heaven: the final destiny of the saved copyright norman geisler 2010

Heaven:Heaven: The Final Destiny of the SavedThe Final Destiny of the Saved

Heaven:Heaven: The Final Destiny of the SavedThe Final Destiny of the Saved

Copyright Norman Geisler 2010Copyright Norman Geisler 2010Copyright Norman Geisler 2010Copyright Norman Geisler 2010

HeavenHeavenHeavenHeavenI.I. I. The Location of HeavenI. The Location of HeavenII.II. II. The Occupants of HeavenII. The Occupants of HeavenIII.III. III. The Duration of HeavenIII. The Duration of HeavenIV.IV. IV. The Nature of HeavenIV. The Nature of Heaven

I.I. I. The Location of HeavenI. The Location of HeavenII.II. II. The Occupants of HeavenII. The Occupants of HeavenIII.III. III. The Duration of HeavenIII. The Duration of HeavenIV.IV. IV. The Nature of HeavenIV. The Nature of Heaven

II. The Location of Heaven. The Location of HeavenII. The Location of Heaven. The Location of Heaven• A.A. In the Present:In the Present:• A.A. In the Present:In the Present:

I. The Location of HeavenI. The Location of HeavenI. The Location of HeavenI. The Location of Heaven• A.A. In the Present:In the Present:

• 1. It is a real place (Jn. 14:2-4)1. It is a real place (Jn. 14:2-4)

• A.A. In the Present:In the Present:• 1. It is a real place (Jn. 14:2-4)1. It is a real place (Jn. 14:2-4)


• 1. It is a real place (Jn. 14:2-4)1. It is a real place (Jn. 14:2-4)• 2. It is a place of departed spirits 2. It is a place of departed spirits

(Heb. 12:23) (Heb. 12:23)

• A.A. In the Present:In the Present:• 1. It is a real place (Jn. 14:2-4)1. It is a real place (Jn. 14:2-4)• 2. It is a place of departed spirits 2. It is a place of departed spirits

(Heb. 12:23) (Heb. 12:23)


• 1. It is a real place (Jn. 14:2-4)1. It is a real place (Jn. 14:2-4)• 2. It is a place of departed spirits 2. It is a place of departed spirits

(Heb. 12:23) (Heb. 12:23) • 3. It is where God’s throne is (Rev. 4-5).3. It is where God’s throne is (Rev. 4-5).

• A.A. In the Present:In the Present:• 1. It is a real place (Jn. 14:2-4)1. It is a real place (Jn. 14:2-4)• 2. It is a place of departed spirits 2. It is a place of departed spirits

(Heb. 12:23) (Heb. 12:23) • 3. It is where God’s throne is (Rev. 4-5).3. It is where God’s throne is (Rev. 4-5).


• 1. It is a real place (Jn. 14:2-4).1. It is a real place (Jn. 14:2-4).• 2. It is a place of departed spirits 2. It is a place of departed spirits

(Heb. 12:23). (Heb. 12:23). • 3. It is where God’s throne is (Rev. 4-5). 3. It is where God’s throne is (Rev. 4-5). • 4. It is where Jesus went (Lk. 23:36).4. It is where Jesus went (Lk. 23:36).

• A.A. In the Present:In the Present:• 1. It is a real place (Jn. 14:2-4).1. It is a real place (Jn. 14:2-4).• 2. It is a place of departed spirits 2. It is a place of departed spirits

(Heb. 12:23). (Heb. 12:23). • 3. It is where God’s throne is (Rev. 4-5). 3. It is where God’s throne is (Rev. 4-5). • 4. It is where Jesus went (Lk. 23:36).4. It is where Jesus went (Lk. 23:36).



(Heb. 12:23). (Heb. 12:23). • 3. It is where God’s throne is (Rev. 4-5). 3. It is where God’s throne is (Rev. 4-5). • 4. It is where Jesus went (Lk. 23:36).4. It is where Jesus went (Lk. 23:36).• 5. It is where Paradise is (2Cor. 12:4). 5. It is where Paradise is (2Cor. 12:4).


(Heb. 12:23). (Heb. 12:23). • 3. It is where God’s throne is (Rev. 4-5). 3. It is where God’s throne is (Rev. 4-5). • 4. It is where Jesus went (Lk. 23:36).4. It is where Jesus went (Lk. 23:36).• 5. It is where Paradise is (2Cor. 12:4). 5. It is where Paradise is (2Cor. 12:4).



(Heb. 12:23). (Heb. 12:23). • 3. It is where God’s throne is (Rev. 4-5). 3. It is where God’s throne is (Rev. 4-5). • 4. It is where Jesus went (Lk. 23:36).4. It is where Jesus went (Lk. 23:36).• 5. It is where Paradise is (2Cor. 12:4). 5. It is where Paradise is (2Cor. 12:4). • 6. It is the “third heaven” (2Cor. 12:2).6. It is the “third heaven” (2Cor. 12:2).


(Heb. 12:23). (Heb. 12:23). • 3. It is where God’s throne is (Rev. 4-5). 3. It is where God’s throne is (Rev. 4-5). • 4. It is where Jesus went (Lk. 23:36).4. It is where Jesus went (Lk. 23:36).• 5. It is where Paradise is (2Cor. 12:4). 5. It is where Paradise is (2Cor. 12:4). • 6. It is the “third heaven” (2Cor. 12:2).6. It is the “third heaven” (2Cor. 12:2).



(Heb. 12:23). (Heb. 12:23). • 3. It is where God’s throne is (Rev. 4-5). 3. It is where God’s throne is (Rev. 4-5). • 4. It is where Jesus went (Lk. 23:36).4. It is where Jesus went (Lk. 23:36).• 5. It is where Paradise is (2Cor. 12:4). 5. It is where Paradise is (2Cor. 12:4). • 6. It is the “third heaven” (2Cor. 12:2).6. It is the “third heaven” (2Cor. 12:2).• 7. It is hidden by clouds in a remote 7. It is hidden by clouds in a remote

northern corner of the universe (Job northern corner of the universe (Job 26:7-9) 26:7-9) or in another dimension of this or in another dimension of this universe (1Kgs. universe (1Kgs. 22:19).22:19).


(Heb. 12:23). (Heb. 12:23). • 3. It is where God’s throne is (Rev. 4-5). 3. It is where God’s throne is (Rev. 4-5). • 4. It is where Jesus went (Lk. 23:36).4. It is where Jesus went (Lk. 23:36).• 5. It is where Paradise is (2Cor. 12:4). 5. It is where Paradise is (2Cor. 12:4). • 6. It is the “third heaven” (2Cor. 12:2).6. It is the “third heaven” (2Cor. 12:2).• 7. It is hidden by clouds in a remote 7. It is hidden by clouds in a remote

northern corner of the universe (Job northern corner of the universe (Job 26:7-9) 26:7-9) or in another dimension of this or in another dimension of this universe (1Kgs. universe (1Kgs. 22:19).22:19).

B.B. HeavenHeaven in the Futurein the Future B.B. HeavenHeaven in the Futurein the Future • 1. New Heaven and New Earth1. New Heaven and New Earth

• 2. Heaven will descend to earth. 2. Heaven will descend to earth. ““Now the dwelling of God is Now the dwelling of God is with men,with men, and he will live and he will live with them….” (Rev. 21-22)with them….” (Rev. 21-22)

• ““Your kingdom come. Your kingdom come. Your Your will be done on earth as it is in will be done on earth as it is in heaven.”heaven.” (Mt. 6:10) (Mt. 6:10)

• 1. New Heaven and New Earth1. New Heaven and New Earth

• 2. Heaven will descend to earth. 2. Heaven will descend to earth. ““Now the dwelling of God is Now the dwelling of God is with men,with men, and he will live and he will live with them….” (Rev. 21-22)with them….” (Rev. 21-22)

• ““Your kingdom come. Your kingdom come. Your Your will be done on earth as it is in will be done on earth as it is in heaven.”heaven.” (Mt. 6:10) (Mt. 6:10)

II. II. The Occupants of HeavenThe Occupants of HeavenII. II. The Occupants of HeavenThe Occupants of Heaven

A.A.A. The Triune GodA. The Triune God

B.B.B. Good AngelsB. Good Angels

C.C.C. Redeemed HumansC. Redeemed Humans

A.A.A. The Triune GodA. The Triune God

B.B.B. Good AngelsB. Good Angels

C.C.C. Redeemed HumansC. Redeemed Humans

A.A. TheThe Triune God is thereTriune God is thereA.A. TheThe Triune God is thereTriune God is there

• God the FatherGod the Father is on His is on His throne there (Rev. 4:1-3)throne there (Rev. 4:1-3)

• God the SonGod the Son is on His right is on His right hand (Rev. 5:5; Heb. 1:3)hand (Rev. 5:5; Heb. 1:3)

• God the HolyGod the Holy Spirit is before Spirit is before the throne (Rev. 1:4)the throne (Rev. 1:4)

B.B. Good Angels are thereGood Angels are thereB.B. Good Angels are thereGood Angels are there

• ““Then I looked and heard the Then I looked and heard the voices of many angels around the voices of many angels around the throne…. And the number of them throne…. And the number of them was ten thousand times ten was ten thousand times ten thousand, and thousands of thousand, and thousands of thousands….” (Rev. 5:11)thousands….” (Rev. 5:11)

• ““Then I looked and heard the Then I looked and heard the voices of many angels around the voices of many angels around the throne…. And the number of them throne…. And the number of them was ten thousand times ten was ten thousand times ten thousand, and thousands of thousand, and thousands of thousands….” (Rev. 5:11)thousands….” (Rev. 5:11)

C.C. Redeemed Humans are thereRedeemed Humans are thereC.C. Redeemed Humans are thereRedeemed Humans are there

• ““After this I looked and there After this I looked and there before me was before me was a great multitude a great multitude that no one could count, from that no one could count, from every nation, tribe, people and every nation, tribe, people and language, standing before the language, standing before the throne and in front of the Lamb.throne and in front of the Lamb. They were wearing white robesThey were wearing white robes and were holding palm branches and were holding palm branches in their hands.” (Rev. 7:9)in their hands.” (Rev. 7:9)

• ““After this I looked and there After this I looked and there before me was before me was a great multitude a great multitude that no one could count, from that no one could count, from every nation, tribe, people and every nation, tribe, people and language, standing before the language, standing before the throne and in front of the Lamb.throne and in front of the Lamb. They were wearing white robesThey were wearing white robes and were holding palm branches and were holding palm branches in their hands.” (Rev. 7:9)in their hands.” (Rev. 7:9)

III.III. The Duration of HeavenThe Duration of HeavenIII.III. The Duration of HeavenThe Duration of Heaven• Heaven is eternalHeaven is eternal• David speaks of “...David speaks of “...eternal eternal

pleasures at your [God’s] right pleasures at your [God’s] right hand.” (Ps. 16:11)hand.” (Ps. 16:11)

• Moses said, “...Moses said, “...from everlasting to from everlasting to everlastingeverlasting you are God.” (Ps. 90:2) you are God.” (Ps. 90:2)

• ““Thus says the high and holy One Thus says the high and holy One who inhabits who inhabits eternityeternity….” (Isa. ….” (Isa. 57:15)57:15)

• Heaven is eternalHeaven is eternal• David speaks of “...David speaks of “...eternal eternal

pleasures at your [God’s] right pleasures at your [God’s] right hand.” (Ps. 16:11)hand.” (Ps. 16:11)

• Moses said, “...Moses said, “...from everlasting to from everlasting to everlastingeverlasting you are God.” (Ps. 90:2) you are God.” (Ps. 90:2)

• ““Thus says the high and holy One Thus says the high and holy One who inhabits who inhabits eternityeternity….” (Isa. ….” (Isa. 57:15)57:15)

IV.IV. The Nature of HeavenThe Nature of HeavenIV.IV. The Nature of HeavenThe Nature of Heaven

A.A. It is a Place that is Far It is a Place that is Far Better than HereBetter than Here

A.A. It is a Place that is Far It is a Place that is Far Better than HereBetter than Here

• ““I desire to depart and be I desire to depart and be with Christ, with Christ, which is better by which is better by far.”far.” (Phil. 1:23) (Phil. 1:23)

• ““We are confident, I say, and We are confident, I say, and would prefer to be away from would prefer to be away from the body and the body and at home with at home with the Lord.”the Lord.” (2 Cor. 5:8) (2 Cor. 5:8)

• ““I desire to depart and be I desire to depart and be with Christ, with Christ, which is better by which is better by far.”far.” (Phil. 1:23) (Phil. 1:23)

• ““We are confident, I say, and We are confident, I say, and would prefer to be away from would prefer to be away from the body and the body and at home with at home with the Lord.”the Lord.” (2 Cor. 5:8) (2 Cor. 5:8)

B.B. It is a Place of No SorrowIt is a Place of No SorrowB.B. It is a Place of No SorrowIt is a Place of No Sorrow

• ““He will wipe every tear from He will wipe every tear from their eyes. their eyes. There will be no more There will be no more death or mourning or crying or death or mourning or crying or pain,pain, for the old order of things for the old order of things has passed away.” (Rev. 21:4)has passed away.” (Rev. 21:4)

• ““He will wipe every tear from He will wipe every tear from their eyes. their eyes. There will be no more There will be no more death or mourning or crying or death or mourning or crying or pain,pain, for the old order of things for the old order of things has passed away.” (Rev. 21:4)has passed away.” (Rev. 21:4)

C.C. It is a Place of No More It is a Place of No More CurseCurse

C.C. It is a Place of No More It is a Place of No More CurseCurse

• By Adam’s sin the world was By Adam’s sin the world was cursed. (Gen. 3:17-19), but in cursed. (Gen. 3:17-19), but in heaven:heaven:

• ““No longer will there be any No longer will there be any cursecurse.” (Rev. 22:3).” (Rev. 22:3)

• “…“…the the creation itself will be creation itself will be liberated from its bondage to liberated from its bondage to decaydecay….” (Rom. 8:12-21)….” (Rom. 8:12-21)

• By Adam’s sin the world was By Adam’s sin the world was cursed. (Gen. 3:17-19), but in cursed. (Gen. 3:17-19), but in heaven:heaven:

• ““No longer will there be any No longer will there be any cursecurse.” (Rev. 22:3).” (Rev. 22:3)

• “…“…the the creation itself will be creation itself will be liberated from its bondage to liberated from its bondage to decaydecay….” (Rom. 8:12-21)….” (Rom. 8:12-21)

D.D. It is a Place of No It is a Place of No DarknessDarkness

D.D. It is a Place of No It is a Place of No DarknessDarkness

• John said “The city does not John said “The city does not need the sun or the moon to need the sun or the moon to shine on it, shine on it, for the glory of for the glory of God gives it lightGod gives it light, and the , and the Lamb is its lamp…on no day Lamb is its lamp…on no day will its gates ever be shut, will its gates ever be shut, for for there will be no night there.there will be no night there.” ” (Rev. 32:23-25)(Rev. 32:23-25)

• John said “The city does not John said “The city does not need the sun or the moon to need the sun or the moon to shine on it, shine on it, for the glory of for the glory of God gives it lightGod gives it light, and the , and the Lamb is its lamp…on no day Lamb is its lamp…on no day will its gates ever be shut, will its gates ever be shut, for for there will be no night there.there will be no night there.” ” (Rev. 32:23-25)(Rev. 32:23-25)

E. It is a Place of No SicknessE. It is a Place of No SicknessE. It is a Place of No SicknessE. It is a Place of No Sickness

• ““There “stood the tree of life….There “stood the tree of life…. And the leaves of the tree are for And the leaves of the tree are for the healing of the nations.”the healing of the nations.” (Rev. (Rev. 22:2)22:2)

• ““There “stood the tree of life….There “stood the tree of life…. And the leaves of the tree are for And the leaves of the tree are for the healing of the nations.”the healing of the nations.” (Rev. (Rev. 22:2)22:2)

F.F. It is a Place with No DeathIt is a Place with No DeathF.F. It is a Place with No DeathIt is a Place with No Death

• ““There will be no more death There will be no more death there.there.” (Rev. 21:4)” (Rev. 21:4)

• “…“…When the perishable has When the perishable has been clothed with the been clothed with the imperishableimperishable, and , and the mortal the mortal with immortalitywith immortality, then the saying , then the saying that is written will come true: that is written will come true: ‘‘Death has been swallowed up in Death has been swallowed up in victory.’”victory.’” (1 Cor. 15:53-54) (1 Cor. 15:53-54)

• ““There will be no more death There will be no more death there.there.” (Rev. 21:4)” (Rev. 21:4)

• “…“…When the perishable has When the perishable has been clothed with the been clothed with the imperishableimperishable, and , and the mortal the mortal with immortalitywith immortality, then the saying , then the saying that is written will come true: that is written will come true: ‘‘Death has been swallowed up in Death has been swallowed up in victory.’”victory.’” (1 Cor. 15:53-54) (1 Cor. 15:53-54)

G.G. It is a Place of Perfect It is a Place of Perfect BodiesBodies

G.G. It is a Place of Perfect It is a Place of Perfect BodiesBodies

• ““The power that enables him to The power that enables him to bring everything under his bring everything under his control, control, [God] will transform our [God] will transform our lowly bodies so that they will be lowly bodies so that they will be like his glorious body.”like his glorious body.” (Phil. (Phil. 3:21 cf. 1 Cor. 15:50-53; Luke 3:21 cf. 1 Cor. 15:50-53; Luke 20:34-36)20:34-36)

• ““The power that enables him to The power that enables him to bring everything under his bring everything under his control, control, [God] will transform our [God] will transform our lowly bodies so that they will be lowly bodies so that they will be like his glorious body.”like his glorious body.” (Phil. (Phil. 3:21 cf. 1 Cor. 15:50-53; Luke 3:21 cf. 1 Cor. 15:50-53; Luke 20:34-36)20:34-36)

H.H. It is a Place of It is a Place of Completed SalvationCompleted Salvation


• Salvation comes in three Salvation comes in three stages:stages:

• Salvation comes in three Salvation comes in three stages:stages:



• Salvation comes in three Salvation comes in three stages: stages:





– JustificationJustification (from penalty of sin) (from penalty of sin)


– JustificationJustification (from penalty of sin) (from penalty of sin)




– JustificationJustification (from penalty of sin) (from penalty of sin)– SanctificationSanctification (from power of sin) (from power of sin)


– JustificationJustification (from penalty of sin) (from penalty of sin)– SanctificationSanctification (from power of sin) (from power of sin)




– JustificationJustification (from penalty of sin) (from penalty of sin)– SanctificationSanctification (from power of sin) (from power of sin)– Glorification Glorification (from presence of (from presence of

sin = sin = heavenheaven))


– JustificationJustification (from penalty of sin) (from penalty of sin)– SanctificationSanctification (from power of sin) (from power of sin)– Glorification Glorification (from presence of (from presence of

sin = sin = heavenheaven))



• ““Those he predestined, he also Those he predestined, he also called; those he called, he also called; those he called, he also justified; those he justified, justified; those he justified, he he also glorified.”also glorified.” (Rom. 8:30) (Rom. 8:30)

• ““When Christ, who is your life, When Christ, who is your life, appears, then appears, then you also will you also will appear with him in glory.”appear with him in glory.” (Col. (Col. 3:4 cf. 1 John 3:1-2)3:4 cf. 1 John 3:1-2)

• ““Those he predestined, he also Those he predestined, he also called; those he called, he also called; those he called, he also justified; those he justified, justified; those he justified, he he also glorified.”also glorified.” (Rom. 8:30) (Rom. 8:30)

• ““When Christ, who is your life, When Christ, who is your life, appears, then appears, then you also will you also will appear with him in glory.”appear with him in glory.” (Col. (Col. 3:4 cf. 1 John 3:1-2)3:4 cf. 1 John 3:1-2)

I.I. It is a Place of Many It is a Place of Many MansionsMansions

I.I. It is a Place of Many It is a Place of Many MansionsMansions

• Jesus said, “Do not let your hearts Jesus said, “Do not let your hearts be troubled. Trust in God; trust also be troubled. Trust in God; trust also in me. in me. In my Father’s house are In my Father’s house are many mansions [dwelling places]many mansions [dwelling places]; it ; it if were not so, I would have told you. if were not so, I would have told you. I am going there to prepare a place I am going there to prepare a place for you. And if I go and prepare a for you. And if I go and prepare a place for you, I will come back and place for you, I will come back and take you to be with me that you also take you to be with me that you also may be where I am.” (John 14:1-3)may be where I am.” (John 14:1-3)

• Jesus said, “Do not let your hearts Jesus said, “Do not let your hearts be troubled. Trust in God; trust also be troubled. Trust in God; trust also in me. in me. In my Father’s house are In my Father’s house are many mansions [dwelling places]many mansions [dwelling places]; it ; it if were not so, I would have told you. if were not so, I would have told you. I am going there to prepare a place I am going there to prepare a place for you. And if I go and prepare a for you. And if I go and prepare a place for you, I will come back and place for you, I will come back and take you to be with me that you also take you to be with me that you also may be where I am.” (John 14:1-3)may be where I am.” (John 14:1-3)

J.J. It is a Place of Perpetual It is a Place of Perpetual WorshipWorship

J.J. It is a Place of Perpetual It is a Place of Perpetual WorshipWorship

• ““Every creature in heaven and Every creature in heaven and on earth and under the earth and on earth and under the earth and on the sea, and all that is in on the sea, and all that is in them, singing: ‘To him who sits them, singing: ‘To him who sits on the throne and on the throne and to the Lamb be to the Lamb be praise and honor and glory and praise and honor and glory and power, for ever and ever!’”power, for ever and ever!’” (Rev. (Rev. 5:13 cf. Rev. 21:3, Isa. 6:3, Rev. 5:13 cf. Rev. 21:3, Isa. 6:3, Rev. 4:9, Rev. 5:14)4:9, Rev. 5:14)

• ““Every creature in heaven and Every creature in heaven and on earth and under the earth and on earth and under the earth and on the sea, and all that is in on the sea, and all that is in them, singing: ‘To him who sits them, singing: ‘To him who sits on the throne and on the throne and to the Lamb be to the Lamb be praise and honor and glory and praise and honor and glory and power, for ever and ever!’”power, for ever and ever!’” (Rev. (Rev. 5:13 cf. Rev. 21:3, Isa. 6:3, Rev. 5:13 cf. Rev. 21:3, Isa. 6:3, Rev. 4:9, Rev. 5:14)4:9, Rev. 5:14)

K.K. It is a Place of It is a Place of Everlasting ServiceEverlasting Service

K.K. It is a Place of It is a Place of Everlasting ServiceEverlasting Service

• ““The throne of God and of the Lamb The throne of God and of the Lamb will be in the city, and will be in the city, and his servants his servants will serve him.”will serve him.” (Rev. 22:3) (Rev. 22:3)

• ““The throne of God and of the Lamb The throne of God and of the Lamb will be in the city, and will be in the city, and his servants his servants will serve him.”will serve him.” (Rev. 22:3) (Rev. 22:3)

L.L. It is a Place of It is a Place of Abundant LifeAbundant Life

L.L. It is a Place of It is a Place of Abundant LifeAbundant Life

• Jesus said, Jesus said, “I am come that they “I am come that they might have life, and that they might might have life, and that they might have it more abundantly.”have it more abundantly.” (Jn. 10:10 (Jn. 10:10 KJV)KJV)

• He added, “...but He added, “...but the water I shall give the water I shall give him will become in him a fountain of him will become in him a fountain of water springing up into everlasting water springing up into everlasting life.”life.” (Jn. 4:14) (Jn. 4:14)

• Paul said “…godliness is profitable Paul said “…godliness is profitable unto all things, having promise of the unto all things, having promise of the life that now is, and of life that now is, and of that which is to that which is to come.”come.” (1 Tim. 4:8 cf. Rev. 22:1-2) (1 Tim. 4:8 cf. Rev. 22:1-2)

M.M. It is a Place of It is a Place of Overflowing JoyOverflowing Joy

M.M. It is a Place of It is a Place of Overflowing JoyOverflowing Joy

• “…“…you will fill me with joy in you will fill me with joy in your presence, with your presence, with eternal eternal pleasures at your right hand.”pleasures at your right hand.” (Ps. 16:11)(Ps. 16:11)

• We serve the “We serve the “God, who richly God, who richly provides us with everything for provides us with everything for our enjoyment.”our enjoyment.” (1 Tim. 6:17) (1 Tim. 6:17)

• “…“…you will fill me with joy in you will fill me with joy in your presence, with your presence, with eternal eternal pleasures at your right hand.”pleasures at your right hand.” (Ps. 16:11)(Ps. 16:11)

• We serve the “We serve the “God, who richly God, who richly provides us with everything for provides us with everything for our enjoyment.”our enjoyment.” (1 Tim. 6:17) (1 Tim. 6:17)

N.N. It is a Place of Grand It is a Place of Grand Reunion with Loved OnesReunion with Loved Ones

N.N. It is a Place of Grand It is a Place of Grand Reunion with Loved OnesReunion with Loved Ones

• ““Then Lord Himself will descend Then Lord Himself will descend from heaven.… And the dead in from heaven.… And the dead in Christ will rise first. Then Christ will rise first. Then we who we who are alive and remain shall be caught are alive and remain shall be caught up together with themup together with them in the clouds in the clouds to meet the Lord in the air…. to meet the Lord in the air…. Therefore Therefore comfort one another with comfort one another with these words.these words.” (1Thes. 4:16-18) ” (1Thes. 4:16-18)

In the Sweet by and ByIn the Sweet by and By

There’s a land that is fairer than day, And by faith we can see it a-far; For the Father waits over the way To prepare us a dwelling place there. In the sweet by and by, We shall meet on that beautiful shore.

•

There’s a land that is fairer than day, And by faith we can see it a-far; For the Father waits over the way To prepare us a dwelling place there. In the sweet by and by, We shall meet on that beautiful shore.

•

O.O. It is the Place of the Great It is the Place of the Great Heavenly WeddingHeavenly Wedding


• Every earthly wedding is a picture Every earthly wedding is a picture of the great heavenly wedding to of the great heavenly wedding to come.come.

• Paul said Paul said marriage “...is a great marriage “...is a great mystery, but I speak concerning mystery, but I speak concerning Christ and the church.”Christ and the church.” (Eph. (Eph. 5:32)5:32)

• Every earthly wedding is a picture Every earthly wedding is a picture of the great heavenly wedding to of the great heavenly wedding to come.come.

• Paul said Paul said marriage “...is a great marriage “...is a great mystery, but I speak concerning mystery, but I speak concerning Christ and the church.”Christ and the church.” (Eph. (Eph. 5:32)5:32)



• Jesus said, “Jesus said, “At the resurrection At the resurrection people will neither marrypeople will neither marry nor be nor be given in marriage….” (Mt.22:30) given in marriage….” (Mt.22:30)

• But John said:“I saw the Holy But John said:“I saw the Holy City, the new Jerusalem, coming City, the new Jerusalem, coming down out of heaven from God, down out of heaven from God, prepared asprepared as a bride beautifully a bride beautifully dressed for her husband….”dressed for her husband….” (Rev. 21:2-3)(Rev. 21:2-3)

• Jesus said, “Jesus said, “At the resurrection At the resurrection people will neither marrypeople will neither marry nor be nor be given in marriage….” (Mt.22:30) given in marriage….” (Mt.22:30)

• But John said:“I saw the Holy But John said:“I saw the Holy City, the new Jerusalem, coming City, the new Jerusalem, coming down out of heaven from God, down out of heaven from God, prepared asprepared as a bride beautifully a bride beautifully dressed for her husband….”dressed for her husband….” (Rev. 21:2-3)(Rev. 21:2-3)

P.P. It is a Celestial CityIt is a Celestial CityP.P. It is a Celestial CityIt is a Celestial City

• ““But But you have come to Mount you have come to Mount Zion, to the heavenly Jerusalem, Zion, to the heavenly Jerusalem, the city of the living Godthe city of the living God. You . You have come to thousands upon have come to thousands upon thousands of angels in joyful thousands of angels in joyful assembly….” (Heb. 12:21-23)assembly….” (Heb. 12:21-23)

• He “showed me the great city, the He “showed me the great city, the holy Jerusalem, descending out holy Jerusalem, descending out of heaven from God.”of heaven from God.” (Rev. 21:10) (Rev. 21:10)

• ““But But you have come to Mount you have come to Mount Zion, to the heavenly Jerusalem, Zion, to the heavenly Jerusalem, the city of the living Godthe city of the living God. You . You have come to thousands upon have come to thousands upon thousands of angels in joyful thousands of angels in joyful assembly….” (Heb. 12:21-23)assembly….” (Heb. 12:21-23)

• He “showed me the great city, the He “showed me the great city, the holy Jerusalem, descending out holy Jerusalem, descending out of heaven from God.”of heaven from God.” (Rev. 21:10) (Rev. 21:10)

Q.Q. It is a Place of Incredible It is a Place of Incredible BeautyBeauty

Q.Q. It is a Place of Incredible It is a Place of Incredible BeautyBeauty

• ““The wall was made of jasper, and The wall was made of jasper, and the city of pure gold, as pure as the city of pure gold, as pure as glass.glass. The foundations of the city The foundations of the city walls were decorated with every kind walls were decorated with every kind of precious stone…the twelve gates of precious stone…the twelve gates were twelve pearls, each gate made were twelve pearls, each gate made of a single pearl. The great street of of a single pearl. The great street of the city was of pure gold, like the city was of pure gold, like transparent glass.” (Rev. 21:18-21)transparent glass.” (Rev. 21:18-21)

• ““The wall was made of jasper, and The wall was made of jasper, and the city of pure gold, as pure as the city of pure gold, as pure as glass.glass. The foundations of the city The foundations of the city walls were decorated with every kind walls were decorated with every kind of precious stone…the twelve gates of precious stone…the twelve gates were twelve pearls, each gate made were twelve pearls, each gate made of a single pearl. The great street of of a single pearl. The great street of the city was of pure gold, like the city was of pure gold, like transparent glass.” (Rev. 21:18-21)transparent glass.” (Rev. 21:18-21)

R.R. It is a Place of Moral It is a Place of Moral PerfectionPerfection

R.R. It is a Place of Moral It is a Place of Moral PerfectionPerfection

• ““When perfection comes,When perfection comes, the the imperfect will disappear.” (1 Cor. imperfect will disappear.” (1 Cor. 13:10)13:10)

• ““But we know that when he appears, But we know that when he appears, we shall be like himwe shall be like him, for we shall see , for we shall see him as he is.” (1 Jn. 3:2 cf. Rev. him as he is.” (1 Jn. 3:2 cf. Rev. 21:27, Heb. 12:14)21:27, Heb. 12:14)

• ““When perfection comes,When perfection comes, the the imperfect will disappear.” (1 Cor. imperfect will disappear.” (1 Cor. 13:10)13:10)

• ““But we know that when he appears, But we know that when he appears, we shall be like himwe shall be like him, for we shall see , for we shall see him as he is.” (1 Jn. 3:2 cf. Rev. him as he is.” (1 Jn. 3:2 cf. Rev. 21:27, Heb. 12:14)21:27, Heb. 12:14)

S.S. It is a Place of Eternal It is a Place of Eternal RestRest

S.S. It is a Place of Eternal It is a Place of Eternal RestRest

• ““Blessed are the dead who die in Blessed are the dead who die in the Lord from now on.” “Yes,” the Lord from now on.” “Yes,” says the Spirit, says the Spirit, ‘they will rest ‘they will rest from their laborfrom their labor, for their deeds , for their deeds will follow them.’” (Rev. 14:13)will follow them.’” (Rev. 14:13)

• ““Blessed are the dead who die in Blessed are the dead who die in the Lord from now on.” “Yes,” the Lord from now on.” “Yes,” says the Spirit, says the Spirit, ‘they will rest ‘they will rest from their laborfrom their labor, for their deeds , for their deeds will follow them.’” (Rev. 14:13)will follow them.’” (Rev. 14:13)

T.T. It is a Place of Eternal It is a Place of Eternal RewardReward

T.T. It is a Place of Eternal It is a Place of Eternal RewardReward

• ““It will be revealed with fire, and the It will be revealed with fire, and the fire will test the quality of each man’s fire will test the quality of each man’s work. If what he has built survives, work. If what he has built survives, he will receive his reward.”he will receive his reward.” (1 Cor. (1 Cor. 3:11-14)3:11-14)

• ““Behold, I am coming quickly and Behold, I am coming quickly and My My reward is with Mereward is with Me, to give everyone , to give everyone according to his work” (Rev. 22:12).according to his work” (Rev. 22:12).

• ““It will be revealed with fire, and the It will be revealed with fire, and the fire will test the quality of each man’s fire will test the quality of each man’s work. If what he has built survives, work. If what he has built survives, he will receive his reward.”he will receive his reward.” (1 Cor. (1 Cor. 3:11-14)3:11-14)

• ““Behold, I am coming quickly and Behold, I am coming quickly and My My reward is with Mereward is with Me, to give everyone , to give everyone according to his work” (Rev. 22:12).according to his work” (Rev. 22:12).

U.U. It is a Place of Perfect It is a Place of Perfect KnowledgeKnowledge

U.U. It is a Place of Perfect It is a Place of Perfect KnowledgeKnowledge

• Now “we know in part and we Now “we know in part and we prophesy in part, prophesy in part, but when but when perfection comesperfection comes, the imperfect , the imperfect disappears…. Now I know in disappears…. Now I know in part; then part; then I shall know fullyI shall know fully, even , even as I am fully known.” (1 Cor. as I am fully known.” (1 Cor. 13:9-12)13:9-12)

V.V. It is a Place of It is a Place of Indescribable GloryIndescribable Glory

V.V. It is a Place of It is a Place of Indescribable GloryIndescribable Glory

• ““I know a man in Christ who...was I know a man in Christ who...was caught up to the third heaven…. And caught up to the third heaven…. And I know that this man…was caught up I know that this man…was caught up to paradise. to paradise. He heard inexpressible He heard inexpressible things, things that man is not things, things that man is not permitted to tell.”permitted to tell.” (2 Cor. 12:1-4 cf. (2 Cor. 12:1-4 cf. Mt. 17:1-5, Ezek. 1:13, 28; Rom. 8:18)Mt. 17:1-5, Ezek. 1:13, 28; Rom. 8:18)

• ““I know a man in Christ who...was I know a man in Christ who...was caught up to the third heaven…. And caught up to the third heaven…. And I know that this man…was caught up I know that this man…was caught up to paradise. to paradise. He heard inexpressible He heard inexpressible things, things that man is not things, things that man is not permitted to tell.”permitted to tell.” (2 Cor. 12:1-4 cf. (2 Cor. 12:1-4 cf. Mt. 17:1-5, Ezek. 1:13, 28; Rom. 8:18)Mt. 17:1-5, Ezek. 1:13, 28; Rom. 8:18)

That Will be Glory for Me That Will be Glory for Me

• “O that will be glory for me, glory for me. When by His grace, I shall look on His face, that will be glory–be glory for me!”

• “O that will be glory for me, glory for me. When by His grace, I shall look on His face, that will be glory–be glory for me!”

W.W. It is a Place of Perfect It is a Place of Perfect LoveLove

W.W. It is a Place of Perfect It is a Place of Perfect LoveLove

• ““God is love, God is love, and he who abides and he who abides in love abides in God, and God in in love abides in God, and God in him.” (1 Jn. 4:16) him.” (1 Jn. 4:16)

• ““There is no fear in love; but There is no fear in love; but perfect love casts out fear.perfect love casts out fear. (1 Jn. (1 Jn. 4:18)4:18)

• ““And now abides faith, hope, and And now abides faith, hope, and love, these three; but love, these three; but the greatest the greatest of these is loveof these is love” (1Cor. 13:13).” (1Cor. 13:13).

• ““God is love, God is love, and he who abides and he who abides in love abides in God, and God in in love abides in God, and God in him.” (1 Jn. 4:16) him.” (1 Jn. 4:16)

• ““There is no fear in love; but There is no fear in love; but perfect love casts out fear.perfect love casts out fear. (1 Jn. (1 Jn. 4:18)4:18)

• ““And now abides faith, hope, and And now abides faith, hope, and love, these three; but love, these three; but the greatest the greatest of these is loveof these is love” (1Cor. 13:13).” (1Cor. 13:13).

Love DivineLove Divine

Love divine, so great and wondrous, Deep and mighty, pure, sublime, Coming form the heart of Jesus, Just the same through tests of time. He the pearly gates will open, So that I may enter in; For He purchased my redemption And forgave me all my sin.

Love divine, so great and wondrous, Deep and mighty, pure, sublime, Coming form the heart of Jesus, Just the same through tests of time. He the pearly gates will open, So that I may enter in; For He purchased my redemption And forgave me all my sin.

X.X. It is a Place of the It is a Place of the Beatific [Blessed] VisionBeatific [Blessed] Vision

X.X. It is a Place of the It is a Place of the Beatific [Blessed] VisionBeatific [Blessed] Vision

1.1. No Mortal Man Can See GodNo Mortal Man Can See God

2.2. Immortal Man Will See GodImmortal Man Will See God

1.1. No Mortal Man Can See GodNo Mortal Man Can See God

2.2. Immortal Man Will See GodImmortal Man Will See God

1.1. No Mortal Man Can See No Mortal Man Can See GodGod


• ““No one has seen GodNo one has seen God at any at any time.” (Jn. 1:18)time.” (Jn. 1:18)

• ““No one has seen GodNo one has seen God at any at any time.” (Jn. 1:18)time.” (Jn. 1:18)



• ““He said [to Moses], ‘He said [to Moses], ‘you cannot see you cannot see my facemy face, for no one may see me and , for no one may see me and live…. When my glory passes by, I live…. When my glory passes by, I will put you in a cleft in the rock and will put you in a cleft in the rock and cover you with my hand until I have cover you with my hand until I have passed by. Then I will remove my passed by. Then I will remove my hand and you will see my back; but hand and you will see my back; but my face must not be seen.my face must not be seen.’” (Ex. ’” (Ex. 33:18-23)33:18-23)

• ““He said [to Moses], ‘He said [to Moses], ‘you cannot see you cannot see my facemy face, for no one may see me and , for no one may see me and live…. When my glory passes by, I live…. When my glory passes by, I will put you in a cleft in the rock and will put you in a cleft in the rock and cover you with my hand until I have cover you with my hand until I have passed by. Then I will remove my passed by. Then I will remove my hand and you will see my back; but hand and you will see my back; but my face must not be seen.my face must not be seen.’” (Ex. ’” (Ex. 33:18-23)33:18-23)

2.2. Immortal Man will See GodImmortal Man will See God2.2. Immortal Man will See GodImmortal Man will See God

• Immortal human beings will Immortal human beings will see God face to face. see God face to face. “They “They will see his face,will see his face, and his and his name will be on their name will be on their foreheads.” (Rev. 22:4)foreheads.” (Rev. 22:4)

• Immortal human beings will Immortal human beings will see God face to face. see God face to face. “They “They will see his face,will see his face, and his and his name will be on their name will be on their foreheads.” (Rev. 22:4)foreheads.” (Rev. 22:4)

a)a) It is Perfect Knowledge It is Perfect Knowledge of of GodGod

a)a) It is Perfect Knowledge It is Perfect Knowledge of of GodGod

• ““For we know in part and we For we know in part and we prophesy in part, but prophesy in part, but when when perfection comes the imperfect perfection comes the imperfect disappears.”disappears.” (1 Cor. 13:9-10) (1 Cor. 13:9-10)

• ““For we know in part and we For we know in part and we prophesy in part, but prophesy in part, but when when perfection comes the imperfect perfection comes the imperfect disappears.”disappears.” (1 Cor. 13:9-10) (1 Cor. 13:9-10)

b)b) It Makes Sin ImpossibleIt Makes Sin Impossibleb)b) It Makes Sin ImpossibleIt Makes Sin Impossible

• Knowledge of God is knowledge Knowledge of God is knowledge of an Infinite Good.of an Infinite Good.

• Once we see an Infinite Good Once we see an Infinite Good directly, it will no longer be directly, it will no longer be possible to do evil.possible to do evil.

• Hence, seeing the beatific vision Hence, seeing the beatific vision makes sin impossible.makes sin impossible.

• Knowledge of God is knowledge Knowledge of God is knowledge of an Infinite Good.of an Infinite Good.

• Once we see an Infinite Good Once we see an Infinite Good directly, it will no longer be directly, it will no longer be possible to do evil.possible to do evil.

• Hence, seeing the beatific vision Hence, seeing the beatific vision makes sin impossible.makes sin impossible.

c)c) It Fulfills Our FreedomIt Fulfills Our Freedomc)c) It Fulfills Our FreedomIt Fulfills Our Freedom

• Ultimate freedom is not the freedom of doing evil but freedom from doing evil.

• Like marriage, heaven fulfills our freedom to “forsake all others” and love only one person.

• Ultimate freedom is not the freedom of doing evil but freedom from doing evil.

• Like marriage, heaven fulfills our freedom to “forsake all others” and love only one person.

d)d) It Is Given only to BelieversIt Is Given only to Believersd)d) It Is Given only to BelieversIt Is Given only to Believers

• The beatific vision is not forced The beatific vision is not forced on anyone against his will. on anyone against his will. “Only those who “Only those who seekseek God will God will seesee God.” (Heb. 11:6) God.” (Heb. 11:6)

• No one can be forced to love No one can be forced to love against his will.against his will.

• The beatific vision is not forced The beatific vision is not forced on anyone against his will. on anyone against his will. “Only those who “Only those who seekseek God will God will seesee God.” (Heb. 11:6) God.” (Heb. 11:6)

• No one can be forced to love No one can be forced to love against his will.against his will.

e)e) It Is a Permanent State of It Is a Permanent State of PerfectionPerfection

e)e) It Is a Permanent State of It Is a Permanent State of PerfectionPerfection

• Just as God is changeless Just as God is changeless perfection, believers in heaven perfection, believers in heaven will be changeless in their will be changeless in their perfection. perfection.

• “…“…we know that when He is we know that when He is revealed, revealed, we shall be like Himwe shall be like Him, , for we shall see Him as He is” for we shall see Him as He is” (1Jn. 3:2)(1Jn. 3:2)

• Just as God is changeless Just as God is changeless perfection, believers in heaven perfection, believers in heaven will be changeless in their will be changeless in their perfection. perfection.

• “…“…we know that when He is we know that when He is revealed, revealed, we shall be like Himwe shall be like Him, , for we shall see Him as He is” for we shall see Him as He is” (1Jn. 3:2)(1Jn. 3:2)

f)f) It Is a Dynamic State of It Is a Dynamic State of PerfectionPerfection

f)f) It Is a Dynamic State of It Is a Dynamic State of PerfectionPerfection

• While we will be in an While we will be in an unchangeableunchangeable state of perfection, not a state of perfection, not a staticstatic state. state.

• Like God, we will be in an Like God, we will be in an immutableimmutable state but not an state but not an immobile immobile one.one.

• We will not be We will not be less activeless active but but more more activeactive in the worship and service of in the worship and service of God.God.

• But we will not be actively But we will not be actively strivingstriving but actively but actively enjoyingenjoying God (Psa. God (Psa. 16:11).16:11).

• While we will be in an While we will be in an unchangeableunchangeable state of perfection, not a state of perfection, not a staticstatic state. state.

• Like God, we will be in an Like God, we will be in an immutableimmutable state but not an state but not an immobile immobile one.one.

• We will not be We will not be less activeless active but but more more activeactive in the worship and service of in the worship and service of God.God.

• But we will not be actively But we will not be actively strivingstriving but actively but actively enjoyingenjoying God (Psa. God (Psa. 16:11).16:11).

g)g) It is a Direct Knowledge It is a Direct Knowledge of Godof God

g)g) It is a Direct Knowledge It is a Direct Knowledge of Godof God

• In this lifeIn this life God is known indirectly God is known indirectly through His creation: through His creation:

• ““For since the creation of the world For since the creation of the world God’s invisible qualities —his eternal God’s invisible qualities —his eternal power and divine nature—have been power and divine nature—have been clearly seen, clearly seen, being understood from being understood from what has been made….”what has been made….” (Rom. 1:19-20) (Rom. 1:19-20)

• ““Now we see but a poor reflection as in Now we see but a poor reflection as in a mirrora mirror…now I know in part….” (1 Cor. …now I know in part….” (1 Cor. 13:12)13:12)

• In this lifeIn this life God is known indirectly God is known indirectly through His creation: through His creation:

• ““For since the creation of the world For since the creation of the world God’s invisible qualities —his eternal God’s invisible qualities —his eternal power and divine nature—have been power and divine nature—have been clearly seen, clearly seen, being understood from being understood from what has been made….”what has been made….” (Rom. 1:19-20) (Rom. 1:19-20)

• ““Now we see but a poor reflection as in Now we see but a poor reflection as in a mirrora mirror…now I know in part….” (1 Cor. …now I know in part….” (1 Cor. 13:12)13:12)

h)h) It is a Direct Knowledge It is a Direct Knowledge of Godof God

h)h) It is a Direct Knowledge It is a Direct Knowledge of Godof God

• In heaven:In heaven:• ““We shall see face to face…then We shall see face to face…then

I shall know fully, I shall know fully, even as I am even as I am fully known.” (1 Cor. 13:12)fully known.” (1 Cor. 13:12)

• ““They shall see His faceThey shall see His face, and His , and His name shall be on their forehead” name shall be on their forehead” (Rev. 22:4).(Rev. 22:4).

• In heaven:In heaven:• ““We shall see face to face…then We shall see face to face…then

I shall know fully, I shall know fully, even as I am even as I am fully known.” (1 Cor. 13:12)fully known.” (1 Cor. 13:12)

• ““They shall see His faceThey shall see His face, and His , and His name shall be on their forehead” name shall be on their forehead” (Rev. 22:4).(Rev. 22:4).

Face to FaceFace to Face“Face to face with Christ, my Savior, Face to face--what will it be, When with rapture I behold Him, Jesus Christ who died for me? Face to face–O blissful moment! Face to face–to see and know; Face to face with my Redeemer, Jesus Christ who loves me so! Face to face I shall behold Him, Far beyond the starry sky; Face to face in all His glory, I shall see Him by and by.”

“Face to face with Christ, my Savior, Face to face--what will it be, When with rapture I behold Him, Jesus Christ who died for me? Face to face–O blissful moment! Face to face–to see and know; Face to face with my Redeemer, Jesus Christ who loves me so! Face to face I shall behold Him, Far beyond the starry sky; Face to face in all His glory, I shall see Him by and by.”

In That Great Day...In That Great Day...The mountains shall be lowered And the crooked things made straightWhen we see the Lord of glory And pass through the open gate.The Lord Himself will tell us: “I have saved you by my grace.” And all we once lost sinners Will see His wondrous face.The glory of the sun rise Nor the beauty of its setWill never compare with Jesus-- A sight we’ll never forget.

The mountains shall be lowered And the crooked things made straightWhen we see the Lord of glory And pass through the open gate.The Lord Himself will tell us: “I have saved you by my grace.” And all we once lost sinners Will see His wondrous face.The glory of the sun rise Nor the beauty of its setWill never compare with Jesus-- A sight we’ll never forget.

In That Great Day...In That Great Day...

The angels up in glory Will shout with ecstasyFor never in all the ages E’r this sight did see.We’ll have the glory of Jesus; Our bodies will be the same;In that great Day when-- The Lord of Hosts shall reign.

The angels up in glory Will shout with ecstasyFor never in all the ages E’r this sight did see.We’ll have the glory of Jesus; Our bodies will be the same;In that great Day when-- The Lord of Hosts shall reign.

The Final ConclusionThe Final Conclusion

• There is a Heaven.

• God wants everyone to go there.

• Only those who trust Christ will be there.

• There is a Heaven.

• God wants everyone to go there.

• Only those who trust Christ will be there.

“I am the way, the truth, and the life. No one comes to the

Father except by Me.”

“I am the way, the truth, and the life. No one comes to the

Father except by Me.”

Will You Be There?Will You Be There?

Will You Be There?Will You Be There?When the trumpet of the Lord shall sound

And time shall be no more

And the morning breaks eternal bright and fair--

When the saved of earth shall gather

Over on the other shore

And the roll is called up yonder, I’ll be there.On that bright and cloudless morning

When the dead in Christ shall rise

And the glory of His resurrection share--

When His chosen ones shall gather

To their home beyond the skies

And the roll is called up yonder, I’ll be there.

When the trumpet of the Lord shall sound

And time shall be no more

And the morning breaks eternal bright and fair--

When the saved of earth shall gather

Over on the other shore

And the roll is called up yonder, I’ll be there.On that bright and cloudless morning

When the dead in Christ shall rise

And the glory of His resurrection share--

When His chosen ones shall gather

To their home beyond the skies

And the roll is called up yonder, I’ll be there.

V)V) Answering Questions Answering Questions About HeavenAbout Heaven

V)V) Answering Questions Answering Questions About HeavenAbout Heaven

1)1) Will Those Who Die in Will Those Who Die in Infancy Remain Babies in Infancy Remain Babies in heaven?heaven?

1)1) Will Those Who Die in Will Those Who Die in Infancy Remain Babies in Infancy Remain Babies in heaven?heaven?

• Probably not.Probably not. Heaven is a place Heaven is a place of maturity and perfection. It of maturity and perfection. It befits better the nature and plan befits better the nature and plan of God for those who did not of God for those who did not have the opportunity of maturity have the opportunity of maturity here to attain it here.here to attain it here.

22)) Will Everyone be Equally Will Everyone be Equally Blessed in Heaven?Blessed in Heaven?

22)) Will Everyone be Equally Will Everyone be Equally Blessed in Heaven?Blessed in Heaven?

• No.No. Everyone will be Everyone will be fullyfully blessed, but not all will be blessed, but not all will be equallyequally blessed. blessed.

• By our good works in time we By our good works in time we determine our reward in eternity. determine our reward in eternity. (2 Cor. 5:10) (2 Cor. 5:10)

• No.No. Everyone will be Everyone will be fullyfully blessed, but not all will be blessed, but not all will be equallyequally blessed. blessed.

• By our good works in time we By our good works in time we determine our reward in eternity. determine our reward in eternity. (2 Cor. 5:10) (2 Cor. 5:10)

2)2) Will Everyone be Equally Will Everyone be Equally Blessed in Heaven? (cont.)Blessed in Heaven? (cont.)

2)2) Will Everyone be Equally Will Everyone be Equally Blessed in Heaven? (cont.)Blessed in Heaven? (cont.)

• If any man builds on this foundation If any man builds on this foundation using gold, silver, costly stones, using gold, silver, costly stones, wood, hay or straw wood, hay or straw his work will be his work will be shown for what it isshown for what it is, because the Day , because the Day will bring it to light. (1Cor. 3:11-15 cf. will bring it to light. (1Cor. 3:11-15 cf. Lk. 19:17-19, Jn. 14:2, 1 Cor. 15:41, Lk. 19:17-19, Jn. 14:2, 1 Cor. 15:41, Rev. 22:12)Rev. 22:12)

3)3) Will Believers Have Physical Will Believers Have Physical Bodies in Heaven?Bodies in Heaven?

3)3) Will Believers Have Physical Will Believers Have Physical Bodies in Heaven?Bodies in Heaven?

• Yes.Yes. Jesus’ resurrection body Jesus’ resurrection body was the same physical body in was the same physical body in which he died. (Lk. 24:39-40, Jn. which he died. (Lk. 24:39-40, Jn. 20:27)20:27)

• It was a physical body. (Mt. 28:9, It was a physical body. (Mt. 28:9, Lk. 24:39, Jn. 2:19-21)Lk. 24:39, Jn. 2:19-21)

• Our resurrection bodies will be Our resurrection bodies will be like Jesus’ body. (Phil. 3:21)like Jesus’ body. (Phil. 3:21)

• Yes.Yes. Jesus’ resurrection body Jesus’ resurrection body was the same physical body in was the same physical body in which he died. (Lk. 24:39-40, Jn. which he died. (Lk. 24:39-40, Jn. 20:27)20:27)

• It was a physical body. (Mt. 28:9, It was a physical body. (Mt. 28:9, Lk. 24:39, Jn. 2:19-21)Lk. 24:39, Jn. 2:19-21)

• Our resurrection bodies will be Our resurrection bodies will be like Jesus’ body. (Phil. 3:21)like Jesus’ body. (Phil. 3:21)

4)4) Will We Eat in Heaven?Will We Eat in Heaven?

• Yes,Yes, for enjoyment but not for for enjoyment but not for sustenance. Our resurrection sustenance. Our resurrection bodies will have a supernatural bodies will have a supernatural energy source. (1 Cor. 15:44)energy source. (1 Cor. 15:44)

• Jesus ate in His resurrection Jesus ate in His resurrection body several times, and our body several times, and our body will be like His. (Lk. 24:30-body will be like His. (Lk. 24:30-31, 41; Jn. 21:12-13; Acts 10:41)31, 41; Jn. 21:12-13; Acts 10:41)

• Yes,Yes, for enjoyment but not for for enjoyment but not for sustenance. Our resurrection sustenance. Our resurrection bodies will have a supernatural bodies will have a supernatural energy source. (1 Cor. 15:44)energy source. (1 Cor. 15:44)

• Jesus ate in His resurrection Jesus ate in His resurrection body several times, and our body several times, and our body will be like His. (Lk. 24:30-body will be like His. (Lk. 24:30-31, 41; Jn. 21:12-13; Acts 10:41)31, 41; Jn. 21:12-13; Acts 10:41)

5)5) Will We Recognize Loved Will We Recognize Loved Ones in Heaven?Ones in Heaven?

5)5) Will We Recognize Loved Will We Recognize Loved Ones in Heaven?Ones in Heaven?

• Yes. Yes. Moses and Elijah were Moses and Elijah were recognized when they appeared recognized when they appeared from heaven on the Mount of from heaven on the Mount of Transfiguration. (Mt. 17:3)Transfiguration. (Mt. 17:3)

• Paul’s comfort of reunion with Paul’s comfort of reunion with them implies that we will recognize them implies that we will recognize them in heaven. (1 Thes. 4:13-18)them in heaven. (1 Thes. 4:13-18)

• Jesus implies that we will. (Mt. Jesus implies that we will. (Mt. 22:28-30)22:28-30)

• Yes. Yes. Moses and Elijah were Moses and Elijah were recognized when they appeared recognized when they appeared from heaven on the Mount of from heaven on the Mount of Transfiguration. (Mt. 17:3)Transfiguration. (Mt. 17:3)

• Paul’s comfort of reunion with Paul’s comfort of reunion with them implies that we will recognize them implies that we will recognize them in heaven. (1 Thes. 4:13-18)them in heaven. (1 Thes. 4:13-18)

• Jesus implies that we will. (Mt. Jesus implies that we will. (Mt. 22:28-30)22:28-30)

6)6) Will We Be Married in Heaven?Will We Be Married in Heaven?6)6) Will We Be Married in Heaven?Will We Be Married in Heaven?

• No.No. The marriage relation is severed at The marriage relation is severed at death. “…by law a married woman is bound death. “…by law a married woman is bound to her husband to her husband as long as he is alive, but if as long as he is alive, but if her husband dies, she is released from the her husband dies, she is released from the law of marriage.”law of marriage.” (Rom. 7:2-3) (Rom. 7:2-3)

• ““In the resurrection they neither marry nor In the resurrection they neither marry nor are given in marriageare given in marriage but are as the angels of but are as the angels of God in heaven.” (Mt. 22:30)God in heaven.” (Mt. 22:30)

• We We will be married to the Lambwill be married to the Lamb which is a far which is a far higher state than any earthly union.higher state than any earthly union.

• No.No. The marriage relation is severed at The marriage relation is severed at death. “…by law a married woman is bound death. “…by law a married woman is bound to her husband to her husband as long as he is alive, but if as long as he is alive, but if her husband dies, she is released from the her husband dies, she is released from the law of marriage.”law of marriage.” (Rom. 7:2-3) (Rom. 7:2-3)

• ““In the resurrection they neither marry nor In the resurrection they neither marry nor are given in marriageare given in marriage but are as the angels of but are as the angels of God in heaven.” (Mt. 22:30)God in heaven.” (Mt. 22:30)

• We We will be married to the Lambwill be married to the Lamb which is a far which is a far higher state than any earthly union.higher state than any earthly union.

7)7) How Many People Will Be in How Many People Will Be in Heaven?Heaven?

7)7) How Many People Will Be in How Many People Will Be in Heaven?Heaven?

• We do not know the exact We do not know the exact number.number.

• God desires all to be saved. (2 God desires all to be saved. (2 Pet. 3:9, 1 Tim. 2:4) Pet. 3:9, 1 Tim. 2:4)

• Everyone God can possibly get Everyone God can possibly get there without violating their free there without violating their free choice will be there. (Mt. 23:37)choice will be there. (Mt. 23:37)

• We do not know the exact We do not know the exact number.number.

• God desires all to be saved. (2 God desires all to be saved. (2 Pet. 3:9, 1 Tim. 2:4) Pet. 3:9, 1 Tim. 2:4)

• Everyone God can possibly get Everyone God can possibly get there without violating their free there without violating their free choice will be there. (Mt. 23:37)choice will be there. (Mt. 23:37)

8)8) Is Heaven a Place or a State Is Heaven a Place or a State of Mind?of Mind?

8)8) Is Heaven a Place or a State Is Heaven a Place or a State of Mind?of Mind?

• No. No. It is not a mere state of mind. If it It is not a mere state of mind. If it were, those in the right state of mind were, those in the right state of mind would be in heaven now—here on earth. would be in heaven now—here on earth.

• Heaven is a real place. Jesus said, “I am Heaven is a real place. Jesus said, “I am going there to prepare a place for you. going there to prepare a place for you. And if I go and prepare a place for you, I And if I go and prepare a place for you, I will come back and take you to be with will come back and take you to be with me that you also may be where I am. You me that you also may be where I am. You know the way to the place where I am know the way to the place where I am going.” (Jn. 14:2-4 cf. Mt. 6:9-10, Rev. going.” (Jn. 14:2-4 cf. Mt. 6:9-10, Rev. 21:9-27)21:9-27)

• No. No. It is not a mere state of mind. If it It is not a mere state of mind. If it were, those in the right state of mind were, those in the right state of mind would be in heaven now—here on earth. would be in heaven now—here on earth.

• Heaven is a real place. Jesus said, “I am Heaven is a real place. Jesus said, “I am going there to prepare a place for you. going there to prepare a place for you. And if I go and prepare a place for you, I And if I go and prepare a place for you, I will come back and take you to be with will come back and take you to be with me that you also may be where I am. You me that you also may be where I am. You know the way to the place where I am know the way to the place where I am going.” (Jn. 14:2-4 cf. Mt. 6:9-10, Rev. going.” (Jn. 14:2-4 cf. Mt. 6:9-10, Rev. 21:9-27)21:9-27)

9)9) Where is Heaven Located? Where is Heaven Located?9)9) Where is Heaven Located? Where is Heaven Located?

• Presently,Presently, before the resurrection, before the resurrection, heaven is the abode of righteous heaven is the abode of righteous human souls and angelic spirits human souls and angelic spirits in the in the presence of God.presence of God. (2 Cor. 5:8, Heb. (2 Cor. 5:8, Heb. 12:23)12:23)

• It is where Christ sits on the right It is where Christ sits on the right hand of God. (Heb. 1:3)hand of God. (Heb. 1:3)

• Either in a distant place in the Either in a distant place in the universe, or in another dimension.universe, or in another dimension.

• Presently,Presently, before the resurrection, before the resurrection, heaven is the abode of righteous heaven is the abode of righteous human souls and angelic spirits human souls and angelic spirits in the in the presence of God.presence of God. (2 Cor. 5:8, Heb. (2 Cor. 5:8, Heb. 12:23)12:23)

• It is where Christ sits on the right It is where Christ sits on the right hand of God. (Heb. 1:3)hand of God. (Heb. 1:3)

• Either in a distant place in the Either in a distant place in the universe, or in another dimension.universe, or in another dimension.

9)9) Where is Heaven Located?Where is Heaven Located?9)9) Where is Heaven Located?Where is Heaven Located?

• EventuallyEventually, after the Coming of , after the Coming of Christ, Christ, heaven will descend to heaven will descend to earth,earth, and heaven will be part of and heaven will be part of “the New Heaven and the New “the New Heaven and the New Earth.” (Rev. 21:1-2 cf. 2 Pet. Earth.” (Rev. 21:1-2 cf. 2 Pet. 3:12-13, Mt. 6:10)3:12-13, Mt. 6:10)

• EventuallyEventually, after the Coming of , after the Coming of Christ, Christ, heaven will descend to heaven will descend to earth,earth, and heaven will be part of and heaven will be part of “the New Heaven and the New “the New Heaven and the New Earth.” (Rev. 21:1-2 cf. 2 Pet. Earth.” (Rev. 21:1-2 cf. 2 Pet. 3:12-13, Mt. 6:10)3:12-13, Mt. 6:10)

10)10) Will We Continue to Learn Will We Continue to Learn and Improve Morally in and Improve Morally in Heaven?Heaven?


– Some have said Yes:Some have said Yes:– From Ephesians 3:10 and 1 Peter From Ephesians 3:10 and 1 Peter

1:12 some infer that heaven is a 1:12 some infer that heaven is a great university wherein we learn great university wherein we learn of God’s grace and become more of God’s grace and become more like Him.like Him.

– Some have said Yes:Some have said Yes:– From Ephesians 3:10 and 1 Peter From Ephesians 3:10 and 1 Peter

1:12 some infer that heaven is a 1:12 some infer that heaven is a great university wherein we learn great university wherein we learn of God’s grace and become more of God’s grace and become more like Him.like Him.



– On the other hand:On the other hand:– Heaven is depicted as a place of Heaven is depicted as a place of

perfection, not progress. (1 Cor. perfection, not progress. (1 Cor. 13:2) 13:2)

– It is a place of attainment, not of It is a place of attainment, not of striving. (Jn. 9:4) striving. (Jn. 9:4)

– It is a place of rewards, not one of It is a place of rewards, not one of working for them. (1 Cor. 3:11)working for them. (1 Cor. 3:11)

– On the other hand:On the other hand:– Heaven is depicted as a place of Heaven is depicted as a place of

perfection, not progress. (1 Cor. perfection, not progress. (1 Cor. 13:2) 13:2)

– It is a place of attainment, not of It is a place of attainment, not of striving. (Jn. 9:4) striving. (Jn. 9:4)

– It is a place of rewards, not one of It is a place of rewards, not one of working for them. (1 Cor. 3:11)working for them. (1 Cor. 3:11)

10)10) Will We Continue to Learn Will We Continue to Learn and Improve Morally in and Improve Morally in Heaven? (cont.)Heaven? (cont.)




PERFECTION ON EARTHPERFECTION ON EARTH PERFECTION IN HEAVENPERFECTION IN HEAVEN





ChangingChanging Unchanging Unchanging







GrowingGrowing Matured Matured









Striving forStriving for Resting in Resting in











SeekingSeeking Enjoying Enjoying













Desiring ofDesiring of Delighting in Delighting in















Our GoalOur Goal Our Reward Our Reward

















Our AimOur Aim Our Attainment Our Attainment








Our AimOur Aim Our Attainment Our Attainment

11)11) Will We Be Able to Explore Will We Be Able to Explore the Universe in Heaven?the Universe in Heaven?

11)11) Will We Be Able to Explore Will We Be Able to Explore the Universe in Heaven?the Universe in Heaven?

• Yes,Yes, but in an infinitely higher but in an infinitely higher way than space-travelers could. way than space-travelers could. Everything that our finite Everything that our finite capacity will allow us to know, capacity will allow us to know, we will know through the infinite we will know through the infinite Mind of God. Our knowledge Mind of God. Our knowledge

will be an intuition of the infinite will be an intuition of the infinite resources of God’s Mind.resources of God’s Mind.

• Yes,Yes, but in an infinitely higher but in an infinitely higher way than space-travelers could. way than space-travelers could. Everything that our finite Everything that our finite capacity will allow us to know, capacity will allow us to know, we will know through the infinite we will know through the infinite Mind of God. Our knowledge Mind of God. Our knowledge

will be an intuition of the infinite will be an intuition of the infinite resources of God’s Mind.resources of God’s Mind.

12)12) Will We Experience Time in Will We Experience Time in Heaven?Heaven?


• Two views are held by orthodox Two views are held by orthodox Christians:Christians:

– Some say YesSome say Yes based on Rev. 4:8 based on Rev. 4:8 and 7:15 which speak of “day and and 7:15 which speak of “day and night” forever.night” forever.

But this may be merely a figure of But this may be merely a figure of speech.speech.

• Two views are held by orthodox Two views are held by orthodox Christians:Christians:

– Some say YesSome say Yes based on Rev. 4:8 based on Rev. 4:8 and 7:15 which speak of “day and and 7:15 which speak of “day and night” forever.night” forever.

But this may be merely a figure of But this may be merely a figure of speech.speech.



– Others say NoOthers say No because: because: – When we die we leave time and enter When we die we leave time and enter

into eternityinto eternity.. – Heaven is the abode of God, and God is Heaven is the abode of God, and God is

eternal or non-temporal. eternal or non-temporal. – In the beatific vision we reach the state In the beatific vision we reach the state

of perfection, and the perfect cannot of perfection, and the perfect cannot change as time does.change as time does.

– Others say NoOthers say No because: because: – When we die we leave time and enter When we die we leave time and enter

into eternityinto eternity.. – Heaven is the abode of God, and God is Heaven is the abode of God, and God is

eternal or non-temporal. eternal or non-temporal. – In the beatific vision we reach the state In the beatific vision we reach the state

of perfection, and the perfect cannot of perfection, and the perfect cannot change as time does.change as time does.

13)13) How Can Heaven be a Place How Can Heaven be a Place of Glory to God and Yet of of Glory to God and Yet of Reward for Us?Reward for Us?

13)13) How Can Heaven be a Place How Can Heaven be a Place of Glory to God and Yet of of Glory to God and Yet of Reward for Us?Reward for Us?

• Because Because our reward redounds to God’s our reward redounds to God’s GloryGlory when we cast our crowns before when we cast our crowns before the throne of God (Rev. 4:10-12). the throne of God (Rev. 4:10-12).

• Our reward is the capacity to love, Our reward is the capacity to love, serve, and glorify Him more, and so is serve, and glorify Him more, and so is not contradictory. not contradictory.

• (1 Cor. 10:31, Mt. 25:14-30)(1 Cor. 10:31, Mt. 25:14-30)

• Because Because our reward redounds to God’s our reward redounds to God’s GloryGlory when we cast our crowns before when we cast our crowns before the throne of God (Rev. 4:10-12). the throne of God (Rev. 4:10-12).

• Our reward is the capacity to love, Our reward is the capacity to love, serve, and glorify Him more, and so is serve, and glorify Him more, and so is not contradictory. not contradictory.

• (1 Cor. 10:31, Mt. 25:14-30)(1 Cor. 10:31, Mt. 25:14-30)

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