Sunday, August 4, 2013

Heaven by Randy Alcorn

According to Alcorn (The Treasure Principle; Deadline; Safely Home), the subject of heaven rates as one of the least accurately discussed subjects in the whole of Christendom. 

Even seminarians fail to give appropriate time and attention to heaven as described throughout the Bible because other themes take pre-eminence both chronologically and preferentially. Alcorn is likewise astounded that the majority of Christians who do take time to consider heaven often possess faulty, nonbiblical assumptions, one of the most common being the misconception of heaven as a place of unending church services. 

The author, who is also the founder of the nonprofit organization Eternal Perspective Ministries (EPM), has spent years studying what the Bible says about heaven, and in this compelling and comprehensive resource, he offers every conceivable question about heaven, or the "New Earth," as a Christian believer's ultimate destination. 

Alcorn answers the expected queries on heavenly life as well as quirkier ones: will Christians drink coffee in heaven? Will there be homeownership, and what about sex? Will our pets be in heaven? Evangelical scholars and laypersons alike will appreciate Alcorn's expansive—though perhaps long-winded—musings on this neglected subject, a real boon in a time when many people are eager to understand what happens after death.

My Review:
As the author suggested, when planning a trip to an unknown place, it is wise to prepare ahead. Study that place. Think on it so that upon arrival, you'll feel comfortable. As a Christian, I plan on going to Heaven, and I appreciate the efforts the author employed to compile this tome. 

In addition to many verses from the Bible, Alcorn used his extensive collection of material for his opinions. Although it is an intimidating work with 535 pages, I must say, it's worth the read. (I read a chapter or two each day until finished. It might serve well for a group study.)

The one caveat I have is the repetition.  It should have been edited more carefully.

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