Exploring Eternity: Newton’s Heavenly Vision and Mine

Sir Isaac Newton, the renowned mathematician and physicist from the 17th century, had a profound interest not only in mathematics but also in the Bible. His understanding of the Bible’s teachings on heaven and eternal life reflects a deep spiritual curiosity that many share, even today.

Sir Isaac Newton's Heavenly Vision

Sir Isaac Newton believed fervently in the concept of heaven as a place where the resurrected saints would rule invisibly with Christ. This belief is rooted in the Bible, specifically in Revelation 5:9-10, which reads, 'And they shall reign for ever and ever.'

Newton also elaborated on the themes of the afterlife. In his writings, he asserted that the earth would continue to be inhabited by mortals after the apocalypse, not just for a millennium, but indefinitely. He quoted Psalms 37:29, which states, 'The righteous will possess the earth and dwell upon it forever.' However, he didn’t merely accept the Bible’s words at face value. He delved into the implications, envisioning a eternal paradise where one would build and cultivate, rather than build for others or plant for others to enjoy. This notion is echoed in Isaiah 65:21-22, 'I will also rejoice in Jerusalem, and joy in My people; and the voice of weeping shall no more be heard in her, nor the voice of crying. Neither shall there be an infant there (among) the families of the house of Jacob for an evil day.'

The Promise of Eternal Life and Heaven

The Bible promises eternal life, as seen in Revelation 21:4, 'And he [Jesus] that overcometh shall inherit all things; and I will be his God, and he shall be my son.'

Isaiah 35:5-6 provides a vivid description of what heaven might be like: 'Then shall the eyes of the blind be opened, and the ears of the deaf be unstopped. Then shall the lame man leap as an hart, and the tongue of the dumb sing: for in the wilderness shall waters spring up, and streams in the midst of the desert.'

Even more explicitly, Revelation 21:4 declares, 'And God shall wiped away all tears from their eyes; and there shall be no more death, neither sorrow, nor crying, neither shall there be any more pain: for the former things are passed away.' This passage offers a vision of eternal peace and joy, free from suffering and pain.

A Personal Heaven

While Newton’s vision of heaven was doubtless influenced by biblical interpretation, every individual has their own personal interpretation and vision of what heaven might be like. For me, my heaven would be reunited with family, friends, and animals I have longed to meet. It would be a place of complete peace, love, comfort, and joy. There would be no negative emotions or experiences. I would laugh, jump up and down, and clap my hands. There might even be some singing involved!

In my heaven, I would be able to do the things I always wanted to do but couldn't due to various life circumstances. I would visit those on earth through their dreams, possibly helping them find peace and love, but without controlling their lives. However, the primary focus would be on being with the people I love who have gone before me.

Ultimately, the concept of heaven is deeply personal and heavily influenced by individual beliefs and experiences. Whether it aligns with biblical interpretations or is entirely personal, the vision of eternal peace and joy is a universal aspiration that many of us can relate to.