resurrection
Will we become angels when we go to Heaven?
Will we become angels when we go to Heaven?
### **The Nature of Angels**
Before delving into the possibility of becoming angels, it is crucial to understand the nature of these celestial beings. Angels are spiritual entities created by God to serve as His messengers and ministers. They are described as powerful, immortal, and possessing extraordinary abilities. The Bible provides numerous accounts of angels appearing to humans, delivering divine messages, and carrying out God’s will.
**Psalm 148:2-5 (KJV)** – “Praise ye him, all his angels: praise ye him, all his hosts. Praise ye him, sun and moon: praise him, all ye stars of light. Praise him, ye heavens of heavens, and ye waters that be above the heavens. Let them praise the name of the Lord: for he commanded, and they were created.”
### **The Transformation of Believers**
While the Bible does not explicitly state that we will become angels in Heaven, it does provide insights into the transformation that believers will undergo. The Apostle Paul, in his letter to the Corinthians, sheds light on this profound change:
**1 Corinthians 15:51-53 (KJV)** – “Behold, I shew you a mystery; We shall not all sleep, but we shall all be changed, In a moment, in the twinkling of an eye, at the last trump: for the trumpet shall sound, and the dead shall be raised incorruptible, and we shall be changed. For this corruptible must put on incorruption, and this mortal must put on immortality.”
These verses reveal that believers will undergo a miraculous transformation, exchanging their corruptible and mortal bodies for incorruptible and immortal ones. This transformation aligns with the nature of angels, who are immortal and spiritual beings.
### **The Heavenly Hierarchy**
The Bible also provides glimpses into the heavenly hierarchy, suggesting that there are different ranks and roles among the angelic beings. For instance, the book of Revelation mentions various types of angels, such as cherubim and seraphim, each with distinct responsibilities and positions.
**Revelation 4:6-8 (KJV)** – “And before the throne there was a sea of glass like unto crystal: and in the midst of the throne, and round about the throne, were four beasts full of eyes before and behind. And the first beast was like a lion, and the second beast like a calf, and the third beast had a face as a man, and the fourth beast was like a flying eagle. And the four beasts had each of them six wings about him; and they were full of eyes within: and they rest not day and night, saying, Holy, holy, holy, Lord God Almighty, which was, and is, and is to come.”
While believers may not necessarily become angels in the traditional sense, it is possible that they will be assigned unique roles and responsibilities within the heavenly realm, akin to the different ranks of angels described in Scripture.
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### **The Eternal Worship and Service**
One of the primary purposes of angels is to worship and serve God eternally. The book of Revelation paints a vivid picture of the heavenly hosts praising and glorifying the Almighty:
**Revelation 7:11-12 (KJV)** – “And all the angels stood round about the throne, and about the elders and the four beasts, and fell before the throne on their faces, and worshipped God, Saying, Amen: Blessing, and glory, and wisdom, and thanksgiving, and honour, and power, and might, be unto our God for ever and ever. Amen.”
Similarly, believers in Heaven will join the angelic hosts in eternal worship and service to God. The Apostle John’s vision in Revelation depicts the redeemed multitude praising God day and night, echoing the ceaseless worship of the angels.
**Revelation 7:15 (KJV)** – “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.”
### **The Eternal Communion with God**
Ultimately, the greatest joy and fulfillment in Heaven will be the eternal communion with God Himself. While angels are privileged to behold the glory of God and carry out His will, believers will experience an even deeper and more intimate relationship with their Creator.
**1 John 3:2 (KJV)** – “Beloved, now are we the sons of God, and it doth not yet appear what we shall be: but we know that, when he shall appear, we shall be like him; for we shall see him as he is.”
This verse promises that believers will be transformed into the likeness of Christ, enabling them to see God in all His glory and experience an unparalleled closeness with Him.
### **The Eternal Inheritance**
Furthermore, the Bible reveals that believers will inherit an eternal kingdom, reigning with Christ forever. This inheritance surpasses the role and purpose of angels, who are servants of God and ministers to the heirs of salvation.
**Revelation 22:5 (KJV)** – “And there shall be no night there; and they need no candle, neither light of the sun; for the Lord God giveth them light: and they shall reign for ever and ever.”
While angels are mighty and glorious beings, they are not destined to inherit the kingdom promised to believers. This eternal inheritance sets believers apart, elevating them to a unique and exalted position in the heavenly realm.
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## Conclusion
As we ponder the question of whether we will become angels in Heaven, the Bible provides profound insights and assurances. While we may not take on the traditional form of angels, the transformation promised to believers is far more glorious and intimate. We will be granted incorruptible and immortal bodies, assigned unique roles and responsibilities, and join the angelic hosts in eternal worship and service to God.
However, our ultimate destiny transcends even the exalted state of angels. We will experience an unparalleled closeness with our Creator, beholding His glory and reigning with Christ forever in the eternal kingdom. The heavenly realm holds wonders beyond our wildest imagination, and the Bible assures us that our eternal destiny will be one of unspeakable joy, fulfillment, and communion with the Almighty.
As we journey through this life, let us hold fast to the promises of God’s Word, eagerly anticipating the day when we will experience the fullness of our heavenly transformation and eternal inheritance.
What does the Bible say about Heaven? * Insights from Scripture
What does the Bible say about Heaven? * Insights from Scripture
Heaven, as depicted in the Bible, is a realm of divine glory, eternal bliss, and the presence of God. Throughout the pages of Scripture, various passages offer insights into the nature of Heaven, its inhabitants, and the conditions for entry. In this exploration, we delve into the biblical teachings about Heaven, drawing from both the Old and New Testaments.
### Heaven as God’s Dwelling Place
The Bible portrays Heaven as the abode of God Almighty, the Creator of the universe. In Psalm 115:16, it is written, “The heaven, even the heavens, are the Lord’s: but the earth hath he given to the children of men.” Similarly, Isaiah 66:1 declares, “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?”
Revelation 4 provides a vivid depiction of the heavenly throne room, where God is surrounded by myriads of angels and redeemed saints, worshiping Him ceaselessly: “And immediately I was in the spirit: and, behold, a throne was set in heaven, and one sat on the throne… And round about the throne were four and twenty seats: and upon the seats I saw four and twenty elders sitting, clothed in white raiment; and they had on their heads crowns of gold.” (Revelation 4:2-4, KJV)
### Eternal Life and Joy
Central to the biblical concept of Heaven is the promise of eternal life and joy for those who are faithful to God. In John 14:2-3, Jesus assures His disciples, saying, “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 unto myself; that where I am, there ye may be also.” This promise of eternal fellowship with God brings comfort and hope to believers.
Moreover, Revelation 21:4 describes Heaven as a place where God 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: “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.”
### Reward for the Righteous
The Bible teaches that Heaven is the ultimate reward for the righteous and faithful followers of God. In Matthew 5:12, Jesus declares, “Rejoice, and be exceeding glad: for great is your reward in heaven: for so persecuted they the prophets which were before you.” Similarly, Revelation 21:7 promises, “He that overcometh shall inherit all things; and I will be his God, and he shall be my son.” This vision of a glorious future encourages believers to persevere in their faith despite trials and tribulations.
### Entry Requirements
While the Bible offers the promise of Heaven to all who believe in Jesus Christ as their Lord and Savior, it also emphasizes the importance of righteous living and obedience to God’s commandments. In Matthew 7:21, Jesus warns, “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.”
This underscores the significance of genuine faith accompanied by a life of holiness and moral integrity. As the apostle Paul writes in 1 Corinthians 6:9-10, “Know ye not that the unrighteous shall not inherit the kingdom of God? Be not deceived: neither fornicators, nor idolaters, nor adulterers, nor effeminate, nor abusers of themselves with mankind, nor thieves, nor covetous, nor drunkards, nor revilers, nor extortioners, shall inherit the kingdom of God.”
### Resurrection and Transformation
The biblical depiction of Heaven includes the concept of resurrection and transformation for believers. In 1 Corinthians 15:51-52, the apostle Paul writes, “Behold, I shew you a mystery; We shall not all sleep, but we shall all be changed, In a moment, in the twinkling of an eye, at the last trump: for the trumpet shall sound, and the dead shall be raised incorruptible, and we shall be changed.”
This transformation entails the glorification of believers’ bodies, enabling them to dwell in God’s presence for eternity. As Paul further explains in Philippians 3:20-21, “For our conversation is in heaven; from whence also we look for the Saviour, the Lord Jesus Christ: Who shall change our vile body, that it may be fashioned like unto his glorious body, according to the working whereby he is able even to subdue all things unto himself.”
### Unity with Christ
At the heart of the biblical understanding of Heaven is the concept of unity with Christ. In Colossians 3:1-4, Paul writes, “If ye then be risen with Christ, seek those things which are above, where Christ sitteth on the right hand of God. Set your affection on things above, not on things on the earth. For ye are dead, and your life is hid with Christ in God. When Christ, who is our life, shall appear, then shall ye also appear with him in glory.”
This intimate union with Christ forms the essence of believers’ eternal fellowship with God in Heaven. As Jesus Himself declared in John 17:24, “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.”
### Conclusion
The Bible offers a rich tapestry of insights into the nature of Heaven, portraying it as a realm of divine glory, eternal joy, and the presence of God. Through passages spanning both the Old and New Testaments, believers gain glimpses of the heavenly reality awaiting those who place their trust in Jesus Christ and live according to His teachings.
As the ultimate destination for the faithful, Heaven serves as a source of hope, comfort, and inspiration for believers as they journey through life, anticipating the fulfillment of God’s promise of eternal life and communion with Him in the celestial realms. May these biblical insights encourage us to seek the things above and live in a manner worthy of the calling we have received, with our eyes fixed on the eternal inheritance that awaits us in Heaven.
Is It Okay To Be Cremated?
Is It Okay To Be Cremated?
Inquiries into the permissibility of cremation among Christians have surged in recent times, highlighting a significant shift in funeral traditions. With 64% of Christians polled expressing curiosity about the acceptability of cremation, it is evident that this trend is not isolated. Reports from NBC reveal that cremation has become “the hottest trend in the funeral business”, with an incredible 42% of Americans opting for cremation, doubling the rate observed just years ago. Notably, in certain regions, such as some states the cremation rate surpasses 70%.
This choice has become increasingly more and more frequent.
The notion of cremation, once deemed unconventional within Christian circles, now stirs debates among believers. Traditionally frowned upon by both the Christian Church and its Judeo forerunners, cremation has faced historical opposition. The absence of a formal crematorium in Israel until 2004 underscores this sentiment, with reports alleging its destruction in 2007 as an act of defiance by an orthodox Jewish group. The memory of the Holocaust, where millions were not given a proper burial, including through cremation, lingers prominently, particularly among orthodox Jews, who find the deliberate choice of cremation troubling.
Echoing the stance of their Jewish predecessors, early Christians also held reservations towards cremation. Evidence from the Roman Catholic Church’s ancient catacombs and the reverence shown towards saints suggests that cremation was not a prevalent choice among early adherents, a sentiment further reinforced by historical practices such as the burning of heretics at the stake. For these believers, cremation symbolized a departure towards Hell rather than an ascent to Heaven.
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However, attitudes towards cremation within Christian circles have begun to change over time. scholarly observations note a relaxation of prohibitions against cremation in recent years, with NT Wright highlighting its growing preference among Western Christians. Despite opposition from Eastern Orthodox, Orthodox Jews, and Muslims, cremation has gained popularity, often associated with Hindu or Buddhist theological beliefs.
Central to Hindu and Buddhist beliefs is the concept of reincarnation, wherein cremation serves as a means to return the deceased to the earth, facilitating their transition into a new earthly existence. While factors such as hygiene, overcrowding, cost, and convenience contribute to the increasing popularity of cremation, its acceptance within the Church also reflects a shifting focus away from the physical resurrection—an integral aspect of Christian hope.
The biblical narrative underscores the significance of the physical resurrection, epitomized by Jesus’ resurrection, which holds paramount importance in Christian theology. Scriptures affirm the hope of believers in a bodily resurrection, a belief shared even by Old Testament figures like Job and Daniel. This hope, grounded in the promise of a perfected, glorified state, underscores the value ascribed to the human body, purchased at the cost of Jesus’ life.
While cremation itself does not preclude the possibility of resurrection, it symbolically downplays the significance of bodily resurrection—a cornerstone of the Christian faith. The choice between a burial and cremation extends beyond mere practical considerations to encompass theological implications, serving as a testimony to one’s belief in the hope of resurrection.
While the Bible does not explicitly prohibit cremation, its narrative emphasizes the significance of burial practices in reflecting Christian hope. While cremation may not be inherently sinful, its adoption within Christian communities should prompt reflection on the theological implications and the testimony it conveys regarding the hope of resurrection.
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Consider This:
Consider this: I fully believe, it doesn’t matter where the body ends up or how it ended. What about those who died in a plane crash? What about those that were lost on the Titanic? They were not buried in a casket, nor buried at the cemetery, they would likely fall into a category similar to those that are cremated. I also believe cremation doesn’t matter because both of my parents were cremated. It had no bearing on their destination. Our destination is determined only by our acceptance or rejection of JESUS CHRIST while on this earth. The process of Cremation does not alter our destination, and one day that decayed body will reunite with its spirit and forever be immortal and eternal.
**Supporting KJV Bible Verses:**
– **Job 19:26**: “And though after my skin worms destroy this body, yet in my flesh shall I see God.”
– **Daniel 12:2**: “And many of them that sleep in the dust of the earth shall awake, some to everlasting life, and some to shame and everlasting contempt.”
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