In our most recent Teaching Notes we have looked at the Word of God and how to study the Bible. We move now to the subject of Eternity.

[These notes are from 40 years ago when I spoke to a group of pastors. The notes are in outline form.]

Eternity is a timeless, spaceless dimension of real existence where God dwells (Isaiah 57:15). Each human being of times past, present and future is headed for that dimension.

The Christian will receive –

  • eternal life (John 3:15-16)
  • eternal redemption (Hebrews 9:12)
  • eternal salvation (Hebrews 5:9)
  • an eternal inheritance (Hebrews 9:15)
  • eternal glory (1 Peter 5:10)
  • an eternal reward (John 4:36)
  • eternal consolation (2 Thessalonians 2:16)
  • an eternal name (Isaiah 56:5)
  • eternal light (Isaiah 60:19-20)
  • eternal joy (Isaiah 51:11)
  • Heaven (Luke 16:9)

The non-Christian will receive –

  • eternal damnation (Mark 3:29)
  • eternal judgment (Hebrews 6:2)
  • eternal punishment (Matthew 25:46)
  • eternal destruction (2 Thessalonians 1:9)
  • eternal contempt (Daniel 12:2)
  • eternal fire (Matthew 25:41).

We should be excited about our eternal destiny as children of God. It sounds like a beautiful and satisfying life forever and ever. We may enter eternity through death or by being taken out of time and space through a miraculous act of God (1 Thessalonians 4:16-17; 1 Corinthians 15:51-52). At the time of transformation our bodies will be changed and we will be imperishable and immortal (1 Corinthians 15:53-54).

The Bible does not tell us when we will die or when we will be taken out of time through a miracle of God, but it will happen!

[Thank you for reading these teaching notes from 40 years ago. My prayer is they will be a blessing to you and your ministry.]