This refers to the world as we experience it today. The former things
must be understood against the background of wars, death, and famine (Revelation 6:1–8), the persecution of Christians (Revelation 2:12–17), and the destruction of the old city of Jerusalem (AD 70).
4 He will wipe away every tear from their eyes, and death shall be no more, neither shall there be mourning, nor crying, nor pain anymore, for the former things have passed away.”