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In Light of Eternity: Perspectives on Heaven
In bestseller after bestseller, Randy Alcorn has held readers spellbound with fast-paced, gripping fiction infused with eternal themes. Now, he responds to the widespread hunger for more insight on this subject with a straightforward, real-life look at heaven, rewards, and how to live in light of eternity.
The deepest longing of your heart is for one person and one place. Jesus is that person. Heaven is that place.
A thousand counterfeits vie for your attention, trying to convince you that they are what you're looking for. But you'll never find true satisfaction with what this world has to offer. What you really crave can only be found in the land of Heaven.
In Light of Eternity will grip your soul and open your eyes to the realities of Heaven. Far from boring, Heaven promises to be an exhilarating adventure in which every chapter is better than the one before.
With clear biblical teaching and illustrative stories and reflections, Alcorn shows how your life today will impact the eternal reality that awaits you. Let this book guide you into discovering how wonderful your eternal future will be--and what you can do now to prepare for it.
The deepest longing of your heart is for one person and one place. Jesus is that person. Heaven is that place.
A thousand counterfeits vie for your attention, trying to convince you that they are what you're looking for. But you'll never find true satisfaction with what this world has to offer. What you really crave can only be found in the land of Heaven.
In Light of Eternity will grip your soul and open your eyes to the realities of Heaven. Far from boring, Heaven promises to be an exhilarating adventure in which every chapter is better than the one before.
With clear biblical teaching and illustrative stories and reflections, Alcorn shows how your life today will impact the eternal reality that awaits you. Let this book guide you into discovering how wonderful your eternal future will be--and what you can do now to prepare for it.
176 pages, Hardcover
First published January 1, 1999
145 people are currently reading
450 people want to read
About the author
Randy Alcorn
223 books1,580 followersRandy Alcorn is the founder of Eternal Perspective Ministries (EPM), a nonprofit organization dedicated to teaching biblical truth and drawing attention to the needy and how to help them. EPM exists to meet the needs of the unreached, unfed, unborn, uneducated, unreconciled and unsupported people around the world.
"My ministry focus is communicating the strategic importance of using our earthly time, money, possessions and opportunities to invest in need-meeting ministries that count for eternity," Alcorn says. "I do that by trying to analyze, teach and apply the implications of Christian truth."
Before starting EPM in 1990, Alcorn co-pastored for thirteen years Good Shepherd Community Church outside Gresham, Oregon. He has ministered in many countries, including China, and is a popular teacher and conference speaker. Randy has taught on the part-time faculties of Western Seminary and Multnomah University, both in Portland, Oregon.
Randy is a best-selling author of 50 books including Heaven, The Treasure Principle and the 2002 Gold Medallion winner, Safely Home. He has written numerous articles for magazines such as Discipleship Journal, Moody, Leadership, New Man, and The Christian Reader. He produces the quarterly issues-oriented magazine Eternal Perspectives, and has been a guest on more than 650 radio and television programs including Focus on the Family, Family Life Today, The Bible Answer Man, Revive Our Hearts, Truths that Transform and Faith Under Fire.
Alcorn resides in Gresham, Oregon with his wife, Nanci. The Alcorns have two married daughters, Karina and Angela.
Randy and Nanci are the proud grandparents of five grandsons. Randy enjoys hanging out with his family, biking, tennis, research and reading.
Taken from the Eternal Perspective Ministries website, http://www.epm.org
"My ministry focus is communicating the strategic importance of using our earthly time, money, possessions and opportunities to invest in need-meeting ministries that count for eternity," Alcorn says. "I do that by trying to analyze, teach and apply the implications of Christian truth."
Before starting EPM in 1990, Alcorn co-pastored for thirteen years Good Shepherd Community Church outside Gresham, Oregon. He has ministered in many countries, including China, and is a popular teacher and conference speaker. Randy has taught on the part-time faculties of Western Seminary and Multnomah University, both in Portland, Oregon.
Randy is a best-selling author of 50 books including Heaven, The Treasure Principle and the 2002 Gold Medallion winner, Safely Home. He has written numerous articles for magazines such as Discipleship Journal, Moody, Leadership, New Man, and The Christian Reader. He produces the quarterly issues-oriented magazine Eternal Perspectives, and has been a guest on more than 650 radio and television programs including Focus on the Family, Family Life Today, The Bible Answer Man, Revive Our Hearts, Truths that Transform and Faith Under Fire.
Alcorn resides in Gresham, Oregon with his wife, Nanci. The Alcorns have two married daughters, Karina and Angela.
Randy and Nanci are the proud grandparents of five grandsons. Randy enjoys hanging out with his family, biking, tennis, research and reading.
Taken from the Eternal Perspective Ministries website, http://www.epm.org
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 55 reviews
July 7, 2022
a really good book to outline some Biblical perspectives on heaven. I’ve struggled most of my life with joyfully anticipating heaven, and I’m grateful for how this book helped to reshape many of my wrong perceptions of what that will be like. I’ll continue to meditate on truths shared in this book- very encouraging overall! :)
July 25, 2025
“The most basic truth is there are only two possible eternal destinations, Heaven and Hell. One just as real as the other. Our default destination is Hell - unless and until we box our knees to Jesus Christ, that’s where we’re headed.”
December 29, 2018
I found this little treasure among my mother's things. If she had read it before her passing, I know it would have brought her much comfort, and indeed a longing to go to her true home. So glad I read it!
February 14, 2025
nah
Way to many references to his other books. Seems like a waste. More like a collection of his previous fiction and nonfiction
Way to many references to his other books. Seems like a waste. More like a collection of his previous fiction and nonfiction
May 27, 2025
A beautiful little book wetting one's appetite for HEAVEN! How glorious it will be....soon we will be truly HOME.
July 1, 2025
In Light of Eternity got me thinking about aspects of heaven that I had never thought much of before. In particular the rewards we will receive in heaven. "God will reward you for wise and productive use of the resources and opportunities he has given you". Heaven won't be identical for all of us - there will be differing rewards, positions and experiences. How can you use your earthly time, money, possessions and opportunities to store up your treasures in heaven and not on earth?
The one part I didn't like about the book was how many times the author referenced other books he had written with quotes from them.
The one part I didn't like about the book was how many times the author referenced other books he had written with quotes from them.
August 6, 2017
I really enjoyed this book. Randy Alcorn answers a lot of questions about heaven based on scripture. It's a shorter version of his longer book, Heaven. It's encouraging and challenging!
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February 16, 2021This book is a must read!
I loved this book from beginning to end. I started reading it after my husband died. I had never thought much about heaven before he left to go. Now, I needed to know everything about it. It was where I most wanted to be, but I knew very little about it. I became enthralled by chapter five. I think I've read that chapter at least 5 times. The beauty of heaven became so real there, as I looked up all the scriptures. I'd read these descriptions before, but this time I could see it in my mind. I felt like I was there walking the streets of heaven seeing it with my own eyes. It's where I long to be, and now I know why. That's the way God wants me to feel. I finally understand Revelations more than I ever have before. It's an eye opening, heart changing book. I want to share it with everyone!
I loved this book from beginning to end. I started reading it after my husband died. I had never thought much about heaven before he left to go. Now, I needed to know everything about it. It was where I most wanted to be, but I knew very little about it. I became enthralled by chapter five. I think I've read that chapter at least 5 times. The beauty of heaven became so real there, as I looked up all the scriptures. I'd read these descriptions before, but this time I could see it in my mind. I felt like I was there walking the streets of heaven seeing it with my own eyes. It's where I long to be, and now I know why. That's the way God wants me to feel. I finally understand Revelations more than I ever have before. It's an eye opening, heart changing book. I want to share it with everyone!
December 5, 2015
It's hard to decide how to rate this book. The first 3/4 get one star. This is because it is almost all excerpts from other books he's written. If I wanted to read those books, I would've read them. The last quarter of the book I found helpful. He isn't quoting other books ... he's writing his own stuff. But the majority of the book I felt was a waste of time.
I only finished this book because I dislike not finishing books. I'm glad I did because the last few chapters were the best part of the book. Mostly I was disappointed.
I only finished this book because I dislike not finishing books. I'm glad I did because the last few chapters were the best part of the book. Mostly I was disappointed.
June 5, 2022
Wow - I wish the church would speak more on this subject. Mr Alcorn packed more about heaven into this little book than all the sermons I’ve ever heard.
Heaven isn’t dull and boring - it’s the place we long for deep down - instead we are trying to make earth fit the “hole.”
Backed up with scripture, Mr Alcorn unpacks what the Word says we can look forward to in heaven. I love how he uses passages from his other books to show what he means.
Heaven isn’t dull and boring - it’s the place we long for deep down - instead we are trying to make earth fit the “hole.”
Backed up with scripture, Mr Alcorn unpacks what the Word says we can look forward to in heaven. I love how he uses passages from his other books to show what he means.
October 7, 2020
I snatched this up because my bible has an excerpt from Randy Alcorn in the book of Revelation and I was ENTHRALLED with his words. I always thought we'd bounce around on clouds like cosmic Care Bears in Heaven, strumming harps, and obediently worshipping God for all of eternity (which sounds honestly really dull). Imagining the new heaven and the new earth and Jesus going to prepare a place for us, along with rewards for how we lived our lives ... it was all very inspiring and definitely changed my view of Heaven. I wasn't as "into" all the excerpts from his fiction books sprinkled in, which is why I took off a star, but I still absolutely loved this little book.
February 20, 2021
This is a wonderful little book! I've read a couple of works by Randy Alcorn on Heaven and loved them all. In spite of all of them being on Heaven, there are differences in each that adds to my knowledge and understanding. His books are very Biblical and full of truth that few people are aware of - even Christians. This book is a gem, brimming with hope and excitement and joy! There's an old song that says, "This world is not my home, I'm just a passing through..." This book cements that truth and made me as the reader even more excited about someday reaching my home in Heaven (: This book is uplifting and full of things we really need to know. I highly recommend you to read it!
July 6, 2023
|| 4 ⭐️ ||
Before I came across Randy Alcorn’s books—first “Money, Possessions & Eternity” and now this one—I hadn’t really spent that much time considering what heaven will actually be like (beyond broadly knowing it’ll be a good place with none of the suffering and darkness we endure here). Alcorn went into a fair bit of detail on what we know and what we don’t know for certain, and what we can glean given God’s character.
This short but worthwhile read left me with a very exciting view of eternity and a fresh zeal to see more people come to Christ so they can experience heaven and its rewards as well.
Before I came across Randy Alcorn’s books—first “Money, Possessions & Eternity” and now this one—I hadn’t really spent that much time considering what heaven will actually be like (beyond broadly knowing it’ll be a good place with none of the suffering and darkness we endure here). Alcorn went into a fair bit of detail on what we know and what we don’t know for certain, and what we can glean given God’s character.
This short but worthwhile read left me with a very exciting view of eternity and a fresh zeal to see more people come to Christ so they can experience heaven and its rewards as well.
June 12, 2025
This book is hands down my favorite book on Heaven and eternal life. I’ve read several others, but this one stood out so much that I’ve gifted it to many people who’ve lost loved ones because I know firsthand the hope it gave me after my own loss. Alcorn has written other books on Heaven, but this one is my top recommendation because it’s short, easy to read, and gets right to the heart of the questions we all wonder about Heaven. What I appreciate most is how Alcorn backs everything up with Scripture, offering both truth and comfort. This book helped me not only imagine what my son might be experiencing, but gave me a the ability to look forward to eternity with renewed hope.
August 7, 2021
I will read this book over and over and over again. We were created for so much more! This is not our home, it’s only the training ground.
This book was given to me just after my husband unexpectedly passed away, leaving me with 3 teens. I never got mad at God, and I’ve leaned into his faithfulness every single day. I have become obsessed with understanding more about heaven. I know I’ll see my husband again one day, but boy am I’m excited to have read this book before I see him. I’ve got lots of stuff to get done!
This book was given to me just after my husband unexpectedly passed away, leaving me with 3 teens. I never got mad at God, and I’ve leaned into his faithfulness every single day. I have become obsessed with understanding more about heaven. I know I’ll see my husband again one day, but boy am I’m excited to have read this book before I see him. I’ve got lots of stuff to get done!
December 3, 2025
Info is great, especially the last chapters about rewards in heaven. Years ago this book helped me stop being afraid of heaven and actually look forward to it. This year Cap read it aloud to me and the kids. I'm not sure Alcorn's right about every detail, as I'm not sure we can confidently take parabolic content as factual details. The self-quotation also gets a little much, though I know he was pretty much the only person writing about heaven at this time.
If his larger Heaven is too intimidating a tome, I would not hesitate to recommend this one.
If his larger Heaven is too intimidating a tome, I would not hesitate to recommend this one.
May 14, 2019
Inspiring
Christians and nonchristians alike should read this book! Randy uses the truth of Scripture to explain the many facets of heaven and why we should not be afraid of death. This is a book to be digested, a thinker’s text, a great reference. There are a plethora of thought-provoking questions that one needs to settle for himself as he reads. Would also be a great basis for a Bible study or Church School class. Can’t wait to read more from this author!
Christians and nonchristians alike should read this book! Randy uses the truth of Scripture to explain the many facets of heaven and why we should not be afraid of death. This is a book to be digested, a thinker’s text, a great reference. There are a plethora of thought-provoking questions that one needs to settle for himself as he reads. Would also be a great basis for a Bible study or Church School class. Can’t wait to read more from this author!
April 6, 2020
Very thought provoking and good
This book is must reading for all who would call themselves followers of Christ and those who are seeking Him. This book gives a different perspective of heaven. It's use of scripture backs up the message of this book. It can change your outlook on this life and the next. I definitely recommend you read this.
This book is must reading for all who would call themselves followers of Christ and those who are seeking Him. This book gives a different perspective of heaven. It's use of scripture backs up the message of this book. It can change your outlook on this life and the next. I definitely recommend you read this.
June 12, 2024
Heaven is so real! My real country.
I so enjoyed the great truths about heaven being so succinctly brought together. The portrait of our forever home is compelling.
However, I had hard time relating to the quotes from his fictional works. Sometimes it seemed self serving. Its not quite right to prove a point with a fictional work.
I so enjoyed the great truths about heaven being so succinctly brought together. The portrait of our forever home is compelling.
However, I had hard time relating to the quotes from his fictional works. Sometimes it seemed self serving. Its not quite right to prove a point with a fictional work.
August 26, 2018
Truth be told...
So much to think about, then so much to do. This book truly opened my eyes, Randy Alcorn doesn't candy coat the truth, He tells it like it is so we will have our "second chance" here on earth to store up our Treasures in Heaven!!! Thank you, Randy!!!
So much to think about, then so much to do. This book truly opened my eyes, Randy Alcorn doesn't candy coat the truth, He tells it like it is so we will have our "second chance" here on earth to store up our Treasures in Heaven!!! Thank you, Randy!!!
April 4, 2020
Don’t miss out v
Randy makes Heaven as our ultimate dwelling so excited and appealing that we can hardly wait to arrive. He stresses how important it is to lay aside every weight and the sins that hinder us as we lay up our treasures there
Randy makes Heaven as our ultimate dwelling so excited and appealing that we can hardly wait to arrive. He stresses how important it is to lay aside every weight and the sins that hinder us as we lay up our treasures there
May 16, 2025
Brilliant book!
I absolutely loved this book! Definitely gave me a different perspective on Heaven and Eternity!
I would definitely recommend this book and further study on Heaven!
I absolutely loved this book! Definitely gave me a different perspective on Heaven and Eternity!
I would definitely recommend this book and further study on Heaven!
July 16, 2025
This is a must read. Really reoriented my life back to the main purpose. Which is the serve got and the eternal reward he has promised. The visiual representation of Heaven is so encouraging and brings life. When i'm feeling selfish and myself foucsed. I must remember to read this one again.
July 8, 2017
I need a book like this to keep an eternal perspective before me at all times. This world is not my real home.
November 18, 2018
Inspiring
Wonderful perspective on life and heaven. Comforting for those who have lost loved ones who are Christians. Ready to read.
Wonderful perspective on life and heaven. Comforting for those who have lost loved ones who are Christians. Ready to read.
May 14, 2020
Heaven
What a wonderful way to describe Heaven. Thank You needed to read this at this time in my life. Looking forward to Heaven
What a wonderful way to describe Heaven. Thank You needed to read this at this time in my life. Looking forward to Heaven
September 17, 2020
Wonderful, encouraging read as to what awaits us in heaven as we journey here on earth to heaven. He uses Bible verses, chapters for his focus.
June 10, 2021
Another excellent Randy Alcorn book, although it dragged on sometimes on certain topics. Wasn't too fond of how Alcorn kept...talking about his own books.
July 31, 2021
Wonderful pictures of heaven that can encourage, uplift, and inspire all seekers.
October 14, 2022
Definitely worth reading to remind us of what's most important in life - preparing for eternity.
Displaying 1 - 30 of 55 reviews