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When the Kings Come Marching In: Isaiah and the New Jerusalem
Widely respected for his perspectives on faith in the modern world, Richard J. Mouw has long stood at the forefront of the "Christ and culture" debate. In When the Kings Come Marching In -- here revised and updated -- Mouw explores the religious transformation of culture as it is powerfully pictured in Isaiah 60.
In Isaiah 60 the prophet envisions the future transformation of the city of Jerusalem, a portrayal of the Holy City that bears important similarities to John's vision of the future in Revelation 21 and 22. Mouw examines these and other key passages of the Bible, showing how they provide a proper pattern for cultural involvement in the present.
Mouw identifies and discusses four main features of the Holy City: (1) "the wealth of the nations" is gathered into the city; (2) the "kings of the earth" march into the city; (3) people from many nations are drawn to the city; and (4) light pervades the city. In drawing out the implications of these striking features, Mouw treats a number of relevant cultural issues, including Christian attitudes toward the processes and products of commerce, technology, and art; the nature of political authority; race relations; and the scope of the redemptive ministry of Jesus Christ.
The volume culminates in an invaluable discussion of how Christians should live in the modern world. Mouw argues that believers must go beyond a narrow understanding of the individual "pilgrim's progress" to a view of the Christian pilgrimage wherein believers work together toward solving the difficult political, social, and economic problems of our day.
In Isaiah 60 the prophet envisions the future transformation of the city of Jerusalem, a portrayal of the Holy City that bears important similarities to John's vision of the future in Revelation 21 and 22. Mouw examines these and other key passages of the Bible, showing how they provide a proper pattern for cultural involvement in the present.
Mouw identifies and discusses four main features of the Holy City: (1) "the wealth of the nations" is gathered into the city; (2) the "kings of the earth" march into the city; (3) people from many nations are drawn to the city; and (4) light pervades the city. In drawing out the implications of these striking features, Mouw treats a number of relevant cultural issues, including Christian attitudes toward the processes and products of commerce, technology, and art; the nature of political authority; race relations; and the scope of the redemptive ministry of Jesus Christ.
The volume culminates in an invaluable discussion of how Christians should live in the modern world. Mouw argues that believers must go beyond a narrow understanding of the individual "pilgrim's progress" to a view of the Christian pilgrimage wherein believers work together toward solving the difficult political, social, and economic problems of our day.
143 pages, Paperback
First published November 30, 1982
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298 people want to read
About the author
Richard J. Mouw
86 books42 followersRichard John Mouw is a theologian and philosopher. He held the position of President at Fuller Theological Seminary for 20 years (1993-2013), and continues to hold the post of Professor of Faith and Public Life.
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 30 reviews
January 31, 2025
Holy cow….INHALED this book. Looking at Isaiah 60, and comparisons to Rev 21-22, Mouw talks about the New City and what it means for today. One of the best books on culture, work/faith, race, and calling I’ve read.
And less than 150 pages earns the coveted 5 star review.
And less than 150 pages earns the coveted 5 star review.
July 19, 2011
One of the most helpful books I've read defending Christ's redemptive work in culture. Addresses Isaiah 60, as well as some other texts from Isaiah and Revelations, arguing that the cultural products and wealth of nations, including the legendary 'Ships of Tarshish' will be among those things that are brought in with a renewed purpose of glorifying the Lamb in the New Jerusalem. Also addresses how politics relates to Christ's redemption of all things, when the Kings of many nations will be brought low before the Lamb, who is the Lion of Judah. Touches on the diversity of the New Jerusalem, and how Christians have often used passages wrongly to support their racism and segregation. Finally, traces the theme of Christ as the light of life, who is the revelation of the eternal Logos, who shines as the center of the New Jerusalem's glory. Spends a little time at the end of this short book talking about how Christians have sometimes thought of their journey to the Celestial City a la John Bunyan, when a faithful seeking of the City to come requires both an eager anticipation of what is to come, and an industriousness motivated by that desire to bring some of the fruits of the coming Kingdom to bear now. He also points out that John Bunyan's Pilgrim Progress tells a story of the Christian pilgrimage that leaves us thinking of our faith journey as only personal, when seeking the Celestial city requires the involvement of families and communities.
Overall, a very well-argued defense of what Mouw himself willingly labels as the "Christ transforming Culture" paradigm within Niebuhr's classic 'Christ and Culture.' Short and succinct (unlike this review), and well worth your time.
Overall, a very well-argued defense of what Mouw himself willingly labels as the "Christ transforming Culture" paradigm within Niebuhr's classic 'Christ and Culture.' Short and succinct (unlike this review), and well worth your time.
October 15, 2020
Like if NT Wright wrote short and punchy books.
This book is what I needed in the year of our Lord and Savior 2020, in the season of coronatide and electiontide. I personally feel that few Christians can articulate a cohesive and compelling vision for creation and history. This book does that. In meditating on Isaiah 60, you’re filled with wonder as to begin to re-imagine what the world will be like on that day, when “the earth and all its filling” give its due to King Jesus.
In a world in which Kings, leaders, and politicians stoke fires and disregard human life, it’s good to know that they will render account one day in that city. Not only to God, but to those whom they have oppressed. And everything—absolutely everything—will become a beautiful icon of God’s beauty and goodness. Racist posters, warships, art, literature, Hip Hop, all of the worlds filling, will tell of his beauty, for it is his.
Maranatha!
This book is what I needed in the year of our Lord and Savior 2020, in the season of coronatide and electiontide. I personally feel that few Christians can articulate a cohesive and compelling vision for creation and history. This book does that. In meditating on Isaiah 60, you’re filled with wonder as to begin to re-imagine what the world will be like on that day, when “the earth and all its filling” give its due to King Jesus.
In a world in which Kings, leaders, and politicians stoke fires and disregard human life, it’s good to know that they will render account one day in that city. Not only to God, but to those whom they have oppressed. And everything—absolutely everything—will become a beautiful icon of God’s beauty and goodness. Racist posters, warships, art, literature, Hip Hop, all of the worlds filling, will tell of his beauty, for it is his.
Maranatha!
June 15, 2010
This book is a discussion of Christ and culture rooted broadly in Isaiah 60 with an eye toward the Holy City, described in the passage. The discussion is revealing - about political structures, the gathering of world culture into the City, the multi-ethnic reality becoming characteristic, the light of the city being the Lamb - a rich picture of Christ amidst the discussion of culture. Not just a description - the center, the light that illuminates everything else.
I really like Mouw. As a theologian he is concise (I more and more value those who can say well what they want to say clearly) and careful to qualify his statements. He is also passionate, a heart-felt man who extends grace frequently to those writers he would amend or build upon in this discussion. I have great respect for the way he speaks and writes - gutted of polemics, his words breathe a desire for unity of the church for the glory of God and the good of the world.
I really like Mouw. As a theologian he is concise (I more and more value those who can say well what they want to say clearly) and careful to qualify his statements. He is also passionate, a heart-felt man who extends grace frequently to those writers he would amend or build upon in this discussion. I have great respect for the way he speaks and writes - gutted of polemics, his words breathe a desire for unity of the church for the glory of God and the good of the world.
August 21, 2011
This was a truly refreshing read.
January 26, 2013
EXCELLENT. Brilliant, but also really very readable.
February 16, 2017
Great study of the redemption of culture in Isaiah 60. Mouw connects Isaiah 60 both to God's original creation and the new creation to come in the future. This is a very helpful book.
October 15, 2020
Mouw does a great job of showing some of the common barriers to a full reading of Isaiah 60. We often take away far less from this passage than we should. Isaiah‘s vision of the Heavenly City should fill our hearts and make us long for the City which is to come, but because of our shallow reading we come away leaving much on the table.
Unfortunately, he largely fails to complete his arguments. He does not finish making the case for many of the nuances he points out and how they should shape our understanding of Isaiah 60 and the Heavenly City. It is not enough to be convinced that I have a deficient view of the Holy City. I need to be shown how I might develop a richer, fuller view. This is not always the case though—there are several points that he makes very well, such as the gathering in of the kings of the earth, and the “filling” of the Holy City with various cultures and goods that is envisioned in Isaiah 60.
One example of the stunted discussion would be when Muow criticizes the evangelical tendency towards an individualistic view of the atonement and redemption. We need to understand the corporate aspects as well, that God in Christ is making all things new. This seems right. But there is still work to be done. He does not go on to adequately explain the corporate aspects that are lacking and how they connect back to the passage, or how they complement the individual aspect of redemption. It would have been very helpful—maybe even essential—for him to do so. Most of the chapters suffer from this same incompleteness.
Unfortunately, he largely fails to complete his arguments. He does not finish making the case for many of the nuances he points out and how they should shape our understanding of Isaiah 60 and the Heavenly City. It is not enough to be convinced that I have a deficient view of the Holy City. I need to be shown how I might develop a richer, fuller view. This is not always the case though—there are several points that he makes very well, such as the gathering in of the kings of the earth, and the “filling” of the Holy City with various cultures and goods that is envisioned in Isaiah 60.
One example of the stunted discussion would be when Muow criticizes the evangelical tendency towards an individualistic view of the atonement and redemption. We need to understand the corporate aspects as well, that God in Christ is making all things new. This seems right. But there is still work to be done. He does not go on to adequately explain the corporate aspects that are lacking and how they connect back to the passage, or how they complement the individual aspect of redemption. It would have been very helpful—maybe even essential—for him to do so. Most of the chapters suffer from this same incompleteness.
June 8, 2020
What a treasure to read this great reflection on Isaiah 60. Mouw really helps us imagine the new creation or new city that God’s future will one day bring about.
It’s crucial because it counter balances the views of the end which lean toward dearie omg the world but also helps us see Gods plan of redemption straight through history and into the future. It equally inspires us to work today for areas of redemption that reflect Gods heart and future.
I hope many who have succumbed to a view that the whole word will be destroyed will read this exposition of Isaiah 60.
It’s crucial because it counter balances the views of the end which lean toward dearie omg the world but also helps us see Gods plan of redemption straight through history and into the future. It equally inspires us to work today for areas of redemption that reflect Gods heart and future.
I hope many who have succumbed to a view that the whole word will be destroyed will read this exposition of Isaiah 60.
May 30, 2024
Presents a perspective on eschatological redemption that is different from the dominant view held in America, yet Mouw gives a compelling vision of how God will redeem both his people and all of creation. Mouw uses Isaiah 60 to explore how God will redeem all things and recreate a new Heavens and Earth. He will bring perfect justice and sanctify human achievement. This meditation does not stay purely theological, Mouw also gives readers some practical application about how to engage with one another, culture, and ministry in light of the type of renewal that is coming.
September 1, 2025
A must read for those trapped in, what Vlach refers to as, the Spiritual Vision model. Mouw rightly points out how some believers ignore the cultural mandate because they have a "pie in the sky" view of heaven where nothing in this present age will carry over to the next. Mouw's exposition of Isaiah 60 dismantles that notion as he argues that the culture/politics on earth will not be done away with (annihilated, as some may argue) but will instead be renewed and purified in the New Jerusalem. Ignore Mouw's liberal tendencies; the overall content is a blessing.
October 24, 2021
A thought-provoking meditation on Isaiah 60 and its implications on our eschatology and lived theology today. Reflects on the future of the material world, present and future nations, and more. I especially appreciated his intentional mention of the wrongs of Christians and how those will be righted in the end by God. Powerful, short, and well-written book. A great primer on a full theology for all of life.
June 4, 2017
Good exegesis and biblical theology perspectives of Isaiah 60 (and insights on Isaiah 2 and Revelation 21-22). Gives a biblical view of culture which can easily fit in apologetics. Also helps for interpreting biblical prophecies and their fulfillment.
September 8, 2023
A very practical and challenging look at the restoration of the Kingdom as described in Isaiah 60. Mouw spells out what it is that we are called to look forward to, but also how we, as Christians, are called to work for the Kingdom here on earth.
November 20, 2018
Much more a reflection than a textbook, Mouw's work is an utterly brilliant yet refreshingly readable philosphical exegesis of the description of the New Jerusalem in Isaiah 60. Highly recommended.
July 3, 2020
Exceptional! Concise and thought-provoking look at how God views human culture.
December 22, 2020
Inspiring!
A fresh and insightful look at our hope as Christians. I appreciate the high Christology the forms the argument of this book.
A fresh and insightful look at our hope as Christians. I appreciate the high Christology the forms the argument of this book.
September 18, 2021
Richard Mouw gives some great insight for the Christian present in light of the escharon thought a through and imaginative (while firmly orthodox) look at Isaiah 60 and it's context cognates.
August 7, 2024
A really solid biblical study on the relationship between human culture and the New Creation. All in 130 pages! Would recommend!
May 12, 2021
Well written perspective on the balance between Christian faith and social action by a respected theologian from Fuller Seminary.
September 29, 2013
This is a 2002 revised edition that I bought out of curiosity because of its subtitle: Isaiah and the New Jerusalem. There are so many strange theories about the New Jerusalem floating around that I felt it would be a relief to read what a professor had to say, based on the vision of Isaiah that kicked off the whole dream in the first place.
It’s fascinating to me that Mouw matter-of-factly assumes his readers agree literally with what the scriptures say about an afterlife, on earth, in the New Jerusalem. This New Jerusalem is unquestionably described in both Isaiah and Revelation as a city on earth, and that’s how Mouw reads it. Yet Mouw speculates about whether household pets have souls, and what our heavenly bodies will be like. He wonders what it really means when scripture says the ships of Tarshish shall come to the city, bringing cedars from Lebanon. There must be present-day analogies to these things, since this is presumably still in our future, so he goes searching for the “proud and lofty” things of present day cultures to make sense of ancient promises. Mouw assumes his readers picture heaven as real, physical, in the future, and on earth, not up behind the clouds.
Of course Mouw is right and the Bible does describe the New Jerusalem as a city on earth. Nobody who carefully reads Isaiah chapter 60 (the book’s proof text), or the last couple of chapters of Revelation, could conclude otherwise. Isaiah dreams of a day when God will be back in control of this world, and Revelation posits that it will happen in conjunction with a bodily resurrection to live again on earth—using imagery that most lay Christians today correlate with heaven. Hence the provocative title of Mouw’s book: “When the Kings Come Marching In.” Both Isaiah and Revelation describe kings of the nations visiting the New Jerusalem.
That’s an intriguing picture, isn’t it? What are these pagan kings doing in “heaven”? Or do they come from Christian nations? Are they all saved? This puzzle highlights the complexity of trying to read the Old Testament from a Christian standpoint, since when Isaiah made that promise, there was no Christian concept of “saved” or “unsaved.” Mouw speculates that the kings come to Jerusalem for a different kind of transaction, rather than to be accepted among the saved. Perhaps they bring the “wealth of the nations” to God’s people. Or perhaps they come (presumably against their will) to be judged, because justice must be done and God’s people must be avenged publicly.
There is much more to the book, of course; I’m merely highlighting the topic of the book’s title. I find this book to be a curious blending of ancient and modern beliefs, and wonder if it doesn’t do violence to both by trying to merge both together like pieces of a puzzle.
It’s fascinating to me that Mouw matter-of-factly assumes his readers agree literally with what the scriptures say about an afterlife, on earth, in the New Jerusalem. This New Jerusalem is unquestionably described in both Isaiah and Revelation as a city on earth, and that’s how Mouw reads it. Yet Mouw speculates about whether household pets have souls, and what our heavenly bodies will be like. He wonders what it really means when scripture says the ships of Tarshish shall come to the city, bringing cedars from Lebanon. There must be present-day analogies to these things, since this is presumably still in our future, so he goes searching for the “proud and lofty” things of present day cultures to make sense of ancient promises. Mouw assumes his readers picture heaven as real, physical, in the future, and on earth, not up behind the clouds.
Of course Mouw is right and the Bible does describe the New Jerusalem as a city on earth. Nobody who carefully reads Isaiah chapter 60 (the book’s proof text), or the last couple of chapters of Revelation, could conclude otherwise. Isaiah dreams of a day when God will be back in control of this world, and Revelation posits that it will happen in conjunction with a bodily resurrection to live again on earth—using imagery that most lay Christians today correlate with heaven. Hence the provocative title of Mouw’s book: “When the Kings Come Marching In.” Both Isaiah and Revelation describe kings of the nations visiting the New Jerusalem.
That’s an intriguing picture, isn’t it? What are these pagan kings doing in “heaven”? Or do they come from Christian nations? Are they all saved? This puzzle highlights the complexity of trying to read the Old Testament from a Christian standpoint, since when Isaiah made that promise, there was no Christian concept of “saved” or “unsaved.” Mouw speculates that the kings come to Jerusalem for a different kind of transaction, rather than to be accepted among the saved. Perhaps they bring the “wealth of the nations” to God’s people. Or perhaps they come (presumably against their will) to be judged, because justice must be done and God’s people must be avenged publicly.
There is much more to the book, of course; I’m merely highlighting the topic of the book’s title. I find this book to be a curious blending of ancient and modern beliefs, and wonder if it doesn’t do violence to both by trying to merge both together like pieces of a puzzle.
February 8, 2014
Mouw offers great insight into the heavenly city that comes to earth. The implications of Isaiah 60 are cultural artifacts that once served rebellious design are now brought to the new king Jesus & displayed for his glory; the political power agents of the earth will be paraded into the city subject to the servant king-a lion-like lamb sitting on the throne; the ethnic peoples of the earth will fill the city praising the Lamb who was slain & the whole earth will now be 'harnessed & remodeled' for the sake of the glory of God. The challenge for the church is to transform culture in the ways of the lamb by going outside the camp with him & bearing the reproach he endured. A magnanimous book with a magnanimous vision! Take a couple hours & read this book!
August 4, 2019
Excellent, thought provoking book that clearly explains a fresh framework for viewing the world, through the lens of God’s ultimate plan for it.
• what is the purpose of my work?
• what is that the future of our products, cultures, politics, economics, languages, etc
• what is the broader purpose and calling of mankind?
• how does God view technology and humanism?
Questions like these are begun to be answered in this book, and the book provides a foundation and perspective toward having those debates.
• what is the purpose of my work?
• what is that the future of our products, cultures, politics, economics, languages, etc
• what is the broader purpose and calling of mankind?
• how does God view technology and humanism?
Questions like these are begun to be answered in this book, and the book provides a foundation and perspective toward having those debates.
December 7, 2012
Very solid defense of the idea that cultural artifacts survive the transition between the present world and the "new heavens and new earth." Mouw is careful and nuanced. He holds to the "transformationalist" paradigm, though with a few qualifications. I was surprised by how much Mouw argued about survive the transition. At the end of it, I wondered if there was anything that didn't survive except people.
May 14, 2012
This is in an incredible book which provides a thorough look at Is. 60 regarding what the future eternal, earthly kingdom will look like.
March 10, 2013
A reflection on the eschatological vision of Isaiah 60 and the implications for relating to human culture now and in the heavenly future. I liked it :)
July 11, 2013
This is an exciting, insightful, enjoyable book. The look forward to the new creation often led to praise as I read.
July 10, 2015
I highly recommend this book for those who want to understand just how far Christ atonement for sin reaches.
July 25, 2022
A book that really challenges our often pessimistic look at the world.
Displaying 1 - 30 of 30 reviews