Bible teaching about HEAVEN

INTRODUCTION

The Bible teaching about heaven is a most comforting study. It is a place somewhere, and Christians go there when they leave this world. This fascinating study features many qualities of what the place is like. I think you will like it.

I bet when you bought a new home (or car) you were very curious, interested, and excited about discovering what it was like. I know when Esmie and I purchased our home, we almost obsessed over it. 

The same is true of that wonderful place beyond the blue. Christians will spend eternity there. Heaven is our permanent home; consequently, it deserves our excited anticipation about what it is like. Let me show you from the Bible.

It is a Real Place

There are several places in the Bible that refer to a “heaven.” Examples are the third heaven (2 Corinthians 12:2), and heavenly realms (Ephesians 1:3, 20; 6:12). The location I write about here is where Christians go when we die.

Jesus descended from a place called heaven (John 2:13), and also returned there (Acts 1:11). Paul said that when he died, he would be at home with Christ in that place (Philippians 1:23; cf. 2 Corinthians 5:8). Where is this place? Well, it is somewhere. What is it like? That is next. Come. I will show you.

Eternal Life

Jesus said, “the righteous (will go) into eternal life” (Matthew 25:46). The Lutheran theologian, Stump, gives a great definition when he described eternal life as, “the ineffable blessedness which the believers, perfected and glorified in body and soul, and freed from all sin and from all the consequences of sin, shall enjoy forever in the presence of God in heaven.” 

The Christian actually possesses eternal life the moment they receive Christ as personal savior. It is fully realized in heaven after we receive our resurrected body.

Christians Are Glorified

Christian will be glorified and in glory, “For momentary, light affliction is producing for us an eternal weight of glory far beyond all comparison” (2 Corinthians 4:17; cf. Colossians 3:4). 

Place of Rest

John wrote, “that they may rest from their labors, for their deeds follow with them” (Revelation 14:13; cf. Hebrews 4:9, 10). This means freedom from the pressure, pain and persecution of this life. Rest does not mean to quit all activities, because there will be great activity in that paradise. It is not rest from activity, but rest in activity. 

Place of Peace

We are told, “He shall wipe away every tear from their eyes; and there shall no longer be any death; there shall no longer be any mourning, or crying, or pain” (Revelation 21:4, 27; 22:3, 5). There will be love, compassion, joy, delight. No more corruption, violence, bombs, tanks, disease. Great news! Don’t you think?

Place of Abundance

Paul wrote, “godliness is profitable for all things, since it holds promise for the present life and also for the life to come” (1 Timothy 4:8). There will be praise and honor (1 Peter 1:7), a life much better (Philippians 1:23), and a life of comfort (Revelation 21:4, 5). 

Jesus is happy in heaven (Hebrews 12:1, 2), and since we will be like Him, we too will be happy (1 John 3:2). 

Residence of Forever

Johns sums it up, “and they shall reign forever and ever” (Revelation 22:5). Don’t you think this is a wonderful place to go live? This is not Hollywood fantasy; this is real – and forever! 

There is much more to learn about heaven. Esmie and I urge you to dig into Scripture to find out more, just like you were shopping for a new house or car. All the best to you, along with God’s richest blessing.

Dr. Willis and Esmie Newman

BIBLE STUDY QUESTIONS

1. What are your thoughts about heaven? Is it a real place you would like to go?

2. What does Luke 15:7 and Matthew 25:20, 21 teach about our future destination?

3. What does Philippians 3:20 teach about our future abode?

4. What are your thoughts about Jesus’ description of our future manor (John 14:1-3)?

5. Describe the conditions of our future life as pictured by Abraham’s bosom (Luke 16:19-21).

6. Explain your thoughts about the information in 2 Corinthians 4:17 and Colossians 3:4.

How do your conclusions apply to you personally?

7. What does Revelation 21:24-27 suggest about activity in that wonderful new land?

8. How would you describe the construction of the New Jerusalem (Revelation 21:9-27)? If the language is figurative, what conditions are suggested by the description?

9. What appeals to you the most about heaven?

10. What stands out to you the most about the Bible teaching about heaven?