These ideas should not have been new to his readers. Indeed, he criticizes them for having lost sight of the truth he is presenting. Heavenly is greater than earthly. Spiritual is more real than physical. Eternal is more important than temporal.
Reality is more valuable than symbolism.
God's new work is even more magnificent than His old one. Faith towards God is holier than cowardice towards people. Loving God and each other is higher than religious rituals, good though they are. May He give us all a clearer vision.