Notes of Faith October 6, 2025
Which Heaven?
I know a man in Christ who fourteen years ago—whether in the body I do not know, or whether out of the body I do not know, God knows—such a one was caught up to the third heaven.
2 Corinthians 12:2
When you hear someone mention heaven, you could ask, “Which heaven do you mean?” The question is reasonable because the Bible mentions three different heavens.
Recommended Reading:
Deuteronomy 10:12-14
In order of proximity to earth, the three heavens are, first, the skies immediately above us—the domain of birds and clouds (Genesis 1:20). The second highest heaven is the vast universe beyond our atmosphere—the domain of the planets and solar systems (Genesis 1:14-17; Psalm 8:3-4; 19:1-6). The third heaven—the only one assigned a number—is not an atmospheric realm but is the domain of God. The first two heavens are visible to us on earth; the third heaven is not. This is the heaven visited by the apostle Paul, either in person or in a vision, where he heard “inexpressible words” that apparently informed the mission to which God had called him (2 Corinthians 12:4).
Eternity in the presence of God is the destination of all who have placed their faith in Christ. Are you sure that heaven is your ultimate destination?
I want to know one thing, the way to heaven.
John Wesley
Deut 10:12-13
what do you think God expects from you? Just this: Live in his presence in holy reverence, follow the road he sets out for you, love him, serve God, your God, with everything you have in you, 13 obey the commandments and regulations of God that I'm commanding you today — live a good life.
Phil 1:23-24
I am hard-pressed from both directions, having the desire to depart and be with Christ, for that is very much better; 24 yet to remain on in the flesh is more necessary for your sake.
The song “Everybody wants to go to heaven” that also says “nobody wants to go now”, is wrong. The mature believer in Christ is more than ready to leave this earthly life and “go” to be with their Lord and Savior now, now, now! Given that the Lord has chosen to leave us here, for the moment…we have work to do, more people to reach with the truth of God that they might be saved! Jesus is building His church, His body, and there is no one that will be left behind. If we keep quiet, someone else will be used by God to reach those that He is drawing to Himself. Let us burn with great fire to proclaim the truth while there is still time. The day of salvation is now!
Pastor Dale