20 Questions about heaven I recently saw these questions on a Christian web site and had to have a look at them as I have thought a lot about this subject for a long time. Frankly, I was surprised at some of the questions; I was also surprised at some of the answers. 1. Will there be marriage? - Mat 22:30 says, For in the resurrection they neither marry nor are given in marriage. The Biblical reason for marriage is procreation and to illustrate the relationship between Jesus Christ and the church. While these are important on Earth, the Bible suggests this institution is not practiced in Heaven. 2. Will we have a body? - Phil 3:20-21 tells us that Jesus Christ will transform our bodies to be like His. This tells us that we will possess a new body full of Christs power and glory. 3. Is there music in Heaven? - There are different accounts of heavenly music throughout the Bible. When the angels announce to the shepherds the arrival of the Saviour (Luk 2:14), in the Book of Revelation (Rev 5:9-13) and we are also told in Zephaniah that God Himself rejoices over us with singing (Zeph 3:17). 4. Will we recognize family and friends? - Identity will be maintained, however it will be thoroughly redeemed and perfected. At the Last Supper, Jesus told the disciples they would all drink the fruit of the vine together again in His Fathers Kingdom (Matt 26:29). John MacArthur also writes: Remember that Moses and Elijah appeared with Christ on the Mount of Transfiguration. Even though they died centuries before, they still maintained a clear identity (Matt 17:3). Moreover, Peter, James, and John recognized them. 5. What happens in Heaven? - While the Bible does not tell us in full detail what will take place in heaven, we do know that service and worship are on that list. (Rev 22:3 & 7:15] 6. Are there genders in Heaven? - While there is no direct mention in the Bible to answer this question, Jesus says there will be no marriage in Heaven and that people will instead be like angels. (Matt 22:30). This implies that there will be a spiritual transformation into the full image of God; without the physical separation of male, female and the need for reproduction through marriage. 7. Will I see God? - Yes! Paul writes assuring Christians to be absent from the body is to be present with the Lord (2Cor 5:8). God also tells Moses that no one can see Him and live. (Ex 33:20). Finally, in the sermon on the mount Jesus says - Blessed are the pure in heart, for they will see God. 8. How will my life be assessed in Heaven? - Paul writes to the Corinthians explaining that how we build our life through the choices we make will be tested by fire (1Cor 3:13) and if it endures the builder will receive a reward. Its important to note that he stresses that the builder however will be saved even if the work is burned up. Blessed assurance 9. Will there be animals? - From the beginning of creation, God had a purpose for animals. While the Bible does not directly mention life after death for animals, Isaiah describes the wolf and the lamb will feed together, and the lion will eat straw like the ox (Isa 65:25). Lets face it, if there wasnt the issue of danger wouldnt you walk right up to a lion and try to pet it? This account implies the peace of Gods Kingdom and that animals will be around to be enjoyed. 10. What does Heaven look like? - Its best to start with the Scripture that says, What no eye has seen, nor ear heard, nor the human heart conceived, what God has prepared for those who love Him (1Cor 2:9). But the Bible does give us a glimpse. Lets look at what it says about Gods magnificent throne - And the one who sat there had the appearance of jasper and ruby. A rainbow that shone like an emerald encircled the throne, (Rev 4:3-8). We also learn the streets are made with pure gold (Rev 21:21) and Gods presence, beauty and splendour is everywhere, (Rev 21:23). The foundation and walls are made of dazzling, unimaginable jewels. While we know that this describes the New Jerusalem, we also know that Gods will is on earth as it is in Heaven, so this gives us an idea of Heavens design. 11. What will I be doing in Heaven? - You will be in constant communion, companionship and oneness with Almighty God without the separating pinch of sin, (Rev 21:3). 12. Will we become angels? - The Bible indicates that mans experience is different from angels. When Jesus says we will be like angels not given in marriage, it is understood as a spiritual similarity. In Rev 19 when John attempts to worship the angel, the angel strictly warns him, Do not do it! I am a fellow servant with you and with your brothers who hold to the testimony of Jesus. Worship God! This shows there is a distinction between angels and those who hold the testimony of Jesus. 13. Is Heaven a gated community? - 2 Peter says And God will open wide the gates of heaven for you to enter into the eternal Kingdom of our Lord and Saviour Jesus Christ. The physical gates of The New Jerusalem are also described as being 12 large pearls (Rev 21:21). 14. Is there enough room for me? - Yes! - In My Fathers house are many dwelling places; if it were not so, I would have told you; for I go to prepare a place for you. If I go and prepare a place for you, I will come again and receive you to Myself, that where I am, there you may be also, (John 14:3). 15. Will I have to work in Heaven? - Theres no mention in the Bible of work in the earthly sense of hard labour. Scripture only reveals that, His servants shall serve Him (Rev 22:3) in heaven and that he who has been faithful over a few things, I will make thee ruler over many things (Mat 25:23). It does not sound tiresome, but instead joyful and rewarding. 16. Is there a government in Heaven? - Gods supremacy, sovereignty and rulership is the foundation of all governments, especially in Heaven. Remember Jesus words to Pontius Pilate, You would have no authority over Me, unless it had been given you from above (John 19:11) 17. What will Heaven feel like? - The Bible describes that the kingdom of God is righteousness, peace and joy in the Holy Spirit (Rom 14:17). These qualities fill the atmosphere of Heaven. 18. Is Heaven a real place? - The author of Hebrews describes Heaven as a better country, a city whose builder and maker is God (Heb 11:8-12). This suggests heaven is more than an abstract imaginary place, but occupies space and intelligent design. 19. Where is Heaven? - Men of Galilee, why do you stand gazing up into heaven? This same Jesus, who was taken up from you into heaven, will so come in like manner as you saw Him go into heaven, (Acts 1:9-12) The Bible speaks of others being caught up and taken to heaven. So we can conclude that heaven exists up beyond the earthly plane of space and time. 20. How do we get to Heaven? – Jesus said I am the way and the truth and the life. No one comes to the Father except through me (John 14:6). GS says - The main problem with this wonderful subject is that few preachers/teachers think about ‘heaven’ in its final state, the Eternal State and how it will enjoyed by all there. John clearly tells us that there will be a New Heavens and a New Earth where righteousness is at home and where God will live with man. That was always His goal and so it will certainly happen! So, let’s hear from you; what do you think about these questions? Do they raise any more questions for you? Let’s get a discussion going!
Posted on: Sat, 15 Mar 2014 06:58:08 +0000
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