There are many popular myths about heaven and where it is that create misunderstanding. According to the Bible, the universe is not only infinite, but also filled with intelligent, friendly, benevolent beings. The most amazing and almost unbelievable fact is that the way to heaven is not complicated. Our title to heaven is given freely to those who accept the fact that God bore our wrongs against himself when Jesus died on the cross. When we ask Him for forgiveness and a new heart in order to keep His commandments, He will freely give us both.
The word “heaven” (Hebrew: shamyim, Greek: ouranos) can mean God’s dwelling place. The Bible says: “The LORD has established His throne in heaven, and His kingdom rules over all.” (Psalm 103:19).
Is heaven a real place?
After Jesus was raised from the dead he went to heaven. The Bible says: “Men of Galilee, why do you stand gazing up into heaven? This same Jesus, who was taken up from you into heaven, will so come in like manner as you saw Him go into heaven.” (Acts 1:11) Prior to this Jesus told His disciples: “In My Father’s house are many mansions; if it were not so, I would have told you. I go to prepare a place for you. And if I go and prepare a place for you, I will come again and receive you to Myself; that where I am, there you may be also. (John 14:2,3).
Popular myths picture heaven as a fanciful place where spirits sit on clouds playing harps or float around in nebulous space. However, such a thought is rather anti-climatic. Why would the infinite Son of God take up finite human condition to offer up His life to die on a cross, only for us to live such a meager existence that is not even half as fulfilling as life in this world, whether or not it is for eternity? The Bible says that Jesus is building mansions in heaven for those who accept salvation. Therefore it must be a tangible material place. Vineyards must exist in heaven. Before Jesus went to heaven he told his disciples: “But I say to you, I will not drink of this fruit of the vine from now on until that day when I drink it new with you in My Father’s kingdom.” (Matthew 26:29) The Bible even refers to heaven as a country (Hebrews 11:16). Before sin came into this world, the world was a physical paradise – a beautiful garden full of fruits, trees, and animals. Similarly, when sin is finally eradicated from this universe, we will finally get to live life as God originally intended for mankind when He first created the Garden of Eden – not as wispy spirits on clouds, but in a tangible, material Heaven.
Our belief in an eternal home in heaven is based on an explicit promise of Jesus. Heaven is most definitely a real place. Heaven truly does exist.
How do you get to Heaven?
Just as God has put in men’s hearts the knowledge that He exists (Romans 1:19-20), so are we “programmed” to desire heaven. It is the theme of countless books, songs, and works of art. When people deny the existence of heaven, they deny not only the written Word of God, but they also deny the innermost longings of their own hearts.
The entrance to heaven is not automatic for people who have simply tried to be good. The Bible says: “But nothing unclean will ever enter it, nor anyone who does what is detestable or false, but only those who are written in the Lamb’s book of life.” (Revelation 21:27) God has provided for us the key to open the doors of heaven—Jesus Christ (John 14:6). All who believe in Him and seek forgiveness for sin will find the doors of heaven swung wide open for them.
If you have any questions on the reality of God or heaven, you can get in touch with us by leaving a comment in the comments section below. We’d love to hear from you.
Source: bibleinfo.com , gotquestions.org , allaboutgod.com