Paradise

PARADISE

Paradise, the present abode of the departed saints: Paradise, what a beautiful word!
A word that appears to have an Oriental origin; The King of Persia was said to have gardens which were called paradises, full of everything beautiful and good that the earth could produce. (The LXX adopts this word for the Garden of Eden, signifying "delights,") which may account for Eden often being referred to as Paradise,; and perhaps the use of the word in the N.T. as denoting some place of happiness and blessing in the heavens. 

Paradise: this blissful word only occurs three times in the N.T. Scriptures: 
Luke 23:43; 2 Corinthians 12:5; Revelation 2:7.
The first reference is that statement our Lord addressed to the penitent robber crucified alongside Him at Calvary. The second Scripture penned by the Apostle Paul equates Paradise with the "third heaven," (as distinct from the dual heavens, atmospheric and stellar,) not "heaven itself." While the third reference differs from the former two verses indicated. They refer to the present disembodied spirits of the saints who are "absent from the body," and "at home with the Lord." Whilst the third occurrence addressed to the over-comer in Ephesus where it is titled the "Paradise of God," is identified with the after-resurrection state as described in Revelation 22:2. It points forward to that moment when all believers will receive their "bodies of glory," their resurrection bodies. Then as suggested saints will not enter into the "Paradise of God," one by one as "put to sleep through Jesus," but ALL reunited "in the air," to meet the Lord and be raptured to the "Fathers' house!"

Of late the import of this precious truth has been upon my heart. Not least because I "found" a couple of lines penned by a saint of old which awoke a responsive "amen" within my breast; he wrote,

" 'Twixt me and the Resurrection

But Paradise doth stand"

And whilst fully admitting "The sky not the grave is my goal," nevertheless a realisation that if I was to pass through the article of death, it would but prove a portal into Paradise, and the immediate presence of my Lord and Saviour, even the Lord Jesus. How wondrously comforting to every frail and feeble waiting saint.

But it has come to my attention that many of the Lords' people are somewhat ignorant about Paradise; often failing to distinguish it from Heaven itself. Frequently failing to note the difference between "heaven" and "the heavens," too! Another reason for using "better" translations in an age where a multiplicity of suspect and subversive translations abound.

It has not been my intention to write a full exposition concerning the true understanding of Paradise. But I am concerned that recently a beloved, highly respected "brother" has given oral ministry, and written an article also, both of which which contain much error, as far as I am able to grasp the truth regarding this precious "place."

In concluding this brief glance at that which lies beyond the grave for the believer who "falls asleep," I would like to remind or inform my fellow saints of the last days of a truly godly brother.

When J.G. Bellett knew that he was to be "called home," he spoke eloquently of his anticipation of Paradise. He made it clear that he was so longing for a "time" ALONE with Christ! He loved the thought of one day being reunited with those brethren and sisters he had so loved during his earthly pilgrimage; to be "caught up together with them" at the Rapture. But in the "meanwhile" he craved a season alone with his Saviour.  

It is recorded that he said these rapturous things, among others, as he neared his transport into Paradise.

"My precious Lord Jesus, Thou knowest fully I can say with Paul, "to depart and to be with Thee, which is far better. Oh, how far better! I do long for it!"
I have Himself - Himself! I am going to be with Himself!"

"Oh, to be with Him BEFORE the glories, the crowns, or the Kingdom appear! It is wonderful, wonderful!"

Brethren, beloved of the Lord, may it be "wonderful" to you and to me, for His glory!