What's The Difference Between Creation and Eternity?

Tough Questions for Christians #28—Earth and Heaven
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AZ says that Christian theology claims that God made earth perfect, and it all got screwed up. And heaven will be perfect. AZ then asks, if God already made earth as perfectly as possible then how do we know that heaven won’t be screwed up as well?

First of all, Scripture says that God’s creation was “good” not “perfect”. “Perfect” implies that there is no possible flaw. “Good” says that it is up to standard. But just because a Toyota comes off the line up to standard, that doesn’t mean that it won’t crash.

The Christian hope is not that “heaven” will be “perfect”, but that it will give us a better chance to live well than our lives currently do. In fact, there is still a war against Magog that is prophesied long after Jesus’ return to earth. Then there will be something closer to perfection.

Still, the Christian future is better than the Christian creation. Here are some of the improvements that God plans for the final creation:

1. All enemies are set aside. There won’t be people to try to convince people that wrong is right and hatred is love. Satan and evil governments will all be destroyed. Violent authorities will all be dissolved.

2. Enough for all. Everyone’s needs will be met, so there won’t be the enmity that comes from scarcity.

3. Perfected bodies. Our bodies won’t get sick or have mental illnesses. We will deal with stress better. We will make better decisions.

4. No death. We won’t be afraid of dying anymore, which gives us the courage to do what is right, no matter what the consequences.

5. Better government. We will have government that is concerned with equity for both poor and rich, and will actually listen to the people, acting for the people’s benefit, instead of for the leadership’s. Also, peace will be enforced with peace.

6. Fully accessible wisdom. There won’t be any second guessing as to the best course of action or what is really true. We will have a direct line to the Source of all wisdom. And he won’t go away if we say no. Actually, if we continue to say no, WE will be the ones to go away.

7. Merciful leaders. The only people who will be resurrected at first and will lead the people are those who listened to Jesus’ command to be merciful and compassionate.

There are other benefits, but this gives you an idea. This is a much better system than originally created and a much, much better system than we have now. Yet, somehow, it is built on the building blocks we currently have. The only question is whether you want to be a part of that future. If you do, then it is time to prepare for it now. Be merciful as Jesus was merciful. Be compassionate as Jesus was. Refuse to be judging or hating. And give to all who are in need.