Topical Encyclopedia
Definition and Nature:Holy Heaven, often referred to simply as "Heaven," is depicted in the Bible as the dwelling place of God, the angels, and the redeemed. It is characterized by its holiness, purity, and the presence of God's glory. Heaven is portrayed as a place of eternal peace, joy, and worship, where the faithful are in perfect communion with God.
Biblical Descriptions:The Bible provides various descriptions of Heaven, emphasizing its beauty and sanctity. In
Revelation 21:4, it is described as a place where "He will wipe away every tear from their eyes, and there will be no more death or mourning or crying or pain, for the former things have passed away." This passage highlights the absence of suffering and the presence of eternal comfort.
In
Isaiah 6:1-3, the prophet Isaiah describes a vision of the Lord seated on a high and exalted throne, with the train of His robe filling the temple. Seraphim call out to one another, "Holy, holy, holy is the LORD of Hosts; His glory fills the whole earth." This vision underscores the holiness and majesty of Heaven.
Heaven as God's Dwelling Place:Heaven is consistently depicted as the throne of God. In
Matthew 5:34-35, Jesus instructs, "But I tell you, do not swear an oath at all: either by heaven, for it is God’s throne; or by the earth, for it is His footstool." This passage affirms Heaven as the divine seat of authority and power.
The Promise of Heaven for Believers:For believers, Heaven is the ultimate promise and hope. Jesus assures His followers of a place in Heaven in
John 14:2-3: "In My Father’s house are many rooms. If it were not so, would I have told you that I am going there to prepare a place for you? And if I go and prepare a place for you, I will come back and welcome you into My presence, so that you also may be where I am."
Heavenly Worship:Worship is a central activity in Heaven.
Revelation 4:8-11 describes the continuous worship of God by the four living creatures and the twenty-four elders, who proclaim, "Worthy are You, our Lord and God, to receive glory and honor and power, for You created all things, and by Your will they exist and came to be."
The New Heaven and New Earth:The Bible speaks of a future renewal of Heaven and Earth.
Revelation 21:1 states, "Then I saw a new heaven and a new earth, for the first heaven and earth had passed away, and the sea was no more." This new creation signifies the ultimate fulfillment of God's redemptive plan, where Heaven and Earth are united in perfect harmony.
Access to Heaven:Access to Heaven is granted through faith in Jesus Christ. In
John 3:16, it is declared, "For God so loved the world that He gave His one and only Son, that everyone who believes in Him shall not perish but have eternal life." This verse encapsulates the Christian belief that eternal life in Heaven is a gift from God, received through faith in Jesus.
Conclusion:Holy Heaven, as depicted in the Bible, is a place of divine presence, eternal worship, and ultimate fulfillment for believers. It is the culmination of God's promise of redemption and eternal life through Jesus Christ.