As Christians, the one thing we all look forward to is heaven. It is always interesting to read others’ thoughts and feelings about what they think it may be like. Despite all of the pleasant thoughts and speculation, not a whole lot is known about this wonderful place. However, it is always very encouraging to reflect on what we do know. 1 Peter 1:3-4 says, “Blessed be the God and Father of our Lord Jesus Christ, who according to His great mercy has caused us to be born again to a living hope through the resurrection of Jesus Christ from the dead, to obtain an inheritance which is imperishable and undefiled and will not fade away, reserved in heaven for you.” It is from this passage that we can see 4 points about heaven.
(1) It is Imperishable. Everything we have on earth is perishable. Everything from our food, clothing, houses, cars, buildings, and even everything in nature. We know that one day all that we have will perish by fire (2 Peter 3:12). Despite what is normal for us here, it will be quite the opposite in heaven. Things are temporary here, but heaven is permanent. When we get to heaven, we will be in a place that will never go away.
(2) It is Undefiled. Once again, the world we live in today is full of corruption and dishonor. This is not something that we will find in heaven. There will be no sin and no corruption. Things will not become soiled and defiled. We will not have to worry about tears, hurting, and other negative aspects.
(3) It Will Not Fade Away. We already know heaven will be eternal and not fade away, but this can go even further. This is talking about something that never fades, never becomes dull or boring, and never corrodes. Even though we sometimes get tired of being in the same house or city, we will never get tired of being in heaven even though it is eternal. This will be the perfect home.
(4) It is Reserved in Heaven. Just like fancy hotels and restaurants, we have to make reservations if we want to be there. There are no tickets at the gate to get into heaven. We cannot buy it, and we definitely cannot earn it. This is something that is freely given by those who are baptized and obey God’s commands (2 Peter 3:9; Matthew 7:21; etc). When we obey God, we essentially get a place in heaven reserved for us. We get or names on the “guest list.”
Heaven truly sounds wonderful just from the little we can learn from 1 Peter 1:3-4. This is something we do not want to miss out on. Have we reserved our spot in heaven yet? Have we given up our reservations? Heaven is one thing we simply cannot afford to miss. Let’s makes sure we are doing what it takes to receive this wonderful inheritance that is imperishable, undefiled, will not fade away, and can be reserved in heaven for us.
Brett Petrillo