Sermon Outline:

Big Idea: At the end of history we will behold the consummation of all of God's promises.

1. The preperation is complete. (1-2)
2. God's presence is returned to His people. (3-5)
3. The promise of the gospel is fulfilled. (6-8) 

Study Questions:

1. How does the imagery of the "new heaven and new earth" in Revelation 21:1 compare to and contrast with the current world we live in? What implications does this have for our understanding of God's plan for creation and redemption?
2. In Revelation 21:3, God declares, "Behold, the dwelling place of God is with man. He will dwell with them, and they will be his people, and God himself will be with them as their God." What does this promise reveal about the nature of God's relationship with humanity? How does it inspire hope and comfort for believers?
3. Revelation 21:4 speaks of a time when "He will wipe away every tear from their eyes, and death shall be no more, neither shall there be mourning, nor crying, nor pain anymore, for the former things have passed away." How does this vision of the future offer solace and encouragement to those who are suffering or grieving in the present?
4. The passage describes a complete transformation of the current order, with the absence of death, mourning, crying, and pain. How does this vision challenge our present understanding of suffering and hardship? How should it shape our perspective on the trials we face in this life?
5. In Revelation 21:7-8, Jesus declares the blessings for those who conquer and inherit the new creation, contrasting it with the fate of the cowardly, faithless, detestable, murderers, sexually immoral, sorcerers, idolaters, and all liars, who will be consigned to the lake that burns with fire and sulfur. How does this passage underscore the importance of faithfulness and obedience in the Christian life? What does it teach us about the consequences of rejecting God's grace and salvation?