Topical Encyclopedia In Christian theology, heaven is understood as the dwelling place of God, the angels, and the redeemed. It is a realm of perfect holiness, peace, and joy, where God's will is perfectly accomplished. Central to the Christian understanding of heaven is the belief in the all-powerful nature of Jesus Christ, who reigns supreme in this divine realm.Christ's Authority in Heaven The New Testament affirms the authority and power of Christ in heaven. In Matthew 28:18, Jesus declares, "All authority in heaven and on earth has been given to Me." This statement underscores the comprehensive nature of Christ's dominion, extending over both the spiritual and physical realms. His authority is not limited or challenged; it is absolute and all-encompassing. Christ's Exaltation The exaltation of Christ is a key theme in the New Testament, highlighting His supreme power in heaven. Philippians 2:9-11 states, "Therefore God exalted Him to the highest place and gave Him the name above all names, that at the name of Jesus every knee should bow, in heaven and on earth and under the earth, and every tongue confess that Jesus Christ is Lord, to the glory of God the Father." This passage emphasizes that Christ's exaltation is recognized universally, with all creation acknowledging His lordship. Christ's Role as Mediator In heaven, Christ serves as the mediator between God and humanity. Hebrews 9:24 explains, "For Christ did not enter a man-made copy of the true sanctuary, but He entered heaven itself, now to appear on our behalf in the presence of God." As the mediator, Christ intercedes for believers, ensuring their access to the Father and securing their eternal inheritance. Christ's Sovereign Rule The book of Revelation provides a vivid depiction of Christ's sovereign rule in heaven. Revelation 5:12-13 proclaims, "Worthy is the Lamb who was slain, to receive power and riches and wisdom and strength and honor and glory and blessing!" This doxology reflects the heavenly worship of Christ, acknowledging His worthiness and supreme power. The imagery of Christ as the Lamb who was slain yet reigns victoriously underscores His unique authority and the redemptive power of His sacrifice. Christ's Eternal Kingdom Christ's power in heaven is also manifested in His eternal kingdom. In 1 Corinthians 15:24-25, Paul writes, "Then the end will come, when He hands over the kingdom to God the Father after He has destroyed all dominion, authority, and power. For He must reign until He has put all His enemies under His feet." This passage highlights the eschatological aspect of Christ's reign, where His power will ultimately triumph over all opposition, culminating in the full realization of God's kingdom. Christ's Omnipotence The omnipotence of Christ in heaven is a foundational aspect of His divine nature. Colossians 1:16-17 affirms, "For in Him all things were created, things in heaven and on earth, visible and invisible, whether thrones or dominions or rulers or authorities. All things were created through Him and for Him. He is before all things, and in Him all things hold together." This passage emphasizes that Christ is the source and sustainer of all creation, reflecting His boundless power and authority. In summary, the Christian understanding of heaven is intrinsically linked to the all-powerful nature of Jesus Christ. His authority, exaltation, mediation, sovereign rule, eternal kingdom, and omnipotence are central to His role in the heavenly realm, affirming His divine supremacy and the fulfillment of God's redemptive plan. Torrey's Topical Textbook Matthew 28:18And Jesus came and spoke to them, saying, All power is given to me in heaven and in earth. Torrey's Topical Textbook 1 Peter 3:22 Library Consolation in Christ The General Service to the Venerated and vivifying Cross. The Eighteenth Chapter: Man Should not Scrutinize this Sacrament ... The Book of John Concerning the Falling Asleep of Mary. The Departing Christ and the Coming Spirit Prayer Born of Compassion The Glory of the virgins and Religious. The Kingdom of Heaven Chapter ii Index of First Lines. Resources Questions about Heaven, Hell, and Eternity (All) | GotQuestions.orgWhat is the second heaven? | GotQuestions.org Will heaven be on earth? | GotQuestions.org Heaven: Dictionary and Thesaurus | Clyx.com Bible Concordance • Bible Dictionary • Bible Encyclopedia • Topical Bible • Bible Thesuarus Subtopics Heaven is Called: A Heavenly Country Heaven is Called: The Father's House Heaven is Called: The Kingdom of Christ and of God Heaven: Christ is All-Powerful In Heaven: Christ: As Mediator, Entered Into Heaven: Enoch and Elijah Were Translated Into Heaven: Flesh and Blood Cannot Inherit Heaven: God: Answers his People From Heaven: God: Sends his Judgments From Heaven: Happiness of, Described Heaven: Names of Saints are Written Heaven: Physical Heavens, Creation of Heaven: Physical Heavens, Destruction of Heaven: Repentance Occasions Joy In Heaven: The Future Dwelling Place of the Righteous: A Heavenly Country Heaven: The Future Dwelling Place of the Righteous: A Rest Heaven: The Future Dwelling Place of the Righteous: Called a Garner Heaven: The Future Dwelling Place of the Righteous: Paradise Heaven: The Future Dwelling Place of the Righteous: The Father's House Heaven: The Future Dwelling Place of the Righteous: The Kingdom of Christ and of God Heaven: The Future Dwelling Place of the Righteous: The Wicked Excluded From Heaven: The Wicked Excluded From Heaven: Unclassified Scriptures Relating To Related Terms |
    |