Article June 9, 1997 Issue

How did heaven begin?

Elaine R. Follis

In the ancient Near East, even before the Bible was written, heaven was thought of mainly as the sky. People believed a dome called the firmament spanned the earth, and that the sun, moon, and stars were embedded in it. Above the firmament was believed to be a heavenly ocean, and rain and snow fell to earth through openings in the firmament called the windows of heaven (see Mal. 3:10). Some ancient poetry describes the gods as living in or sitting enthroned upon the firmament, watching as people went about their daily activities.

Though early Christians often thought of heaven as removed from earth and as a future abode, they also believed its power and authority were present and at work in every aspect of daily life.

Elaine R. Follis

Enjoy 1 free Sentinel article or audio program each month, including content from 1898 to today.

Send a comment to the editors
NEXT IN THIS ISSUE
Article
Safety in paradise
June 9, 1997
Contents

We'd love to hear from you!

Easily submit your testimonies, articles, and poems online.

Submit