Scripture reveals three stages of heaven and earth: Genesis 1-2 (original Eden), Genesis 3-Revelation 20 (current broken world), and Revelation 21-22 (new heaven and earth). In each stage, God hovers over chaos to bring order, creates a dwelling place for His people, and desires to walk with them face to face. We move from garden to city, from Eden to New Jerusalem.

Heaven's Residents: Those Who Conquer - Entry requires both having your name in the Lamb's Book of Life and being one who "conquers." These describe the same people with enduring faith in Christ. Like graduation requiring completion of coursework and consistent attendance, heaven demands persistent faith that refuses to "let go of the rope" through life's trials and temptations.

The Test of Authentic Faith - Jesus warned in Matthew 7:21-23 that religious activity doesn't guarantee heaven—only doing the Father's will. Life's challenges test where our trust truly lies: in ourselves or in Christ. The Holy Spirit confirms genuine faith within us. The question isn't whether we're religious, but whether Jesus' way is becoming our way.

The Timing Mystery - Two timing questions emerge: When will Christ establish the new heaven and earth? Even Jesus doesn't know (Acts 1), though we know the sequence: His return, resurrection, judgment, eternal inheritance. What happens when we die? Absence from the body means presence with Christ, safely in His arms, free from pain and suffering until final restoration.

Trust - Most heaven questions stem from our need for control and complete understanding. John describes the indescribable as best he can, but ultimately we must trust Christ as Alpha and Omega. Like trusting loved ones to plan a trip without knowing details, we can trust Jesus to make heaven everything it needs to be—far beyond our comprehension.