The Kingdom of God; Righteousness and Peace and Joy in the Holy Spirit
Romans 14 is about living to the Lord, not about our outward behavior. As a kind of conclusion, verse 17 tells us, “the kingdom of God is not eating and drinking, but righteousness and peace and joy in the Holy Spirit.”
Righteousness, peace, and joy are all characteristics of New Jerusalem. Peter declares that the old creation will be melted away and dissolved (2 Peter 3:12) and assures us “according to His promise we are expecting new heavens and a new earth, in which righteousness dwells” (v. 13).
The name Jerusalem means foundation of peace. The reign of God and the Lamb from New Jerusalem will bring forth righteousness in the whole earth and this righteousness brings forth peace. More posts on New Jerusalem, the foundation of peace.
Because of absolute peace, the new creation will be full of joy. Revelation 19:1-7 introduces New Jerusalem, “the wife of the Lamb”. These verses include much praise for God’s reign which imparts righteousness and hence peace with joy to the whole earth.
“Righteousness and peace and joy in the Holy Spirit” should describe our Christian life inwardly now (regardless of outward circumstances) and certainly expresses life in New Jerusalem.
Posted by Don on October 3, 2025
https://newjerusalem12.wordpress.com/2025/10/03/the-kingdom-of-god-righteousness-and-peace-and-joy-in-the-holy-spirit/
