1. The Blessings of Heaven

2. Introduction In this lesson, we focus upon the blessings of heaven; next week, we will consider the horrors of hell. The Bible presents two gates, two paths, and two destinies (Matt. 7:13-14; Luke 13:23-24). Precious promises are reserved for the faithful; dreadful punishment await those who are faithless and disobedient.

3. Introduction Like Israel of Old, we must choose between life and death, the blessing and the curse (Deut. 30:19-20). Alluding to the glories of heaven, Paul said, “We eagerly wait for a Savior, the Lord Jesus Christ; who will transform the body of our humble state into conformity with the body of His glory” (Phil. 3:20-21).

4. Beauty Heaven is compared to the loveliness of a bride (Rev. 21:1-2). It is equated to the splendor of costly stones and precious jewels (Rev. 21:10-21). It is likened to a pristine and perfect garden (Rev. 22:1-2).

5. Comfort Jesus promised to comfort those who mourn, both in time and in eternity (Matt. 5:4). When Lazarus was carried by the angels into Abraham’s bosom, he found comfort in the Hadean realm (Luke 16:19-25, esp. vs. 25). Those who faithfully endure the great tribulation, having been washed in the blood of the lamb, find comfort in the heavenly realm (Rev. 7:13-17). So it is for all who attain unto the resurrection of the dead (Rev. 21:1-4).

6. Fellowship On the night of His betrayal, Jesus said, “If I go and prepare a place for you, I will come again and receive you to Myself, that where I am, there you may be also” (John 14:1-4). Those who share fellowship with God in time will share the same in eternity (John 17:20-24). Seeking things above, let us die to sin and live unto God; when Christ is revealed on that final day, we will also be revealed with Him in glory (Col. 3:1-4).

7. Purpose For the twelve apostles, this will involve judging (Matt. 19:27-30; Luke 22:28-30). For the redeemed, this will involve serving (Rev. 7:13-15; 22:3-4).

8. Rest Those who had been slain because of the word of God were told to rest a little while longer, until God’s purpose had been realized (Rev. 6:9-11). All who demonstrate faith and fidelity enjoy the promise of rest (Rev. 14:12-13).

9. Reward Hear the Lord’s beatitude regarding persecution (Matt. 5:11-12; Luke 6:22-23), Hear His statement regarding the need for readiness (Luke 12:35-40) and service (John 12:25-26). Paul anticipated a crown of righteousness (2 Tim. 4:6-8), while James spoke of the promised crown of life (James 1:12).

10. Security Although heaven has massive and impregnable walls (Rev. 21:12-14), its gates are never shut because the enemy has been completely vanquished (Rev. 20:10; 21:7-8, 25-27).

11. Worship The four living creatures, and the twenty-four elders worship Jehovah God who sits upon His throne and lives forever and ever (Rev. 4:9-11). Singing the song of Moses and the Lamb, the victorious saints worship the Lord God, the One who is righteous and true (Rev. 15:2-4). The great multitude joins in singing praises unto the Lord God Almighty, who lives and reigns (Rev. 19:1-6).

12. Conclusion As we have seen, heaven is a place of beauty, comfort, fellowship, purpose, rest, reward, security, and worship. Don’t you want to go there? Faithful obedience is required if we hope to receive the promises (Heb. 10:32-39).