On January 7, 2025, a wildfire broke out in the Santa Monica Mountains of Los Angeles County, California. Nearly four weeks later, the fire had burned more than 23,000 acres of the densely populated county. Twelve people were killed and nearly 7,000 structures were destroyed. Apocalyptic was the word frequently used to describe the destruction the fire left in its wake.

Apocalyptic is also used to describe images in Scripture associated with the end of this age on earth. The apostle Peter wrote that “the earth and the works that are in it will be burned up” and “the heavens will be dissolved, being on fire, and the elements will melt with fervent heat” (2 Peter 3:10, 12). Since fire often refers to judgment in Scripture, Peter may be referring to God’s judgment. Whether literal or figurative fire, the earth as we know it will be renovated and replaced by “a new heaven and a new earth” on which the New Jerusalem (the eternal state) will be established.

Give thanks to God that an Eden-like earth will be your home with Him forever.

To go to heaven, fully to enjoy God, is infinitely better than the most pleasant accommodations here.
Jonathan Edwards