The concept of "Those Who Dwell in Heaven" encompasses a variety of beings and entities as described in the Bible. This entry explores the different inhabitants of the heavenly realm, as depicted in the Scriptures, and their roles and significance.

1. God and the Divine Presence

At the center of heaven is God Himself, the Creator and Sustainer of all things. The Bible frequently describes God as dwelling in heaven, emphasizing His sovereignty and majesty. In Isaiah 66:1, the Lord declares, "Heaven is My throne, and the earth is My footstool." This imagery underscores God's supreme authority and the exalted nature of His heavenly dwelling.

2. Jesus Christ

Jesus Christ, the Son of God, is also described as dwelling in heaven. Following His resurrection, Jesus ascended into heaven, where He is seated at the right hand of God the Father. In Acts 1:9-11, the ascension is described: "After He had said this, they watched as He was taken up, and a cloud hid Him from their sight." Jesus' presence in heaven signifies His completed work of redemption and His ongoing intercession for believers, as noted in Hebrews 7:25.

3. Angels

Angels are spiritual beings created by God who serve various roles, including worshiping God, delivering messages, and executing divine judgments. They are frequently depicted as dwelling in heaven, surrounding the throne of God. Revelation 5:11-12 provides a glimpse of this heavenly host: "Then I looked, and I heard the voices of many angels numbering thousands upon thousands, and ten thousand times ten thousand. They encircled the throne and the living creatures and the elders."

4. The Saints

The Bible also speaks of the saints, or believers who have died in faith, as dwelling in heaven. These individuals are described as being in the presence of the Lord, experiencing eternal life and joy. In Philippians 3:20-21, Paul writes, "But our citizenship is in heaven, and we eagerly await a Savior from there, the Lord Jesus Christ." This passage highlights the hope and assurance of believers that they will dwell with Christ in heaven.

5. The Heavenly Host

In addition to angels, the term "heavenly host" can refer to the multitude of celestial beings who serve God. This includes the cherubim and seraphim, who are often depicted as attending to God's throne. Isaiah 6:1-3 describes the seraphim in a vision of God's glory: "Above Him stood seraphim, each having six wings... And they were calling out to one another: 'Holy, holy, holy is the LORD of Hosts; His glory fills the whole earth.'"

6. The Elders and Living Creatures

In the book of Revelation, John describes a vision of heaven that includes twenty-four elders and four living creatures who worship God continually. Revelation 4:4-8 provides a vivid depiction of these beings: "Around the throne were twenty-four thrones, and on these thrones sat twenty-four elders... And the four living creatures, covered with eyes in front and back, were seated around the throne." These figures symbolize the worship and governance of God's heavenly kingdom.

7. The Spirits of the Righteous Made Perfect

Hebrews 12:22-23 speaks of "the spirits of the righteous made perfect" as part of the heavenly assembly. This phrase refers to the souls of believers who have been sanctified and are now in the presence of God. It emphasizes the completion of their faith journey and their participation in the heavenly community.

In summary, those who dwell in heaven include God, Jesus Christ, angels, the saints, the heavenly host, the elders, the living creatures, and the spirits of the righteous. Each plays a distinct role in the divine order, contributing to the worship and glory of God in the heavenly realm.