THE BIBLE'S VIEWPOINT/THE EARTH

Is Heaven Mankind's Final Destination?

WHAT PEOPLE SAY

Many believe that all good people go to heaven.

WHAT THE BIBLE SAYS

Heaven belongs to God, but the earth is for man.  The Bible speaks of "the inhabited earth to come."  (Hebrews 2:5) Jesus was the first man to ascend to heaven, and the Bible shows that a select few others will go to heaven for a specific purpose. Alongside Jesus, they will "rule as kings over the earth." -Revelation 5:9, 10; Luke 12:32; John 3:13. 

WHY DOES IT MATTER?

The belief that all good people go to heaven is not compatible with the Bible really teaches.  If God were to take all good people to heaven, it would imply that he failed to accomplish his original purpose for the earth and that his promises regarding everlasting life on earth are not true. In contrast, God Word promises:  "Hope in Jehovah and follow his way, and he will exalt you to take possession of the earth." -Psalm 37:34. 

Next time: IS THE BIBLE RELEVANT TODAY?

From the Awake!  magazine