We would like to know a lot more about heaven than we do. Information is scarce and there's a reason why. The Bible says, "No eye has seen, no ear has heard, no mind has conceived what God has prepared for those who love him." 1 Corinthians 2:9 NIV. What little we have is encouraging but not terribly enlightening. For instance, there is the occasion where Jesus was confronted by the Sadducees. They wondered: If one woman had seven legal husbands, who all died, whose wife would she be in heaven? Jesus answered, "For in the resurrection they neither marry, nor are given in marriage, but are as the angels of God in heaven." Matthew 22:30. I think most people would agree that procreation will cease because there will be no need of it in heaven. We will be recreated with glorified bodies and live forever. We read in Philippians 3:21, "[Jesus Christ]...will transform our lowly bodies so that they will be like his glorious body." NIV. In The Pulpit Commentary, Volume 15, p.363, edited by Spence and Exell, we read, "Glorified men are like the angels...They are immortal, no longer subject to human wants, passions, failings, or temptations; they serve God perfectly without weariness or distraction; they have no conflict between flesh and spirit, between the old nature and the new; their life is peaceful, harmonious, satisfying."

Concerning heavenly idendtity, I don't know of a clear cut "thus sayeth the Lord." But we have some really positive things to consider. There are many examples that the resurrected Jesus had what He called a body of flesh and bones. The disciples could see Him. They could touch Him. He ate some broiled fish and a honeycomb in their presence. See Luke 24:36-43. In John 21:4-14 we even find Jesus cooking a breakfast of fish and toast at his third appearing before His disciples. In addition, Mary clearly recognized Jesus on the morning of His resurrection. See John 20:11-16. Again it is worth repeating that, "[Jesus]...will transform our lowly bodies so that they will be like his glorious body." Philippians 3:21. It was Isaiah who wrote, "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 finally, as far as I can find out, the Bible is silent about babies. There are some texts I've seen used, but I personally cannot see where honest scholarship supports their use. Maybe it isn't an issue with God. Perhaps this is one of the times where we need to take consolation in Genesis 18:25, "...Shall not the Judge of all the earth do right?"

Blessings in your study of God's Word!

Marvin Hunt

There is never a charge for my articles, and if you have a good reason, there is no limit to how many you may request. However, if you find them valuable you may want to order my latest book, History, Mystery and Facts About the Bible. Order at 1-800-845-7618 (ext. 301). You may also order from Amazon.com. Proceeds from the book go to support this ministry.

Blessings!
Marvin Hunt

Http://www.biblehistory.com

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