First, it is clear from scripture that when we die as those who trust in Jesus, we remain alive in a spirit form, can comprehend the presence of God fully, and enter into a new state of being.(1)
There is disagreement about the immediate status of those who die – actually in a spirit body or in some kind of “sleep” until the time of Jesus’ re-appearing. I tend toward the idea that we do enter a new existence, are conscious, and in the presence of God.
The words of Jesus to the thief on the cross seem to support this “today you will be with me…” idea. Also, it seems that God’s desire is to have relationship with us so why would there be an intermediate state of sleep or unconsciousness – and therefore no ability to relate to God?
Second, at the time of Jesus’ re-appearing or second coming, we see that some significant things will take place:
1 Thessalonians 4.13-17 describes Jesus’ appearing with those who have already died and joining those who are still alive on earth. 1 John 3.1-3 is another reference to this.
At this time of Jesus’ return all will be re-created. 1 Corinthians 15.50-54 suggests a transforming of the perishable and mortal into the imperishable and immortal. This points to an eternal existence in an incorruptible body.
That body, we can surmise, would be like Jesus’ resurrection body in which he was recognized, he ate food, he communicated as a human being, and he could seemingly pass through walls, appear and disappear, and ultimately be taken up into heaven. Seems like a “spirit-physical body” of some kind. We find this in the gospels. (2) All indications are that we will receive a resurrection body like Jesus’ resurrection body at the time of his re-appearing and of the new earth, and the total joining of heaven and earth.
At this time the earth will be re-created. 2 Peter 3.11-13 describes the event using imagery of fire signifying refining and purifying of the earth. As Eldridge cited in Chapter 7, everything that is contrary to the Kingdom of God – sin, disease, death – will be purged. The earth is returned to its original, pre-Fall, pre-human rebellion, pre-knowledge of good and evil status.
Third, Revelation 21.1-4 and 22.1-6 describe the final coming together of heaven (God’s realm) and earth (human realm) in a complete oneness. Here’s where there is room for speculation – what do these phrases refer to? Is there great music, art, discovery, banqueting, adventure, and challenge in heaven? Is there the kind of delight we experience in human relationships now – sex, deep friendships, intimacy, great wine, rich foods? What does it mean that we will “reign with Christ” forever? Will there be work without frustration? These are the kinds of things Alcorn and Kreeft are good at describing.
Fourth, it is interesting to look at some of the Hebrew prophets who foretold the glories of this new heaven and earth. Isaiah is one example of the two-fold prophetic voice – the immediate future for Israel and the still-distant future when Christ re-appears. (3)
Fifth, it is easy to think of heaven as a distant and future reality. However, Revelation 5.9-14 paints a picture of heaven in which living beings surround the throne of God. It’s figurative, that is, imagery, however, that imagery depicts a reality of God ruling over all things – heaven and earth – now and created beings – angels and human beings in heaven giving glory to God. This is happening now. Revelation 7.1-17 repeats the vision of heaven.
(Editor’s note: Jim Wilson is Pastor of Good Shepherd Presbyterian Church. The church is located at 11600 Los Alamitos Blvd., Los Alamitos. For more information, contact the church office at (562) 493-2553 or log on towww.gspc.org.)
Footnotes
(1) 2 Corinthians 5.1-8
Luke 23.43
John 11.25
1 Thessalonians 4.13-17
John 14.1-6
Philippians 1.23
Colossians 3.4
(2) Matthew 28, Mark 16.7, Luke 24, and John 20 and 21.
(3) Isaiah 2.1-5; 9.1-7; 11.6-9; 25.6-9; 35.1-10; 65.17-25
Resources
Heaven by Randy Alcorn – thorough study of scripture references to heaven and a thoughtful interpretation of them.
Everything You Ever Wanted to Know About Heaven by Peter Kreeft – another thorough treatment of the major references to heaven approached through a series of questions commonly asked about heaven. This is more philosophical in its approach than Alcorn’s but is rich in information and helpful to the imagination.
Heaven also by Peter Kreeft is another useful book but written more like a “philosophy of religion” book – that is, more academic and abstract than the other Kreeft book.
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About James Wilson
I was born in Cleveland, Ohio in 1950 and have resided in Southern California since 1956. Graduate of Redlands High School, San Diego State University, with two degrees from Fuller Theological Seminary, Pasadena – the Master of Divinity and Doctor of Ministry. I am married to Connie, a Marriage and Family Therapist. We have three grown daughters, three great sons-in-law, and three grandchildren. My careers have been in college campus ministry, followed by 17 years in computer sales and marketing , and the past 15 years as a full-time ordained pastor. I began serving as Pastor and Head of Staff of Good Shepherd in November 2001.
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