Topical Encyclopedia The concept of a city with foundations as the reward for the saints is deeply rooted in biblical theology, symbolizing the eternal and unshakeable dwelling place prepared by God for His faithful. This imagery is primarily drawn from the New Testament, where it is used to convey the hope and assurance of a future inheritance for believers.Biblical References: 1. Hebrews 11:10 : "For he was looking forward to the city with foundations, whose architect and builder is God." This verse refers to Abraham, who lived as a sojourner in the land of promise, yet his faith was anchored in the expectation of a permanent, divine city. The "city with foundations" signifies stability and permanence, contrasting with the transient nature of earthly dwellings. 2. Revelation 21:2 : "I saw the holy city, the new Jerusalem, coming down out of heaven from God, prepared as a bride adorned for her husband." The new Jerusalem is depicted as the ultimate fulfillment of God's promise, a city not built by human hands but by God Himself. It represents the culmination of God's redemptive plan and the eternal home for His people. 3. Revelation 21:14 : "The wall of the city had twelve foundations bearing the names of the twelve apostles of the Lamb." The foundations of the new Jerusalem are inscribed with the names of the apostles, symbolizing the continuity and fulfillment of God's covenant through the ministry of Jesus Christ and His followers. Theological Significance: The city with foundations is a metaphor for the eternal kingdom of God, where the saints will dwell in His presence forever. It is a place of security, peace, and divine fellowship, free from the corruption and instability of the present world. The imagery of foundations underscores the reliability and permanence of God's promises, offering believers a vision of hope and encouragement amidst trials and tribulations. Historical Context: In the ancient world, cities with strong foundations were seen as secure and enduring. The biblical authors used this imagery to communicate the certainty and unassailable nature of God's kingdom. For early Christians, who often faced persecution and uncertainty, the promise of a heavenly city provided comfort and motivation to persevere in faith. Practical Implications: For contemporary believers, the promise of a city with foundations serves as a reminder of the transient nature of earthly life and the eternal perspective that should guide their actions and priorities. It encourages a life of faith, looking beyond present circumstances to the future glory that awaits in God's eternal kingdom. Conclusion: The reward of the saints, depicted as a city with foundations, encapsulates the hope of eternal life and the fulfillment of God's promises. It is a powerful symbol of the ultimate destination for those who remain faithful, offering assurance and motivation to live in accordance with God's will. Torrey's Topical Textbook Hebrews 11:10For he looked for a city which has foundations, whose builder and maker is God. Torrey's Topical Textbook Library That the Saints Lose Nothing in Losing Temporal Goods. All Saints' Day The Foundation of the Monastery of St. Joseph. Persecution and ... That the Foundation and Strength of Hope and Faith is Fear. City of God The Kingdom Given to the Saints at the Resurrection of the Just. The City of God. Index of Subjects. Book ix. On Jerusalem and Her Enemies Perseverance of Saints. The Church Triumphant Resources What did Jesus mean when He said the first will be last and the last will be first? | GotQuestions.orgIs there anything I can do to guarantee myself a long life? | GotQuestions.org What is the purpose of there being rewards in heaven? | GotQuestions.org Reward: Dictionary and Thesaurus | Clyx.com Bible Concordance • Bible Dictionary • Bible Encyclopedia • Topical Bible • Bible Thesuarus Subtopics Reward: A Motive to Faithfulness The Reward of Saints is from God The Reward of Saints is Inestimable The Reward of Saints is of God's Good Pleasure The Reward of Saints is of Grace, Through Faith Alone The Reward of Saints is Satisfying The Reward of Saints: A City Which had Foundation The Reward of Saints: A Crown of Glory The Reward of Saints: A Crown of Life The Reward of Saints: A Crown of Righteousness The Reward of Saints: A House Eternal in the Heavens The Reward of Saints: A Kingdom The Reward of Saints: A Kingdom Immovable The Reward of Saints: An Enduring Substance The Reward of Saints: An Eternal Weight of Glory The Reward of Saints: An Incorruptible Crown The Reward of Saints: As Servants of Christ The Reward of Saints: Be Careful not to Lose The Reward of Saints: Beholding the Face of God The Reward of Saints: Beholding the Glory of Christ The Reward of Saints: Being Glorified With Christ The Reward of Saints: Being With Christ The Reward of Saints: Entering Into the Joy of the Lord The Reward of Saints: Everlasting Life The Reward of Saints: Everlasting Light The Reward of Saints: Fulness of Joy The Reward of Saints: Hope of, a Cause of Rejoicing The Reward of Saints: Inheritance Eternal The Reward of Saints: Inheritance Incorruptible The Reward of Saints: Inheritance of all Things The Reward of Saints: Inheritance With Saints in Light The Reward of Saints: Joint Heirship With Christ The Reward of Saints: Not on Account of Their Merits The Reward of Saints: Prepared by Christ The Reward of Saints: Prepared by God The Reward of Saints: Present Afflictions not to be Compared With The Reward of Saints: Reigning for Ever and Ever The Reward of Saints: Reigning With Christ The Reward of Saints: Saints May Feel Confident of The Reward of Saints: Shall be Given at the Second Coming of Christ The Reward of Saints: Shining As the Stars The Reward of Saints: Sitting in Judgment With Christ The Reward of Saints: The Prize of the High Calling of God in Christ The Reward of Saints: The Prospect of, should Lead to Diligence The Reward of Saints: The Prospect of, should Lead to Enduring Suffering for Christ The Reward of Saints: The Prospect of, should Lead to Faithfulness to Death The Reward of Saints: The Prospect of, should Lead to Pressing Forward The Reward of Saints: Treasure in Heaven Related Terms The-not-beloved (1 Occurrence) Kir'iath-je'arim (18 Occurrences) Kirjathjearim (17 Occurrences) Vine-dressers (18 Occurrences) Kirjath-jearim (17 Occurrences) Kibroth-hattaavah (5 Occurrences) |