WHERE WILL THE SAVED SPEND ETERNITY?

A compilation of Scriptures by Dan Beeson 6 June 2022

www.vigilantvaliant.com dan@vigilantvaliant.com

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See other great Christian Art by Danny Hahlbohm at https://dannyhahlbohm.net/Chritian_Art.html”

TABLE OF CONTENTS

INTRODUCTION

ETERNAL LIFE

HEAVEN

GOD AND YESHUA AND HIS GOOD ANGELS ARE IN THE THIRD HEAVEN

OUR TREASURES ARE IN HEAVEN

THE HEAVENS

WHICH HEAVENS ARE DESTROYED?

THE KINGDOM OF HEAVEN

THE LORD'S PRAYER - THY KINGDOM COME

HOW NOT TO PRAY

HOW TO PRAY - THE LORD'S PRAYER

THE END AND A NEW BEGINNING

NEW HEAVENS AND NEW EARTH

NEW JERUSALEM

WHAT WILL THE SAVED DO IN ETERNITY?

CONCLUSION

INTRODUCTION

This Bible study is for those who think and trust that they are going to be saved by Yeshua (Jesus in English). Christians have the general understanding that they are saved from something bad, to something good. And I believe most Christians believe the something good is going to heaven to be with Yeshua.

If you aren’t sure you will be saved by Jesus, please see my study “How To Be Saved And Gain Eternal Life”. That is a short, introductory study for those who are new to the teachings of Jesus, or beginning Christians If you have studied the Bible even a little, but still have questions on being saved, please see my study “How Jesus & His 12 Apostles Say We Are Saved”. It is a longer, more thorough Bible study. This study is about the FINAL end, not immediately after death. If you wonder what happens immediately after death, please see my study, “Will Humans Be Tortured Forever In Hell”.

As we shall see later, Yeshua says to those who are saved He will give Eternal Life!

But I find that even serious, studious Christians have no real idea where they will be spending eternity, and what they will be doing there. Floating in the clouds playing harps is a common idea, almost said in jest. How appealing does that really sound? As we shall see later, we are promised something GOOD! It’s a promise from God. We can count on it.

The whole point of this study then is to try to find, in the Word of God, what truth God would have us know. We all think differently, with different logic, different ingrained opinions, different hopes, and different fears. This study helped me. Some it will not help. Some it might help. Perhaps it will help you.

If you wonder why I use The Living Yahweh's name, Yahweh, and Our Savior's name, Yeshua, please see my other Bible Study, "Does Jesus Want Christians to Obey the Ten Commandments" in the Appendix, in the section, "THE NAME OF YAHWEH AND HIS MESSIAH" for a short explanation.

You might at some point in this study think, “Come on now, you don’t need ALL these scriptures to prove your point.” But, YES I DO! And you should too. Matthew, Mark, and Luke are called the Synoptic Gospels because they are so similar, and often have almost identical scriptures. But I still want to note all three, not leave two out. We want our studies to be thorough, to not miss any point, to overwhelmingly point to a correct conclusion on what God is trying to teach us, to what the Bible says on a topic. I don’t want to be accused of “cherry picking” verses that agree with the final conclusion people believe I have. I don’t want to twist the study to my beliefs. I want to conform my beliefs with what the Bible says.

Most of my Bible Studies attempt to have EVERY SCRIPTURE IN THE BIBLE on the topic. Some people have complained that it is just TOO MANY Bible verses. But my Bible Studies are to learn the TRUTH about what the Bible says, not what some denomination told me to believe, not what some person told me to believe, but what the Bible really says. I want ALL the scriptures on the topic. I want the scriptures those with opposing beliefs use as their key scriptures, so I can analyze them. I want to know their reason for believing the way they do, and to give that a fair hearing. How can we find the “Truth, the Whole Truth, and Nothing but the Truth” if we don’t have all the data, all the information available? Since my studies are meant to learn what the Bible really says on a topic, I typically use nothing from outside the Bible. Outside sources may or may not be valid. The ONLY place we can read the words of Yeshua (Jesus in English) is from the Bible. So in this light study, I may not have found EVERY SCRIPTURE on the topic. If I have missed an important scripture, or if you find other scriptures that address the question, or if you can in any way help me improve this writing or see a mistake, please contact me and let me know at dan@vigilantvaliant.com.

This particular Bible study, “Where Will Christians Spend Eternity” is a lighter study, so I have compiled below just some scriptures I found on this topic. Since this is the main topic of the Bible, there are hundreds of scriptures about this. Those that follow are just a few that are clear in getting us started. This is meant to be a short introductory study, not a thorough thesis. For a more Bible Study topics, my other Bible Studies may be found on www.vigilantvaliant.com.

They say, “A Text Without Context Is a Pretext.” Where needed, a number of consecutive scriptures will be given for context. Context is very important, and I will put in context when needed. If you think I took any scripture out of context, please let me know. I use the King James Version, only because it was by far the main translation during my life. Perhaps a few others are good. Nevertheless, I am using the one I am familiar with, the KJV. All scriptures are quoted from the KJV Bible (King James Version), unless otherwise noted. All scriptures will be indented and in italics. All Bolding, Underlining, Italicizing, (parentheses), and [brackets] are done by me for emphasis.

END INTRODUCTION.

ETERNAL LIFE

Most people believe in heaven and hell. Most people believe they are good people, and hope, and trust, to go to heaven. Yeshua (Jesus in English) says in the Bible that the good, the righteous, those who are “saved”, will inherit eternal life.

People directly asked Yeshua about how to gain eternal life.

"And when he was gone forth into the way, there came one running, and kneeled to him, and asked him, Good Master, what shall I do that I may inherit eternal life? (Mark 10:17)

Yeshua answered them clearly.

14 And as Moses lifted up the serpent in the wilderness, even so must the Son of man be lifted up: 15 That whosoever believeth in him should not perish, but have eternal life. 16 For God so loved the world, that he gave his only begotten Son, that whosoever believeth in him should not perish, but have everlasting life. 17 For God sent not his Son into the world to condemn the world; but that the world through him might be saved." (John 3:14-17)

Above, by lifted up Yeshua meant crucified on a cross.

"Whoso eateth my flesh, and drinketh my blood, hath eternal life; and I will raise him up at the last day." (John 6:54)

By “eateth my flesh, and drinketh my blood” Yeshua was talking about eating the bread and drinking the wine in remembrance of Him, as He instructed us at the “Last Supper” with His disciples. Churches sometimes call this Communion, or The Lord’s Supper.

Yeshua says HE is the one who gives eternal life.

"27 My sheep hear my voice, and I know them, and they follow me: 28 And I give unto them eternal life; and they shall never perish, neither shall any man pluck them out of my hand. 29 My Father, which gave them me, is greater than all; and no man is able to pluck them out of my Father's hand." (John 10:27-29)

"17 These words spake Jesus, and lifted up his eyes to heaven, and said, Father, the hour is come; glorify thy Son, that thy Son also may glorify thee: 2 As thou hast given him power over all flesh, that he should give eternal life to as many as thou hast given him. 3 And this is life eternal, that they might know thee the only true God, and Jesus Christ, whom thou hast sent." (John 17:1-3)

This last verse not only verifies that it is Yeshua who gives eternal life, but HOW to gain eternal life. We must believe in the Only True God, and in Jesus Christ, Yeshua Hamaschiach (Jesus the Messiah).

"For the wages of sin is death; but the gift of God is eternal life through Jesus Christ our Lord." (Romans 6:23)

"11 And this is the record, that God hath given to us eternal life, and this life is in his Son. 12 He that hath the Son hath life; and he that hath not the Son of God hath not life." (1 John 5:11-12)

HEAVEN

Eternal life where, doing what?

Seems everybody thinks they are going to heaven. What do the scriptures say about heaven?

What will we be doing there, forever? Let’s look at places the scriptures mention heaven, and see what the Bible says about it. Maybe we can pin down where the saved will be in the end, and what they will be doing.

First, there are three “heavens” spoken of in the Bible. First, there is the heavens where the birds and clouds fly, and from which rain falls. This is the first heavens. Second, there is the heavens which holds the stars and the moon and the sun and the other planets. This is the second heavens. Finally, there is the heavens where God’s throne resides. This is the third heaven, sometimes called the “heaven of heavens.”

"Thou, even thou, art Lord alone; thou hast made heaven, the heaven of heavens, with all their host, the earth, and all things that are therein, the seas, and all that is therein, and thou preservest them all; and the host of heaven worshippeth thee." (Nehemiah 9:6)

BibleHub.com Interlinear Bible gives the Hebrew word for this “heaven”.

Now using Strong’s Exhaustive Concordance for the Hebrew word H8064, we find this.

“Strong's Exhaustive Concordance[H8064]

shamayim: heaven, sky

Original Word: שָׁמַיִם

Part of Speech: Noun Masculine

Transliteration: shamayim

Phonetic Spelling: (shaw-mah'-yim)

Definition: heaven, sky

(shamayim/shaw-mah'-yim) dual of an

unused singular shameh {shaw-meh'}; from an

unused root meaning to be lofty; the sky (as aloft;

the dual perhaps alluding to the visible arch in

which the clouds move, as well as to the higher

ether where the celestial bodies revolve):--air, X

astrologer, heaven(-s).”

The same word, shamayim, is used for all three of the heavens, so the Hebrew word does not pin down differences between the three heavens. We need to rely on the context of each verse where the word heaven is used.

GOD AND YESHUA AND HIS GOOD ANGELS ARE IN THE THIRD HEAVEN

The Bible is very clear that God is in heaven; it is His home, and His good angels are there also. This is the third heaven, or the “heaven of heavens.”

"The Lord is in his holy temple, the Lord's throne is in heaven: his eyes behold, his eyelids try, the children of men." (Psalm 11:4 KJV)

"The LORD is in his holy temple; the LORD is on his heavenly throne. He observes everyone on earth; his eyes examine them." (Psalm 11:4 NIV)

"The Lord hath prepared his throne in the heavens; and his kingdom ruleth over all" (Psalm 103:19)

"Thus saith the Lord, The heaven is my throne, and the earth is my footstool: where is the house that ye build unto me? And where is the place of my rest?" (Isaiah 66:1)

"Let your light so shine before men, that they may see your good works, and glorify your Father which is in heaven." (Matthew 5:16)

"But I say unto you, Swear not at all; neither by heaven; for it is God's throne:” (Matthew 5:34)

"That ye may be the children of your Father which is in heaven: for he maketh his sun to rise on the evil and on the good, and sendeth rain on the just and on the unjust." (Matthew 5:45)

"Be ye therefore perfect, even as your Father which is in heaven is perfect." (Matthew 5:48)

"Take heed that ye do not your alms before men, to be seen of them: otherwise ye have no reward of your Father which is in heaven." (Matthew 6:1)

"After this manner therefore pray ye: Our Father which art in heaven, Hallowed be thy name." (Matthew 6:9)

"32Whosoever therefore shall confess me before men, him will I confess also before my Father which is in heaven. 33 But whosoever shall deny me before men, him will I also deny before my Father which is in heaven." (Matthew 10:32-33)

"And Jesus answered and said unto him, Blessed art thou, Simon Barjona: for flesh and blood hath not revealed it unto thee, but my Father which is in heaven." (Matthew 16:17)

So the verses above make it very clear that Yeshua says God the Father is in the Heaven of Heavens.

Yeshua makes it clear The Father God is the RULER of this third Heaven.

"At that time Jesus answered and said, I thank thee, O Father, Lord of heaven and earth, because thou hast hid these things from the wise and prudent, and hast revealed them unto babes." (Matthew 11:25)

“Take heed that ye despise not one of these little ones; for I say unto you, That in heaven their angels do always behold the face of my Father which is in heaven.” (Matthew 18:10)

"Even so it is not the will of your Father which is in heaven, that one of these little ones should perish." (Matthew 18:14)

We can be a brother or sister to Yeshua by doing the will of Our Father.

"For whosoever shall do the will of my Father which is in heaven, the same is my brother, and sister, and mother." (Matthew 12:50)

"Again I say unto you, That if two of you shall agree on earth as touching any thing that they shall ask, it shall be done for them of my Father which is in heaven." (Matthew 18:19)

"For in the resurrection they neither marry, nor are given in marriage, but are as the angels of God in heaven.” (Matthew 22:30)

"And call no man your father upon the earth: for one is your Father, which is in heaven." (Matthew 23:9)

"And he that shall swear by heaven, sweareth by the throne of God, and by him that sitteth thereon." (Matthew 23:22)

"But of that day and hour knoweth no man, no, not the angels of heaven, but my Father only." (Matthew 24:36)

"And Jesus came and spake unto them, saying, All power is given unto me in heaven and in earth." (Matthew 24:36)

"And when ye stand praying, forgive, if ye have ought against any: that your Father also which is in heaven may forgive you your trespasses." (Mark 11:25)

"But if ye do not forgive, neither will your Father which is in heaven forgive your trespasses." (Mark 11:26)

"For when they shall rise from the dead, they neither marry, nor are given in marriage; but are as the angels which are in heaven." (Mark 12:25)

"But of that day and that hour knoweth no man, no, not the angels which are in heaven, neither the Son, but the Father." (Mark 13:32)

"So then after the Lord had spoken unto them, he was received up into heaven, and sat on the right hand of God." (Mark 16:19)

"And it came to pass, while he blessed them, he was parted from them, and carried up into heaven." (Luke 24:51)

"And no man hath ascended up to heaven, but he that came down from heaven, even the Son of man which is in heaven." (John 3:13)

"For I came down from heaven, not to do mine own will, but the will of him that sent me." (John 6:38)

"Heaven is my throne, and earth is my footstool: what house will ye build me? Saith the Lord: or what is the place of my rest?" (Acts 7:49)

"And, ye masters, do the same things unto them, forbearing threatening: knowing that your Master also is in heaven; neither is there respect of persons with him." (Ephesians 6:9)

"And to wait for his Son from heaven, whom he raised from the dead, even Jesus, which delivered us from the wrath to come." (1 Thessalonians 1:10)

"For the Lord himself shall descend from heaven with a shout, with the voice of the archangel, and with the trump of God: and the dead in Christ shall rise first:" (1 Thessalonians 4:16)

"And to you who are troubled rest with us, when the Lord Jesus shall be revealed from heaven with his mighty angels,” (2 Thessalonians 1:7)

"For Christ is not entered into the holy places made with hands, which are the figures of the true; but into heaven itself, now to appear in the presence of God for us:" (Hebrews 9:24)

"21 The like figure whereunto even baptism doth also now save us (not the putting away of the filth of the flesh, but the answer of a good conscience toward God,) by the resurrection of Jesus Christ: 22 Who is gone into heaven, and is on the right hand of God; angels and authorities and powers being made subject unto him." (1 Peter 3:21-22)

We must remember that the following verse is after the resurrection, but not in the eternity after judgment. In this period, between the resurrection and starting eternity, the raised humans will be in heaven. But then they will be sent to earth to reign.

"1 And I saw in the right hand of him that sat on the throne a book written within and on the backside, sealed with seven seals. 2 And I saw a strong angel proclaiming with a loud voice, who is worthy to open the book, and to loose the seals thereof? 3 And no man in heaven, or in earth, neither under the earth, was able to open the book, neither to look thereon. 4 And I wept much, because no man was found worthy to open and to read the book, neither to look thereon. 5 And one of the elders saith unto me, Weep not: behold, the Lion of the tribe of Judah, the Root of David, hath prevailed to open the book, and to loose the seven seals thereof. 6 And I beheld, and, lo, in the midst of the throne and of the four beasts, and in the midst of the elders, stood a Lamb as it had been slain, having seven horns and seven eyes, which are the seven Spirits of God sent forth into all the earth. 7 And he came and took the book out of the right hand of him that sat upon the throne. 8 And when he had taken the book, the four beasts and four and twenty elders fell down before the Lamb, having every one of them harps, and golden vials full of odours, which are the prayers of saints. 9 And they sung a new song, saying, Thou art worthy to take the book, and to open the seals thereof: for thou wast slain, and hast redeemed us to God by thy blood out of every kindred, and tongue, and people, and nation; 10 And hast made us unto our God kings and priests: and we shall reign on the earth." (Revelation 5:1-10)

OUR TREASURES ARE IN HEAVEN

Yeshua was clear that our good deeds and good works are stored for us as treasures in the Third Heaven.

"11 Blessed are ye, when men shall revile you, and persecute you, and shall say all manner of evil against you falsely, for my sake. 12 Rejoice, and be exceeding glad: for great is your reward in heaven: for so persecuted they the prophets which were before you." (Matthew 5:11-12)

"Jesus said unto him, If thou wilt be perfect, go and sell that thou hast, and give to the poor, and thou shalt have treasure in heaven: and come and follow me." (Matthew 19:21)

"Then Jesus beholding him loved him, and said unto him, One thing thou lackest: go thy way, sell whatsoever thou hast, and give to the poor, and thou shalt have treasure in heaven: and come, take up the cross, and follow me." (Mark 10:21)

“Rejoice ye in that day, and leap for joy: for, behold, your reward is great in heaven: for in the like manner did their fathers unto the prophets.” (Luke 6:23)

"Now when Jesus heard these things, he said unto him, Yet lackest thou one thing: sell all that thou hast, and distribute unto the poor, and thou shalt have treasure in heaven: and come, follow me." (Luke 18:22)

"For ye had compassion of me in my bonds, and took joyfully the spoiling of your goods, knowing in yourselves that ye have in heaven a better and an enduring substance." (Hebrews 10:34)

"Sell that ye have, and give alms; provide yourselves bags which wax not old, a treasure in the heavens that faileth not, where no thief approacheth, neither moth corrupteth." (Luke 12:33)

"Seeing then that we have a great high priest, that is passed into the heavens, Jesus the Son of God, let us hold fast our profession." (Hebrews 4:14)

"Now of the things which we have spoken this is the sum: We have such an high priest, who is set on the right hand of the throne of the Majesty in the heavens;" (Hebrews 8:1)

The verses above are all speaking of the “heaven of heavens”.

THE HEAVENS

The word “heaven” and phrase “the heavens” is used many times in the Bible, and it is often not crystal clear what it is referring to. Scripture selections below are speaking of the first heavens, where the birds fly, and the second heavens, where the stars, sun, and moon are.

The following shows the Bible calling outer space the firmament of heaven. The Hebrew word is Strong’s H8064, שָׁמַיִם shâmayim, just like shown in the Hebrew above. So, again, The Hebrew word does not help identify which heaven is being spoken of. We must rely on the context it is used in.

"14 And God said, Let there be lights in the firmament of the heaven to divide the day from the night; and let them be for signs, and for seasons, and for days, and years: 15 And let them be for lights in the firmament of the heaven to give light upon the earth: and it was so. 16 And God made two great lights; the greater light to rule the day, and the lesser light to rule the night: he made the stars also. 17 And God set them in the firmament of the heaven to give light upon the earth, 18 And to rule over the day and over the night, and to divide the light from the darkness: and God saw that it was good. 19 And the evening and the morning were the fourth day." (Genesis 1:14 -19)

Here the Bible calls the air where the clouds are and birds fly, the firmament of heaven. The Hebrew word is Strong’s H8064, שָׁמַיִם shâmayim, just like shown in the Hebrew above. So the same Hebrew word is used for ALL THREE HEAVENS.

Birds fly only in the heaven of the sky or atmosphere. Here the word shâmayim means sky.

"20 And God said, Let the waters bring forth abundantly the moving creature that hath life, and fowl that may fly above the earth in the open firmament of heaven. 21 And God created great whales, and every living creature that moveth, which the waters brought forth abundantly, after their kind, and every winged fowl after his kind: and God saw that it was good. 22 And God blessed them, saying, Be fruitful, and multiply, and fill the waters in the seas, and let fowl multiply in the earth. 23 And the evening and the morning were the fifth day." (Genesis 1:20-23)

WHICH HEAVENS ARE DESTROYED?

The question arises, which heavens are destroyed? The Hebrew word is Strong’s H8064, שָׁמַיִם shâmayim, just like shown in the Hebrew above. So the Hebrew word used will not be of help in understanding which of the three heavens the Bible is speaking in any verse. So we must look at context.

Unless it makes sense to you that the good and faithful angels will be dissolved or fall like leaves, or fruit from a tree, this must refer to the second heaven, the outer space in our solar system with the host of planets and stars.

"All the host of heaven shall be dissolved, And the heavens shall be rolled up like a scroll; All their host shall fall down As the leaf falls from the vine, And as fruit falling from a fig tree." (Isaiah 34:4 NKJV)

"10 But the day of the Lord will come as a thief in the night, in which the heavens will pass away with a great noise, and the elements will melt with fervent heat; both the earth and the works that are in it will be burned up. 11 Therefore, since all these things will be dissolved, what manner of persons ought you to be in holy conduct and godliness, 12 looking for and hastening the coming of the day of God, because of which the heavens will be dissolved, being on fire, and the elements will melt with fervent heat? 13 Nevertheless we, according to His promise, look for new heavens and a new earth in which righteousness dwells. Looking for and hastening the coming of the day of God, because of which the heavens will be dissolved, being on fire, and the elements will melt with fervent heat?" (2 Peter 3:10-12 NKJV)

"1 And I saw a new heaven and a new earth: for the first heaven and the first earth were passed away; and there was no more sea. (Revelation 21:1)

Note that John says the FIRST heaven was passed away. Since he then says the New Jerusalem was coming down out of HEAVEN, this heaven must be the “heaven of heavens” or the third heaven, which was obviously NOT destroyed. It says “first heaven” here, which means the sky and atmosphere of Earth.

"17 For, behold, I create new heavens and a new earth: and the former shall not be remembered, nor come into mind. 18 But be ye glad and rejoice for ever in that which I create: for, behold, I create Jerusalem a rejoicing, and her people a joy. 19 And I will rejoice in Jerusalem, and joy in my people: and the voice of weeping shall be no more heard in her, nor the voice of crying." (Isaiah 65:17-19)

So it appears from the verses above that the first and second heavens are dissolved, destroyed. I see no scripture that indicates the third heaven, the Heaven of Heavens, was or will be destroyed.

THE KINGDOM OF HEAVEN

The following verse is very interesting, as it sets up the possibility that Heaven and The Kingdom of Heaven are two different things.

"Not every one that saith unto me, Lord, Lord, shall enter into the kingdom of heaven; but he that doeth the will of my Father which is in heaven." (Matthew 7:21)

So let’s look at The Kingdom of Heaven.

Yeshua promises the Kingdom of Heaven to the “poor in spirit” and those which are “persecuted for righteousness’ sake.”

"Blessed are the poor in spirit: for theirs is the kingdom of heaven." (Matthew 5:3)

"Blessed are they which are persecuted for righteousness' sake: for theirs is the kingdom of heaven." (Matthew 5:10)

Yeshua also stated that the unsaved would NOT enter into the Kingdom of Heaven.

"For I say unto you, that except your righteousness shall exceed the righteousness of the scribes and Pharisees, ye shall in no case enter into the kingdom of heaven." (Matthew 5:20)

"And I say unto you, that many shall come from the east and west, and shall sit down with Abraham, and Isaac, and Jacob, in the kingdom of heaven." (Matthew 8:11)

"And as ye go, preach, saying, The kingdom of heaven is at hand." (Matthew 10:7)

Sadly, it is not clear to me what “at hand” means in this verse. It is tempting to think it means here, now, back then, 2022 years ago. From the state of the earth since then, that does not seem to be the case.

Now a number of verses tell what The Kingdom of Heaven is like. These are parables, so they don’t give specific physical details about the Kingdom, but more it’s value or quality.

"He answered and said unto them, Because it is given unto you to know the mysteries of the kingdom of heaven, but to them it is not given." (Matthew 13:11)

"Another parable put he forth unto them, saying, The kingdom of heaven is likened unto a man which sowed good seed in his field:” (Matthew 13:24)

"Another parable put he forth unto them, saying, The kingdom of heaven is like to a grain of mustard seed, which a man took, and sowed in his field:” (Matthew 13:31)

"Another parable spake he unto them; The kingdom of heaven is like unto leaven, which a woman took, and hid in three measures of meal, till the whole was leavened." (Matthew 13:33)

"Again, the kingdom of heaven is like unto treasure hid in a field; the which when a man hath found, he hideth, and for joy thereof goeth and selleth all that he hath, and buyeth that field." (Matthew 13:44)

"Again, the kingdom of heaven is like unto a merchant man, seeking goodly pearls:” (Matthew 13:45)

"Again, the kingdom of heaven is like unto a net, that was cast into the sea, and gathered of every kind:” (Matthew 13:47)

"Verily I say unto you, Among them that are born of women there hath not risen a greater than John the Baptist: notwithstanding he that is least in the kingdom of heaven is greater than he." (Matthew 11:11)

Notice the following verse particularly. To me, it seems to support that Heaven, and The Kingdom of Heaven are two different places. Unless you think the violent can FORCE their way into the Heaven of Heavens against God’s will.

"And from the days of John the Baptist until now the kingdom of heaven suffereth violence, and the violent take it by force." (Matthew 11:12)

"3 And said, Verily I say unto you, Except ye be converted, and become as little children, ye shall not enter into the kingdom of heaven 4 Whosoever therefore shall humble himself as this little child, the same is greatest in the kingdom of heaven." (Matthew 18:3-4)

"Therefore is the kingdom of heaven likened unto a certain king, which would take account of his servants." (Matthew 18:23)

"For there are some eunuchs, which were so born from their mother's womb: and there are some eunuchs, which were made eunuchs of men: and there be eunuchs, which have made themselves eunuchs for the kingdom of heaven's sake. He that is able to receive it, let him receive it." (Matthew 19:12)

"But Jesus said, Suffer little children, and forbid them not, to come unto me: for of such is the kingdom of heaven." (Matthew 19:14)

"Then said Jesus unto his disciples, Verily I say unto you, that a rich man shall hardly enter into the kingdom of heaven." (Matthew 19:23)

"For the kingdom of heaven is like unto a man that is an householder, which went out early in the morning to hire labourers into his vineyard." (Matthew 20:1)

"The kingdom of heaven is like unto a certain king, which made a marriage for his son," (Matthew 22:2)

"But woe unto you, scribes and Pharisees, hypocrites! for ye shut up the kingdom of heaven against men: for ye neither go in yourselves, neither suffer ye them that are entering to go in." (Matthew 23:13)

"Then shall the kingdom of heaven be likened unto ten virgins, which took their lamps, and went forth to meet the bridegroom. 2 And five of them were wise, and five were foolish. 3 They that were foolish took their lamps, and took no oil with them: 4 But the wise took oil in their vessels with their lamps. 5 While the bridegroom tarried, they all slumbered and slept. 6 And at midnight there was a cry made, Behold, the bridegroom cometh; go ye out to meet him. 7 Then all those virgins arose, and trimmed their lamps. 8 And the foolish said unto the wise, Give us of your oil; for our lamps are gone out. 9 But the wise answered, saying, Not so; lest there be not enough for us and you: but go ye rather to them that sell, and buy for yourselves. 10 And while they went to buy, the bridegroom came; and they that were ready went in with him to the marriage: and the door was shut. 11 Afterward came also the other virgins, saying, Lord, Lord, open to us. 12 But he answered and said, Verily I say unto you, I know you not.

13 Watch therefore, for ye know neither the day nor the hour wherein the Son of man cometh." (Matthew 25:1-13)

"14 For the kingdom of heaven is as a man travelling into a far country, who called his own servants, and delivered unto them his goods.

15 And unto one he gave five talents, to another two, and to another one; to every man according to his several ability; and straightway took his journey. 16 Then he that had received the five talents went and traded with the same, and made them other five talents. 17 And likewise he that had received two, he also gained other two. 18 But he that had received one went and digged in the earth, and hid his lord's money. 19 After a long time the lord of those servants cometh, and reckoneth with them. 20 And so he that had received five talents came and brought other five talents, saying, Lord, thou deliveredst unto me five talents: behold, I have gained beside them five talents more. 21 His lord said unto him, Well done, thou 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. 22 He also that had received two talents came and said, Lord, thou deliveredst unto me two talents: behold, I have gained two other talents beside them. 23 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. 24 Then he which had received the one talent came and said, Lord, I knew thee that thou art an hard man, reaping where thou hast not sown, and gathering where thou hast not strawed: 25 And I was afraid, and went and hid thy talent in the earth: lo, there thou hast that is thine. 26 His lord answered and said unto him, Thou wicked and slothful servant, thou knewest that I reap where I sowed not, and gather where I have not strawed: 27 Thou oughtest therefore to have put my money to the exchangers, and then at my coming I should have received mine own with usury. 28 Take therefore the talent from him, and give it unto him which hath ten talents. 29 For unto every one that hath shall be given, and he shall have abundance: but from him that hath not shall be taken away even that which he hath. 30 And cast ye the unprofitable servant into outer darkness: there shall be weeping and gnashing of teeth." (Matthew 25:14-30)

"And the Lord shall deliver me from every evil work, and will preserve me unto his heavenly kingdom: to whom be glory for ever and ever. Amen." (2 Timothy 4:18)

You may question my inclusion of the following verse here, but “from heaven” and “in the heavens” seem to mean our earthly body, and the resurrection body God will create for the saved.

"1 For we know that if our earthly house of this tabernacle were dissolved, we have a building of God, an house not made with hands, eternal in the heavens. 2For in this we groan, earnestly desiring to be clothed upon with our house which is from heaven:" (2 Corinthians 5:1-2)

THE LORD'S PRAYER - THY KINGDOM COME

      HOW NOT TO PRAY

Yeshua tells us how not to pray, not being like the heathen or non-believers. Don't pray in repeating vain repetitions. Don't pray in public to be seen of men, but pray to Our Father in private. I do not take this to mean we are not to bow our heads and pray over our food when eating in public. That would be like hiding like we are ashamed to be seen praying to God. Also it is doubtful this means we must hide in a closet before every meal.

"5 And when thou prayest, thou shalt not be as the hypocrites are: for they love to pray standing in the synagogues and in the corners of the streets, that they may be seen of men. Verily I say unto you, They have their reward. 6 But thou, when thou prayest, enter into thy closet, and when thou hast shut thy door, pray to thy Father which is in secret; and thy Father which seeth in secret shall reward thee openly. 7 But when ye pray, use not vain repetitions, as the heathen do: for they think that they shall be heard for their much speaking. 8 Be not ye therefore like unto them: for your Father knoweth what things ye have need of, before ye ask him." (Matthew 6:5-8)

      HOW TO PRAY - THE LORD'S PRAYER

Often called The Lord's Prayer, or the “Our Father”, it is really His example prayer to His Apostles. Note that in it He says we are to pray for the Kingdom to come.

"9 After this manner therefore pray ye: Our Father which art in heaven, Hallowed be thy name. 10 Thy kingdom come. Thy will be done in earth, as it is in heaven. 11 Give us this day our daily bread. 12 And forgive us our debts, as we forgive our debtors. 13 And lead us not into temptation, but deliver us from evil:" (Matthew 6:9-13a)

"1 And it came to pass, that, as he was praying in a certain place, when he ceased, one of his disciples said unto him, Lord, teach us to pray, as John also taught his disciples. 2 And he said unto them, When ye pray, say, Our Father which art in heaven, Hallowed be thy name. Thy kingdom come. Thy will be done, as in heaven, so in earth. 3 Give us day by day our daily bread. 4 And forgive us our sins; for we also forgive every one that is indebted to us. And lead us not into temptation; but deliver us from evil." (Luke 11:1-4)

So this tells us, that at that time, during Yeshua’s earthly ministry, the Kingdom of God was not on earth yet, but we were to pray for it to come.

THE END AND A NEW BEGINNING

14 The second woe is past; and, behold, the third woe cometh quickly. 15 And the seventh angel sounded; and there were great voices in heaven, saying, The kingdoms of this world are become the kingdoms of our Lord, and of his Christ; and he shall reign for ever and ever. 16 And the four and twenty elders, which sat before God on their seats, fell upon their faces, and worshipped God, 17 Saying, We give thee thanks, O Lord God Almighty, which art, and wast, and art to come; because thou hast taken to thee thy great power, and hast reigned. 18 And the nations were angry, and thy wrath is come, and the time of the dead, that they should be judged, and that thou shouldest give reward unto thy servants the prophets, and to the saints, and them that fear thy name, small and great; and shouldest destroy them which destroy the earth. 19 And the temple of God was opened in heaven, and there was seen in his temple the ark of his testament: and there were lightnings, and voices, and thunderings, and an earthquake, and great hail." (Revelation 11:14-19)

Note that the kingdoms of “this world” become “the kingdoms of our Lord, and of His Christ,” forever and ever.

WOW! Can we ever get away from war and fighting? Yahweh Our Father certainly understands war, for we see there will be war, even in the heaven of heavens. Thank God, we know the outcome!

"7 And there was war in heaven: Michael and his angels fought against the dragon; and the dragon fought and his angels, 8 And prevailed not; neither was their place found any more in heaven. 9 And the great dragon was cast out, that old serpent, called the Devil, and Satan, which deceiveth the whole world: he was cast out into the earth, and his angels were cast out with him. 10 And I heard a loud voice saying in heaven, Now is come salvation, and strength, and the kingdom of our God, and the power of his Christ: for the accuser of our brethren is cast down, which accused them before our God day and night. 11 And they overcame him by the blood of the Lamb, and by the word of their testimony; and they loved not their lives unto the death." (Revelation 12:7-11)

It is interesting that Revelation says “NOW is come” the Kingdom of our God and His Christ. This seems to be when the Kingdom of our God starts in earnest.

13 And one of the elders answered, saying unto me, What are these which are arrayed in white robes? And whence came they? 14 And I said unto him, Sir, thou knowest. And he said to me, These are they which came out of great tribulation, and have washed their robes, and made them white in the blood of the Lamb. 15 Therefore are they before the throne of God, and serve him day and night in his temple: and he that sitteth on the throne shall dwell among them. 16 They shall hunger no more, neither thirst any more; neither shall the sun light on them, nor any heat. 17 For the Lamb which is in the midst of the throne shall feed them, and shall lead them unto living fountains of waters: and God shall wipe away all tears from their eyes." (Revelation 7:13-17)

This seems to me to be one of those verses you can “take to the bank”, or rest on the promise of. Believers who make it through the tribulation holding onto their faith, even resisting to death, will be “before the throne of God, and serve Him in His temple. What a blessing! So God is on His throne in heaven, and that throne is in His Temple, which at that time is in heaven.

NEW HEAVENS AND NEW EARTH

At the end of time, after the Great White Throne Judgment, John the Revelator sees the New Heaven and New Earth and states the “first heaven and the first earth” had passed away. Because John is being showed the future, we know someday, they will be destroyed and exist no more.

"1 And I saw a new heaven and a new earth: for the first heaven and the first earth were passed away; and there was no more sea. 2 And I John saw the holy city, New Jerusalem, coming down from God out of heaven, prepared as a bride adorned for her husband. 3 And I heard a great voice out of heaven saying, Behold, the tabernacle of God is with men, and he will dwell with them, and they shall be his people, and God himself shall be with them, and be their God." (Revelation 21:1-3)

The prophet Isaiah can be very difficult to understand. One thing that seems clear is that the new heavens and the new earth will be permanent, lasting forever. He says that on Holy Days and Sabbath Days people will come to Jerusalem to worship Yahweh.

"17 For, behold, I create new heavens and a new earth: and the former shall not be remembered, nor come into mind. 18 but are ye glad and rejoice for ever in that which I create: for, behold, I create Jerusalem a rejoicing, and her people a joy. 19 And I will rejoice in Jerusalem, and joy in my people: and the voice of weeping shall be no more heard in her, nor the voice of crying." (Isaiah 65:17-19)

"20 And they shall bring all your brethren for an offering unto the Lord out of all nations upon horses, and in chariots, and in litters, and upon mules, and upon swift beasts, to my holy mountain Jerusalem, saith the Lord, as the children of Israel bring an offering in a clean vessel into the house of the Lord. 21 And I will also take of them for priests and for Levites, saith the Lord. 22 For as the new heavens and the new earth, which I will make, shall remain before me, saith the Lord, so shall your seed and your name remain. 23 And it shall come to pass, that from one new moon to another, and from one sabbath to another, shall all flesh come to worship before me, saith the Lord." (Isaiah 66:20-23)

The following Psalm reminds us the God has a timetable. He will do His will, at the "proper time".

"1 Unto thee, O God, do we give thanks, unto thee do we give thanks: for that thy name is near thy wondrous works declare. 2 When I shall receive the congregation I will judge uprightly. 3 The earth and all the inhabitants thereof are dissolved: I bear up the pillars of it. Selah." (Psalm 75:1-3 KJV)

The New King James says that a little more clearly.

“1 We give thanks to You, O God, we give thanks! For Your wondrous works declare that Your name is near. 2 “When I choose the proper time, I will judge uprightly. 3 The earth and all its inhabitants are dissolved; I set up its pillars firmly. Selah” (Psalm 75:1-3 NKJV)

Checking the New International Version helps also.

"1 We praise you, God, we praise you, for your Name is near; people tell of your wonderful deeds. 2 You say, “I choose the appointed time; it is I who judge with equity. 3 When the earth and all its people quake, it is I who hold its pillars firm." (Psalm 75:1-3 NIV)

"3 Knowing this first, that there shall come in the last days scoffers, walking after their own lusts, 4 And saying, Where is the promise of his coming? For since the fathers fell asleep, all things continue as they were from the beginning of the creation. 5 For this they willingly are ignorant of, that by the word of God the heavens were of old, and the earth standing out of the water and in the water: 6 Whereby the world that then was, being overflowed with water, perished: 7 But the heavens and the earth, which are now, by the same word are kept in store, reserved unto fire against the day of judgment and perdition of ungodly men. 8 But, beloved, be not ignorant of this one thing, that one day is with the Lord as a thousand years, and a thousand years as one day. 9 The Lord is not slack concerning his promise, as some men count slackness; but is longsuffering to us-ward, not willing that any should perish, but that all should come to repentance. 10 But the day of the Lord will come as a thief in the night; in the which the heavens shall pass away with a great noise, and the elements shall melt with fervent heat, the earth also and the works that are therein shall be burned up. 11 Seeing then that all these things shall be dissolved, what manner of persons ought ye to be in all holy conversation and godliness, 12 Looking for and hasting unto the coming of the day of God, wherein the heavens being on fire shall be dissolved, and the elements shall melt with fervent heat? 13 Nevertheless we, according to his promise, look for new heavens and a new earth, wherein dwelleth righteousness. 14 Wherefore, beloved, seeing that ye look for such things, be diligent that ye may be found of him in peace, without spot, and blameless." (2 Peter 3:3-14)

The verses above do not leave any doubt that at “the proper time” God will judge the inhabitants of the earth

NEW JERUSALEM

Christians are prepared for the idea of a new home, a new dwelling, a new city by Yeshua Himself.

"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." (John 14:2)

"My Father’s house has many rooms; if that were not so, would I have told you that I am going there to prepare a place for you?" (John 14:2 NIV)

Whether rooms or mansions, it is clear they are in Yeshua’s Father’s house.

Paul reminds all believers that they desire a better home, a heavenly home, and that Yahweh has prepared a city for them.

"13 These all died in faith, not having received the promises, but having seen them afar off, and were persuaded of them, and embraced them, and confessed that they were strangers and pilgrims on the earth. 14 For they that say such things declare plainly that they seek a country. 15 And truly, if they had been mindful of that country from whence they came out, they might have had opportunity to have returned. 16 But now they desire a better country, that is, an heavenly: wherefore God is not ashamed to be called their God: for he hath prepared for them a city."(Hebrews 11:13-16)

What is that new city? It is New Jerusalem.

"Him that overcometh will I make a pillar in the temple of my God, and he shall go no more out: and I will write upon him the name of my God, and the name of the city of my God, which is new Jerusalem, which cometh down out of heaven from my God: and I will write upon him my new name." (Revelation 3:12)

Where is that new city, New Jerusalem? The 21st chapter of The Book of Revelation in the Bible gives an amazing description of The New Jerusalem. Picture this city in your mind, as you read the chapter below.

"1 And I saw a new heaven and a new earth: for the first heaven and the first earth were passed away; and there was no more sea. 2 And I John saw the holy city, New Jerusalem, coming down from God out of heaven, prepared as a bride adorned for her husband. 3 And I heard a great voice out of heaven saying, Behold, the tabernacle of God is with men, and he will dwell with them, and they shall be his people, and God himself shall be with them, and be their God. 4 And God shall wipe away all tears from their eyes; and there shall be no more death, neither sorrow, nor crying, neither shall there be any more pain: for the former things are passed away. 5 And he that sat upon the throne said, Behold, I make all things new. And he said unto me, Write: for these words are true and faithful. 6 And he said unto me, It is done. I am Alpha and Omega, the beginning and the end. I will give unto him that is athirst of the fountain of the water of life freely. 7 He that overcometh shall inherit all things; and I will be his God, and he shall be my son. 8 But the fearful, and unbelieving, and the abominable, and murderers, and whoremongers, and sorcerers, and idolaters, and all liars, shall have their part in the lake which burneth with fire and brimstone: which is the second death. 9 And there came unto me one of the seven angels which had the seven vials full of the seven last plagues, and talked with me, saying, Come hither, I will shew thee the bride, the Lamb's wife. 10 And he carried me away in the spirit to a great and high mountain, and shewed me that great city, the holy Jerusalem, descending out of heaven from God, 11 Having the glory of God: and her light was like unto a stone most precious, even like a jasper stone, clear as crystal; 12 And had a wall great and high, and had twelve gates, and at the gates twelve angels, and names written thereon, which are the names of the twelve tribes of the children of Israel: 13 On the east three gates; on the north three gates; on the south three gates; and on the west three gates. 14 And the wall of the city had twelve foundations, and in them the names of the twelve apostles of the Lamb. 15 And he that talked with me had a golden reed to measure the city, and the gates thereof, and the wall thereof. 16 And the city lieth foursquare, and the length is as large as the breadth: and he measured the city with the reed, twelve thousand furlongs. The length and the breadth and the height of it are equal. 17 And he measured the wall thereof, an hundred and forty and four cubits, according to the measure of a man, that is, of the angel. 18 And the building of the wall of it was of jasper: and the city was pure gold, like unto clear glass. 19 And the foundations of the wall of the city were garnished with all manner of precious stones. The first foundation was jasper; the second, sapphire; the third, a chalcedony; the fourth, an emerald; 20 The fifth, sardonyx; the sixth, sardius; the seventh, chrysolyte; the eighth, beryl; the ninth, a topaz; the tenth, a chrysoprasus; the eleventh, a jacinth; the twelfth, an amethyst. 21 And the twelve gates were twelve pearls: every several gate was of one pearl: and the street of the city was pure gold, as it were transparent glass. 22 And I saw no temple therein: for the Lord God Almighty and the Lamb are the temple of it. 23 And the city had no need of the sun, neither of the moon, to shine in it: for the glory of God did lighten it, and the Lamb is the light thereof. 24 And the nations of them which are saved shall walk in the light of it: and the kings of the earth do bring their glory and honour into it. 25 And the gates of it shall not be shut at all by day: for there shall be no night there. 26 And they shall bring the glory and honour of the nations into it. 27 And there shall in no wise enter into it any thing that defileth, neither whatsoever worketh abomination, or maketh a lie: but they which are written in the Lamb's book of life." (Revelation 21:1-27)

Note that there will no humans in it “but they which are written in the The Lamb’s Book of Life.”

The question arises, since there is “no temple therein”, does the original temple stay in the third heaven, or heaven of heavens?

Paul told believers they have become citizens of the “heavenly Jerusalem.” These believers’ names are written in the Lamb’s book of life, so it is this heavenly Jerusalem which “descending out of heaven” which becomes the New Jerusalem on the NEW Earth.

"18 For ye are not come unto the mount that might be touched, and that burned with fire, nor unto blackness, and darkness, and tempest, 19 And the sound of a trumpet, and the voice of words; which voice they that heard intreated that the word should not be spoken to them any more: 20 (For they could not endure that which was commanded, And if so much as a beast touch the mountain, it shall be stoned, or thrust through with a dart: 21 And so terrible was the sight, that Moses said, I exceedingly fear and quake:) 22 But ye are come unto mount Sion, and unto the city of the living God, the heavenly Jerusalem, and to an innumerable company of angels, 23 To the general assembly and church of the firstborn, which are written in heaven, and to God the Judge of all, and to the spirits of just men made perfect, 24 And to Jesus the mediator of the new covenant, and to the blood of sprinkling, that speaketh better things than that of Abel." (Hebrews 12:18-24)

Paul says there is an Earthly Jerusalem, which is in bondage to the law, and a Jerusalem above, in heaven. It is this heavenly Jerusalem which John saw coming down from heaven to Earth.

"19 My little children, of whom I travail in birth again until Christ be formed in you, 20 I desire to be present with you now, and to change my voice; for I stand in doubt of you. 21 Tell me, ye that desire to be under the law, do ye not hear the law? 22 For it is written, that Abraham had two sons, the one by a bondmaid, the other by a freewoman. 23 But he who was of the bondwoman was born after the flesh; but he of the freewoman was by promise. 24 Which things are an allegory: for these are the two covenants; the one from the mount Sinai, which gendereth to bondage, which is Agar. 25 For this Agar is mount Sinai in Arabia, and answereth to Jerusalem which now is, and is in bondage with her children. 26 But Jerusalem which is above is free, which is the mother of us all. 27 For it is written, Rejoice, thou barren that bearest not; break forth and cry, thou that travailest not: for the desolate hath many more children than she which hath an husband. 28 Now we, brethren, as Isaac was, are the children of promise. 29 But as then he that was born after the flesh persecuted him that was born after the Spirit, even so it is now. 30 Nevertheless what saith the scripture? Cast out the bondwoman and her son: for the son of the bondwoman shall not be heir with the son of the freewoman. 31 So then, brethren, we are not children of the bondwoman, but of the free." (Galatians 4:19-31)

While Paul may have been speaking allegorically, Revelation makes it clear that the New Jerusalem is as real as the historical one. Revelation 21 gives tremendous detail about this city, too much for it to be an allegory.

Where is Yeshua dwelling at this time?

“22 And I saw no temple therein: for the Lord God Almighty and the Lamb are the temple of it. 23 And the city had no need of the sun, neither of the moon, to shine in it: for the glory of God did lighten it, and the Lamb is the light thereof. 24 And the nations of them which are saved shall walk in the light of it: and the kings of the earth do bring their glory and honour into it.” (Revelation 21:1-27)

It is clear that after Judgment Day, after the heaven and earth are destroyed, and the New Heaven and New Earth is created, Yeshua lives there, in the New Jerusalem. Why is that important? Because He had prayed to Yahweh the Father that believers would “be with me where I am”.

"Father, I will that they also, whom thou hast given me, be with me where I am; that they may behold my glory, which thou hast given me: for thou lovedst me before the foundation of the world." (John 17:24)

Paul says believers will live together with God. Since, at that time, He will be the light of that city, the New Jerusalem, believers will be with Yahweh and Yeshua in that city.

"9 For God hath not appointed us to wrath, but to obtain salvation by our Lord Jesus Christ, 10 Who died for us, that, whether we wake or sleep, we should live together with him." (1 Thessalonians 5:9-10)

So those who are saved through Yeshua the Messiah, will live together with Him, whereever He is.

WHAT WILL THE SAVED DO IN ETERNITY?

Perhaps it is best to start by admitting that we have no real idea exactly what we will be doing, and in fact CAN NOT understand it all. It is beyond what we can imagine!

"But as it is written, Eye hath not seen, nor ear heard, neither have entered into the heart of man, the things which God hath prepared for them that love him." (1 Corinthians 2:9)

We see that in the beginning, there was work that had to be done. God worked in creating.

"1 Thus the heavens and the earth were finished, and all the host of them. 2 And on the seventh day God ended his work which he had made; and he rested on the seventh day from all his work which he had made. 3 And God blessed the seventh day, and sanctified it: because that in it he had rested from all his work which God created and made." (Genesis 2:1-3)

Yeshua made it clear that creation was just a part of God’s work. He worked, rested, and then worked some more. And Yeshua said He worked because that was His example from the Father.

"16 And therefore did the Jews persecute Jesus, and sought to slay him, because he had done these things on the sabbath day. 17 But Jesus answered them, My Father worketh hitherto, and I work.18 Therefore the Jews sought the more to kill him, because he not only had broken the sabbath, but said also that God was his Father, making himself equal with God.19 Then answered Jesus and said unto them, Verily, verily, I say unto you, The Son can do nothing of himself, but what he seeth the Father do: for what things soever he doeth, these also doeth the Son likewise." (John 5:16-19)

It may help to look back at God’s original plan. He had a reason for making man.

"And the Lord God took the man, and put him into the Garden of Eden to dress it and to keep it." (Genesis 2:15)

It seems fair to think that humankind was made to be Park Rangers in the Garden of Eden, taking care of the plants and the animals. Then man sinned, and everything was ruined. When Our Father creates the New Heaven and the New Earth, it could be He is starting back up where He did at first, making a perfect world, and this time, perfect people to take care of it, and enjoy it. The point here is there is work to be done

Yet the hard work we have often suffered under is not what is in mind here. This will be in the New perfect Earth, where there will be no tears, no sorrow, no pain. The saved shall reign there, in the New Earth.

"1 And I saw a new heaven and a new earth: for the first heaven and the first earth were passed away; and there was no more sea. 2 And I John saw the holy city, New Jerusalem, coming down from God out of heaven, prepared as a bride adorned for her husband. 3 And I heard a great voice out of heaven saying, Behold, the tabernacle of God is with men, and he will dwell with them, and they shall be his people, and God himself shall be with them, and be their God. 4 And God shall wipe away all tears from their eyes; and there shall be no more death, neither sorrow, nor crying, neither shall there be any more pain: for the former things are passed away. 5 And he that sat upon the throne said, Behold, I make all things new. And he said unto me, Write: for these words are true and faithful. 6 And he said unto me, It is done. I am Alpha and Omega, the beginning and the end. I will give unto him that is athirst of the fountain of the water of life freely. 7 He that overcometh shall inherit all things; and I will be his God, and he shall be my son." (Revelation 21:1-7)

9 And they sung a new song, saying, Thou art worthy to take the book, and to open the seals thereof: for thou wast slain, and hast redeemed us to God by thy blood out of every kindred, and tongue, and people, and nation; 10 And hast made us unto our God kings and priests: and we shall reign on the earth." (Revelation 5:1-10)

So the saved can look forward to a meaningful, busy existence, in all joy and happiness, with no pain or sorrow. We have few details, but know it is going to be very good.

CONCLUSION

While our knowledge of where we shall spend eternity is not complete, we have seen some truths about it from the scriptures we have covered. For one thing, the saved will spend eternity with Yeshua and Yahweh. With a start like that, no other details really matter. We know it is going to be wonderfully good.

It seems there will be at least some time spent, in the End Times surrounding Judgment Day, in the heaven of heavens, where the Great White Throne Judgment take place.

We know that the “mansions” or place Yeshua is preparing for the saved is now in the heaven of heavens, but after judgment, this present earth and the first heaven, and probably the second heaven, will be destroyed, and a New Heaven and a New Earth will be created.

At that time, after Judgment Day, the “mansions” Yeshua is preparing for the saved in the Heavenly Jerusalem, will come down from the heaven of heavens to the New Earth, and Yahweh, the Father God, and Yeshua, the Son of God, will come down to the New Earth and dwell with people in the New Jerusalem.

If we consider that the heaven of heavens is where God’s throne is, or where God’s presence is, then it seems reasonable to think that the heaven of heavens will be with God in the New Jerusalem, on the New Earth. Then it would be fair to say that the saved will live with God the Father in “heaven”, on the New Earth, in the New Jerusalem.

With this wonderful future encouraging us forward, let us repent, confess, and believe daily, to keep ourselves free of sin, and to talk with our Father often, to be sure we are living in His will, pleasing to Him.

May the Holy Spirit of the Living God hold you and keep you to that glorious day.

Dan