There are many scriptures which state the earth will be destroyed by fire. However these scriptures are symbolic. The fire and the earth are not literal.
Consider Zephaniah 3:8-12 (CSB), “Therefore, wait for me —this is the LORD’s declaration —until the day I rise up for plunder. For my decision is to gather nations, to assemble kingdoms, in order to pour out my indignation on them, all my burning anger; for the whole earth will be consumed by the fire of my jealousy. For I will then (afterward) restore pure speech to the peoples so that all of them may call on the name of the LORD and serve him with a single purpose. From beyond the rivers of Cush my supplicants, my dispersed people, will bring an offering to me…I will leave a meek and humble people among you, and they will take refuge in the name of the LORD.”
This passage teaches that God wants mankind’s love and worship. The fire symbolizes God’s jealous zeal to completely destroy all sinful governments, organizations, businesses, social order, inequalities which have imprisoned mankind. After Satan’s evil, earthly structures are destroyed in Armageddon, then God will give mankind a pure language. Those living beyond Ethiopia (Cush) will offer themselves in God’s service. Finally, all mankind will love and worship God. (See also Zechariah 14:1-21.) This is talking about life on earth.
Remember the Lord’s prayer: “…thy kingdom come, thy will be done on earth as it is in heaven…” When Christ reigns, He will bring peace, justice, health, crops, forgiveness of sins, and love to earth. Mankind on earth will rejoice. Isaiah 14:5-7, “The LORD has broken the staff of the wicked, the scepter of the rulers…The whole earth is at rest and quiet; They break forth into singing.”
However, the saints of God (those who now accept Jesus as Savior and give their lives to God to do His will) will receive a heavenly reward. They will be resurrected with a spirit body and live in heavenly realms forever. (See 1 Corinthians 15:38-44.)
