Eternal Crossroads: Choosing Between Jerusalem’s Peace and Babylon’s Chaos

Have you ever felt torn between two worlds, one offering peace and serenity, the other chaos and confusion? Imagine two cities: Jerusalem, a beacon of light, harmony, and divine presence, and Babylon, a symbol of disorder, darkness, and worldly temptation.

How do we navigate these spiritual landscapes in our daily lives?

Which city do you find yourself drawn to?

Are you seeking the eternal peace that Jerusalem represents or getting swept away by the seductive turmoil of Babylon?

Join us as we explore the profound implications of these choices, guiding you to align with the celestial city that promises not just peace but an eternal home.

How Does the Concept of Choosing Between Peace and Chaos in Jerusalem Tie into the Kingdom of Heaven’s Parable of the Grain of Wheat?

The concept of choosing between peace and chaos in Jerusalem is intertwined with the kingdom of heaven illustration of the grain of wheat. Just as the grain of wheat must die in order to produce new life, so too must individuals in Jerusalem make a choice between chaos and peace to experience the kingdom of heaven.

Sermon Bulletpoints

1. The Existence of Two Kingdoms: God’s Kingdom and the World

• The Bible differentiates between the Kingdom of God and the kingdom of the world (Babylon).
• This distinction is foundational in understanding spiritual allegiances.
• Reference: Matthew 6:24 – “No one can serve two masters.”

2. Jerusalem Represents God’s Kingdom

• Jerusalem symbolizes peace, reconciliation, and the presence of God.
• It is the “city of peace” where opposing entities are reconciled.
• Reference: Psalm 122:6 – “Pray for the peace of Jerusalem.”

3. Babylon Represents Worldly Systems

• Babylon is synonymous with confusion, rebellion against God, and worldly corruption.
• It contrasts with the order and peace found in Jerusalem.
• Reference: Revelation 18:2 – “Babylon the great is fallen, is fallen.”

4. The Choice Between Two Capitals

• Believers are faced with a choice between aligning with Jerusalem (God’s ways) or Babylon (worldly ways).
• This choice impacts one’s spiritual journey and destiny.
• Reference: Joshua 24:15 – “Choose this day whom you will serve.”

5. Jerusalem’s Significance in Scripture

• Jerusalem holds a central place in the Bible, representing God’s plan for humanity.
• Its importance spans from Genesis to Revelation, symbolizing the eternal city of God.
• Reference: Galatians 4:26 – “But the Jerusalem above is free, which is the mother of us all.”

6. Babylon’s Role as an Antagonist

• Babylon is often depicted as the antagonist in biblical narratives, opposing God’s people and purposes.
• Its spirit persists today in systems that defy God’s authority.
• Reference: 1 Peter 5:13 – “She who is in Babylon, chosen together with you, sends you her greetings.”

7. The Call to Remember Jerusalem

• Believers are encouraged to keep Jerusalem (God’s kingdom) central in their thoughts and actions.
• Forgetting Jerusalem signifies a drift away from God’s purposes.
• Reference: Psalm 137:5 – “If I forget you, Jerusalem, may my right hand forget its skill.”

8. Babylon’s Temporary Nature

• Babylon, symbolizing earthly powers and systems, is temporary and will ultimately fall.
• Jerusalem represents the eternal, unshakeable kingdom of God.
• Reference: Revelation 14:8 – “Fallen, fallen is Babylon the Great.”

9. Jerusalem as Our Spiritual Ancestry

• For believers, Jerusalem is our spiritual homeland, regardless of our physical location.
• Our spiritual birthright is tied to this heavenly city.
• Reference: Psalm 87:5-6 – “The Lord will write in the register of the peoples: ‘This one was born in Zion.'”

10. The Contrast in Citizenship

• Our citizenship in Jerusalem (heaven) distinguishes us from the world (Babylon).
• This identity shapes our values, decisions, and lifestyle.
• Reference: Philippians 3:20 – “But our citizenship is in heaven.”

11. The Transformational Power of Jerusalem

• Aligning with Jerusalem transforms our character, aligning us with God’s will and purposes.
• This transformation is contrasted with the corrupting influence of Babylon.
• Reference: Romans 12:2 – “Do not conform to the pattern of this world.”

12. The Imperative to Exit Babylon

• Believers are called to exit Babylon, rejecting its values and practices.
• This separation is crucial for spiritual purity and witness.
• Reference: Revelation 18:4 – “Come out of her, my people.”

13. Jerusalem’s Role in End Times

• Jerusalem plays a key role in eschatology, being central in God’s redemptive plan.
• Its significance extends beyond the present into future prophetic events.
• Reference: Zechariah 14:4 – “On that day his feet will stand on the Mount of Olives.”

14. Babylon’s End-Time Judgment

• Babylon will face God’s judgment for its rebellion and corruption.
• This judgment underscores the need to disassociate from its influence.
• Reference: Revelation 18:10 – “Woe, woe to you, great city, you mighty city of Babylon!”

15. Jerusalem as a Symbol of Unity

• Jerusalem represents unity among God’s people, a place where they come together in worship and purpose.
• This unity is opposed to the division and confusion found in Babylon.
• Reference: Ephesians 4:3 – “Make every effort to keep the unity of the Spirit.”

16. The Call to Build Jerusalem

• Believers are co-workers with God in building the spiritual Jerusalem, contributing to its growth and influence.
• This building contrasts with the destructive and self-serving endeavors of Babylon.
• Reference: Psalm 102:16 – “For the Lord will build up Zion.”

17. Babylon’s Deceptive Allure

• Babylon often appears attractive, offering temporary pleasures and gains.
• Believers must discern and resist its allure to remain faithful to Jerusalem.
• Reference: 1 John 2:16 – “For everything in the world…comes not from the Father but from the world.”

18. Jerusalem’s Eternal Reward

• Aligning with Jerusalem carries eternal rewards, offering a lasting inheritance.
• This eternal perspective helps believers prioritize spiritual over temporal gains.
• Reference: Matthew 5:12 – “Rejoice and be glad, because great is your reward in heaven.”

19. The Urgency of Choosing Jerusalem

• The choice between Jerusalem and Babylon is urgent and consequential, affecting one’s eternal destiny.
• Delay or indecision can lead to unintended alignment with Babylon.
• Reference: 2 Corinthians 6:2 – “Now is the time of God’s favor, now is the day of salvation.”

20. The Triumph of Jerusalem

• Ultimately, Jerusalem will triumph over Babylon, symbolizing the victory of God’s kingdom over worldly systems.
• Believers share in this triumph by aligning with Jerusalem.
• Reference: Revelation 21:2 – “I saw the Holy City, the new Jerusalem, coming down out of heaven from God.”