Go! And Set Your Heart on Heaven
Introduction
Today, we explore one of the most beautiful and hope-filled topics in Scripture: What does the Bible say about Heaven? Heaven is the ultimate destination for all who trust in Jesus Christ as Lord and Saviour. It is a place of eternal joy, peace, and communion with God. Yet, many of us may have questions: What is Heaven like? Who will be there? What does it mean for us today?
C.S. Lewis once wrote, “If I find in myself desires which nothing in this world can satisfy, the only logical explanation is that I was made for another world.” This morning, let us fix our eyes on that eternal home, and may our hearts be stirred to live with Heaven in view.
Point 1: Heaven Is a Real Place
Let’s begin by affirming that Heaven is a real place. Jesus tells His disciples in John 14:2-3 (NLT): “There is more than enough room in my Father’s home. If this were not so, would I have told you that I am going to prepare a place for you? When everything is ready, I will come and get you, so that you will always be with me where I am.”
These words were spoken by Jesus on the night before His crucifixion, offering comfort to His disciples. The term “Father’s home” refers to Heaven, a tangible, prepared place. The Greek word used for “place” here is topos, which indicates a physical location—not a vague, ethereal existence.
Heaven is not a dream or a metaphor; it is real. This reality should give us hope and assurance, especially in moments of trial. As Randy Alcorn writes in his book Heaven, “The best of life on earth is a glimpse of Heaven; the worst of life is a glimpse of Hell. For Christians, this present life is the closest they will come to Hell. For unbelievers, it is the closest they will come to Heaven.” Let us live with anticipation for our eternal home.
Point 2: Heaven Is God’s Dwelling Place
Psalm 33:13-14 (NLT) declares: “The Lord looks down from heaven and sees the whole human race. From his throne he observes all who live on the earth.”
The psalmist paints a picture of God reigning from Heaven. The Hebrew word for “Heaven” is shamayim, which means “heights” or “elevated place.” It conveys the transcendence of God’s throne and His sovereign oversight of creation.
Heaven is where God dwells in His fullness, and it reminds us of His majesty and authority. When we worship, we connect with the God of Heaven. This truth should inspire awe and reverence in our daily walk with Him.
Point 3: Heaven Is a Place of Eternal Joy and Peace
Revelation 21:4 (NLT) gives us a glimpse of Heaven’s beauty: “He will wipe every tear from their eyes, and there will be no more death or sorrow or crying or pain. All these things are gone forever.”
This verse comes from John’s vision of the new Heaven and the new Earth. The imagery reveals a place free from the brokenness and pain of our current world. The phrase “no more” emphasises the permanence of God’s restoration.
In Heaven, all our struggles and sorrows will cease. Imagine a world without sickness, loss, or grief—a place of perfect peace. This hope should sustain us through life’s difficulties, reminding us that our present suffering is temporary compared to the eternal glory that awaits us (Romans 8:18).
Point 4: Heaven Is for Those Who Trust in Jesus
Revelation 21:27 (NLT) says: “Nothing evil will be allowed to enter, nor anyone who practices shameful idolatry and dishonesty—but only those whose names are written in the Lamb’s Book of Life.”
The Lamb’s Book of Life symbolises the record of those who have placed their faith in Jesus. The Greek word for “book” is biblion, signifying a written record. Heaven is reserved for those who have been redeemed by Christ’s sacrifice.
Entrance into Heaven is not based on our works but on God’s grace. If your name is written in the Lamb’s Book of Life, you have the assurance of eternal life. This truth should motivate us to share the gospel with others, inviting them to receive the same gift of salvation.
Imagine a child lost in a crowd, desperately searching for their parent. When they finally see their parent’s face, they run into their arms, overwhelmed with relief and joy. That’s what it will be like when we enter Heaven and see our Heavenly Father face to face. The longing of our hearts will finally be satisfied.
Conclusion: Go! And Live with Heaven in View
As we close, let us fix our eyes on Heaven, our eternal home. Jesus has prepared a place for us, and He invites us to live with the hope and joy that comes from knowing our destiny is secure in Him.
Call to Action:
Go! And live with Heaven in view. Let your life reflect the reality of eternity. Share the good news of Jesus with those who do not yet know Him, and invite them to experience the joy of salvation. If you have not placed your faith in Jesus, today is the day to respond. He is the way, the truth, and the life, and He offers you the gift of eternal life.
