### **Are We Truly Longing for Heaven? A Look at J. Vernon McGee’s Teachings**

### **Introduction**

J. Vernon McGee, a beloved Bible teacher, was known for his straightforward and practical approach to Scripture. His teachings often challenged believers to reflect deeply on their relationship with Christ and the reality of Heaven.

One of his most striking messages was his assertion that Heaven is not simply a place of escape from suffering—it is a realm of worship, joy, and eternal communion with Christ. He questioned whether people truly longed for Heaven or merely feared the alternative.

This post explores McGee’s perspective on Heaven, the idea of being spiritually seated in “the heavenlies,” and what it means for us today.

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### **McGee’s View on Heaven as a Place of Worship**

McGee emphasized that Heaven will be centered around worship. He warned that if worship feels dull or burdensome on Earth, it may reveal a lack of true longing for Heaven. Worship in Heaven will not be an obligation but an overflow of love and awe for God’s presence.

Many people think of Heaven as a place of personal joy, peace, and reunion with loved ones—but McGee urged believers to see it as more. It is the place where worship reaches its highest form, where every soul is captivated by the presence of God.

**Consider this powerful vision of heavenly worship:**

**”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.* **And when those beasts give glory and honour and thanks to him that sat on the throne, who liveth for ever and ever.”**

— **Revelation 4:8-9 (KJV)**

If this is what Heaven is—a continuous outpouring of praise—how does our current worship reflect that longing? McGee’s teaching invites us to examine our hearts. Worship is not merely a Sunday routine; it is preparation for eternity.

### **Being Seated in the Heavenlies**

One of McGee’s most profound teachings is the idea that believers are spiritually seated in “the heavenlies” with Christ. This concept is based on the truth found in Paul’s words:

**”And hath raised us up together, and made us sit together in heavenly places in Christ Jesus.”** **Ephesians 2:6 (KJV)**

McGee taught that salvation does not merely bring a person from spiritual death to life—it elevates them to a new position in Christ. Instead of remaining grounded in earthly struggles, believers are spiritually linked to the reality of Heaven.

But what does this mean in our daily lives?

– It means that our identity is not defined by temporary hardships but by the eternal promise that we belong to Christ.

– It means we should live with the mindset of Heaven—putting away earthly distractions and setting our hearts on eternal things.

Another verse supports this perspective:

**”Set your affection on things above, not on things on the earth.”**  **Colossians 3:2 (KJV)**

McGee’s teaching encourages us to ask: *Am I living in the reality of my spiritual position in Christ? Or am I consumed by earthly concerns?*

### **What This Means for Us**

McGee’s views on Heaven are not meant to instill fear but to provoke thought. Many people envision Heaven as a paradise free of suffering, but do they long for Christ Himself? McGee urged believers to consider their true desires—if Christ is not the center of our longing, then our understanding of Heaven may be incomplete.

To make this more relatable, imagine two individuals:

– One sees Heaven as an escape from earthly pain but has little interest in God’s presence.

– The other longs to see Jesus, to worship Him, and to be eternally in His presence.

Which one is truly longing for Heaven?

A stirring verse reminds us of the ultimate reward of eternity:

**”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.”**  **1 John 3:2 (KJV)**

The way we live and worship today shapes our anticipation for eternity. By seeking Christ with genuine love, we prepare our hearts for Heaven, making our faith more than just belief—it becomes devotion.

### **Consider This**

Heaven is more than an escape—it is an eternal home for those who love Christ. McGee’s words challenge us to examine our hearts:

– **Do we truly desire Heaven, or do we just want relief from earthly suffering?**

Heaven is not simply a reward—it is a dwelling place for worshipers of God. If our longing for eternity lacks a desire for Christ Himself, we may need to reorient our hearts.

– **Is worship a joy to us, or merely a routine?**

Worship in Heaven will be pure, passionate, and ceaseless. Our experience of worship now should be a reflection of that. If worship feels uninspiring, how can we shift our perspective to find joy in honoring God?

– **Are we living as people who are spiritually seated with Christ?**

If believers are already seated in heavenly places with Him, we should live with the mindset of eternity. This means focusing on holiness, love, and devotion to God above all else.

One last verse sums up this heavenly perspective:

**”Lay up for yourselves treasures in heaven, where neither moth nor rust doth corrupt, and where thieves do not break through nor steal.”** **Matthew 6:20 (KJV)**

Heaven is not just a future destination—it is a present reality for those in Christ. As you reflect on McGee’s teachings, consider how you can deepen your longing for Christ, because in the end, **He is what makes Heaven heavenly.**