Three Heavens
Any student of Christianity has heard of the promise of heaven and/or the existence of heaven. How many know of the existence of three heavens?
Introduction:
The concept of heaven in Christian theology is multi-faceted and profound, with the Bible referencing not just one, but three distinct ‘heavens’. This article aims to explore these three heavens, drawing upon Biblical scriptures to understand their different characteristics and significance.
The First Heaven – The Sky and Earthly Atmosphere:
The first heaven refers to the tangible and visible sky that we see above us – the domain of birds, clouds, and the atmosphere. In Genesis 1:8, the Bible says, “And God called the firmament Heaven.” This ‘heaven’ represents the earthly realm, the beauty and complexity of the natural world that God created, including the day and night skies, weather phenomena, and the horizon.
The Second Heaven – The Celestial Realm:
The second heaven is often interpreted as the vast expanse of the cosmos beyond our immediate atmosphere – the sun, moon, stars, and planets. It’s referenced in Psalms 19:1, “The heavens declare the glory of God; and the firmament sheweth his handywork.” This ‘heaven’ symbolizes the grandeur and vastness of God’s creation, encompassing the entire universe beyond our planet.
The Third Heaven – The Dwelling Place of God:
The third heaven is perhaps the most profound and mysterious, often described as the spiritual realm where God resides. It’s mentioned explicitly by the Apostle Paul in 2 Corinthians 12:2, where he speaks of being “caught up to the third heaven.” This heaven is beyond physical and astronomical dimensions, representing the spiritual reality of God’s presence and kingdom. It’s often associated with paradise and the ultimate destination for believers.
Conclusion:
The biblical concept of the three heavens offers a layered understanding of the universe from the Christian perspective. It encompasses the physical world we inhabit, the vast universe beyond, and the spiritual realm of God’s presence. This layered view not only reflects the grandeur of God’s creation but also the multi-dimensional nature of existence as understood in Christian theology.