Eternity in the Thinking of Ancient Believers

Dennis McCallum
Hebrews 11:39-40

Through examining Old Testament characters of faith, we get insight into their perspective on eternity. Through the life of Noah, Abraham, Joseph, and Moses it is clear that they lived for a future with God in heaven. This hope propelled their faith through the circumstances in which they lived and God's commands for their life.

If There is No Resurrection

Jim Leffel
Ecclesiastes 3:11

The resurrection of Jesus Christ was the most important event in human history. The reality is that all people will make a choice about this fact. Paul makes it clear in his letter to the Corinthians that the existence of God and His resurrection is the one and only thing that prevents the human soul from collapsing into despair. For the believer in Christ, hope is the anchor for the soul that gives us assurance and endurance in this life.

The Power of Weakness

Chris Risley
Ecclesiastes 3:11

Weakness shows itself through circumstances, personality, and failure. Our weakness can get us focused on God's power and not our own. While it may feel natural to be uncomfortable with weakness it can be a good thing in life and ministry. God's desired outcome include: weakness drives us to dependence; weakness makes us tough; weakness qualifies us to serve; weakness gets us focused on eternity.This workshop will explore Paul's perspective on weakness, allowing us to appreciate it in our own lives and minister to others who are struggling.\r\n

Five Myths About Heaven

Derek Sanford
Revelation 21:1-6

Far too often, people are not excited about heaven because of the misconceptions around it. But if God calls us to look forward to our afterlife, we need to address five particular myths about heaven. First, heaven will not be boring. Second, we will not lose our identities. Third, heaven is not just a spiritual existence rather than a tangible, physical reality. Fourth, everyone will not be equal but instead be rewarded for their good works in heaven. And finally, we must remember the somber reality that not everyone will get to heaven. As we address these myths, we can grow in our understanding and excitement for our future home.

What If There's No Heaven?

James Rochford
Matthew 6:19

Without the existence of heaven, the question of significance stands without resolution. This workshop explores the implications on life here on earth if there truly is no afterlife or heaven as many people believe. On the other hand, for Christians who do choose to set their perspective onto heaven, they can act in this life in a way that provides objective meaning and purpose.

Glimpses of the New Heaven and New Earth

Conrad Hilario
Revelation 21:7-22:21

Common views of the afterlife include annihilationism, reincarnation, and soul sleep. However, Revelations gives a glimpse of heaven that is physical with elements of symbolism as well. New Jerusalem is described in detail as well as its new inhabitants. Several quotes from Randy Alcorn's Heaven are included to help the listener imagine what heaven will be like.

Eternity Future

Dennis McCallum
Revelation 20:6-22:21

The last piece of John's vision shows Satan being released from his prison. He spends his time deceiving people before being cast into the lake of fire eternally. Those who died are all before God, and he judges them according to their works or by Christ's death, depending on which book their name is in. The Book of Life contains the names of all the people who accepted Christ's death as their payment for sin. Everyone else joins Satan. John sees the new Heaven and Earth brought to life, and God dwells among the people who live there in eternal beauty and security.

Heaven

Jenny Hale
Revelation 22

Building off of John's description of the New Jerusalem, this passage describes the incredible future that awaits Christians in Heaven. Among the qualities listed are no more death, sorrow, crying, or pain; no more evil; and God's presence forever! This knowledge of eternity should affect Christians by encouraging them to want to see more people there with them. It also allows Christians to know that their suffering is temporary.

God's Eternal Kingdom (Part 2)

Gary DeLashmutt
Revelation 21:9-27

This passage on the New Jerusalem is mainly symbolic, but indicate literal truths about its glory. It will be populated by God's people, full of the beauty of perfect creation, full of human creativity, utterly secure, and pervaded by God's presence. Christians who focus on their inheritance in this kingdom will have greater resilience in adversity.