“I know a man in Christ who fourteen years ago was caught up to the third heaven. Whether it was in the body or out of the body I do not know—God knows.” – 2 Corinthians 12:2
The Concept of the Heavens
When we look at the Bible, it beautifully describes the idea of three heavens. The first heaven is often seen as the atmosphere around us, where birds fly and clouds disperse. The second heaven encompasses the stars, planets, and galaxies that belong to the vast universe. The third heaven is viewed as the dwelling place of God, a heavenly realm we aspire to reach after our earthly journey. It’s exciting for us to consider that there is more to creation than what we immediately perceive.
Genesis 1:1
“In the beginning, God created the heavens and the earth.” – Genesis 1:1
Matthew 6:9
“This, then, is how you should pray: ‘Our Father in heaven, hallowed be your name.” – Matthew 6:9
Isaiah 65:17
“See, I will create new heavens and a new earth. The former things will not be remembered, nor will they come to mind.” – Isaiah 65:17
Psalm 115:16
“The highest heavens belong to the Lord, but the earth he has given to mankind.” – Psalm 115:16
Psalms 8:3
“When I consider your heavens, the work of your fingers, the moon and the stars, which you have set in place.” – Psalms 8:3
First Heaven: The Atmosphere
The first heaven represents the physical space we inhabit daily. From a Christian perspective, this space is filled with God’s creations: the air we breathe, the birds we see soaring in the sky, and the gentle breeze that refreshes us on warm days. It fills us with gratitude knowing that even in small moments, we can experience His artistry and care. This heaven is a reminder of our everyday blessings that often go unnoticed.
Luke 17:34
“I tell you, in that night there will be two in one bed: the one will be taken and the other will be left.” – Luke 17:34
John 3:13
“No one has ever gone into heaven except the one who came from heaven—the Son of Man.” – John 3:13
Job 35:11
“Who teaches us more than he teaches the beasts of the earth and makes us wiser than the birds in the sky?” – Job 35:11
Psalm 147:8
“He covers the sky with clouds; he supplies the earth with rain and makes grass grow on the hills.” – Psalm 147:8
Proverbs 30:19
“The way of an eagle in the sky, the way of a snake on a rock, the way of a ship on the high seas, and the way of a man with a young woman.” – Proverbs 30:19
Second Heaven: The Celestial Bodies
The second heaven is where the celestial bodies reside. This marvel reveals the grandeur of God’s design. As we look up at the stars, planets, and galaxies, we can’t help but be inspired by the vastness of God’s creation. This second realm encourages us to reflect on the magnificence of our universe and drives home the point of how immense God is compared to our earthly problems. Each twinkling star and shimmering galaxy are reminders of His endless creativity and power.
Psalm 19:1
“The heavens declare the glory of God; the skies proclaim the work of his hands.” – Psalm 19:1
Isaiah 40:26
“Lift up your eyes and look to the heavens: Who created all these? He who brings out the starry host one by one and calls forth each of them by name.” – Isaiah 40:26
Matthew 24:29
“Immediately after the distress of those days the sun will be darkened, and the moon will not give its light; the stars will fall from the sky, and the heavenly bodies will be shaken.” – Matthew 24:29
Revelation 6:13
“And the stars in the sky fell to earth, as figs drop from a fig tree when shaken by a strong wind.” – Revelation 6:13
Colossians 1:16
“For in him all things were created: things in heaven and on earth, visible and invisible, whether thrones or powers or rulers or authorities; all things have been created through him and for him.” – Colossians 1:16
Third Heaven: The Dwelling Place of God
The third heaven signifies where God resides. This heavenly kingdom is a place we look forward to, filled with joy, peace, and unconditional love. For us who believe, this is a reminder of our ultimate goal in life. We aspire to be in eternal communion with our Creator, basking in His presence and grace. The scriptures portray this celestial abode as a place without suffering or pain, a magnificent promise for all who place their trust in Christ Jesus.
Revelation 21:4
“He will wipe every tear from their eyes. There will be no more death or mourning or crying or pain, for the old order of things has passed away.” – Revelation 21:4
John 14:2
“My Father’s house has many rooms; if that were not so, would I have told you that I am going there to prepare a place for you?” – John 14:2
1 Corinthians 15:48
“As was the earthly man, so are those who are of the earth; and as is the heavenly man, so also are those who are of heaven.” – 1 Corinthians 15:48
Philippians 3:20
“But our citizenship is in heaven. And we eagerly await a Savior from there, the Lord Jesus Christ,” – Philippians 3:20
2 Peter 3:13
“But in keeping with his promise we are looking forward to a new heaven and a new earth, where righteousness dwells.” – 2 Peter 3:13
Final Thoughts
As we reflect on the concept of the three heavens, we realize just how majestic our God is. The first heaven reminds us of the beauty of our world, the second heaven shows us the vastness of His creation, and the third heaven fills our hearts with hope for the future. Remembering this can give us strength and peace in our daily lives. Each step we take is guided by the promise of eternal love and a glorious reunion with our Creator.
It’s fulfilling to know that while we live on earth, we can look above and appreciate the heavens. Whether we observe the clouds, admire the shining stars, or yearn for the presence of God, each aspect of the heavens serves to deepen our faith and connection with Him. For more enriching thoughts, consider exploring other biblical topics like these Bible verses or learn more about the kingdom of God.