A Glimpse of Eternal Glory
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The concept of paradise has captivated human hearts since the beginning of time. From the lush garden of Eden to the promise of a new heaven and new earth, God’s Word reassures us of an eternal home, filled with peace, joy, and divine presence. Jesus Himself spoke of this paradise, declaring to the thief on the cross, "Truly I tell you today, you will be with me in paradise." (Luke 23:43)
The Garden Lost and the Redemption Found
In Genesis, we see a perfect paradise—Eden—a place where mankind lived in harmony with God. However, sin entered, separating humanity from this paradise (Genesis 3:23-24). But God's love never wavered. His plan of redemption, fulfilled through Jesus Christ, opens the door to a restored paradise—an eternal dwelling in His presence.
The Promise of a New Heaven and Earth
Revelation 21:1 paints a breathtaking image: "Then I saw a new heaven and a new earth, for the first heaven and the first earth had passed away." This Heavenly Paradise is beyond earthly comprehension—a place where tears cease, pain vanishes, and joy reigns eternally (Revelation 21:4).
What Will Heaven Be Like?
The Bible reveals glimpses of paradise—golden streets (Revelation 21:21), gates of pearl, a river of life (Revelation 22:1-2), and the presence of God shining like a radiant sun (Revelation 21:23). It is not merely a place but a divine reality where believers bask in God’s presence forever.
A Place of Divine Light and Glory
One of the most astounding characteristics of paradise is the overwhelming presence of God’s glory. Revelation 21:23 declares, “The city does not need the sun or the moon to shine on it, for the glory of God gives it light, and the Lamb is its lamp.” Unlike the fleeting lights of the world, heaven radiates with eternal brilliance. There is no darkness—only the radiant presence of the Almighty. "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." (Revelation 22:5 KJV)
A Realm of Perfect Peace
In paradise, there is no conflict, fear, or distress. Isaiah 26:3 tells us, “You will keep in perfect peace those whose minds are steadfast because they trust in You.” This heavenly peace surpasses all understanding. Anxiety and sorrow will never intrude upon the joy-filled atmosphere of God’s kingdom.
The Absence of Pain and Suffering
The brokenness of this world will no longer exist in paradise. Revelation 21:4 assures, “He will wipe every tear from their eyes. There will be no more death or mourning or crying or pain.” Diseases, tragedies, and heartaches will become forgotten memories, replaced by everlasting comfort.
The Beauty Beyond Imagination
The descriptions of heaven in Revelation are breathtaking. Streets of pure gold (Revelation 21:21), gates of pearl, and foundations adorned with precious stones (Revelation 21:19-20) demonstrate the splendor of God’s craftsmanship. This paradise surpasses any earthly beauty, reminding us of the Creator’s majesty.
A Garden of Life and Abundance
Eden was a place of abundant life, and paradise will be even greater. Revelation 22:1-2 describes a river of life flowing from God’s throne, nourishing the tree of life, which bears fruit in every season. In heaven, abundance never ceases—joy, love, and provision are everlasting.
A Kingdom of Fellowship and Love
Paradise is a place of perfect relationships. Believers will live together in unity, worshiping and rejoicing without division or hatred. 1 Corinthians 13:8 says, “Love never fails.” In heaven, love reigns supreme, binding us eternally in harmony.
The Presence of Worship
Heaven is alive with songs of praise and adoration. Revelation 7:9-10 reveals a vast multitude worshiping God, saying, “Salvation belongs to our God, who sits on the throne, and to the Lamb.” Worship will be our eternal joy, forever declaring His holiness.
"For as the new heavens and the new earth, which I will make, shall remain before me, saith the LORD, so shall your seed and your name remain. And it shall come to pass, that from one new moon to another, and from one sabbath to another, shall all flesh come to worship before me, saith the LORD." (Isaiah 66:22,23 KJV)
"There are mysteries in the plan of redemption—the humiliation of the Son of God, that He might be found in fashion as a man, the wonderful love and condescension of the Father in yielding up His Son—that are to the heavenly angels subjects of continual amazement.... And these will be the study of the redeemed through eternal ages. As they contemplate the work of God in creation and redemption, new truth will continually unfold to the wondering and delighted mind. As they learn more and more of the wisdom, the love, and the power of God, their minds will be constantly expanding, and their joy will continually increase.—Testimonies for the Church 5:702, 703 (1889)". {LDE 304.2}
An Eternal Home for the Redeemed
The greatest characteristic of paradise is that it is our permanent home. Jesus promised in John 14:2, “In my Father’s house are many mansions… I am going there to prepare a place for you.” No longer will we feel lost or without purpose—our home with Him is everlasting.
"But our citizenship is in heaven. And we eagerly await a Savior from there, the Lord Jesus Christ," (Philippians 3:20 NIV)
Who Will Enter This Paradise?
Jesus clearly states in John 14:6, "I am the way, the truth, and the life. No one comes to the Father except through me." Heaven is not earned but given through faith in Jesus. Those who accept Him will inherit this eternal kingdom. "Not everyone who says to me, ‘Lord, Lord,’ will enter the kingdom of heaven, but only the one who does the will of my Father who is in heaven." [Matthew 7:21, Read also Psalms 40:8]
Blessed are they that do his commandments, that they may have right to the tree of life, and may enter in through the gates into the city. (Revelation 22:14 KJV)
The Urgency of Seeking Paradise Now
Matthew 6:19-20 reminds us, "Do not store up for yourselves treasures on earth... but store up treasures in heaven." Our focus must shift from temporary things to eternal rewards, living in faith and obedience to Christ.
Living With Paradise in Our Hearts
Even as we wait for the fullness of this promise, we experience a glimpse of heaven through a relationship with God. Prayer, worship, and love bring His kingdom near, transforming our lives daily.
"The great controversy is ended. Sin and sinners are no more. The entire universe is clean. One pulse of harmony and gladness beats through the vast creation. From Him who created all, flow life and light and gladness, throughout the realms of illimitable space. From the minutest atom to the greatest world, all things, animate and inanimate, in their unshadowed beauty and perfect joy, declare that God is love.—The Great Controversy, 678 (1911)." {LDE 306.1}
A Final Invitation
Paradise is not just a dream—it is our destiny when we choose Christ. May we live with this hope, longing for the day when we step into eternal joy.
Heaven is not a distant dream—it is a promised reality. Christ stands at the door and knocks (Revelation 3:20). The question is: Will you open and walk toward the Heavenly Paradise?
May our hearts be anchored in this hope, longing for the day we stand in the presence of the King.
To know more about Words of God, Heaven Paradise, and What will happen when Jesus Comes, and etc..., I recommend you read the Bible, and the book entitled Chapter 20 — The Inheritance of The Saints from the book "Last Day Events" by EGW.
Read also: What Will Happen When Jesus Returns.
Need prayer or have questions about the Bible? You are not alone! Visit http://from-darkness-tolight-ministry.web.app to send your prayer requests and Bible-related questions. Let’s grow in faith together—seeking God’s wisdom and support in every season of life.
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