What Will Heaven be Like?
by Rich Deem

Introduction

People often ask the question, "What will heaven be like." Although the Bible discusses heaven, it is not possible to understand the full nature of heaven from a human perspective. Since heaven is where God lives, it must contain more physical and temporal dimensions than those found in this physical universe that God created. We cannot imagine, nor can we experience in our current bodies, what these extra dimensions might be like. Even so, we are given enough information in the Bible to understand many of the things that will be different in heaven compared to our lives today. Some of the information on this page is speculation (with alternative possibilities), but is based upon what the Bible says about heaven.

The end of the seventh day

Genesis, the first book of the Bible says that God created the universe in six days.1 By examining all the passages of the Bible that describe the creation of the universe, one can conclude that the six days of creation are six periods of time or ages that God created the universe, the earth, and life on it. The Bible tells us that we are currently in God's seventh day of rest2 and encourages us to enter into that rest.3 God's plan for the universe is to allow a large number4 of spiritual beings (both angels and humans) to choose to spend eternity with Him.5 At the appointed time, God will call an end to the present universe6 and judge those who reject His invitation.7

The eighth day

On the eighth day God will create again - this time an entirely new universe.8 The new universe will have entirely different physical laws. Here are some of the differences that stand out:

Heaven's characteristics

Heaven is for Real: A Little Boy's Astounding Story of His Trip to Heaven and BackThe characteristics of the new creation tell us that it will be vastly different from what we are used to on earth. Probably most noticeable difference will be the lack of gravity. The New Jerusalem is described as a 1,500 mile cube. Structures of this size would automatically become a sphere in this universe, because of gravity.10 Therefore gravity will either be absent or significantly reduced in the new creation. There will be no Sun or moon. This makes sense, since there will be little or no gravity. Without gravity, the new creation would not be bound to its source of heat and light. The lack of the Sun is not a problem for the new creation, since the Bible tells us that the glory of God Himself will provide illumination.13 The illumination provided by God14 is probably not the same kind of electromagnetic radiation (photons) that we call light. The illumination provided by God certainly involves the wisdom and knowledge that He possesses.15 With this kind of light, there would be no need to visually see things, since this would severely restrict our ability to "see" everything as God sees them. There will be no oceans, which means that there will be no water cycle. It would be difficult for a water cycle to operate without gravity. There will be the river of the water of life, which flows from the throne of God.16 Given its source, it seems likely that it may not be liquid water as we know it.

The laws of thermodynamics seem to be absent from the new creation, since the Bible tells us that there will be no heat.17 In this universe, the second law of thermodynamics controls virtually everything that happens. The law states that heat flows from hot bodies to cold bodies. Stars cannot shine, animals cannot consume food to produce energy to move, and chemical reactions cannot occur, since all these processes require the exchange of heat. This law is also called the law of entropy or decay, since the ultimate result of heat flow is that the universe continues to become more and more disordered. Science tells us that the universe, as we see it now, is temporary. It has a moment of creation, and without God's intervention, will eventually expand to produce a collection of cold, lifeless matter. Obviously, such a universe would not be acceptable for housing eternal beings, such as those described in the new creation. As discussed previously, the processes requiring heat flow seem to be absent from the new creation. These include the Sun, the sea and a water cycle, and growing old and dying.11 Although there is described a tree (the tree of life) that bears fruit in heaven, it doesn't seem to be there for eating. In fact, the Bible says, "the leaves of the tree are for the healing of the nations."18 Given all the violence and genocide that has been perpetrated on the earth over the centuries, there will be need for healing among all the people groups. The lack of eating in heaven19 goes along with the idea that thermodynamics will be absent there. Finally, the Bible says "the creation itself also will be set free from its slavery to corruption,"20 suggesting a release from the laws of thermodynamics.

Some Christians believe that there will be eating in heaven. They cite the great wedding feast of the Lamb. Is this meant to be taken literally? Of course, the most important part of the wedding is not the feast, but the marriage. Are we going to be married in a literal physical marriage to Jesus Christ? I think most males would feel uncomfortable with this concept. We will be with our Savior and our Father in heaven and see Him face to face. I believe that the Jewish wedding was chosen to represent the celebration that will happen in heaven, since it was a most joyous and lengthy event known to the people for whom the message was given. One can be certain it will be a great celebration, whether or not we actually eat food.

The new creation will be a place of awesome beauty and is described in terms of precious jewels and metals. Although the description may not represent literal earthly jewels, it is intended to represent the amazing beauty of its appearance, as John, the apostle, saw it. For a preview of the description, see Revelation, chapter 21.

Heaven's timelessness

Heaven exists outside the dimensions of both space and time. The Bible says that God exists outside of time and created time, probably as the means of implementing cause and effect. Without cause and effect, actions don't have consequences and choices don't have repercussions. So, the universe was created temporally for people to choose to love or reject God. Once the choices have been made, there is no longer a need for time to exist at all. So, when the Bible says God destroys the present universe, that includes the universe's dimension of time. So, in fact, it does not matter when you die, you will end up in heaven with all the other people you know who went to be in heaven—either before or after you (relative to this universe's time scale). This includes your ancestors and descendants. Since we are not restricted by time in heaven, could you look back at your life on earth and watch it happen? Probably not, since the Bible says that "the former things will not be remembered or come to mind" (Isaiah 65:17). When God destroys the present universe, it will have been as if it had never existed. Not even God would have access to it (Isaiah 43:25). How do things happen in the absence of time? Good question! Obviously instantly! There will be no more waiting for anything. Everybody will be able to talk to Jesus for an infinite "amount of time" all "simultaneously." The English language doesn't even have the proper words to describe how things will be in heaven.

Where is heaven?

Asking where heaven exists is a little like asking where the center of the universe is. In fact, the universe doesn't have a center, since everything is moving away from every other thing. The Bible indicates that heaven does not exist in this universe, but is God's abode. In fact, the Bible indicates that even the highest heavens (of this universe) cannot contain God.21 Since we human beings are restricted to the space time dimensions of this universe, we can never go in a spaceship and find heaven, since it is not any place to which we can travel. However, there is a way to get there.

What will people be like in heaven?

With physical laws being so different in heaven, it is apparent that our current bodies would not be acceptable in such a place.22 The Bible poses the question, "But someone will say, "How are the dead raised? And with what kind of body do they come?" (1 Corinthians 15:35). The answer to the question is given in a series of comparisons:23

Mortal vs. Heavenly Bodies
Mortal Body Resurrection Body
perishable imperishable 
dishonor glory
weak powerful
natural spiritual

To a certain degree, we will be given some of the characteristics of God in heaven, since we will be like Him and the glorified Jesus.24 Without at least the dimensional characteristics of God, we would not be able to see Him, which the Bible says we will do.24

Contrary to the Mormon view of heaven,25 it doesn't seem that people in heaven will be either male or female. Jesus was asked a complicated question about heaven by the Sadducees (a religious sect that did not believe in the resurrection of the dead) that directly leads us to this conclusion.26 The Sadducees gave a scenario of a woman who married 7 men (sequentially, since they all died prematurely) in her lifetime. They asked whose wife she would be in heaven. Jesus answered:

"You are mistaken, not understanding the Scriptures, or the power of God. For in the resurrection they neither marry, nor are given in marriage, but are like angels in heaven." (Matthew 22:29-30)

In other words, there will be no marriage or sexual differences among those in heaven, since reproduction is unnecessary. This concept is supported by other biblical verses that indicate that males and females are spiritually equal.27 The same concept applies to the races.28 I doubt that there will be racial differences in heaven.

The idea that we will no longer be married is disturbing to some people. Personally, I like to be married. From an earthly perspective, the dissolution of marriage in heaven doesn't sound like a good thing. However, in heaven, we will be "married" to Jesus, who will be our spiritual "husband."29 If you are not currently a follower of Jesus Christ, you cannot understand what this will be like, and it will probably not have any appeal for you. However, if you have experienced the "highs" of following Jesus as He leads you, you will have a glimpse of how awesome this experience will be. God would not take away something good if He did not replace it with something better.

Besides receiving a new body, those who enter heaven will be given a new name30 and will be incapable of committing sin.31 Therefore, all the problems we have by being mean to each other will be gone. We will be able to enjoy each other's company without the fear of being hurt by anyone. It will be great to be physically and morally perfect and to have fellowship with others who have been likewise transformed.

What will we do in heaven?

People have the impression that heaven will consist of people sitting around on clouds, playing harps. However, the Bible does not describe clouds, although some of the angels and the 24 elders and some of the saints are described as having harps in heaven.32

One of our first acts in heaven will be to help judge the world - specifically the angels.33 Why do the angels need to be judged? Before God created the earth, He created the angels, who, initially, all worshipped God,34 being led by the most beautiful angel, Satan.35 However, Satan (aka, the devil) became jealous of God and sought to take His place.35 Satan managed to convince one third of the angels to join him in rebellion.36 At this point, there was war in heaven, as the rebellious angels of Satan fought against the archangel Michael and the angels of God.36 Satan and his angels were cast from heaven onto the earth,36 where they attempt to persuade humans to follow him in rebellion against God.37 These rebellious angels are now referred to as demons.38 Since there are no rebels in heaven, the angels who rebelled against God will be judged by God's people and cast into the lake of fire.39

Besides acting as judges in heaven, the Bible says that we will reign with God in heaven.40 Exactly what this reigning entails is not defined. However, we will also be serving God directly.41 Although this may sound boring at first glance, it obviously won't be, since we will have direct access to the Creator of the universe. The book of Revelation specifically says that Jesus will be our shepherd, who will personally lead us.11 Paul in 1 Corinthians says that we will see Him "face to face" and "now I know in part, but then I will know fully just as I also have been fully known."41 In essence, this verse is telling us that we will have the full knowledge of God, even as He currently knows each of us. This is amazing! Why atheists would not want to be part of this baffles me. Hebrews describes heaven as consisting of "thousands upon thousands of angels in joyful assembly."42 So, heaven will be a big celebration. However, we know it will also be a place of righteousness and peace.43 The Bible says that we cannot imagine what heaven will be like, but that it will exceed our expectations. Each of us in heaven will be "revealed in glory."44

Who will be in heaven?

Obviously, since heaven is God's kingdom, He will be there. What is remarkable is that we have the opportunity to be there45 and see God as He is.24

Who will be in heaven with God? The angels will be there,46 and have been there since God created them. The Bible gives several lists of people who will not be in heaven.47 A summary of the activities that keep people out of heaven is listed in the table below.

Sins That Keep One From Heaven
sexual immorality idolatry adultery prostitution
homosexual offenses theft greed drunkenness
slander swindling impurity witchcraft
hatred discord jealousy fits of rage
selfish ambition dissensions factions and envy orgies
abomination lying cowardice unbelief
murderer sorcery    

The list is fairly extensive and includes some things that all of us have done. At the end of the first creation we will appear before the great white throne of God.48 God will go through the "books" to see if we have committed any of the deeds listed in the table above.49 In addition, our names will be checked to see if they are in the "Book of Life." Anyone whose name is not found in the "Book of Life" will be thrown into the lake of fire, based upon the unrighteous deeds that they had done in their lives.50 God does not grade on the curve, so all people who have been guilty of any one of the violations above will be sent to the lake of fire, which is the second death.51 However, those who trust (believe) in Jesus escape judgment and inherit eternal life in heaven (see below).52

B o r n
/B o r n\
Once Twice
\D i e/
D i e
/D i e\
Twice Once

How do we get to heaven?

So how can we enter into heaven and into the presence of the Holy God? What we cannot do for ourselves, God has already done for us. Jesus said, "unless one is born again, he cannot see the kingdom of God."53 Jesus went on to explain that the second birth is to be "born spiritually." Those who are born just once will die physically then will die spiritually at the second death,51 following the Great White Throne judgment.48 Those who are born twice (both physically and spiritually) will die physically, but will live spiritually forever.

How are people born again spiritually? Jesus said:

"For God so loved the world, that He gave His only begotten Son, that whoever believes in Him should not perish, but have eternal life. (John 3:16)

Belief in Jesus removes us from the White Throne Judgment,54 because Jesus took the penalty (death) for our sin at the cross.55 Those who accept Jesus as Lord and Savior are justified (declared righteous on the basis of faith)56 before God and can come before Him boldly57 through the grace58 that He has offered to all.59 By accepting Jesus as Lord and Savior, we give Him permission to change us into perfect beings ("the spirits of the righteous made perfect," Hebrews 12:22-23) in the new creation.60 Those who reject God's provision for sin will be judged on the basis of their sin and will be separated from God forever (the second death51), since God cannot allow sin into the new creation.

How do we enter into a relationship with Jesus Christ? We do this through belief in Him:

  1. Repent of your sin and selfishness. Repentance is agreeing with God that you have been wrong and being willing to turn from that old life to a new life61 in Christ.
  2. Receive Jesus Christ as your Lord (God and Master) and Savior (who takes away your sin).
  3. Receive the Holy Spirit as the promise62 of what God will do in your life.
  4. Thank God for His grace and the free gift that He has given you.

Once you receive Jesus Christ as Lord and Savior, you should walk with Him every day. Jesus said, "If you love Me, you will keep My commandments" (John 14:15). Talk to Him every day in prayer and do what He says. Find a good Christian fellowship (church) and read from your Bible every day. These things are not required to keep your salvation, but they will help you to grow in your faith and obedience and to experience more joy in your walk with Christ. When we come before God's throne in the new creation, it will be good to hear the words...

...Well done, good and faithful servant... enter thou into the joy of thy Lord.63

Related Pages Top of page

A Travel Guide to HeavenA Travel Guide to Heaven by Anthony Destefano. A biblical examination of what heaven might be like. It is non-technical, and somewhat speculative, as all examinations of heaven must be.

References Top of page

  1. "For in six days the LORD made the heavens and the earth, the sea and all that is in them, and rested on the seventh day; therefore the LORD blessed the Sabbath day and made it holy." (Exodus 20:11)
  2. The seventh day of Genesis is not closed. In all other days, "there is the evening and the morning, the n day."
  3. In the book of Hebrews, the author tells us to labor to enter into God's seventh day of rest. "For He has thus said somewhere concerning the seventh day, 'And God rested on the seventh day from all His works'... Let us therefore be diligent to enter that rest, lest anyone fall through following the same example of disobedience." (Hebrews 4:4-11)
  4. After these things I looked, and behold, a great multitude, which no one could count, from every nation and all tribes and peoples and tongues, standing before the throne and before the Lamb, clothed in white robes, and palm branches were in their hands; and they cry out with a loud voice, saying, "Salvation to our God who sits on the throne, and to the Lamb." And all the angels were standing around the throne and around the elders and the four living creatures; and they fell on their faces before the throne and worshiped God. (Revelation 7:9-11)
  5. In Jesus' parable of the banquet, the master of the house (representing God) invited a large number of guests. Most of the invited guests made excuses and did not want to go to the banquet (representing heaven). Jesus said, "Then the master [God] told his servant, 'Go out to the roads and country lanes and make them come in, so that my house will be full.'" (Luke 14:23)
  6. But the present heavens and earth by His word are being reserved for fire, kept for the day of judgment and destruction of ungodly men. (2 Peter 3:7)
    But the day of the Lord will come like a thief, in which the heavens will pass away with a roar and the elements will be destroyed with intense heat, and the earth and its works will be burned up. (2 Peter 3:10)
    Looking for and hastening the coming of the day of God, on account of which the heavens will be destroyed by burning, and the elements will melt with intense heat! (2 Peter 3:12)
    "For truly I say to you, until heaven and earth pass away, not the smallest letter or stroke shall pass away from the Law, until all is accomplished." (Matthew 5:18)
    "Heaven and earth will pass away, but My words will not pass away." (Mark 13:31)
    "Heaven and earth will pass away, but My words will not pass away." (Luke 21:33)
    And His voice shook the earth then, but now He has promised, saying, "YET ONCE MORE I WILL SHAKE NOT ONLY THE EARTH, BUT ALSO THE HEAVEN." And this expression, "Yet once more," denotes the removing of those things which can be shaken, as of created things, in order that those things which cannot be shaken may remain. (Hebrews 12:26-27)
    And all the host of heaven will wear away, And the sky will be rolled up like a scroll; All their hosts will also wither away As a leaf withers from the vine, Or as one withers from the fig tree. (Isaiah 34:4)
  7. And I saw a great white throne and Him who sat upon it, from whose presence earth and heaven fled away, and no place was found for them. And I saw the dead, the great and the small, standing before the throne, and books were opened; and another book was opened, which is the Book of Life; and the dead were judged from the things which were written in the books, according to their deeds... And if anyone's name was not found written in the Book of Life, he was thrown into the lake of fire. (Revelation 20:11-15)
  8. "For behold, I create new heavens and a new earth; And the former things shall not be remembered or come to mind. (Isaiah 65:17)
    But according to His promise we are looking for new heavens and a new earth, in which righteousness dwells. (2 Peter 3:13)
    And I saw a new heaven and a new earth; for the first heaven and the first earth passed away, and there is no longer any sea. (Revelation 21:1)
  9. And the city has no need of the sun or of the moon to shine upon it, for the glory of God has illumined it, and its lamp is the Lamb. (Revelation 21:23)
  10. Revelation describes the New Jerusalem as a cube 1,500 miles on each side. Under the current laws of gravity, any structure that size would immediately become a sphere. Therefore gravity would be either absent or greatly reduced.
    "And I saw the holy city, new Jerusalem, coming down out of heaven from God, made ready as a bride adorned for her husband... And the city is laid out as a square, and its length is as great as the width; and he measured the city with the rod, fifteen hundred miles; its length and width and height are equal." (Revelation 21:2, 16)
  11. for the Lamb in the center of the throne shall be their shepherd, and shall guide them to springs of the water of life; and God shall wipe every tear from their eyes." (Revelation 7:17)
    and 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; the first things have passed away." (Revelation 21:4)
  12. So also is the resurrection of the dead. It is sown a perishable body, it is raised an imperishable body; it is sown in dishonor, it is raised in glory; it is sown in weakness, it is raised in power; it is sown a natural body, it is raised a spiritual body. If there is a natural body, there is also a spiritual body. (1 Corinthians 15:42-44)
  13. And the city has no need of the sun or of the moon to shine upon it, for the glory of God has illumined it, and its lamp is the Lamb. (Revelation 21:23)
  14. And there shall no longer be any night; and they shall not have need of the light of a lamp nor the light of the sun, because the Lord God shall illumine them; and they shall reign forever and ever. (Revelation 22:5)
  15. For Thou dost light my lamp; The LORD my God illumines my darkness. (Psalm 18:28)
    For with Thee is the fountain of life; In Thy light we see light. (Psalm 36:9)
    Thy word is a lamp to my feet, And a light to my path. (Psalm 119:105)
    Again therefore Jesus spoke to them, saying, "I am the light of the world; he who follows Me shall not walk in the darkness, but shall have the light of life." (John 8:12)
    And this is the message we have heard from Him and announce to you, that God is light, and in Him there is no darkness at all. (1 John 1:5)
  16. And he showed me a river of the water of life, clear as crystal, coming from the throne of God and of the Lamb, (Revelation 22:1)
    O LORD, the hope of Israel, All who forsake Thee will be put to shame. Those who turn away on earth will be written down, Because they have forsaken the fountain of living water, even the LORD. (Jeremiah 17:13)
    And it will come about in that day that living waters will flow out of Jerusalem, half of them toward the eastern sea and the other half toward the western sea; it will be in summer as well as in winter. (Zechariah 14:8)
    "He who believes in Me [Jesus], as the Scripture said, 'From his innermost being shall flow rivers of living water.'" (John 7:38)
  17. "They shall hunger no more, neither thirst anymore; neither shall the sun beat down on them, nor any heat; (Revelation 7:16)
  18. ...On each side of the river stood the tree of life, bearing twelve crops of fruit, yielding its fruit every month. And the leaves of the tree are for the healing of the nations. (Revelation 22:2)
  19. for the kingdom of God is not eating and drinking, but righteousness and peace and joy in the Holy Spirit. (Romans 14:17)
  20. For the creation was subjected to futility, not of its own will, but because of Him who subjected it, in hope that the creation itself also will be set free from its slavery to corruption into the freedom of the glory of the children of God. For we know that the whole creation groans and suffers the pains of childbirth together until now. (Romans 8:20-22)
  21. "But will God indeed dwell on the earth? Behold, heaven and the highest heaven cannot contain You, how much less this house which I have built! (1 Kings 8:27)
    "But who is able to build a house for Him, for the heavens and the highest heavens cannot contain Him? So who am I, that I should build a house for Him, except to burn incense before Him? (2 Chronicles 2:6)
  22. Now I say this, brethren, that flesh and blood cannot inherit the kingdom of God; nor does the perishable inherit the imperishable. (1 Corinthians 15:50)
  23. So also is the resurrection of the dead. It is sown a perishable body, it is raised an imperishable body; it is sown in dishonor, it is raised in glory; it is sown in weakness, it is raised in power; it is sown a natural body, it is raised a spiritual body. If there is a natural body, there is also a spiritual body. (1 Corinthians 15:42-44)
    Now 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. Meanwhile we groan, longing to be clothed with our heavenly dwelling, because when we are clothed, we will not be found naked. For while we are in this tent, we groan and are burdened, because we do not wish to be unclothed but to be clothed with our heavenly dwelling, so that what is mortal may be swallowed up by life. (2 Corinthians 5:1-4)
  24. Beloved, now we are children of God, and it has not appeared as yet what we shall be. We know that, when He appears, we shall be like Him, because we shall see Him just as He is. (1 John 3:2)
    But our citizenship is in heaven. And we eagerly await a Savior from there, the Lord Jesus Christ, who, by the power that enables him to bring everything under his control, will transform our lowly bodies so that they will be like his glorious body. (Philippians 3:20-21)
  25. The Mormons (Church of Jesus Christ of Latter Day Saints) believe that obedient Mormon men will become gods in heaven with their own kingdoms and wives. In fact, a neighbor recently offered my wife to become his queen when he becomes a god in his own kingdom. The only thing she had to do was to be baptized in the Mormon church. She declined the offer.
  26. On that day some Sadducees (who say there is no resurrection) came to Him and questioned Him, saying, "Teacher, Moses said, 'IF A MAN DIES, HAVING NO CHILDREN, HIS BROTHER AS NEXT OF KIN SHALL MARRY HIS WIFE, AND RAISE UP AN OFFSPRING TO HIS BROTHER.' "Now there were seven brothers with us; and the first married and died, and having no offspring left his wife to his brother; so also the second, and the third, down to the seventh. "And last of all, the woman died. "In the resurrection therefore whose wife of the seven shall she be? For they all had her." But Jesus answered and said to them, "You are mistaken, not understanding the Scriptures, or the power of God. For in the resurrection they neither marry, nor are given in marriage, but are like angels in heaven." (Matthew 22:23-30)
  27. There is neither Jew nor Greek, there is neither slave nor free man, there is neither male nor female; for you are all one in Christ Jesus. (Galatians 3:28)
  28. For there is no distinction between Jew and Greek; for the same Lord is Lord of all, abounding in riches for all who call upon Him; (Romans 10:12)
    --a renewal in which there is no distinction between Greek and Jew, circumcised and uncircumcised, barbarian, Scythian, slave and freeman, but Christ is all, and in all. (Colossians 3:11)
  29. for the Lamb [Jesus Christ] in the center of the throne shall be their shepherd, and shall guide them to springs of the water of life; and God shall wipe every tear from their eyes." (Revelation 7:17)
    "Let us rejoice and be glad and give the glory to Him, for the marriage of the Lamb has come and His bride has made herself ready." (Revelation 19:7)
    And he said to me, "Write, 'Blessed are those who are invited to the marriage supper of the Lamb.'" And he said to me, "These are true words of God." (Revelation 19:9)
    And one of the seven angels who had the seven bowls full of the seven last plagues, came and spoke with me, saying, "Come here, I shall show you the bride, the wife of the Lamb." (Revelation 21:9)
    FOR THIS CAUSE A MAN SHALL LEAVE HIS FATHER AND MOTHER, AND SHALL CLEAVE TO HIS WIFE; AND THE TWO SHALL BECOME ONE FLESH. This mystery is great; but I am speaking with reference to Christ and the church. (Ephesians 5:31-32)
    "For your husband is your Maker, Whose name is the LORD of hosts; And your Redeemer is the Holy One of Israel, Who is called the God of all the earth." (Isaiah 54:5)
  30. 'He who has an ear, let him hear what the Spirit says to the churches. To him who overcomes, to him I will give some of the hidden manna, and I will give him a white stone, and a new name written on the stone which no one knows but he who receives it.' (Revelation 2:17)
  31. ... as Christ also loved the church and gave Himself up for her; that He might sanctify her, having cleansed her by the washing of water with the word, that He might present to Himself the church in all her glory, having no spot or wrinkle or any such thing; but that she should be holy and blameless. (Ephesians 5:25-27)
    But according to His promise we are looking for new heavens and a new earth, in which righteousness dwells. (2 Peter 3:13)
    "In that day you will feel no shame Because of all your deeds By which you have rebelled against Me; For then I will remove from your midst Your proud, exulting ones, And you will never again be haughty On My holy mountain." (Zephaniah 3:11)
  32. And I heard a sound from heaven like the roar of rushing waters and like a loud peal of thunder. The sound I heard was like that of harpists playing their harps. (Revelation 14:2)
    And when he had taken it, the four living creatures and the twenty-four elders fell down before the Lamb. Each one had a harp and they were holding golden bowls full of incense, which are the prayers of the saints. (Revelation 5:8)
    And I saw what looked like a sea of glass mixed with fire and, standing beside the sea, those who had been victorious over the beast and his image and over the number of his name. They held harps given them by God and sang the song of Moses the servant of God and the song of the Lamb: "Great and marvelous are your deeds, Lord God Almighty. Just and true are your ways, King of the ages. Who will not fear you, O Lord, and bring glory to your name? For you alone are holy. All nations will come and worship before you, for your righteous acts have been revealed." (Revelation 15:2-4)
  33. Do you not know that the saints will judge the world? And if you are to judge the world, are you not competent to judge trivial cases? Do you not know that we will judge angels? How much more the things of this life! (1 Corinthians 6:2-3)
  34. According to the Bible all of the sons of God (i.e., all the angels, including Satan) shouted for joy at the creation of the Earth. However, Satan had fallen by the time humans were created.
    "Where were you when I laid the foundation of the earth? Tell Me, if you have understanding... When the morning stars sang together, And all the sons of God shouted for joy?" (Job 38:4, 7)
  35. "Son of man, take up a lamentation over the king of Tyre, and say to him, 'Thus says the Lord GOD, "You had the seal of perfection, Full of wisdom and perfect in beauty. "You were in Eden, the garden of God; Every precious stone was your covering: The ruby, the topaz, and the diamond; The beryl, the onyx, and the jasper; The lapis lazuli, the turquoise, and the emerald; And the gold, the workmanship of your settings and sockets, Was in you. On the day that you were created They were prepared. "You were the anointed cherub who covers, And I placed you there. You were on the holy mountain of God; You walked in the midst of the stones of fire. "You were blameless in your ways From the day you were created, Until unrighteousness was found in you. "By the abundance of your trade You were internally filled with violence, And you sinned; Therefore I have cast you as profane From the mountain of God. And I have destroyed you, O covering cherub, From the midst of the stones of fire. "Your heart was lifted up because of your beauty; You corrupted your wisdom by reason of your splendor. I cast you to the ground; I put you before kings, That they may see you. "By the multitude of your iniquities, In the unrighteousness of your trade, You profaned your sanctuaries. Therefore I have brought fire from the midst of you; It has consumed you, And I have turned you to ashes on the earth In the eyes of all who see you. (Ezekiel 28:12-18)
  36. Then another sign appeared in heaven: an enormous red dragon with seven heads and ten horns and seven crowns on his heads. His tail swept a third of the stars out of the sky and flung them to the earth... And there was war in heaven. Michael and his angels fought against the dragon, and the dragon and his angels fought back. But he was not strong enough, and they lost their place in heaven. The great dragon was hurled down--that ancient serpent called the devil, or Satan, who leads the whole world astray. He was hurled to the earth, and his angels with him. (Revelation 12:3-9)
  37. You belong to your father, the devil, and you want to carry out your father's desire. He was a murderer from the beginning, not holding to the truth, for there is no truth in him. When he lies, he speaks his native language, for he is a liar and the father of lies. (John 8:44)
    The evening meal was being served, and the devil had already prompted Judas Iscariot, son of Simon, to betray Jesus. (John 13:2)
    Then Peter said, "Ananias, how is it that Satan has so filled your heart that you have lied to the Holy Spirit and have kept for yourself some of the money you received for the land?" (Acts 5:3)
    Do not deprive each other except by mutual consent and for a time, so that you may devote yourselves to prayer. Then come together again so that Satan will not tempt you because of your lack of self-control. (1 Corinthians 7:5)
    If you forgive anyone, I also forgive him. And what I have forgiven--if there was anything to forgive--I have forgiven in the sight of Christ for your sake, in order that Satan might not outwit us. For we are not unaware of his schemes. (2 Corinthians 2:10-11)
    Put on the full armor of God so that you can take your stand against the devil's schemes. For our struggle is not against flesh and blood, but against the rulers, against the authorities, against the powers of this dark world and against the spiritual forces of evil in the heavenly realms. (Ephesians 6:11-12)
    Submit yourselves, then, to God. Resist the devil, and he will flee from you. (James 4:7)
    Be self-controlled and alert. Your enemy the devil prowls around like a roaring lion looking for someone to devour. Resist him, standing firm in the faith, because you know that your brothers throughout the world are undergoing the same kind of sufferings. (1 Peter 5:8-9)
    The great dragon was hurled down--that ancient serpent called the devil, or Satan, who leads the whole world astray. He was hurled to the earth, and his angels with him. (Revelation 12:9)
  38. If Satan is divided against himself, how can his kingdom stand? I say this because you claim that I drive out demons by Beelzebub. Now if I drive out demons by Beelzebub, by whom do your followers drive them out? So then, they will be your judges. But if I drive out demons by the finger of God, then the kingdom of God has come to you. (Luke 11:18-20)
  39. "Then he will say to those on his left, 'Depart from me, you who are cursed, into the eternal fire prepared for the devil and his angels.'" (Matthew 25:41)
    And the devil, who deceived them, was thrown into the lake of burning sulfur, where the beast and the false prophet had been thrown. They will be tormented day and night for ever and ever. (Revelation 20:10)
  40. "You have made them to be a kingdom and priests to serve our God, and they will reign on the earth." (Revelation 5:10)
    I answered, "Sir, you know." And he said, "These are they who have come out of the great tribulation; they have washed their robes and made them white in the blood of the Lamb. Therefore, they are before the throne of God and serve him day and night in his temple; and he who sits on the throne will spread his tent over them." (Revelation 7:14-15)
  41. For now we see in a mirror dimly, but then face to face; now I know in part, but then I will know fully just as I also have been fully known. (1 Corinthians 13:12)
  42. But you have come to Mount Zion, to the heavenly Jerusalem, the city of the living God. You have come to thousands upon thousands of angels in joyful assembly, to the church of the firstborn, whose names are written in heaven. You have come to God, the judge of all men, to the spirits of righteous men made perfect, to Jesus the mediator of a new covenant, and to the sprinkled blood that speaks a better word than the blood of Abel... Therefore, since we are receiving a kingdom that cannot be shaken, let us be thankful, and so worship God acceptably with reverence and awe, for our God is a consuming fire. (Hebrews 12:22-29)
  43. But in keeping with his promise we are looking forward to a new heaven and a new earth, the home of righteousness. (2 Peter 3:13)
    But the wisdom that comes from heaven is first of all pure; then peace-loving, considerate, submissive, full of mercy and good fruit, impartial and sincere. (James 3:17)
  44. The mystery and glory of heaven:
    • For I consider that the sufferings of this present time are not worthy to be compared with the glory that is to be revealed to us. (Romans 8:18)
    • but just as it is written, "THINGS WHICH EYE HAS NOT SEEN AND EAR HAS NOT HEARD, AND which HAVE NOT ENTERED THE HEART OF MAN, ALL THAT GOD HAS PREPARED FOR THOSE WHO LOVE HIM." (1 Corinthians 2:9)
    • For now we see in a mirror dimly, but then face to face; now I know in part, but then I will know fully just as I also have been fully known. (1 Corinthians 13:12)
    • For momentary, light affliction is producing for us an eternal weight of glory far beyond all comparison, while we look not at the things which are seen, but at the things which are not seen; for the things which are seen are temporal, but the things which are not seen are eternal. (2 Corinthians 4:17-18)
    • For our citizenship is in heaven, from which also we eagerly wait for a Savior, the Lord Jesus Christ; who will transform the body of our humble state into conformity with the body of His glory, by the exertion of the power that He has even to subject all things to Himself. (Philippians 3:20-21)
    • When Christ, who is our life, is revealed, then you also will be revealed with Him in glory. (Colossians 3:4)
    • Therefore, I exhort the elders among you, as your fellow elder and witness of the sufferings of Christ, and a partaker also of the glory that is to be revealed, (1 Peter 5:1)
    • After you have suffered for a little while, the God of all grace, who called you to His eternal glory in Christ, will Himself perfect, confirm, strengthen and establish you. (1 Peter 5:10)
  45. And I heard a loud voice from the throne, saying, "Behold, the tabernacle of God is among men, and He shall dwell among them, and they shall be His people, and God Himself shall be among them." (Revelation 21:3)
  46. And I looked, and I heard the voice of many angels around the throne and the living creatures and the elders; and the number of them was myriads of myriads, and thousands of thousands, (Revelation 5:11)
  47. Do you not know that the wicked will not inherit the kingdom of God? Do not be deceived: Neither the sexually immoral nor idolaters nor adulterers nor male prostitutes nor homosexual offenders nor thieves nor the greedy nor drunkards nor slanderers nor swindlers will inherit the kingdom of God. (1 Corinthians 6:9-10)
    The acts of the sinful nature are obvious: sexual immorality, impurity and debauchery; idolatry and witchcraft; hatred, discord, jealousy, fits of rage, selfish ambition, dissensions, factions and envy; drunkenness, orgies, and the like. I warn you, as I did before, that those who live like this will not inherit the kingdom of God. (Galatians 5:19-21)
    "But for the cowardly and unbelieving and abominable and murderers and immoral persons and sorcerers and idolaters and all liars, their part will be in the lake that burns with fire and brimstone, which is the second death." (Revelation 21:8)
  48. And I saw a great white throne and Him who sat upon it, from whose presence earth and heaven fled away, and no place was found for them. (Revelation 20:11)
  49. And I saw the dead, the great and the small, standing before the throne, and books were opened; and another book was opened, which is the Book of Life; and the dead were judged from the things which were written in the books, according to their deeds. (Revelation 20:12)
  50. And if anyone's name was not found written in the Book of Life, he was thrown into the lake of fire. (Revelation 20:15)
    and nothing unclean and no one who practices abomination and lying, shall ever come into it, but only those whose names are written in the Lamb's Book of Life. (Revelation 21:27)
  51. 'He who has an ear, let him hear what the Spirit says to the churches. He who overcomes shall not be hurt by the second death.' (Revelation 2:11)
    Blessed and holy is the one who has a part in the first resurrection; over these the second death has no power, but they will be priests of God and of Christ and will reign with Him for a thousand years. (Revelation 20:6)
    And death and Hades were thrown into the lake of fire. This is the second death, the lake of fire. (Revelation 20:14)
    "But for the cowardly and unbelieving and abominable and murderers and immoral persons and sorcerers and idolaters and all liars, their part will be in the lake that burns with fire and brimstone, which is the second death." (Revelation 21:8)
  52. Eternal life is through belief in Jesus Christ:
    • "And everyone who has left houses or brothers or sisters or father or mother or children or farms for My [Jesus] name's sake, will receive many times as much, and will inherit eternal life. (Matthew 19:29)
    • "For God so loved the world, that He gave His only begotten Son, that whoever believes in Him shall not perish, but have eternal life. (John 3:16)
    • "He who believes in the Son has eternal life; but he who does not obey the Son will not see life, but the wrath of God abides on him." (John 3:36)
    • "Truly, truly, I say to you, he who hears My word, and believes Him who sent Me, has eternal life, and does not come into judgment, but has passed out of death into life. (John 5:24)
    • "You search the Scriptures because you think that in them you have eternal life; it is these that testify about Me; (John 5:39)
    • "Do not work for the food which perishes, but for the food which endures to eternal life, which the Son of Man will give to you, for on Him the Father, God, has set His seal." (John 6:27)
    • "For this is the will of My Father, that everyone who beholds the Son and believes in Him will have eternal life, and I Myself will raise him up on the last day." (John 6:40)
    • "Truly, truly, I say to you, he who believes has eternal life. (John 6:47)
    • "My sheep hear My voice, and I know them, and they follow Me; and I give eternal life to them, and they will never perish; and no one will snatch them out of My hand. (John 10:27-28)
    • "This is eternal life, that they may know You, the only true God, and Jesus Christ whom You have sent. (John 17:3)
    • so that, as sin reigned in death, even so grace would reign through righteousness to eternal life through Jesus Christ our Lord. (Romans 5:21)
    • For the wages of sin is death, but the free gift of God is eternal life in Christ Jesus our Lord. (Romans 6:23)
    • Yet for this reason I found mercy, so that in me as the foremost, Jesus Christ might demonstrate His perfect patience as an example for those who would believe in Him for eternal life. (1 Timothy 1:16)
    • He saved us, not on the basis of deeds which we have done in righteousness, but according to His mercy, by the washing of regeneration and renewing by the Holy Spirit, whom He poured out upon us richly through Jesus Christ our Savior, so that being justified by His grace we would be made heirs according to the hope of eternal life. (Titus 3:5-7)
    • Whoever denies the Son does not have the Father; the one who confesses the Son has the Father also. As for you, let that abide in you which you heard from the beginning. If what you heard from the beginning abides in you, you also will abide in the Son and in the Father. This is the promise which He Himself made to us: eternal life. (1 John 2:23-25)
    • This is the promise which He Himself made to us: eternal life. (1 John 2:25)
    • And the testimony is this, that God has given us eternal life, and this life is in His Son. (1 John 5:11)
    • These things I have written to you who believe in the name of the Son of God, so that you may know that you have eternal life. (1 John 5:13)
    • And we know that the Son of God has come, and has given us understanding so that we may know Him who is true; and we are in Him who is true, in His Son Jesus Christ. This is the true God and eternal life. (1 John 5:20)
    • keep yourselves in the love of God, waiting anxiously for the mercy of our Lord Jesus Christ to eternal life. (Jude 1:21)
  53. Jesus answered and said to him, "Truly, truly, I say to you, unless one is born again, he cannot see the kingdom of God." (John 3:3)
  54. "He who believes in Him is not judged; he who does not believe has been judged already, because he has not believed in the name of the only begotten Son of God." (John 3:18)
  55. For the word of the cross is to those who are perishing foolishness, but to us who are being saved it is the power of God. (1 Corinthians 1:18)
    and might reconcile them both in one body to God through the cross, by it having put to death the enmity. (Ephesians 2:16)
    and through Him to reconcile all things to Himself, having made peace through the blood of His cross; through Him, I say, whether things on earth or things in heaven. (Colossians 1:20)
    having canceled out the certificate of debt consisting of decrees against us and which was hostile to us; and He has taken it out of the way, having nailed it to the cross. (Colossians 2:14)
  56. For we maintain that a man is justified by faith apart from works of the Law. (Romans 3:28)
    For in it the righteousness of God is revealed from faith to faith; as it is written, "BUT THE RIGHTEOUS man SHALL LIVE BY FAITH." (Romans 1:17)
    even the righteousness of God through faith in Jesus Christ for all those who believe; for there is no distinction; (Romans 3:22)
    being justified as a gift by His grace through the redemption which is in Christ Jesus; whom God displayed publicly as a propitiation in His blood through faith. (Romans 3:24-25)
  57. Let us therefore come boldly unto the throne of grace, that we may obtain mercy, and find grace to help in time of need. (Hebrews 4:16)
  58. In Him we have redemption through His blood, the forgiveness of our trespasses, according to the riches of His grace, (Ephesians 1:7)
    For by grace you have been saved through faith; and that not of yourselves, it is the gift of God; (Ephesians 2:8)
  59. For the grace of God has appeared, bringing salvation to all men, (Titus 2:11)
    even the righteousness of God through faith in Jesus Christ for all those who believe; for there is no distinction; (Romans 3:22)
    The Lord is not slow about His promise, as some count slowness, but is patient toward you, not wishing for any to perish but for all to come to repentance. (2 Peter 3:9)
  60. But you have come to Mount Zion and to the city of the living God, the heavenly Jerusalem, and to myriads of angels, to the general assembly and church of the firstborn who are enrolled in heaven, and to God, the Judge of all, and to the spirits of the righteous made perfect, (Hebrews 12:22-23)
  61. Therefore if any man is in Christ, he is a new creature; the old things passed away; behold, new things have come. (2 Corinthians 5:17)
    and put on the new self, which in the likeness of God has been created in righteousness and holiness of the truth. (Ephesians 4:24)
  62. In Him, you also, after listening to the message of truth, the gospel of your salvation-- having also believed, you were sealed in Him with the Holy Spirit of promise. (Ephesians 1:13)
  63. His lord said unto him, Well done, good and faithful servant; thou hast been faithful over a few things, I will make thee ruler over many things: enter thou into the joy of thy lord. (Matthew 25:23)

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