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A Place Called Heaven: 10 Surprising Truths about Your Eternal Home
If any of us learned we were going to move to a foreign country, we'd do everything we could to learn about that place so that we'd be prepared when moving day arrived. As Christians, we know some day we will leave our familiar country and be united with God in heaven. And yet many of us know very little about this place called heaven.
In this enlightening book, bestselling author Dr. Robert Jeffress opens the Scriptures to unpack ten surprising truths about heaven and explain who we will see there and how we can prepare to go there someday. Perfect for believers or skeptics who are curious about heaven.
In this enlightening book, bestselling author Dr. Robert Jeffress opens the Scriptures to unpack ten surprising truths about heaven and explain who we will see there and how we can prepare to go there someday. Perfect for believers or skeptics who are curious about heaven.
256 pages, Paperback
Published April 3, 2018
759 people are currently reading
536 people want to read
About the author
Robert Jeffress
126 books83 followersDr. Robert Jeffress is senior pastor of the 16,000-member First Baptist Church, Dallas, Texas, and is a Fox News contributor. His daily radio program, Pathway to Victory, is heard on more than 1,000 stations nationwide, and his weekly television program is seen in 195 countries around the world. Jeffress has appeared on many media outlets, such as Fox & Friends, Hannity, Good Morning America, and Real Time with Bill Maher. He is the author of more than 30 books, including Not All Roads Lead to Heaven, Choosing the Extraordinary Life, 18 Minutes with Jesus, What Every Christian Should Know,and The 10. He lives in Dallas.
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 57 reviews
December 28, 2023
“It’s a place more magnificent than you could ever imagine.” (3.5 stars)
Heaven is a place of vast interest to me. Mainly because no one can speak definitively about it, and the only thing we can accept as fact is what Christ said about it, if we are a believer in Him. I am by the way, so FYI as I’m sure that colored my experience with this book. I picked up A PLACE CALLED HEAVEN more out of curiosity, than out a desire to learn something.
I don’t share the author’s, Dr. Robert Jeffress, millennial views so that aspect of the book fell flat for me. I did appreciate that he tried to base everything in biblical text, even if I did not always share his interpretation of said text.
Here are some bits from the book that stuck with me.
- I had never thought much about “near death experiences”. As a rule I don’t put much stock in them. After reading Dr. Jeffress’ thoughts on them, he also doubts their veracity, I will stick with my low regard for them.
- Chapter eight, “Will Heaven Be the Same for Everyone?”, was theologically a bit of a stretch for me. Not sure that I agree or disagree with the author’s view, but I am glad I read his thoughts. Gave me something to ponder.
- I had never given a lot of consideration to the idea of rewards in Heaven and how that affects our individual experiences there. Since reading this book, I have been thinking and studying about it more.
Quotes:
• “God knows that our minds are incapable of fully comprehending the complete magnificence of Heaven.
• “Truth is not the sum of our imagination.”
• “…forgiveness means letting go of my right to hurt another person for hurting me.”
Overall, this was a good reading experience. One I took in small bites, on a daily basis. Some interesting ideas presented, most of them taken back to biblical text for validation. I appreciated the effort, and the thoughts it engendered in me.
Heaven is a place of vast interest to me. Mainly because no one can speak definitively about it, and the only thing we can accept as fact is what Christ said about it, if we are a believer in Him. I am by the way, so FYI as I’m sure that colored my experience with this book. I picked up A PLACE CALLED HEAVEN more out of curiosity, than out a desire to learn something.
I don’t share the author’s, Dr. Robert Jeffress, millennial views so that aspect of the book fell flat for me. I did appreciate that he tried to base everything in biblical text, even if I did not always share his interpretation of said text.
Here are some bits from the book that stuck with me.
- I had never thought much about “near death experiences”. As a rule I don’t put much stock in them. After reading Dr. Jeffress’ thoughts on them, he also doubts their veracity, I will stick with my low regard for them.
- Chapter eight, “Will Heaven Be the Same for Everyone?”, was theologically a bit of a stretch for me. Not sure that I agree or disagree with the author’s view, but I am glad I read his thoughts. Gave me something to ponder.
- I had never given a lot of consideration to the idea of rewards in Heaven and how that affects our individual experiences there. Since reading this book, I have been thinking and studying about it more.
Quotes:
• “God knows that our minds are incapable of fully comprehending the complete magnificence of Heaven.
• “Truth is not the sum of our imagination.”
• “…forgiveness means letting go of my right to hurt another person for hurting me.”
Overall, this was a good reading experience. One I took in small bites, on a daily basis. Some interesting ideas presented, most of them taken back to biblical text for validation. I appreciated the effort, and the thoughts it engendered in me.
September 30, 2017
Why read another book on heaven? Jeffress writes, “...the more we think about the next world the more effective we become in this world.” (17) Thinking about heaven reminds us of the brevity of life and the certainty of future judgment. It motivates us to live God pleasing lives and it places suffering in perspective.
There were some aspects of this book that make it a good one to read. Jeffress writes about the present heaven where God resides now and where Christians go when they die. He also writes about the future heaven that Jesus is constructing for us and John described in Revelation. Jeffress says the topic confuses many Christians but he explains it well. I had not thought of these two heavens and I am glad he clarified it for me.
He also writes about the “I went to heaven” experiences. He reminds us that Scripture is our measuring rod for those who make such claims. I really like that he suggests such books might make us think that the Bible does not tell us all we need to know about heaven. Jeffress includes many criteria for evaluation so that we are not taken in by such accounts.
I found his section on what we will be doing in heaven interesting too. For example, he writes about Christians ruling and reigning with Christ. Jeffress writes, “Those who will rule and reign with Christ in the new world will be those who have the desire and ability to rule.” (111) If leadership responsibilities terrify us, we can relax. Chances are we will be working with our hands rather than directing people. (111) Jeffress adds this about leading in heaven, “The single greatest determiner of leadership responsibilities in the next life will be faithfulness to God in this life.” (112) I am still thinking about that.
Jeffress writes about hell too. He is a firm believer in its existence and that it is the destiny of many.
That gives potential readers an idea of what the book is like. Even though I have read many books on heaven, I still found new insights in this one. It is a good book for those who have not read much about heaven too. Many questions about it are answered, based on what the Bible says.
I received a complimentary copy of this book through Icon Media. My comments are an independent and honest review.
There were some aspects of this book that make it a good one to read. Jeffress writes about the present heaven where God resides now and where Christians go when they die. He also writes about the future heaven that Jesus is constructing for us and John described in Revelation. Jeffress says the topic confuses many Christians but he explains it well. I had not thought of these two heavens and I am glad he clarified it for me.
He also writes about the “I went to heaven” experiences. He reminds us that Scripture is our measuring rod for those who make such claims. I really like that he suggests such books might make us think that the Bible does not tell us all we need to know about heaven. Jeffress includes many criteria for evaluation so that we are not taken in by such accounts.
I found his section on what we will be doing in heaven interesting too. For example, he writes about Christians ruling and reigning with Christ. Jeffress writes, “Those who will rule and reign with Christ in the new world will be those who have the desire and ability to rule.” (111) If leadership responsibilities terrify us, we can relax. Chances are we will be working with our hands rather than directing people. (111) Jeffress adds this about leading in heaven, “The single greatest determiner of leadership responsibilities in the next life will be faithfulness to God in this life.” (112) I am still thinking about that.
Jeffress writes about hell too. He is a firm believer in its existence and that it is the destiny of many.
That gives potential readers an idea of what the book is like. Even though I have read many books on heaven, I still found new insights in this one. It is a good book for those who have not read much about heaven too. Many questions about it are answered, based on what the Bible says.
I received a complimentary copy of this book through Icon Media. My comments are an independent and honest review.
October 19, 2021
This is a great book and it answers so many questions that people have regarding things that they don’t understand. Dr Jeffers also backs everything up with scripture so it’s not just his opinions expressed. Also it explains the road to salvation and how to be ready for Heaven. A very, very good book. I recommend it for Christians and nonbelievers alike.
November 2, 2020
Overall I enjoyed this book. He goes off on a lot of tangents and doesn't alway answer is question in the chapter titles.
Chapter 1/What difference does a future heaven make?: When we get ready to go on a trip, we plan in advance for that trip. Our lives are on loan from God, and he can call in on that loan anytime. A man named Harold had a count down to his 70th birthday to motivate himself to use his time wisely. After his 70th birthday he then added lines for the extra days God had given him. Christians think about Heaven too little. The more we think about the next world, the more effective we become in this world. The author’s last four weeks as pastor (before he leaves for another job) are usually his most productive. 2 Corinthians 5:6,8 Paul realized that every minute spent alive on earth was a minute away from the home Jesus had prepared for him in Heaven. God knows that our minds are incapable of fully comprehending the complete magnificence of heaven. Focusing on Heaven reminds us of the brevity of our earthly life, prepares us for judgement, motivates us to lead pure lives. Every Christian wears two kinds of garments. Our inner tunic is our judicial righteousness – meaning our right standing with God. The outer tunic represents a Christian’s ethical righteousness or right acting before God. Focusing on Heaven places suffering in perspective. River with water of life and tree of life will be there (Rev 22:1-2)
Chapter 2/Is Heaven a real place or is it a state of mind? Many mansions and Jesus prepares a place for us (John 14:1-3). Place indicates that it is not a state of mind. I will ascend to heaven; I will raise my throne above the stars of God (Isaiah 14:3). First heaven=earth’s atmosphere, Second heaven=outer space, Third heaven (where we go when we die/Paradise)=presence of God, Fourth Heaven/future heaven= our future home/new earth/heaven on earth. In Dallas (where the author lives), wealthy individuals will buy a house and completely demolish it in order to build a new one on the lot. God is doing something similar for us (burning the earth for a new heaven). There will no longer be seas on the earth Rev 21:1 (in order to provide for al the inhabitants). There will not be a sun or a moon for this new heaven, Jesus will be our light. (Rev 21:23) New Jerusalem (capital city in heaven) will be 1500 miles (2 million square miles). It will have 660,000 stores and go from Applician mountains to California and from Canada to Mexico. We won’t need police or doctors.
Chapter 3/Have some people already visited Heaven? Near Death Experiences (NDE) is a profound psychological event that may occur to someone close to death. Common themes: sensation of floating, traveling toward a light, time in otherworld, encountering deceased loved ones, sensation of peace and love, being called back. God hasn’t told us everything about heaven, but he has revealed everything we NEED to know. Satan can masquerade as a being of light 2 Cor. 11:14. We interpret our experiences through a cultural lens. We see what we want to see. Christian will see being of light and assume it is Jesus. There are no Biblical accounts of NDEs.
Chapter 4/Do Christians immediately go to Heaven when they die? Death is every person’s fate because every man, woman and child is guilty of sin against God. Therefore, being always of good courage, and knowing that while we are at home in the body we are absent from the Lord – for we walk by faith, not by sight – we are of good courage, I say, and prefer rather to be absent from the body and to be at home with the Lord (2 Corinthians 5:6-8). While our bodies are here on earth we are not in the presence of Christ. Those dead in Christ will be in the third heaven, until the new heaven is created. God created us body, soul and spirit. We have to have an interim body (spirit body) when we die and before we are given our new resurrected body. All people do not experience the same destiny when they die.
Chapter 5/What will we do in Heaven? A child kicks his legs rhythmically through excess, not absence of life. Because children have abounding vitality, because they are in spirit fierce and free, therefore they want things repeated and unchanged. They always say, “do it again’ and the grown-up person does it again until he is nearly dead. For grown-up people are not strong enough to exult in monotony. But perhaps God is strong enough to exult in monontony. It is possible that God says every morning, ‘do it again’ to the sun and every evening ‘do it again’ to the moon. It may be that He has the eternal appetite of infancy; for we have sinned and grown old, and our Father is younger than we. (G.K. Chesterton). Our two primary responsibilities will be worship and work. Adam worked in the garden and worshipped God every morning. Heaven will be exuberant worship and singing. We will always be engaged in worship. There will be many jobs that will not be needed: doctor (no disease), police (no crime), lawyers (no lawsuits). Christs kingdom will be run by his followers (not politicians). Our assignment will be based on our interests and abilitities. It will also depend on our faithfulness on earth.
Chapter 6/Do people in Heaven know what is happening on Earth? Paul described his life as a spectacle to those on earth and in heaven. (1 Cor 4:9) Luke 16: Lazarus (heaven) and rich man (hell) are aware of each other and what is happening. There will be more joy in heaven over one sinner who repents (Luke 15:7,10)
Chapter 7/Will we know one another in Heaven? We will have physical bodies in heaven. Every person will have a body and a spirit. First and second resurrections are discussed in this chapter. God has all the elements at his disposal, no difficulty can prevent him from commanding the earth, fire, and water to give up what they have destroyed. Your new body will not be completely unlike your old body on earth. Jesus had the ability to materialize at will with his new body. Jesus was recognized by those on earth because of the similarities between is old and new body. Heavenly bodies will endure, be free of sin, be powerful, and are for the new earth. We will wear clothes in heaven. We will all be beautiful.
Chapter 8/Will Heaven be the same for everyone? We will all appear before the judgement seat of Christ. Our works do not secure us a place in heaven, but they do determine our experience in heaven. God knows every word and thought we have had! Each of us is in the process of building our house of life. We need to construct our house so it withstands the heat of Christ’s judgement. Those who run in a race all run but only one receives the prize? (1 Cor 9:24-27). Everyone in heaven will be fully blessed, but not everyone will be equally blessed. My reward is with Me, to render to every man according to what he has done (Rev 22:12). Story: beggar who had bowl of rice was asked to give to the wealthy man. He gave one grain and then another. After the wealthy man was gone the beggar noticed that there was a gold grain for each grain he had given.
Chapter 9/Who will be in Heaven? He tells the story of traveling to Winnipeg when he should have been in Vancouver. Those who have trusted in Christ for the forgiveness of their sins will be in Heaven. God has already decided the standard by which people will be admitted into His presence. Signpost 1: we have a sin problem: all of want to protest our innocence even when we have cookie crumbs on our chin. Signpost 2: God is Sinless: the standing rule of heaven is holiness. Signpost 3: Jesus is the only solution to our sin problem: Jesus suffered for our sins, and God credited us with the righteousness or perfection of Jesus. Justification declares us righteous. Signpost 4: WE must choose to accept Christ’s offer of Forgiveness: It is not enough to know you need gas in your car, you have to actually take the gas cap off and fill your car with gas. Abraham’s faith (not his works) qualified him for heaven. There are no children in hell and none are ever mentioned at the judgement seat (assumption – they all go to heaven).
Chapter 10/How can I prepare for Heaven? Make sure you have a valid passport – stamped forgiven. Live with a destination mindset – he gets the most done when he knows he is leaving a congregation for a new job, because his time is limited. Refuse to allow death to paralyze you with fear – we should have faith that we won’t leave earth until our appointed time. Make the most of your time on earth – 70 years are given to us. We should not waste our time watching TV and playing video games. Minimize your predeparture regrets – live our true lives, don’t work so hard, express our feelings, be happy. Important categories: God, family, friends, career, finances. Take care of practical matters before you depart – one man had a notebook with all financial information listed. Abraham died in a ripe old age, an old man and satisfied with life, and he was gathered to his people. Heaven is a place more magnificent than you could ever imagine. It’s a place where every heartache will be erased and every dream will be fulfilled. It’s a place reserved for those who have received God’s forgiveness through faith in Christ.
Chapter 1/What difference does a future heaven make?: When we get ready to go on a trip, we plan in advance for that trip. Our lives are on loan from God, and he can call in on that loan anytime. A man named Harold had a count down to his 70th birthday to motivate himself to use his time wisely. After his 70th birthday he then added lines for the extra days God had given him. Christians think about Heaven too little. The more we think about the next world, the more effective we become in this world. The author’s last four weeks as pastor (before he leaves for another job) are usually his most productive. 2 Corinthians 5:6,8 Paul realized that every minute spent alive on earth was a minute away from the home Jesus had prepared for him in Heaven. God knows that our minds are incapable of fully comprehending the complete magnificence of heaven. Focusing on Heaven reminds us of the brevity of our earthly life, prepares us for judgement, motivates us to lead pure lives. Every Christian wears two kinds of garments. Our inner tunic is our judicial righteousness – meaning our right standing with God. The outer tunic represents a Christian’s ethical righteousness or right acting before God. Focusing on Heaven places suffering in perspective. River with water of life and tree of life will be there (Rev 22:1-2)
Chapter 2/Is Heaven a real place or is it a state of mind? Many mansions and Jesus prepares a place for us (John 14:1-3). Place indicates that it is not a state of mind. I will ascend to heaven; I will raise my throne above the stars of God (Isaiah 14:3). First heaven=earth’s atmosphere, Second heaven=outer space, Third heaven (where we go when we die/Paradise)=presence of God, Fourth Heaven/future heaven= our future home/new earth/heaven on earth. In Dallas (where the author lives), wealthy individuals will buy a house and completely demolish it in order to build a new one on the lot. God is doing something similar for us (burning the earth for a new heaven). There will no longer be seas on the earth Rev 21:1 (in order to provide for al the inhabitants). There will not be a sun or a moon for this new heaven, Jesus will be our light. (Rev 21:23) New Jerusalem (capital city in heaven) will be 1500 miles (2 million square miles). It will have 660,000 stores and go from Applician mountains to California and from Canada to Mexico. We won’t need police or doctors.
Chapter 3/Have some people already visited Heaven? Near Death Experiences (NDE) is a profound psychological event that may occur to someone close to death. Common themes: sensation of floating, traveling toward a light, time in otherworld, encountering deceased loved ones, sensation of peace and love, being called back. God hasn’t told us everything about heaven, but he has revealed everything we NEED to know. Satan can masquerade as a being of light 2 Cor. 11:14. We interpret our experiences through a cultural lens. We see what we want to see. Christian will see being of light and assume it is Jesus. There are no Biblical accounts of NDEs.
Chapter 4/Do Christians immediately go to Heaven when they die? Death is every person’s fate because every man, woman and child is guilty of sin against God. Therefore, being always of good courage, and knowing that while we are at home in the body we are absent from the Lord – for we walk by faith, not by sight – we are of good courage, I say, and prefer rather to be absent from the body and to be at home with the Lord (2 Corinthians 5:6-8). While our bodies are here on earth we are not in the presence of Christ. Those dead in Christ will be in the third heaven, until the new heaven is created. God created us body, soul and spirit. We have to have an interim body (spirit body) when we die and before we are given our new resurrected body. All people do not experience the same destiny when they die.
Chapter 5/What will we do in Heaven? A child kicks his legs rhythmically through excess, not absence of life. Because children have abounding vitality, because they are in spirit fierce and free, therefore they want things repeated and unchanged. They always say, “do it again’ and the grown-up person does it again until he is nearly dead. For grown-up people are not strong enough to exult in monotony. But perhaps God is strong enough to exult in monontony. It is possible that God says every morning, ‘do it again’ to the sun and every evening ‘do it again’ to the moon. It may be that He has the eternal appetite of infancy; for we have sinned and grown old, and our Father is younger than we. (G.K. Chesterton). Our two primary responsibilities will be worship and work. Adam worked in the garden and worshipped God every morning. Heaven will be exuberant worship and singing. We will always be engaged in worship. There will be many jobs that will not be needed: doctor (no disease), police (no crime), lawyers (no lawsuits). Christs kingdom will be run by his followers (not politicians). Our assignment will be based on our interests and abilitities. It will also depend on our faithfulness on earth.
Chapter 6/Do people in Heaven know what is happening on Earth? Paul described his life as a spectacle to those on earth and in heaven. (1 Cor 4:9) Luke 16: Lazarus (heaven) and rich man (hell) are aware of each other and what is happening. There will be more joy in heaven over one sinner who repents (Luke 15:7,10)
Chapter 7/Will we know one another in Heaven? We will have physical bodies in heaven. Every person will have a body and a spirit. First and second resurrections are discussed in this chapter. God has all the elements at his disposal, no difficulty can prevent him from commanding the earth, fire, and water to give up what they have destroyed. Your new body will not be completely unlike your old body on earth. Jesus had the ability to materialize at will with his new body. Jesus was recognized by those on earth because of the similarities between is old and new body. Heavenly bodies will endure, be free of sin, be powerful, and are for the new earth. We will wear clothes in heaven. We will all be beautiful.
Chapter 8/Will Heaven be the same for everyone? We will all appear before the judgement seat of Christ. Our works do not secure us a place in heaven, but they do determine our experience in heaven. God knows every word and thought we have had! Each of us is in the process of building our house of life. We need to construct our house so it withstands the heat of Christ’s judgement. Those who run in a race all run but only one receives the prize? (1 Cor 9:24-27). Everyone in heaven will be fully blessed, but not everyone will be equally blessed. My reward is with Me, to render to every man according to what he has done (Rev 22:12). Story: beggar who had bowl of rice was asked to give to the wealthy man. He gave one grain and then another. After the wealthy man was gone the beggar noticed that there was a gold grain for each grain he had given.
Chapter 9/Who will be in Heaven? He tells the story of traveling to Winnipeg when he should have been in Vancouver. Those who have trusted in Christ for the forgiveness of their sins will be in Heaven. God has already decided the standard by which people will be admitted into His presence. Signpost 1: we have a sin problem: all of want to protest our innocence even when we have cookie crumbs on our chin. Signpost 2: God is Sinless: the standing rule of heaven is holiness. Signpost 3: Jesus is the only solution to our sin problem: Jesus suffered for our sins, and God credited us with the righteousness or perfection of Jesus. Justification declares us righteous. Signpost 4: WE must choose to accept Christ’s offer of Forgiveness: It is not enough to know you need gas in your car, you have to actually take the gas cap off and fill your car with gas. Abraham’s faith (not his works) qualified him for heaven. There are no children in hell and none are ever mentioned at the judgement seat (assumption – they all go to heaven).
Chapter 10/How can I prepare for Heaven? Make sure you have a valid passport – stamped forgiven. Live with a destination mindset – he gets the most done when he knows he is leaving a congregation for a new job, because his time is limited. Refuse to allow death to paralyze you with fear – we should have faith that we won’t leave earth until our appointed time. Make the most of your time on earth – 70 years are given to us. We should not waste our time watching TV and playing video games. Minimize your predeparture regrets – live our true lives, don’t work so hard, express our feelings, be happy. Important categories: God, family, friends, career, finances. Take care of practical matters before you depart – one man had a notebook with all financial information listed. Abraham died in a ripe old age, an old man and satisfied with life, and he was gathered to his people. Heaven is a place more magnificent than you could ever imagine. It’s a place where every heartache will be erased and every dream will be fulfilled. It’s a place reserved for those who have received God’s forgiveness through faith in Christ.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
July 1, 2024
3.5 STARS
There was some really good stuff in here, and I think it is worth reading. The practical lessons and teachings about living with an eternal mindset were encouraging and a good reminder.
However, I had 2 main issues:
1. It was extremely repetitive throughout.
2. I feel that Dr. Jeffress made strong positive claims about Heaven and Hell that are unknowable and not clearly laid out in scripture enough to make such positive claims about them. I believe certain details about heaven and hell are beyond our capabilities to grasp, and that is why scripture uses such symbolic language. I am not saying his interpretations are wrong (I would be making the same mistake to pretend as if I know), but he leaves no room for any other interpretations or orthodox views on the topic.
There was some really good stuff in here, and I think it is worth reading. The practical lessons and teachings about living with an eternal mindset were encouraging and a good reminder.
However, I had 2 main issues:
1. It was extremely repetitive throughout.
2. I feel that Dr. Jeffress made strong positive claims about Heaven and Hell that are unknowable and not clearly laid out in scripture enough to make such positive claims about them. I believe certain details about heaven and hell are beyond our capabilities to grasp, and that is why scripture uses such symbolic language. I am not saying his interpretations are wrong (I would be making the same mistake to pretend as if I know), but he leaves no room for any other interpretations or orthodox views on the topic.
June 21, 2018
I found that this book was well thought out and structured. The author based his book on the bible and scripture. As a practicing Catholic I found his points interesting and well researched. If you want to know about Heaven this is a great book to read. I agree with another reviewer that the book was long and slow to get through. But there was a lot to think about the question of whether I'm living the life Jesus wants me to live. I will be pondering this a lot. Well done!
December 8, 2023
Good
Very thought provoking lessons on heaven. Sure encouraged my soul and made me want to be ready for that coming day.
Very thought provoking lessons on heaven. Sure encouraged my soul and made me want to be ready for that coming day.
April 20, 2024
Excellent!
September 27, 2017
I’m having a hard time reviewing this book because I feel that it had so many ups and downs. At times I was totally captivated by its depictions of heaven and the illustrations that made the words on the page seem real. But at other times my mind wandered and seemed that the pages may stretch on forever. I imagine that Heaven is something very difficult to write about. It’s a place no one has been and the Bible is really the one reliable source of information we have about Heaven.
I think Dr. Jeffress does a great job of bringing scripture into this book. He supports his conclusions well and you can tell every section has been bathed in the exposition of scripture. I think that is probably this book’s biggest check in the positive column. The biggest downfall is simply its length. I think that at times it stretched on further than necessary. Some things may have been able to be put in simpler terms to keep it slightly shorter and more engaging.
All that being said, I think this book deserves four out of five stars. It is not necessarily an easy read, and if you plan to read it, I would suggest giving yourself time to digest each suggestion. But, it does a great job of covering the difficult subject of the mystery of Heaven.
I think Dr. Jeffress does a great job of bringing scripture into this book. He supports his conclusions well and you can tell every section has been bathed in the exposition of scripture. I think that is probably this book’s biggest check in the positive column. The biggest downfall is simply its length. I think that at times it stretched on further than necessary. Some things may have been able to be put in simpler terms to keep it slightly shorter and more engaging.
All that being said, I think this book deserves four out of five stars. It is not necessarily an easy read, and if you plan to read it, I would suggest giving yourself time to digest each suggestion. But, it does a great job of covering the difficult subject of the mystery of Heaven.
June 12, 2019
Demonstrates a tendency to be hasty, uncritical, and predisposed or prejudiced toward a specific theological agenda or perspective. Author is as inflexible as one might gather from the types of things he says in public, such as in the Media and avenues like Twitter.
October 12, 2024
7.0/10 - Jeffress represents a number of archetypal views very common in the U.S. today, and I enjoyed his book more than I expected I would.
May 10, 2025
Whether you are a believer or a skeptic, we all have a curiosity about Heaven and what happens when we die. In his book A Place Called Heaven, Dr. Robert Jeffress explores 10 common questions about the afterlife.
The questions are:
Is heaven a real place or is it a state of mind?
Who will be in heaven?
Have some people already visited heaven?
What will we do in heaven?
Will we know one another in heaven?
What difference does a future heaven make in my life today?
Do Christians immediately go to heaven when they die?
Do people in heaven know what is happening on earth?
Will heaven be the same for everyone?
Jeffress uses scripture, supplemented by the writing of biblical scholars, to give plausible, thought-provoking answers, no matter what your beliefs.
Here's an excerpt of one of his answers:
"Is Heaven a real place or is it a state of mind?"
Do not let your heart be troubled; believe in God, believe also in me. In my Father's house are many dwelling places; if it were not so, I would have told you; for I go to prepare a place for you. If I go to prepare a place for you, I will come again and receive you to Myself, that where I am, there you may be also. (John 14: 1-3)
When Jesus told the disciples about the "Father's house," He didn't speak of a place that "exists" in the fantasyland of our minds..."Place" (topos) is used three times in John 14: 1-3. This Greek word serves as the root for our word topography--the act of detailing the actual, physical features of land on a map. When used in the New Testament, topos almost always indicates a locatable and inhabited space...But it's more than just the word topos that tells us that Heaven is real. Jesus also said "In my Father's house are many dwelling places". (v.2) The Greek word for "dwelling" is mone and can also be translated as "habitat," "lodging," or "domicile." Each of these words describes something that is real and physical.
Skeptics and even believers may find it challenging to accept Jeffress' interpretations. After all, no one knows what awaits us after we die. Still, Jeffress gives Christians pause to think about how they can better follow Christ in this world, in preparation for the next. Those with different beliefs will find his writings on eternity worth exploring.
I like that Jeffress gives both groups much to consider. He seeks to make us think about eternal consequences and rewards. Also, he doesn't offer his conclusions as absolute but as a "pencil sketch" of Heaven and what it may be like. Of course, the book is written primarily for Christians, but spiritual seekers are offered a well-referenced look at the afterlife.
Ultimately, the book is a solid resource that encourages readers to think deeply about eternity while living purposefully today. I give the book five stars.
The questions are:
Is heaven a real place or is it a state of mind?
Who will be in heaven?
Have some people already visited heaven?
What will we do in heaven?
Will we know one another in heaven?
What difference does a future heaven make in my life today?
Do Christians immediately go to heaven when they die?
Do people in heaven know what is happening on earth?
Will heaven be the same for everyone?
Jeffress uses scripture, supplemented by the writing of biblical scholars, to give plausible, thought-provoking answers, no matter what your beliefs.
Here's an excerpt of one of his answers:
"Is Heaven a real place or is it a state of mind?"
Do not let your heart be troubled; believe in God, believe also in me. In my Father's house are many dwelling places; if it were not so, I would have told you; for I go to prepare a place for you. If I go to prepare a place for you, I will come again and receive you to Myself, that where I am, there you may be also. (John 14: 1-3)
When Jesus told the disciples about the "Father's house," He didn't speak of a place that "exists" in the fantasyland of our minds..."Place" (topos) is used three times in John 14: 1-3. This Greek word serves as the root for our word topography--the act of detailing the actual, physical features of land on a map. When used in the New Testament, topos almost always indicates a locatable and inhabited space...But it's more than just the word topos that tells us that Heaven is real. Jesus also said "In my Father's house are many dwelling places". (v.2) The Greek word for "dwelling" is mone and can also be translated as "habitat," "lodging," or "domicile." Each of these words describes something that is real and physical.
Skeptics and even believers may find it challenging to accept Jeffress' interpretations. After all, no one knows what awaits us after we die. Still, Jeffress gives Christians pause to think about how they can better follow Christ in this world, in preparation for the next. Those with different beliefs will find his writings on eternity worth exploring.
I like that Jeffress gives both groups much to consider. He seeks to make us think about eternal consequences and rewards. Also, he doesn't offer his conclusions as absolute but as a "pencil sketch" of Heaven and what it may be like. Of course, the book is written primarily for Christians, but spiritual seekers are offered a well-referenced look at the afterlife.
Ultimately, the book is a solid resource that encourages readers to think deeply about eternity while living purposefully today. I give the book five stars.
September 28, 2024
Overall, this is a good book about heaven and I recommend it. My questions are not major, but are as follows:
The author states that there will be no darkness on the new earth. But
Revelation 21:23 states that the CITY (New Jeruslem) does not NEED the light of the sun or moon. It does not state that there will be no sun. So I wonder whether there is day and night outside the city. Rev 7:15 and 20:10 refer to 'day and night'.
The author stated that Jesus was left handed but I couldn’t find anything about that in the Bible.
The author stated:
Just imagine how fascinating it will be to talk with Adam about what life was like in the Garden before sin entered the world. We will sit riveted to stories of Noah and his experience during the Great Flood, God’s last-minute intervention in Abraham’s offering of Isaac, the children of Israel escaping Pharaoh’s chariots, David’s victory over the giant Goliath, and the surprising discovery of Jesus’s followers on that first Easter Sunday morning.
I hope so, but must wonder:
““See, I will create new heavens and a new earth. The former things will not be remembered, nor will they come to mind.”
Isaiah 65:17 NIV
Lastly, I disagree about pre-tribulation rapture. The rapture does not precede the resurrection of the tribulation saints, and that happens at the last trumpet.
The author states that there will be no darkness on the new earth. But
Revelation 21:23 states that the CITY (New Jeruslem) does not NEED the light of the sun or moon. It does not state that there will be no sun. So I wonder whether there is day and night outside the city. Rev 7:15 and 20:10 refer to 'day and night'.
The author stated that Jesus was left handed but I couldn’t find anything about that in the Bible.
The author stated:
Just imagine how fascinating it will be to talk with Adam about what life was like in the Garden before sin entered the world. We will sit riveted to stories of Noah and his experience during the Great Flood, God’s last-minute intervention in Abraham’s offering of Isaac, the children of Israel escaping Pharaoh’s chariots, David’s victory over the giant Goliath, and the surprising discovery of Jesus’s followers on that first Easter Sunday morning.
I hope so, but must wonder:
““See, I will create new heavens and a new earth. The former things will not be remembered, nor will they come to mind.”
Isaiah 65:17 NIV
Lastly, I disagree about pre-tribulation rapture. The rapture does not precede the resurrection of the tribulation saints, and that happens at the last trumpet.
June 5, 2021
I didn't know...
... That god left as so many clues, so many glimpses of Heaven in His glorious book, the Bible. Pastor Jeffress, in clear, understandable language And in a very organized manner, Has set for A wonderful picture Of a place we all want to go to Even though we don't quite understand What we will find when we get there. He asked all the questions That I've been asking Since my husband, a man of faith, I 3 years ago. Oh, I knew where he was going, but I didn't know when he was gonna get there and where he would be when he got there and would he recognize me when I got there. I like rules and regulations and knowing what's expected of me and knowing what I can expect if I comply. Silly, perhaps, But did my husband really go immediately to the arms of our Savior? Using God's words, Abraham's words, Jesus's words, the words of the apostles, the puzzle is made amazingly clearer.
... That god left as so many clues, so many glimpses of Heaven in His glorious book, the Bible. Pastor Jeffress, in clear, understandable language And in a very organized manner, Has set for A wonderful picture Of a place we all want to go to Even though we don't quite understand What we will find when we get there. He asked all the questions That I've been asking Since my husband, a man of faith, I 3 years ago. Oh, I knew where he was going, but I didn't know when he was gonna get there and where he would be when he got there and would he recognize me when I got there. I like rules and regulations and knowing what's expected of me and knowing what I can expect if I comply. Silly, perhaps, But did my husband really go immediately to the arms of our Savior? Using God's words, Abraham's words, Jesus's words, the words of the apostles, the puzzle is made amazingly clearer.
February 26, 2023
An amazing book! Dr. Robert Jeffress did an outstanding job to answer tough questions about "a place called Heaven" using Scripture and sound doctrine as his foundation. Jeffress also used unique analogies to further some of his ideas, and I really enjoyed that.
This book is very eye-opening! It gave me a little more clarity on what the next life may be like for those who have put their trust in Jesus. I have always been a little nervous about Heaven because my human mind could not fathom the expanse of eternity. Yet, this book brought out joy and excitement for me! God's beauty, God's mercy, and God's love is worthy to be praised!
Honestly, the biggest takeaway for me was not to be afraid, but to think about the majesty of my eternal home and God's presence ♡
This book is very eye-opening! It gave me a little more clarity on what the next life may be like for those who have put their trust in Jesus. I have always been a little nervous about Heaven because my human mind could not fathom the expanse of eternity. Yet, this book brought out joy and excitement for me! God's beauty, God's mercy, and God's love is worthy to be praised!
Honestly, the biggest takeaway for me was not to be afraid, but to think about the majesty of my eternal home and God's presence ♡
April 14, 2025
Reading a book from a highly educated pastor, steeped in experience with a treasure trove of books he has authored, one would pray that his theology would not be lost in a long passed poorly interpreted topic as angels have sex. More so, the concept of repeating fallen angels having sex with human women was a shock to me. Genesis 6:1-8 is the epitome of God's anger with HUMANS, not angels. Indeed, the worldwide flood that followed was due to the ungodly accounts of HUMANS, again not angels. Notwithstanding, God also reduced mankind's time on earth to 120 years.
In closing, I will leave with this comment that I had purchased "A Place Called Heaven" to read chapter 3. Have Some People Already Visited Heach? And this was excellent!
In closing, I will leave with this comment that I had purchased "A Place Called Heaven" to read chapter 3. Have Some People Already Visited Heach? And this was excellent!
July 23, 2022
Dr. (and Pastor) Robert Jeffress provides a clear description of Heaven and Hell. He supports his assertions with analogy, and Old and New Testament Biblical passages. Keepers ...
"Hell is not populated mainly by passionate rebels but by nice bland, indifferent, respectable people who simply never gave a damn about Jesus Christ."
"The relationships we have formed on earth will continue in heaven. But they will continue without strife or enmity."
"The goal is to run the race God has set before us, to handle our trust with care, and to build our lives with actions and motives that have eternal value."
"Hell is not populated mainly by passionate rebels but by nice bland, indifferent, respectable people who simply never gave a damn about Jesus Christ."
"The relationships we have formed on earth will continue in heaven. But they will continue without strife or enmity."
"The goal is to run the race God has set before us, to handle our trust with care, and to build our lives with actions and motives that have eternal value."
July 8, 2018
Great Book!
Dr. Robert Jeffress is a great teacher of heaven, Jesus, end time events, etc.,, This is the first book I have read from him but it won't be the last. I admire his passion to reach people who do not know Jesus as their personal Savior and also help people understand the Bible. Highly recommend to individuals who want to understand what awaits us when we take our last breath on earth.
Dr. Robert Jeffress is a great teacher of heaven, Jesus, end time events, etc.,, This is the first book I have read from him but it won't be the last. I admire his passion to reach people who do not know Jesus as their personal Savior and also help people understand the Bible. Highly recommend to individuals who want to understand what awaits us when we take our last breath on earth.
February 1, 2022
Great but fantasy based on the Bible
There was some excellent parts of this book based on scripture and encouragement. However, many of the author’s comments were his opinions or what he thinks heaven will be like based on scriptures from the Bible. I don’t know what even will be like based on reading this book but I do know that I will be with my God and Saviour Jesus..who died for me and loves beyond human comprehension. I am thankful for his mercy, grace and salvation.
There was some excellent parts of this book based on scripture and encouragement. However, many of the author’s comments were his opinions or what he thinks heaven will be like based on scriptures from the Bible. I don’t know what even will be like based on reading this book but I do know that I will be with my God and Saviour Jesus..who died for me and loves beyond human comprehension. I am thankful for his mercy, grace and salvation.
March 28, 2023
This book answered several biblical questions I have had and got me excited about heaven! Most (if not all) of my life as a Christian I have been more afraid of hell than I have been excited for heaven. I would be lying if I said I still wasn’t terrified of hell.. but this book gave me a small taste of what it will be like to experience heaven! The book also goes into detail how I can be certain that heaven will be my eternal home!
September 21, 2017
This books was a remarkable writing and compelling to read with had it all the tool and knowledge that we are all wondering and have a question about the A place called HEAVEN. This story will giving you all clear and sharing the good news of the gospel. I highly recommend to everyone must to read this book. " I received complimentary a copy of this book from Baker Book Bloggers for this review".
December 26, 2020
“...there is one time in your life you don’t want to end up in the wrong destination...” I like how Jeffress uses bible verses and breaks them down for an easy to understand meaning.
Loved hearing that when God sees someone who truly want to get to know him, he will show them more info about Jesus and salvation.
Loved hearing that when God sees someone who truly want to get to know him, he will show them more info about Jesus and salvation.
October 7, 2021
Excellent Book
I highly recommend this book even if your a new Christian or like me been Christian for quite awhile. Eternity awaits in one or two places Heaven or Hell and in this life we have to make a decision where we spend eternity! If Christ is speaking to your heart accept his call before it’s too late, tomorrow is not guaranteed!!
I highly recommend this book even if your a new Christian or like me been Christian for quite awhile. Eternity awaits in one or two places Heaven or Hell and in this life we have to make a decision where we spend eternity! If Christ is speaking to your heart accept his call before it’s too late, tomorrow is not guaranteed!!
June 15, 2024
The narrator was very good. I mostly liked the content but there were a few concepts that I do not subscribe to. However, it did motivate me do a deep dive into scripture on those concepts, and I’m grateful for that.
Over all I’m glad I read the book. I respect Robert Jeffress even if I don’t completely agree on all aspects of his book.
Over all I’m glad I read the book. I respect Robert Jeffress even if I don’t completely agree on all aspects of his book.
September 28, 2017
Questions Answered
Dr. Jeffries has done a masterful job of laying out for both believers and unbelievers what they can expect when they die. I would recommend the book to everyone.
Dr. Jeffries has done a masterful job of laying out for both believers and unbelievers what they can expect when they die. I would recommend the book to everyone.
November 10, 2017
This is a very good book. It explains in detail what he believes Heaven to be. I believe Dr. Jeffress to be a very learned man. I really enjoy his books and listening to his TV program. He doesn't back down when detractors try to challenge his Christian faith.
June 11, 2019
Excellent book. Very good companion piece to Randy Alcorn's "Heaven". Highly recommend to anyone wishing to find out more about where they're going to spend eternity (if you have a personal relationship with Jesus).
December 14, 2019
Dr. Jeffress does a phenomenal job of detailing what Heaven will be like based on the Scriptures. This was very easy and engaging. In fact, I read it in the course of one evening as I couldn't put it down.
November 9, 2020
This book is well written and well researched, but still the majority of the book is only speculation. Being a Christian but not a pre-millinialist I respectfully disagree with the author, but I do appreciate the study, thought and prayer that went into writing this book.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
December 3, 2020
Wonderful Book
This is a spiritually inspiring book which addresses the fact of our death. Where will we spend eternity? If you know Jesus as Savior you will go to heaven to be with Him eternally. Our life here is brief so we must decide now.
This is a spiritually inspiring book which addresses the fact of our death. Where will we spend eternity? If you know Jesus as Savior you will go to heaven to be with Him eternally. Our life here is brief so we must decide now.
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