The Russell Moore Show

Skye Jethani Tells Us Where We're Wrong on Heaven

Oct 11, 2023

Skye Jethani and Russell Moore discuss views on heaven, near-death experiences, and biblical passages on life and death. They explore the misconceptions and limitations in our thinking about the afterlife, as well as moments of closeness to heaven. The speakers also talk about finding joy in faith, dealing with criticism, and promoting Jethani's book.

41:02

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Quick takeaways

American culture's understanding of heaven varies, with beliefs influenced by Christian heritage or secularism.

To fully grasp the biblical concept of heaven, it is crucial to align our understanding with scripture's broader teachings.

Deep dives

American Culture's Perception of Heaven

American culture's understanding of heaven is varied, with beliefs often influenced by Christian heritage or secularism. In heavily-churched areas, people may have a biblical understanding of heaven, whereas in secular communities, beliefs might be more ambiguous or seen as mere platitudes. American popular culture, including television shows and movies, often portrays heaven as a reward for good behavior or a place of eternal happiness, although these depictions are not always grounded in scripture.

Introduction

2min

Exploring Our Perceptions of Heaven

21min

The Heaven-centric Misunderstanding of Faith

3min

Understanding the Intermediate State and Being with the Lord

6min

Moments of Closeness to Heaven

3min

Finding Joy in Faith and Dealing with Criticism

4min

“She’s in a better place.”

Statements like this tend to pop up at funerals and in Facebook comment threads memorializing a lost loved one. But do people really mean what they’re saying? Is cultural commentary on life after death merely an attempt at comforting the bereaved or a statement of belief?

Enter Skye Jethani, co-host of The Holy Post Podcast and author whose newest title asks the question What If Jesus Was Serious about Heaven? During his conversation with Russell Moore, Jethani talks about views on heaven, including whether it's a real place or a mere platitude. He and Moore discuss the human desire for judgments and rewards, theories on near-death experiences, and when eternal life actually begins. They consider biblical passages on life and death, miracles, and setting our minds on heavenly things. And they ask one another what it looks like to commune with God and when they feel closest to heaven.

Tune in for a thoughtful conversation on how earthly lives interact with heavenly futures and what it looks like to live according to the reality of eternity.

Resources mentioned in this episode include: