Heaven is extremely difficult to imagine, wouldn’t you agree? Yet, this life is an inch, and then we will spend the rest of “forever” there—which means we are going to spend a long, long time in a place we barely understand.
As I was thinking about this, I decided to pepper the “Ask Pat” AI chatbot with questions about heaven—#39 on my list of 70 things every man needs to know. “Ask Pat” pulls from everything I’ve ever taught—recorded or written. (By God’s grace, I saved everything!)
I hope you will not only be encouraged by these answers and Scriptures but also inspired to dream more about where—and with whom—you will spend eternity.
Q: Describe heaven.A: Heaven is where God’s will is perfectly done—a realm of peace, joy, and beauty that far exceeds human understanding. The Bible offers glimpses: In Revelation 4:1, John sees a door open in heaven; in Acts 9:3, Saul is blinded by a light from heaven. Heaven isn’t just “out there.” It’s near, just beyond what we can perceive—a place of closeness to God and a source of comfort even now.
Q: What does the Bible say heaven will be like?A: The Bible offers breathtaking snapshots:
A new heaven and earth, where there’s no more death, mourning, or pain (see Revelation 21:1–4).
Jesus has prepared a place for us with Him (see John 14:2–3).
What God has prepared is beyond imagination (see 1 Corinthians 2:9).
A river of life, the tree of life, and eternal reign with God (see Revelation 22:1–5).
Q: Where is heaven?A: Heaven is a real but unseen dimension—close, yet imperceptible. Jesus told the thief on the cross, “Today you will be with me in paradise” (Luke 23:43b), suggesting an immediate entry into God’s presence. It’s where Christ is, where God dwells, and where we will be fully alive.
Q: What will we do in heaven?A: We’ll experience joy-filled purpose—worship, community, meaningful work, and deep relationships. It will be like doing the things we love most here, but even better and without frustration or sorrow (Revelation 21:4).
Q: How long does heaven last?A: Forever. Revelation 22:5b says, “They will reign forever and ever.” Heaven is eternal life with God.
Q: Won’t we get bored living forever?A: Not at all. In heaven, time and fulfillment will be completely different. Every moment will be fresh with purpose and joy. You won’t be sitting idle; you’ll be engaged in worship, relationships, and work that energizes your soul.
Q: Is there marriage in heaven?A: No, not in the earthly sense. Jesus said we won’t marry in heaven but will be like the angels (see Matthew 22:30). That said, our relationships will be deeper and more fulfilling than ever.
Q: Will I know my wife in heaven?A: Yes. Many texts indicate that personal identity and consciousness of others continues after death, such as Luke 16:19–31 (The Rich Man and Lazarus). Recognition is perfected, not lost. 1 Corinthians 13:12 tells us we’ll “know fully, even as [we are] fully known.” You’ll recognize and rejoice with your loved ones, including your spouse and other relatives. Heaven is restoration, not exile.
Q: Will we have children or procreate in heaven?A: No. Jesus taught that in the resurrection, people will not marry or be given in marriage (see Matthew 22:30). Our joy and purpose will come from other, more eternal relationships.
Q: Will there be work in heaven?A: Yes—fulfilling, joyful, frustration-free work. Revelation 22:3 says God’s servants will serve Him. Work in heaven will be perfectly suited to your God-given design.
Q: What kind of work will we do?A: While the Bible doesn’t give detailed job descriptions, it implies creative, meaningful activity—perhaps stewardship, hospitality, or leadership. Like Adam in Eden, we’ll tend to creation, only this time without weeds or toil.
Q: What is the “new heaven and new earth”?A: In Revelation 21:1, John sees a transformed world—a restored creation free of suffering and death. This isn’t escapism. It’s a future reality: heaven and earth united, and life as God intended it from the beginning.
Q: What does “all things will be made new” mean?A: In Revelation 21:5b, God declares, “Behold, I am making all things new.” That includes your body, your surroundings, your relationships—everything. It’s a promise of complete restoration.
Q: Will I see people I know in heaven?A: Yes. Heaven is a reunion. 1 Thessalonians 4:17 promises we’ll be “together with the Lord,” implying deep fellowship not only with God but also with each other.
Q: Why is heaven something I should look forward to?A: Because it’s the fulfillment of every holy longing. No more pain or loss (see Revelation 21:4). Only joy, peace, and perfect love. Heaven is not an escape—it’s the destination your heart was made for.
Q: I don’t like singing—will I still enjoy heaven?A: Yes. Worship in heaven isn’t limited to singing—it includes every joyful expression of love to God. You’ll worship in the way you’re wired. And who knows? You might discover you love singing after all!
Q: How can I, a mere man, grasp heaven?A: You can’t—not fully. But you can trust the One who has gone ahead to prepare a place for you. 1 Corinthians 2:9 says, “No eye has seen… what God has prepared for those who love Him.” Heaven will exceed every hope.
Q: What does Randy Alcorn say about heaven?A: Randy Alcorn’s book Heaven is a must-read. He emphasizes that heaven is a tangible, physical reality—full of beauty, community, work, and worship. He encourages believers to imagine heaven as the best parts of life multiplied beyond comprehension.
And for my wife, the most important question of all—the theology of pets in heaven!
Q: Will our pets be in heaven—and will we know them?A: The Bible doesn’t say for sure, but Romans 8:21 hints that all creation will be redeemed. If having our pets brings us joy, it’s possible God will include them in heaven.
All of these responses, based on my teachings, were generated by the “Ask Pat” AI chatbot, which was designed to help you explore biblical truth and grow in faith. If you’re curious about heaven or any other topic and want to try the chatbot yourself, it’s easy and free to use. Check it out today!
Much love,
Pat
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