Hi there,
Great questions. There will be a new heaven and a new earth, the bible tells us. Keep in mind that Israels promises and hope are EARTHLY. OURS are heavenly. Take a look at Gen 1:1 where the bible BEGINS by telling us that God has a twofold purpose. One for the Earth and one for the heavens. This is because a grand rebellion took place in BOTH of these realms, and satan has usurped the authority and RIGHT that God alone had over these. God has undertaken to RE establish His authority and rule in both of these realms and His plans include ISRAEL as the vehicle He will use for the earth, and the Body of Christ for His restoration in the heavenlies. For a real good explanation of how this works and what the overall plan is, I would highly suggest the book "Satan and his plan of Evil" by Keith Blades. It can be ordered by going to www.enjoythebible.com or org...I dont remember which.
Your bible is the STORY of how God plans to Re establish His authority and rule in both realms.
Your second question is also an excellent one. Yes, Jesus the RISEN Lord is OUR hope, but Jesus the MESSIAH was Israels. Jesus Christ had a twofold ministry as well. His earthly ministry was to the nation Israel alone as we see in Mt. 15:24, and Romans 15;8. However, His ministry as the RISEN Lord was given to us thru the chosen apostle TO us, Paul. The words of the Risen Lord TO and ABOUT us were given specifically and uniquely to Paul alone. He isnt OUR Messiah, but our HEAD...and we members of His body (which was part of the MYSTERY truth that God kept HID until due time)
You are asking great questions...I hope I have helped a little.
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