In this episode, Dave and Ann Wilson dive into the power of storytelling and theology in Jordan Raynor's latest book, "The Royal in You." The conversation begins with a surprising endorsement of Jordan’s book from Candace Cameron Bure, who praises it for being one of the best ways to help children understand God. Jordan shares the inspiration behind his first book, "The Creator Knows," and elaborates on why he wanted to continue the story with "The Royal in You," which focuses on the future hope of heaven and the New Earth.
The episode dives into the heart of the theological message Jordan is sharing with kids: that heaven isn't the place where people will live eternally in the clouds, but rather it will be a renewed Earth where believers will reign with Christ. Jordan and the hosts discuss how common misconceptions about heaven have been perpetuated, particularly the idea that heaven is a boring, disembodied existence where people will do nothing but sing for eternity. They correct this idea by referencing Scriptures like Revelation 21, where it’s clear that the New Earth will be a place of joyful, meaningful work with Christ at the center.
Jordan shares insights on how work in the New Earth will be fulfilling and exciting. He contrasts the work we know today, which is marred by the curse of sin, with the future work in the New Earth, which will be perfect, untainted, and done alongside Jesus. The episode encourages listeners to view their work today as a practice for the eternal work they will do with Christ in the renewed world.
The discussion also touches on the importance of teaching children these biblical truths, emphasizing that understanding the New Earth will help them look forward to eternity with Christ. Parents and grandparents can instill hope and excitement in their kids by reading "The Royal in You" to them, as it offers a vivid portrayal of what the future holds. In addition, Jordan offers resources for parents, including a free e-book and a devotional app, to deepen their understanding of heaven and the New Earth.
The conversation concludes by reflecting on how the church’s traditional teachings about Heaven have often fallen short, and how reimagining heaven as a renewed Earth can inspire both adults and children to live with greater joy, anticipation, and faithfulness in their everyday lives.
Show Notes and Resources
- Learn more about Jordan Raynor at his website.
- Get Jordan's book, The Royal in You, free for any donation at FamilyLife's website.
- Get Jordan's YouVersion devotional on The Kids' Guide to Heaven and the New Earth online.
- Find resources from this podcast at shop.familylife.com.
- See resources from our past podcasts.
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