Which of the following is not one of the new things found in the eternal state?
new paradise
new heaven
new earth
new nations
The correct answer and explanation is:
The correct answer is new nations.
In the biblical concept of the eternal state, particularly as described in the book of Revelation, the new paradise, new heaven, and new earth are mentioned as parts of the transformed creation. The idea of a “new paradise” refers to the restoration of a perfect and harmonious environment, often equated with the Garden of Eden before the fall of humanity. The “new heaven” and “new earth” represent a renewed, purified cosmos, free from the corruption of sin, where God dwells with His people forever.
The term “new nations,” however, does not explicitly appear in the description of the eternal state in the scriptures. Revelation 21 and 22 describe the eternal city, the New Jerusalem, coming down from heaven to the new earth. This city is portrayed as a place where God’s people will live in perfect communion with Him. While the nations of the world are mentioned in other parts of the Bible, particularly in relation to the millennial kingdom or during the reign of Christ, the focus in the eternal state is on the direct and immediate relationship between God and His people, rather than distinct earthly nations.
The emphasis is on unity under God’s rule, and the idea of multiple “nations” may not fit the image of the eternal state as depicted in Revelation. Instead, the vision focuses on the holistic transformation of all things into a perfect, sinless existence with God at the center. Therefore, “new nations” is not a part of the specific promises for the eternal state as outlined in biblical eschatology.