Randy Alcorn
The kingdom must not be understood as merely the salvation of certain individuals or even as the reign of God in the hearts of his people; it means nothing less than the reign of God over his entire created universe. . . . The kingdom is not man’s upward climb to perfection but God’s breaking into human history to establish his reign and to advance his purposes.
Anthony Hoekema, [The Bible and the Future]
Our glory as lesser kings and queens will serve to magnify his greater glory as the King of kings. We won’t absorb and keep the glory given us, but we will reflect it and emanate it toward its proper object: Christ himself. This is evident in the fact that God’s worshiping children will “lay their crowns before the throne” (Revelation 4:10).
~ Randy Alcorn, [Heaven]
Perhaps you’re disappointed that you’ve never had the friendships you long for. In Heaven, you’ll have much closer relationships with people you already know, but it’s also possible that you haven’t yet met the closest friends you’ll ever have. Perhaps it will be someone seated next to you at the first great feast. After all, the God who orchestrates friendships will be in charge of the seating arrangements.
~ Randy Alcorn, [50 Days of Heaven]
We’ll experience all the best of human relationships, with none of the worst. The burdens and tragedies of life will be lifted from us. We’ll be free of what displeases God and damages relationships. No abortion clinics or psychiatric wards. No missing children. No rape or abuse. No drug rehabilitation centers. No bigotry, muggings, or killings. No worry, depression, or economic downturns. No wars. No unemployment. No anguish over failure and miscommunication. No pretense or wearing masks. No cliques. No hidden agendas, backroom deals, betrayals, secret ambitions, plots, or schemes.
~ Randy Alcorn, [Heaven]
