The Truth of a Future
A Review of "The Heaven Promise" by Scot McKnight

Scot McKnight once again offers sound theology based on the Biblical text in his book "The Heaven Promise." McKnight begins by exploring the Biblical proof behind heaven. To do so, he explores God's nature as a covenant keeper. He then shows that the Bible clearly states that God promises heaven for all who believe in Jesus Christ. Following this, he offers six promises regarding heaven. Then he explores what heaven means for us as we await the promise -- McKnight is very clear that we believers in Christ are in the here and now for a reason and that reason is not just to dream of heaven, but to prepare for heaven through our love of God and of neighbor.
After exploring the basis for heaven in Scripture and looking at how we should respond today in light of the fact of heaven, McKnight looks at 10 questions about heaven. These questions explore purgatory, near-death experiences, universalism, if pets go to heaven, how marriage and family will exist in heaven, cremation, God's fairness, rewards in heaven, the fate of children who die, and why we should believe in heaven. Particularly enlightening in this discussion was McKnight's look at marriage and family. He beings by discussing how friendships will exist in heaven and then in a very brief, yet thorough McKnight explores Mark 12:18-27 in order to offer an interpretation different from the traditional view.
Also of interest was the discussion around near death experiences. McKnight does not come down and declare that all such accounts are false, but warns for caution when approaching these stories. This is great advice for all those exploring the truths of heaven.
Overall, McKnight offers a great theology of heaven! His writing style is clear enough for the layperson, but his insights are keen enough for the budding scholar. Anyone who has questions about heaven should dig into this text and enjoy the insights given.
I received this book as part of Multnohmah books Blogging for Books program.