Introduction
Heaven is a topic that fascinates many believers and non-believers alike. For Christians, the hope of spending eternity with Jesus and our loved ones is a powerful and comforting thought. One question that often arises when considering the afterlife is: “What age will we be in heaven?” This blog post will explore this intriguing question and attempt to shed light on the subject through the lens of the New King James Version (NKJV) Bible.
The Bible does not specifically address the question of what age we will be in heaven, but it does provide us with some insights and principles that can help us form a better understanding. The following sections will discuss various aspects of our heavenly existence, including the nature of our resurrected bodies, the absence of sin and suffering, and the concept of time in eternity. While some aspects of our eternal state will remain a mystery until we experience it for ourselves, we can find comfort and hope in the biblical teachings and promises about our future home.
The Nature of Our Resurrected Bodies
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Glorified Bodies
The Bible teaches that when we go to heaven, we will receive new, glorified bodies. In 1 Corinthians 15:42-44 (NKJV), Paul writes about the resurrection: “So also is the resurrection of the dead. The body is sown in corruption, it is raised in incorruption. It is sown in dishonor, it is raised in glory. It is sown in weakness, it is raised in power. It is sown a natural body, it is raised a spiritual body.” These verses imply that our resurrected bodies will be different from our earthly bodies, free from the limitations of age, disease, and decay.
Christ’s Resurrection as a Model
Jesus’ own resurrection serves as an example for believers. In Philippians 3:20-21 (NKJV), Paul writes, “For our citizenship is in heaven, from which we also eagerly wait for the Savior, the Lord Jesus Christ, who will transform our lowly body that it may be conformed to His glorious body, according to the working by which He is able even to subdue all things to Himself.” Jesus’ resurrected body was recognizable to his disciples, yet it was no longer subject to the limitations of a human body. In the same way, our resurrected bodies may retain some recognizable characteristics, but will also be transformed and glorified.
Age in Resurrected Bodies
While the Bible does not give a specific age for our resurrected bodies, we can infer that we will be free from the limitations and suffering associated with aging. The glorified bodies we receive will likely embody the fullness and vitality of life without the frailties we experience on earth.
The Absence of Sin and Suffering
No More Pain or Sorrow
In heaven, there will be no more suffering or pain. Revelation 21:4 (NKJV) states, “And God will wipe away every tear from their eyes; there shall be no more death, nor sorrow, nor crying. There shall be no more pain, for the former things have passed away.” This verse implies that the struggles and hardships we face on earth will no longer exist in heaven. The effects of aging, illness, and injury will be eliminated, allowing us to experience perfect health and wholeness.
Sinless Existence
Our heavenly existence will be free from the presence and effects of sin. In 1 John 3:2 (NKJV), John writes, “Beloved, now we are children of God; and it has not yet been revealed what we shall be, but we know that when He is revealed, we shall be like Him, for we shall see Him as He is.” As believers, we will be transformed to be like Jesus, who was sinless and perfect in every way. This transformation will free us from the bondage of sin and its consequences, including the physical and emotional struggles that come with aging.
Age and Wisdom
While we may not know our exact age in heaven, the absence of sin and suffering suggests that we will have the wisdom and understanding that often come with age, without the associated physical decline. In our eternal state, we will be able to fully know and comprehend the truth, just as God intended.
The Concept of Time in Eternity
Timelessness in Heaven
In heaven, the concept of time as we know it may not exist. The Bible speaks of eternity as being outside of time, a reality where the past, present, and future merge into one. This can be seen in 2 Peter 3:8 (NKJV), where Peter writes, “But, beloved, do not forget this one thing, that with the Lord one day is as a thousand years, and a thousand years as one day.” This verse suggests that our perception of time will be radically different in heaven.
Time and Age
If time is different or nonexistent in heaven, the concept of age may not hold the same meaning as it does on earth. In our eternal state, age may become irrelevant as we experience the fullness of God’s presence and the joy of eternal life with Him. Our focus will be on worshiping God and enjoying the perfect fellowship with Him and other believers.
Growth and Learning
Though the concept of age may not apply in heaven, it is possible that we will continue to grow and learn in our eternal state. The Bible teaches that we will never fully comprehend the infinite nature of God, which suggests that we may continue to explore and discover the depths of His character and creation throughout eternity.
Our Relationships in Heaven
Recognizing Each Other
The Bible provides evidence that we will recognize each other in heaven. In the story of the transfiguration, Jesus spoke with Moses and Elijah, and they were recognized by Peter, James, and John (Matthew 17:1-4, NKJV). This event suggests that we will be able to recognize and interact with our loved ones and other believers in our eternal home.
Marriage and Family
While we will recognize and maintain relationships with our loved ones, Jesus taught that earthly relationships, such as marriage, will not continue in heaven. In Matthew 22:30 (NKJV), Jesus said, “For in the resurrection they neither marry nor are given in marriage, but are like angels of God in heaven.” This teaching indicates that our relationships in heaven will be based on a different kind of love, transcending the earthly bonds we currently experience.
Unity in Christ
In heaven, we will be united in our love for and worship of Jesus. This unity will create a profound sense of fellowship and belonging, as we share in the joys of eternal life with our Savior and fellow believers. Our relationships will be free from the divisions and strife that plague earthly relationships, allowing us to experience perfect harmony and love.
Conclusion
The question of what age we will be in heaven is an intriguing one that the Bible does not directly answer. However, the principles and teachings found in Scripture suggest that our eternal state will be characterized by glorified bodies, the absence of sin and suffering, a unique experience of time, and deep relationships with our fellow believers.
While we may not know our exact age in heaven, we can be certain that we will experience the fullness of life in a perfect, sinless existence. The focus of our eternal state will not be on our age but on the presence of God and the love we share with Him and others. Our earthly concerns about age and its associated limitations will no longer be relevant in our heavenly home.
As we anticipate our future in heaven, we can take comfort in the knowledge that we will be freed from the struggles and pain associated with aging, and will be able to enjoy perfect health and vitality. Our relationships with loved ones and fellow believers will continue and deepen, as we share in the joy and unity that can only be found in the presence of God.
In the end, the specific details of our age in heaven may remain a mystery until we experience it firsthand. Yet, the biblical teachings about our eternal state provide hope, comfort, and assurance that we will be united with our Savior and experience the fullness of His love and presence for all eternity. This glorious future is the ultimate hope and promise for all who place their faith in Jesus Christ as their Lord and Savior.
