The New Heaven and the New Earth | The Kingdom of Kings, Lords, and Priests in the Millennial Reign

The prophetic vision of the new heavens and the new earth is deeply woven into the fabric of Biblical eschatology. This vision encapsulates the fullness of the Kingdom of Elohim (God), where the righteous reign as kings, dukes, and lords alongside Moshiach (Messiah). The concept is profoundly linked with the millennial reign, the restoration of Yisrael (Israel) and the twelve tribes, and the establishment of the New Yerushalayim (Jerusalem). In this article, we will explore these interwoven themes using Hebrew verbiage and symbols, drawing heavily on the World Messianic Bible (WMB) and relevant theological literature.

The Millennial Reign: A Kingdom of Kings and Priests

The millennial reign is a time prophesied in Sefer Hitgalut (the Book of Revelation), where Moshiach will rule over the earth for a thousand years. During this period, those who have been faithful will reign with Him as kings and priests. As it is written in Revelation 20:6 (WMB), “Blessed and holy is he who has part in the first resurrection. Over these, the second death has no power, but they will be priests of Elohim and of Messiah, and will reign with him one thousand years.”

This reign signifies a profound transformation in the structure of earthly governance. The kingship of the saints is not merely symbolic but reflects a real and tangible authority that will be exercised on the new earth. Each of these kings and priests will be responsible for governance in their respective domains, under the supreme authority of Moshiach.

In the millennial kingdom, the concept of divine hierarchy becomes fully manifested. Dukes and lords under these kings will also hold positions of authority, bringing divine justice and righteousness to the nations. This structure echoes the ancient Israelite theocracy, where judges and tribal leaders administered justice according to the Torah. The millennial kingdom, however, will be a perfect realization of this divine order, unmarred by the sin that corrupted the original Israelite system.

Kingdom Marriages: A Divine Covenant

Marriage in the Kingdom is not just a social contract but a divine covenant, symbolizing the union between Moshiach and His Kallah (bride), the Kehillah (church). The marriages of kings, dukes, and lords within the millennial reign will reflect this divine pattern, establishing families that are rooted in Torah and dedicated to the service of Elohim.

These kingdom marriages will contribute to the building of the New Yerushalayim, not just as a physical city but as a community of righteousness. The families established through these marriages will be the building blocks of a society that reflects the glory of Elohim. They will play a crucial role in the restoration of the Jewish people and the twelve tribes of Yisrael, as they will raise up a generation that is faithful to the covenant and committed to the commandments of Elohim.

The New Yerushalayim: The Bride of the Lamb

The New Yerushalayim is described in Revelation 21 as descending from heaven, “prepared as a bride adorned for her husband” (Revelation 21:2 WMB). This city represents the fullness of the Kingdom of Elohim, where His presence will dwell with His people. The New Yerushalayim will be a place of unparalleled beauty and holiness, where “there will be no more death, neither sorrow, nor crying, nor pain” (Revelation 21:4 WMB).

The significance of the New Yerushalayim in creation cannot be overstated. It is the ultimate fulfillment of the promises made to Avraham, Yitzchak, and Yaakov, as well as to the prophets. The city represents the restoration of all things, where the twelve tribes of Yisrael will be fully restored and united under the kingship of Moshiach. The gates of the city, named after the twelve tribes, symbolize this restoration (Revelation 21:12 WMB).

The New Yerushalayim will also have profound implications for the divine institutions of marriage, family, and governance. As the dwelling place of Elohim with humanity, it will be the center of worship, governance, and learning in the new creation. The kings, dukes, and lords of the millennial reign will bring the wealth of the nations into this city, contributing to its glory and splendor (Revelation 21:24 WMB).

The Restoration of the Jewish People and the Twelve Tribes

The full restoration of the Jewish people and the twelve tribes of Yisrael is a central theme in the prophetic Scriptures. This restoration is not merely a return to the land of Yisrael but a spiritual renewal that will see the tribes fully reconciled and united under the kingship of Moshiach. As the prophet Yechezkel (Ezekiel) foretold, Elohim will take the stick of Yosef (representing the northern tribes) and the stick of Yehudah (representing the southern tribes) and make them one in His hand (Ezekiel 37:19 WMB).

This reunification will be fully realized in the New Yerushalayim, where the twelve tribes will once again be the people of Elohim, living in perfect harmony and obedience to the Torah. This restoration will also see the Jewish people taking their rightful place as the chosen people of Elohim, fulfilling their role as “a light to the nations” (Isaiah 49:6 WMB).

Apostles and Pastors: Complementary Roles in the Kingdom

Within the context of this divine restoration and kingdom governance, the roles of apostles and pastors take on profound significance. Apostles, in the Hebrew sense, are shlichim, meaning “sent ones.” They are the emissaries of Moshiach, sent to establish and oversee the kehillot (congregations) and to lay the foundation for the Kingdom. Their role is foundational and apostolic, meaning they are tasked with setting the order and doctrine that aligns with the teachings of Moshiach.

Pastors, on the other hand, are ro’im, or “shepherds.” Their role is to nurture and guide the flock, ensuring that the believers are growing in their faith and living in accordance with the Torah. While apostles establish and oversee, pastors maintain and nurture. The complementary nature of these roles is evident in the early kehillot, where apostles like Sha’ul (Paul) would establish congregations, and pastors like Timothy would shepherd them.

In the millennial reign, these roles will continue to be vital. Apostles will be responsible for the expansion of the Kingdom and the establishment of divine order in new territories, while pastors will ensure that the believers are growing in righteousness and holiness. Together, they will work to build up the body of Moshiach, preparing it for the final fulfillment of all things in the New Yerushalayim.

Conclusion

The vision of the new heaven and the new earth is a profound and glorious hope for the future, where the fullness of the Kingdom of Elohim will be realized. The millennial reign of Moshiach, the restoration of the Jewish people and the twelve tribes, the establishment of the New Yerushalayim, and the divine roles of apostles and pastors are all integral to this eschatological hope. As we look forward to the fulfillment of these promises, we are called to live in the light of this future reality, striving to build the Kingdom here and now in anticipation of its ultimate consummation.

References

Glatzer, N. (Ed.). (1953). The Messianic Idea in Judaism. Schocken Books.

Kaplan, A. (1982). The Handbook of Jewish Thought. Moznaim Publishing Corporation.

Stern, D. H. (1992). Jewish New Testament Commentary: A Companion Volume to the Jewish New Testament. Jewish New Testament Publications.

World Messianic Bible. (n.d.). Retrieved from https://www.bible.com/versions/206-wmb-world-messianic-bible