Supernatural: What the Bible Teaches about the Unseen World And Why It Matters

by Michael S. Heiser

nor can the divine beings who are also free to choose.

Heaven will return to earth in a new, global Eden.

Since all humans, believers and unbelievers alike, are resurrected before judgment, the second death is the final judgment (Rev. 21:8). Those who continue to live with God in a new Eden do not suffer the second death.

Heaven and earth will no longer be separate places.

We either live with our destination in view, or we don’t. And our awareness of our destiny ought to alter our behavior. If you knew you’d someday be sharing an apartment or working in the same office as that person you criticize, belittle, and otherwise disdain, you’d invest a little more effort into being a peacemaker, an encourager, and perhaps even a friend to that person. How is it that we treat fellow believers so poorly, then? How is it that we don’t put as much energy into moving the unbeliever toward Jesus as we do into engaging with him or her as an enemy? We either have eternity in view, or we don’t.

Christian, it’s time to live as though you know who you are and know the plans God has for you.

Once we realize the gods of the Old Testament are real, then the meaning of God’s command to have no other god before Yahweh, the God of Israel, comes into focus.

In other words, the command actually means what it says.

Embracing the supernatural reality of the spiritual world of the Bible is essential for understanding the Bible.

God is not ultimately looking for better behavior. He is looking for faith—for believing loyalty.