ returns, death will come to all. But afterwards — that is another story.
LORD, keep our eyes on the prize of eternal life with you.
