What Life in Heaven is, and is not. I believe…

So yeah, Heaven: The great and true undiscovered Country. If there was ever a common element that all people have considered… it’s Heaven.

The reasoning for a contemplation of Heaven is simple: We all die, and we all want to know what is going to happen to us on our death. Are we going somewhere? Doing something new? Will we be free from pain? Do we keep living in another form?

Any speculation about heaven requires a degree of faith. Perhaps even a large degree of faith. This is because, only a few have died and returned to tell about the experience. Of course, it is also true that not believing in Heaven takes just as much faith as believing Heaven exists. Interesting right?

Now, as I say that, I want to clarify that I’m not necessarily talking about clinical cases where unfortunates have had their heart stop, had an experience, and then were revived back to life. (Although many of these people have very interesting stories to relate.) More specifically, I am talking about how the Bible refers to Heaven through history and the afterlife. The Bible, the Prophets, and Jesus offer much as to the specifics of Heaven.

Heaven adds a potentially assuring dimension to the specter of death. It’s with this knowledge I offer my services and opinions on how to get to - and enjoy Heaven. I am a travel agent for Heaven, working for Jesus. Best job I have ever had!

If I missed your question, please let me know and I will add it to the list. I will be adding more questions and answers over time, so check back often.~

This "Q & A" is not about hell either.

Here are the Questions & Answers I have received on Life in Heaven:

Does Heaven exist? And if so, what is it's origins?

Yes. And, the Bible is emphatic on the existence of Heaven and describes its origins in the Creation narrative. The Prophets also speak of Heaven as a place of reward and refuge. Jesus spoke extensively about Heaven. He was clear as He described He was leaving the disciples to go and prepare a new place for His followers.

From a Biblical perspective, Heaven is a real place that God has prepared for His people to reside after death. It was created in the beginning, as described in the Book of Genesis.

How do you get into Heaven (or how do I not go to hell)?

There is only one method of entering Heaven, and that is through faith in Jesus Christ and His atoning sacrifice on the cross. Simply put, you must believe in Jesus Christ as your Lord and Savior, having been forgiven of your sins. There is some confusion about some sort of "merit-based" entry theology, where you can earn your place in Heaven by good works, kind thoughts and intentions. This is incorrect and dangerous thinking, leaving individuals with the exhausting self examination whither they have done enough to "qualify" for a residence in Heaven. I write on the elements and requirements of Salvation on my Seriously: Q & A on Salvation in this website.

The art world depicts Heaven often as a location in the clouds with Botticelli styled cherub angels with harps and the like. Is this accurate?

I understand the question, but I think Botticelli and other's were looking to pictorally represent the heavenly realm in a way that is "other" worldly. Angelically themed. Perhaps elements of Heaven are in fact present in the artistic representations, but they are not the primary focus. I think a more realistic way to imagine Heaven is to see a perfect garden in your mind. Having said that, the Garden itself is not the primary focus of the imagery. The primary focus is that all things work together as they were intended to work. There is harmony. Agreement. Unity in purpose and function. Rather than aging detracting from the scene, it reinforces and improves the setting. I will make a note to ask Botticelli what he was thinking when I meet him.

How will I know I am in Heaven?

Imagine what waking up from a deep sleep feels like. If you have dreamed, the fragments of the dream are still on your mind. They seemed real in your mind... but they darken quickly as reality of the light of the moment floods your new focus. Your life on earth was that dream. The new reality is more real and visceral than you have ever experienced. You taste air. You see color and dimensionality in a manner that can not be described with words alone. Consider this... Life is clearer.

The next thing that happens is you hear your name. Your real name. Your new name. Hearing, like seeing colors in Heaven, is a profoundly exquisit experience. Finally, you understand that there is a singular connection in all of your senses. You are flooded with emotions, questions, and joy. Who has called your name? In the same frame as you finish your question, you already know the answer. You have heard that voice before. So many times, and in so many situations. Your eyes focus on the best site you have ever seen. It is Jesus. And He is in that moment to welcome you Home.

What form will I have in Heaven? What human attributes (if any) will I possess?

For a moment, examine your own physical attributes. You have a body (is it aging or broken?). You have vision (can you see? Do you need glasses? A seeing-eye dog?) You have hearing (can you hear? Do you need hearing aids?) I personally have become 80% to 90% deaf and I am in the late phases of Meniere's Disease. So further, Can you smell? Do you have a sense of taste? These are the physical attributes you currently possess or perhaps have possessed. In short, you will have a glorified body that is free from sin and decay. It is complete. It is immortal. It is ageless. It is perfect. It is strong like you have never experienced. Your mind is sharp. Your memory is clear. You feel absoultely marvellous! But that's not all...

As you continue to experience this new reality, you will find that your relationships with others are even more profound and meaningful than you ever imagined. You will be able to connect with people in ways that transcend the limitations of our physical world. And then, you speak... You will be able to communicate with others in a way that is beyond words. You will be able to share your thoughts, feelings, and experiences with others in a way that is truly intimate and profound. The need for unhealthy ego, jealousy, greed, lying, and all other negative emotions will be gone. And you can do it with your mind as well as with your voice. All that Prayer time on earth was actually also a telepathic language and speaking training class. You are blessed indeed!

Will I know others in Heaven?

Yes. Heaven is about relationships in the way they were intended to be. Here is another interesting perspective: everyone else wants to get to know you too. The real you. They desire to understand you deeply and intimately. Equally, they want to be understood in the same manner.

Spoiler Alert: In Heaven you discover that you are actually related to everyone else. We are all Cousins, Aunts, Uncles, Parents, Grand-Parents in the same family. A true blood relation. Adam and Eve were your ancestors. They look forward to meeting you and telling you their stories and hearing your stories. The same is true for all historical figures. Everyone is there, except those that are not.

Will I meet historical figures in heaven?

Yes absoulutely (see above). Of course the best experience is meeting Jesus personally. He has an eternity to share with you.

What activities are available for the inhabitants of Heaven?

So the answer to this can be broken down into two categories: (1) The things you know and, (2) The things you don't know yet.

In the first category, you will be able to do all the things you enjoyed doing on earth, but in a much more profound and satisfying way. You will be able to enjoy music, art, literature, sports, and other forms of entertainment in a way that is truly immersive and fulfilling. You will also be able to engage in meaningful work and service that brings joy and fulfillment to yourself and others. For me, look for me where the water is clear and warm for diving and fishing. When I am not there, try looking next to the Throne of God. I believe you could spend several eternities enjoying that view and splendor.

Is everyone’s experience in Heaven the same?

No, everyone's experience is different in the same way they are different as people. There is no right way to experience Heaven. It was built uniquely for each of us to enjoy and share together in the presence of God.

Where will I live in Heaven?

Jesus built you a new home in Heaven. Your home is different than mine. Mine will be perfect. Not to big and not too small. Your's will be perfect for you.

In human life, maladies like sickness, poor health, mental illness, famine, poverty, aging, deformities, addictions, and sadness are common. Will any of these conditions plague the inhabitants of Heaven?

No. Those problems have all been remedied and are now corrected. The physical and spiritual condition of the residents of Heaven can be reduced to one short sentence: Perfect and joyous all the time!

So your responses about Heaven sound like heaven is a physical location with specific geographic properties. Is that correct?

Yes. I believe that Heaven resembles a physical location with specific geographic properties. There are perfect fields, forests, farms, gardens, oceans, islands, lakes, deserts, mountains, valleys, towns, cities and more. All waiting to be discovered and enjoyed.

Does time exist in Heaven?

Yes and no. There is a progression of events - and that suggests time. But it is not experienced in the same way as on Earth. It is no longer a meaningful and serviced metric.

Does gravity exist in Heaven?

Yes and No. Gravity exists in the sense that it is a fundamental force, but it is not experienced in the same way as on Earth. It can be defied and altered with thoughts and words. Since I did not get a jet-pack on earth to fly to locations, I will fly often in Heaven just to enjoy the view.

Is there food in Heaven, and will I eat?

Yes there is food and drink in Heaven. And yes, you will eat and drink to your heart's content. Grand Feasts that last for years are in the planning. The one difference in the Heavenly food experience is that hunger (or ravenous hunger anyway) will be unknown. Another component of the food question is that there will be food choices that you never even considered while living on earth. Delicious choices.

Will I see God in Heaven?

Yes and clearly. In Heaven, the knowledge that God created everything is implicit in the minds and hearts of all Heaven's residents. The presence of God is felt everywhere and in everything. You will see God in the faces of others, in the beauty of His handiwork, and in the wonders of His creation. Lastly, you will see God face to face as well.

Will my questions find answers in Heaven?

Yes. And you will have access to great scholars and experts ready to talk with you. Some questions will require God's guidance and wisdom. He likes to walk in the cool of the morning in His garden. Join Him and be filled.

What is the greatest pleasure in Heaven?

This answer is uncontested: The presence of God.

Do God’s Angels exist in Heaven? What is their purpose?

Yes, God’s Angels exist in Heaven. Their purpose is to serve and worship God, and to assist in the administration of His Heavenly and earthly kingdom.

Will I be able to see what is happening on earth in the time period I departed? Can I check on my family, loved ones, or pets that are still living while I am in Heaven?

Simple answer - No. Does this seem cruel or harsh? It's not. Remember we talked about time being different in Heaven than on earth. Your loved ones will be with you in Heaven near the same event you think about them. We have a limited time to communicate with those on the earthly plane, and that time is when we are on the earth. Communicate now! Urge others to think about and plan for Heaven by accepting and following Jesus. That is the best way to prepare them and you for the joy that awaits. It is the reason I am writing today about Life in Heaven.

Are there animals in Heaven?

Yes. Your favorite past pets are there waiting for you. Heaven is teaming with animal life in the same way God intended all animals to coexist originally in the Garden of Eden. I could live without snakes and scorpions. How about you?

I like to fish. It’s my favorite sport and pastime. Can I fish in Heaven?

Yes. Yes and yes. What will distinguish fishing in Heaven is that there will also be catching, which will be a unique experience for many fishers.

Will I have possessions in Heaven?

Yes. You will have possessions in Heaven, but they will be different from those on earth. They will be perfect and eternal. And, you will possess them with the clear and unfading knowledge that you received them from God.

Will exploration of space be possible in Heaven?

Yes, I think so. Heaven is a place of endless wonder and discovery, and there is no reason to believe that the exploration of space would be limited there. Imagine new planets and stars to discover! God owns it all.

I'd like the assurance I was going to Heaven when I die. Would should I do?

Consider praying these words if you are not used to speaking directly with God: "Jesus, I believe you are the Son of God, that you died on the cross to rescue me from sin and death and to restore me to the Father. I choose now to turn from my sins, my self-centeredness, and every part of my life that does not please you. I choose you. I give myself to you. I receive your forgiveness and ask you to take your rightful place in my life as my Savior and Lord. Come reign in my heart, fill me with your love and your life, and help me to become a person who is truly loving—a person like you. Restore me, Jesus. Live in me. Love through me. Thank you, God. In Jesus’ name I pray. Amen"

Now let's find you a local Church and some Christian fellowship to answer more of your questions.

A word from Bible Gateway

You will find that heaven (or “the heavens,” since both the Hebrew and Greek word are plural), is a real place where God lives. Jesus promises his followers that they will go there and be with him forever. But he also encourages us not to wait for death, but to bring the kingdom of heaven to earth right now.

Here is a selection of Bible verses about heaven in its various meanings. These verses are presented in a variety of  different Bible translations. You can click on each verse reference to read it in your own favorite version.

God Made Heaven

In the beginning God created the heavens and the earth.
— Genesis 1:1 (NIV)

The heavens declare the glory of God,
and the sky above proclaims his handiwork.
— Psalm 19:1 (ESV)

Heaven is yours, the earth also;
you made the world and everything in it.
— Psalm 89:11 (GNT)

Heaven Is God’s Home — Yet It Cannot Contain Him

The LORD has established His throne in the heavens,
And His sovereignty rules over all.
— Psalm 103:19 (NASB)

The LORD looks down from heaven; he sees all humankind.
— Psalm 33:13 (NRSVue)

“Above the vault over their heads was what looked like a throne of lapis lazuli, and high above on the throne was a figure like that of a man.”
— Ezekiel 1:26 (NIV)

I saw the Lord sitting on a throne, high and lifted up, and the train of His robe filled the temple.
— Isaiah 6:1 (NKJV)

God sits above the circle of the earth.
    The people below seem like grasshoppers to him!
He spreads out the heavens like a curtain
    and makes his tent from them.
— Isaiah 40:22 (NLT)

But will God indeed live on earth?
Even heaven, the highest heaven, cannot contain you,
much less this temple I have built.
— 1 Kings 8:27 (CSB)

What Is the Kingdom of Heaven — and How Do You Get There?

From that time on, Jesus began to preach and say, “Repent, for the kingdom of heaven is at hand.”
— Matthew 4:17 (NABRE)

“Blessed are the poor in spirit, for the kingdom of heaven belongs to them.”
— Matthew 5:3 (NET)

After this manner therefore pray ye: Our Father which art in heaven, Hallowed be thy name. Thy kingdom come, Thy will be done in earth, as it is in heaven.
— Matthew 6:9-10 (KJV)

“Stop collecting treasures for your own benefit on earth, where moth and rust eat them and where thieves break in and steal them. Instead, collect treasures for yourselves in heaven, where moth and rust don’t eat them and where thieves don’t break in and steal them.”
— Matthew 6:19–20 (CEB)

“But first and most importantly seek (aim at, strive after) His kingdom and His righteousness [His way of doing and being right—the attitude and character of God], and all these things will be given to you also.”
— Matthew 6:33 (AMP)

Jesus said, “What I’m about to tell you is true. You need to change and become like little children. If you don’t, you will never enter the kingdom of heaven.”
— Matthew 18:3 (NIrV)

Here is another of his illustrations: “The Kingdom of Heaven is like a tiny mustard seed planted in a field. It is the smallest of all seeds but becomes the largest of plants, and grows into a tree where birds can come and find shelter.”
— Matthew 13:31–32 (TLB)

He also used this example: “The Kingdom of Heaven can be compared to a woman making bread. She takes a measure of flour and mixes in the yeast until it permeates every part of the dough.”
— Matthew 13:33 (CEV)

“The kingdom of heaven is like treasure hidden in a field. When a man found it, he hid it again, and then in his joy went and sold all he had and bought that field.”
— Matthew 13:44 (NIV)

“The kingdom of God does not come with observation; nor will they say, ‘See here!’ or ‘See there!’ For indeed, the kingdom of God is within you.”
— Luke 17:20–21 (NKJV)

For the kingdom of God is not food and drink but righteousness and peace and joy in the Holy Spirit.
— Romans 14:17 (NRSVue)

Listen, my dear brothers and sisters! Didn’t God choose poor people in the world to become rich in faith and to receive the kingdom that he promised to those who love him?
— James 2:5 (GW)

“For I say to you that unless your righteousness far surpasses that of the scribes and Pharisees, you will not enter the kingdom of heaven.”
— Matthew 5:20 (NASB)

Don’t you realize that this is not the way to live? Unjust people who don’t care about God will not be joining in his kingdom. Those who use and abuse each other, use and abuse sex, use and abuse the earth and everything in it, don’t qualify as citizens in God’s kingdom.
— 1 Corinthians 6:9–10 (MSG)

“Not everyone who calls out to me, ‘Lord! Lord!’ will enter the Kingdom of Heaven. Only those who actually do the will of my Father in heaven will enter.”
— Matthew 7:21 (NLT)

“Then the King will say to those on his right, ‘Come, you who are blessed by my Father, inherit the kingdom prepared for you from the foundation of the world.'”
— Matthew 25:34 (ESV)

The Afterlife: A New Heaven and a New Earth

But our citizenship is in heaven—and we also eagerly await a savior from there, the Lord Jesus Christ, who will transform these humble bodies of ours into the likeness of his glorious body by means of that power by which he is able to subject all things to himself.
— Philippians 3:20-21 (NET)

But now that you have been set free from sin and become slaves to God, you have the consequence of a holy life, and the outcome is eternal life. The wages that sin pays are death, but God’s gift is eternal life in Christ Jesus our Lord.
— Romans 6:22-23 (CEB)

And this is the promise that he hath promised us, even eternal life.
— 1 John 2:25 (KJV)

But I know that my Redeemer lives,
and at the end he will stand on the dust.
Even after my skin has been destroyed,
yet I will see God in my flesh.
— Job 19:25–26 (CSB)

For we know that if the earthly tent we live in is destroyed, we have a building from God, an eternal house in heaven, not built by human hands.
— 2 Corinthians 5:1 (NIV)

Jesus said to him, “I assure you and most solemnly say to you, today you will be with Me in Paradise.”
— Luke 23:43 (AMP)

“There are many rooms in my Father’s house, and I am going to prepare a place for you. I would not tell you this if it were not so. And after I go and prepare a place for you, I will come back and take you to myself, so that you will be where I am.”
— John 14:2 (GNT)

I heard a voice from heaven say, “Write this: Blessed are the dead who die in the Lord from now on.” “Yes,” said the Spirit, “let them find rest from their labors, for their works accompany them.”
— Revelation 14:13 (NABRE)

For this we declare to you by a word from the Lord, that we who are alive, who are left until the coming of the Lord, will not precede those who have fallen asleep. For the Lord himself will descend from heaven with a cry of command, with the voice of an archangel, and with the sound of the trumpet of God. And the dead in Christ will rise first. Then we who are alive, who are left, will be caught up together with them in the clouds to meet the Lord in the air, and so we will always be with the Lord.
— 1 Thessalonians 4:15-17 (ESV)

Then I saw a new heaven and a new earth, for the first heaven and the first earth had passed away, and the sea was no more. And I saw the holy city, the new Jerusalem, coming down out of heaven from God, prepared as a bride adorned for her husband. And I heard a loud voice from the throne saying,
“See, the home of God is among mortals.
He will dwell with them;
they will be his peoples,
and God himself will be with them and be their God;
he will wipe every tear from their eyes.
Death will be no more;
mourning and crying and pain will be no more,
for the first things have passed away.”
— Revelation 21:1-4 (NRSVue)

Mahalo Nui Randy Alcorn

Mahalo Nui C.S Lewis

Mahalo Nui "Wild at Heart"