EARTH Just A Testing Ground?

Why Some Do Go to Heaven

Many readers of the Bible, however, are aware of Jesus' words: "In the house of my Father there are many abodes . . . I am going my way to prepare a place for you." (John 14:2, 3) Does this not contradict the idea of life everlasting on a paradise earth?

These teachings are not contradictory. In fact, one supports the other. To begin with, the Bible states that only a limited number of faithful Christians -namely, 144,000of them- are raise as spirit creatures to live in heaven. Why are they given this wonderful reward? Because they make up the group that John saw in a vision who "came to life and ruled as kings with the Christ for a thousand years." (Revelation 14:1, 3; 20:4-6) Compared with the billions on earth, the 144,000 truly are a "little flock." (Luke 12:32) Moreover, having experienced the problems common to humankind, like Jesus they will be able to "sympathize with out weaknesses" as they supervise the rehabilitation of mankind and of the earth. -Hebrews 4:15.

Next time: Earth-Mankind's Eternal Home

Watchtower, 2000