Throughout the Bible, references to heaven appear frequently, describing it as the dwelling place of God, the realm of spiritual beings, and the final destination for believers. But did you know that Scripture reveals there are three heavens? Each of these heavens serves a unique purpose, and your eternal destination depends on the choices you make in this life.
This blog explores the concept of the three heavens, supported by Scripture, and challenges you to choose wisely where you want to spend eternity.
1. What Are the Three Heavens?
The Bible speaks of three distinct “heavens,” each serving a different role in God’s divine order:
a. The First Heaven: The Sky and Atmosphere
The first heaven refers to the physical sky and atmosphere that surround the earth—the realm of the clouds, birds, and weather patterns.
- “God said, ‘Let there be a vault between the waters to separate water from water.’ So God made the vault and separated the water under the vault from the water above it. And it was so. God called the vault “sky.” (Genesis 1:6-8).
This is the heaven we see with our physical eyes—the visible expanse where the sun rises and sets and where nature reveals God’s handiwork.
b. The Second Heaven: The Celestial Realm
The second heaven refers to the realm of outer space, where the stars, planets, and celestial bodies exist.
- “When I consider Your heavens, the work of Your fingers, the moon and the stars, which You have set in place...” (Psalm 8:3).
This is the vast, awe-inspiring universe that reflects God’s power and majesty. However, it is also a realm where spiritual warfare takes place. Paul alludes to this in Ephesians 6:12, describing the unseen battle in the heavenly realms.
c. The Third Heaven: The Dwelling Place of God
The third heaven is the most significant of all—it is the very throne room of God, the eternal home of believers who have been redeemed through Christ.
- “I know a man in Christ who fourteen years ago was caught up to the third heaven. Whether it was in the body or out of the body, I do not know—God knows. And I know that this man was caught up in paradise and heard inexpressible things, things that no one is permitted to tell” (2 Corinthians 12:2-4).
Paul’s description of the third heaven emphasises its holiness and indescribable glory. This is the heaven that believers long for—the ultimate destination where we will dwell with God forever.
2. Choosing Your Eternal Destination
While we may experience the first and second heavens during our earthly lives, the third heaven is not automatically guaranteed. Your eternal destination depends on your relationship with God and the choices you make in response to His call.
The Invitation to the Third Heaven
God invites everyone to spend eternity with Him in the third heaven, but the choice is ours to make. Jesus made this invitation clear:
“My father’s house has many rooms; if that were not so, would I have told you that I am going there to prepare a place for you?” (John 14:2).
The way to the third heaven is through Jesus Christ alone.
“I am the way, the truth, and the life. No one comes to the Father except through Me” (John 14:6).
Rejecting God’s Invitation
Rejecting God’s invitation to eternal life results in separation from Him. The Bible warns that those who refuse His grace will not inherit the kingdom of heaven.
“But the cowardly, the unbelieving, the vile, the murderers, the sexually immoral, those who practice magic arts, the idolaters, and all liars—they will be consigned to the fiery lake of burning sulphur. This is the second death” (Revelation 21:8).
Eternal separation from God is not His desire for anyone. He longs for all to come to repentance and choose life (2 Peter 3:9).
3. What Awaits in the Third Heaven?
The third heaven is the ultimate promise of God for those who believe in Him. It is a place of unimaginable beauty, peace, and joy.
- Eternal Life:
“And this is the testimony: God has given us eternal life, and this life is in His Son” (1 John 5:11). - No More Suffering
“He will wipe every tear from their eyes. There will be no more death or mourning or crying or pain, for the old order of things has passed away” (Revelation 21:4). - The Presence of God
“Now the dwelling of God is with men, and He will live with them. They will be His people, and God Himself will be with them and be their God” (Revelation 21:3).
4. The Role of Faith in Choosing Heaven
Your eternal destiny hinges on your faith in Jesus Christ. Salvation is not earned through works or religious rituals but is a gift of grace.
“For it is by grace you have been saved, through faith—and this is not from yourselves; it is the gift of God—not by works, so that no one can boast” (Ephesians 2:8–9).
Steps to Secure Your Place in the Third Heaven
- Repent of Sin: Turn away from sin and surrender your life to God.
“Repent, then, and turn to God, so that your sins may be wiped out” (Acts 3:19). - Believe in Jesus Christ: Place your faith in Him as your Saviour and Lord.
“Believe in the Lord Jesus, and you will be saved—you and your household” (Acts 16:31). - Walk in Obedience: Live a life that reflects your commitment to God.
“If you love Me, keep My commands” (John 14:15).
5. The Urgency of Choosing Today
The Bible warns us of the brevity of life and the urgency of making our decision:
“Why, you do not even know what will happen tomorrow. What is your life? You are a mist that appears for a little while and then vanishes” (James 4:14).
Today is the day of salvation. Don’t wait to secure your eternal place in the third heaven.
“Now is the time of God’s favour; now is the day of salvation” (2 Corinthians 6:2).
6. Final Encouragement: Your Choice Matters
The existence of three heavens highlights God’s vast creation and His ultimate plan for humanity. While the first and second heavens declare His glory (Psalm 19:1), the third heaven is where His children will experience the fullness of His presence forever.
You have the opportunity to choose your eternal home. The invitation to the third heaven is open to all who place their faith in Jesus Christ. Will you say yes to Him today?
Prayer of Salvation:
Lord Jesus, I thank You for Your love and sacrifice that make eternal life possible. I repent of my sins and surrender my life to You. I believe that You are the way, the truth, and the life, and I place my faith in You as my Saviour. Secure my place in the third heaven, and guide me to live a life that honours You. In Your mighty name, Amen.
Final Word:
The choice is yours—eternal separation from God or eternal life with Him in the third heaven. Choose wisely, and embrace the abundant life that Jesus offers. The third heaven awaits those who say yes to God’s invitation. Will you accept it today?