Verse 29. The false shall be removed as far as possible, and be replaced by genuine truth in accordance with the good from which the affection for truth was derived; and this truth so purified shall be legitimately conjoined to the affection of truth in the soul, because it has brought about the conjunction of good and truth in the soul, which is the primary of the Church and the principle by which regeneration is effected, therefore they cannot be separated in the succeeding states of the regenerate life. [Note.— Regeneration is effected by carrying out in the life the truths which the soul has accepted and believed after having arrived at years of maturity, and this forms the marriage of good and truth in the soul; and though the truths are imperfect, or were at first adopted from inferior motives, such as the fear of punishment, or the hope of advantage either in this world or the next, still they are the means by which regeneration is effected, and if sincerely believed in, they must be followed out throughout the whole regenerate life, and what is false and imperfect will be as far as possible removed from them.]

3216. So that an even better knowledge may be had of the nature of representatives in the next life, that is to say, of the things that are seen in the world of spirits, let several examples also be given. When with angels a discussion is taking place about matters of doctrine regarding charity and faith, there is sometimes seen in that lower sphere where the corresponding community of spirits is situated the visible idea of a city or of cities with palaces in them. The architecture of these is so astounding that you would say architectural art itself existed there and was the inspiration of everything there. In addition the houses there are of varying appearance. And the marvel of it is that in every single palace or house not even the smallest point or tiniest visible detail exists that does not represent some aspect of the idea and discussion among the angels. From this it becomes clear how countless the details are which they contain, and also what was meant in the Word by the cities seen by prophets - what is meant by the Holy City or New Jerusalem, and also by the cities mentioned in the prophetical part of the Word, namely matters of doctrine regarding charity and faith, 402, 2449.