How can we live as if we are in the "city of the living God"? A Present, Heavenly Reality “Instead, you have come to Mount Zion, to the city of the living God, the heavenly Jerusalem. You have come to myriads of angels” (Hebrews 12:22). • “Have come” is perfect tense—an accomplished fact for every believer. • The heavenly city is literal and future (Revelation 21:2) yet spiritually accessible now (Ephesians 2:6). • We therefore live on earth while already situated in heaven’s capital. Grasping Our Citizenship • “But our citizenship is in heaven” (Philippians 3:20). • “You are no longer strangers and foreigners, but fellow citizens with the saints” (Ephesians 2:19). Practical outworking: – Hold every earthly allegiance loosely. – Filter decisions through the interests of Christ’s kingdom first. – Treat fellow believers as hometown family, regardless of culture or background. City-Saturated Mindset • “Set your minds on things above, not on earthly things” (Colossians 3:2). • “Do not be conformed to this age, but be transformed by the renewing of your mind” (Romans 12:2). Daily habits: – Begin the day in Scripture, letting heaven’s news headline your thoughts. – Replace world-driven media bingeing with worship and testimonies. – Memorize key verses about the coming city (Hebrews 11:10; 13:14). Walking the Streets of Grace Citizens of Zion display the city’s culture: 1. Holiness: “Be holy, because I am holy” (1 Peter 1:16). 2. Peace: “Make every effort to live in peace with everyone” (Hebrews 12:14). 3. Joy: “In Your presence is fullness of joy” (Psalm 16:11). 4. Gratitude: “Since we are receiving an unshakable kingdom, let us be filled with gratitude” (Hebrews 12:28). Worship as Everyday Atmosphere • Myriads of angels worship there continually; we join their chorus (Hebrews 12:22-24). • Practical steps: – Sing truth while commuting or doing chores. – Speak Psalms aloud (Psalm 34:1). – Celebrate the Lord’s Table regularly, anchoring hope in the blood that grants city access. Community of Light • “You are the light of the world. A city on a hill cannot be hidden” (Matthew 5:14). • Small groups, families, and congregations become earthly embassies of the heavenly Jerusalem. • Hallmarks: transparent relationships, mutual care, quick forgiveness, shared mission. Restorative Influence • Ambassadors bring city policies into foreign soil (2 Corinthians 5:20). Live it out by: – Defending the unborn, the poor, the stranger (Proverbs 31:8-9; James 1:27). – Honoring biblical marriage and family as kingdom norms (Genesis 2:24; Ephesians 5:31-33). – Sharing the gospel so others receive their passport to Zion (Romans 10:14-15). Enduring Hope on the Horizon • “For here we do not have an enduring city, but we are looking for the city that is to come” (Hebrews 13:14). • Hope disciplines the heart against despair: – Suffering is temporary (Romans 8:18). – Rewards are certain (Revelation 22:12). – Christ Himself is the city’s centerpiece (Revelation 21:23). Live today with feet on earth, eyes on Zion, and conduct shaped by the unshakable city of the living God. |
    |