The Kingdom of Heaven: H. G. Wells Perspective

In the vast expanse of human history, few ideas have captivated the imagination as profoundly as the concept of Heaven. It is a theme that has been explored by theologians, philosophers, and writers alike. Among them, H.G. Wells, a visionary in his own right, offered a unique perspective on the Kingdom of Heaven that challenges and inspires even today.

Heaven: A H.G. Wells Perspective

H.G. Wells, primarily known for his science fiction works, also delved into the realms of sociology and philosophy. His view of Heaven was not one of pearly gates and streets of gold, but rather a utopian vision of human society—a world governed by reason and morality, free from the shackles of ignorance and inequality. Wells saw the Kingdom of Heaven not as a distant afterlife but as a possible future for humanity on Earth.

The Biblical Foundation

The King James Version of the Bible presents Heaven as both a promise and a mystery. In Matthew 6:10, Jesus teaches us to pray, “Thy kingdom come. Thy will be done in earth, as it is in heaven.” This verse suggests a divine blueprint for Earth that mirrors the perfection of Heaven. It is this intersection of the heavenly and the earthly that resonates with Wells’ vision.

The Wellsian Ethos

For Wells, the Kingdom of Heaven was an ideal state of human existence, achievable through progress and enlightenment. He believed in the potential of mankind to evolve beyond its current limitations, to create a society where “the lion shall lie down with the lamb,” as prophesied in Isaiah 11:6. This echoes the biblical sentiment of a peaceful kingdom, free from strife and suffering.

Isaiah 11:6

“The wolf also shall dwell with the lamb, and the leopard shall lie down with the kid; and the calf and the young lion and the fatling together; and a little child shall lead them.”

The Role of Education

Wells emphasized the importance of education as a catalyst for reaching the Kingdom of Heaven. He argued that with knowledge and understanding, individuals could transcend their baser instincts and work towards a common good. This aligns with Proverbs 1:7, which states, “The fear of the LORD is the beginning of knowledge: but fools despise wisdom and instruction.”

Proverbs 1:7

“The fear of the LORD is the beginning of knowledge: but fools despise wisdom and instruction.”

The Challenge of Materialism

One of the obstacles to achieving the Kingdom of Heaven, according to Wells, is materialism. The pursuit of wealth and possessions often leads to inequality and conflict. In contrast, Matthew 6:19-21 warns against hoarding treasures on Earth and encourages seeking treasures in Heaven, where they endure eternally.

Matthew 6:19-21

19 Lay not up for yourselves treasures upon earth, where moth and rust doth corrupt, and where thieves break through and steal:

20 But lay up for yourselves treasures in heaven, where neither moth nor rust doth corrupt, and where thieves do not break through nor steal:

21 For where your treasure is, there will your heart be also.

The Wellsian Revolution

Wells did not shy away from the idea that reaching the Kingdom of Heaven might require a revolution of thought and society. He envisioned a world where social constructs are reevaluated and reformed to reflect higher moral standards. This revolutionary spirit is akin to Luke 17:21, where Jesus says, “The kingdom of God is within you,” suggesting a profound internal transformation.

The Promise of Eternity

While Wells focused on the earthly realization of Heaven, the Bible also speaks of an eternal Heaven, a place of everlasting life. John 3:16 assures us of this promise, offering salvation and an eternal home with God for those who believe.

John 3:16

“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.”

The Wellsian Legacy

H.G. Wells’ thoughts on the Kingdom of Heaven continue to inspire those who dream of a better world. His vision challenges us to strive for a society that reflects the virtues of Heaven—a society built on justice, compassion, and the relentless pursuit of truth.

Conclusion

The Kingdom of Heaven, as seen through the eyes of H.G. Wells, is more than a distant paradise; it is a call to action. It is a reminder that the seeds of a heavenly kingdom are sown in the here and now, in the hearts and minds of every individual. As we ponder the teachings of the KJV Bible and the insights of Wells, we are invited to partake in the grand endeavor of shaping a world that mirrors the divine—a world where Heaven is not just a place we aspire to reach after death, but a reality we create through our lives.

Consider This:

It seems to me that Mr. Wells, was only focusing on the present. I’ve heard it said, “This too shall pass.” This is true. The things which are seen are temporal. The things that are unseen are eternal. Heaven, for Christians, is our Eternal Home as for this earth is a temporary home. That being said the current Heaven, and the current Earth is not our Home, a new earth and a new Heaven will be revealed for the place for eternity. Mr. Wells thoughts and theory is correct! Heaven as he described cannot be achieved with man being in a sinful state. It will take a sin-free state and condition and place for this to happen.

Revelation 21:1

“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.”