Heavens

In the Bible, the term "heavens" is used to describe various aspects of the created order, often referring to the sky, the universe, or the dwelling place of God. The Hebrew word "shamayim" and the Greek word "ouranos" are commonly translated as "heavens" in the Scriptures.

1. The Physical Heavens: The Bible frequently refers to the heavens as the physical sky or the expanse above the earth. Genesis 1:1 states, "In the beginning God created the heavens and the earth." This indicates the creation of the physical universe, including the sky, stars, and celestial bodies. Psalm 19:1 declares, "The heavens declare the glory of God; the skies proclaim the work of His hands," emphasizing the heavens as a testament to God's creative power.

2. The Atmospheric Heavens: The Bible also describes the heavens as the atmosphere where birds fly and clouds form. Genesis 1:20 mentions, "Let the waters teem with living creatures, and let birds fly above the earth in the open expanse of the sky." This refers to the first heaven, the atmospheric layer surrounding the earth.

3. The Celestial Heavens: The second heaven is often understood as the realm of the sun, moon, stars, and planets. Deuteronomy 4:19 warns against worshiping these celestial bodies, acknowledging their place in the heavens but affirming that they are created entities, not deities.

4. The Spiritual Heavens: The third heaven is considered the dwelling place of God, angels, and the redeemed. In 2 Corinthians 12:2, Paul speaks of being "caught up to the third heaven," indicating a spiritual realm beyond the physical universe. Revelation 21:1 describes a "new heaven and a new earth," signifying the ultimate renewal of creation where God will dwell with His people.

Elements

The term "elements" in the Bible often refers to the basic components or principles of the world, both in a physical and spiritual sense. The Greek word "stoicheia" is used in the New Testament to describe these fundamental aspects.

1. Physical Elements: In 2 Peter 3:10, the apostle Peter writes, "But the Day of the Lord will come like a thief. The heavens will disappear with a roar, the elements will be destroyed by fire, and the earth and its works will be laid bare." Here, "elements" likely refers to the basic physical components of the universe, which will be transformed in the eschatological renewal.

2. Spiritual Elements: In a spiritual context, "elements" can refer to the basic principles or rudimentary teachings of the world. Galatians 4:3 states, "So also, when we were children, we were enslaved under the basic principles of the world." This suggests a bondage to worldly systems and philosophies that are contrary to the freedom found in Christ.

3. Transformation and Renewal: The concept of elements being destroyed or transformed is tied to the biblical theme of renewal. The destruction of the elements in 2 Peter 3:10-12 is not an end but a purifying process leading to the creation of a new heaven and a new earth, where righteousness dwells.

In summary, the biblical understanding of the heavens and elements encompasses both the physical and spiritual realms, highlighting God's sovereignty over creation and His ultimate plan for renewal and restoration.