This research paper by Joshua Duemler, submitted to Dr. Guy Prentiss Waters for ST5300 – Covenant Theology at Reformed Theological Seminary – Jackson, examines Revelation 21–22 as the climactic fulfillment of the temple motif that runs through Scripture. Duemler argues that the New Jerusalem represents not a return to Eden but the consummation of God’s redemptive plan, where creation itself becomes His eternal dwelling place.
Through canonical and typological analysis, Duemler traces the development of the temple theme from Eden, through the tabernacle and Solomonic temple, to Christ as the true temple. Drawing from biblical theology and covenantal categories, he demonstrates that each prior temple structure anticipates the eschatological reality of God’s presence fully restored in the New Jerusalem. The paper highlights that John’s apocalyptic vision is not merely symbolic but reveals the completion of the covenant promise, “I will be their God, and they shall be my people.”
Duemler concludes that Revelation 21–22 portrays the perfect union of heaven and earth, where God’s glory fills all creation and His people serve as priestly participants in His eternal reign. The New Jerusalem, therefore, is not simply a holy place—it is the holy presence of God encompassing all things, fulfilling the purpose of the temple across redemptive history.
Course and semester: ST5300 Covenant Theology — Fall 2021
