Some people consider Heaven to be pie in the sky theology. They don't think about it now and they figure that if Jesus wants us there eventually, well, they will take whatever He gives them. Some people think that Heaven will be a more perfect version of life here on Earth. It will have mountains and rivers and lakes and there will be plenty of hunting and fishing there. Others think it will be about reuniting with loved ones. And some people think that if it really is paradise, surely their dogs and cats will be there with them.
The word paradise is only used three times in the new testament.
Luke 23:43"And Jesus said to him, assuredly, I say unto you, today you will be with me in Paradise."
2Cor. 12:4" How he was caught up into Paradise and heard inexpressible words, which it is not lawful for a man to utter."
Rev. 2:7" He who has an ear, let him hear what the Spirit says to the churches. To him who overcomes I will give to eat from the tree of life, which is in the midst of the Paradise of God."
Paradise is the abode of risen saints, not their pets. It is a place of blessedness and fulfilment, where finally all of God's promises are fulfilled. Some scholars believe that this is the new Garden of Eden which will be a part of the new heavens and new earth which are yet to come. It is in any sense a place of supreme blessedness, beyond anything that we can imagine.
One thing that I am sure of is no one will be there by accident.
There is both a present and a future idea concerning Paradise. It is not all pie in the sky, in the sweet by and by! You could go there today.
Maranatha!
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