Part 2. The Nature of Heaven

1. Summary of the Book’s Key Points

Understanding the nature of heaven is crucial. Pastor Randy Alcorn emphasizes that heaven is not merely a spiritual realm but a physical, real place. Heaven encompasses the new creation, including the new heavens and the new earth that God will create in perfect form. The Bible describes heaven as a place more beautiful and perfect than the current world. It is not just a resting place for souls but a location where we will enjoy a perfect relationship with God. In Revelation 21, the Apostle John describes heaven as a “new heaven and a new earth,” highlighting the intimate relationship with God through the expression, “God’s dwelling place is now among the people” (P.36).

The nature of heaven transcends our conventional understanding of the concept of 'heaven.' It is a state of perfect union with God, where we will exist in the most perfect form we can imagine. Heaven is a tangible place where we will live with resurrected bodies, and our souls and bodies will be perfectly united to behold God's glory directly. The Bible depicts heaven as a place of complete peace and joy, where God promises to renew all things (P.41).

Moreover, heaven is where we can share deep fellowship with God. Revelation 22:4 says, “They will see His face, and His name will be on their foreheads,” meaning that in heaven, we will see God directly. There will be no more sin or suffering, and everything will be restored to how God originally intended it to be (P.48).

2. Central Message

Heaven is the place of perfect life that God has prepared for us. It is not just a place for our souls to dwell but a real, physical place where we will live with resurrected bodies alongside God. The essence of heaven lies in a perfect relationship with God, where we will experience true peace and joy. Heaven is where we will live forever with God when He makes all things new (P.55).

A correct understanding of heaven gives us great hope. We can be confident that heaven is not just a symbolic concept but a real destination that we can reach. This hope strengthens us to overcome all the difficulties we face in this life and amplifies our anticipation of the eternal life that God has prepared for us.

3. Our Application

We must align our lives towards heaven, based on a clear understanding of it. Heaven is not merely an abstract place we go after death but a real place of life that God has prepared for us. This understanding should significantly impact our daily lives, guiding us to live with a hope for heaven.

Additionally, we should view our present lives anew with a focus on heaven. When we grasp the true nature of heaven, we can see our earthly lives as temporary and be assured that our ultimate hope lies in heaven. This hope provides the motivation to faithfully carry out the mission God has given us. As we live with a hope for heaven, we will find joy in fulfilling the tasks God has entrusted to us (P.59).