As a devout Christian that enjoys sleep, I take an interest in how we will rest in Heaven. I was intrigued by this topic when I heard someone say that we will exalt God all day and night. Since I was curious to find out whether we will sleep in Heaven, I decided to conduct more research and read numerous Bible verses for a week. I also visited a Church to ask spiritual leaders whether sleep is possible in Heaven. Last Sunday, as I was teaching my theology college class about what living in Heaven will be like, one of my students asked me if we would be able to sleep in Heaven. Another was curious to find out if our new bodies will get tired in Heaven and need rest. Having done comprehensive research and talked to Bible scholars about this topic, I had all the right answers at my fingertips. So, can you sleep in Heaven?
Most Bible scholars imply that we cannot sleep in Heaven since sleep only occurs in physical bodies. They argue that when one gets to Heaven, they have a spiritual body that does not require rest and is not capable of sleep.
In this article, I invite you to join me as we delve into the topic of sleep in Heaven. Keep reading to find out if it is possible to fall asleep in Heaven, if our new bodies will get tired in Heaven, and much more.
Is it possible to fall asleep in Heaven?
Though the Bible does not clearly mention this, Bible scholars imply that one cannot fall asleep in Heaven. This is because when we die, we are likely to be in a different realm. 2nd Corinthians 5:8 reminds us that when we die, we will be away from the physical body and united with God. When in Heaven, our souls will not be capable of sleep since we will not be in earthly bodies. Additionally, 1st John 3:2 says that when we get to Heaven, we will see God face to face. Some Christians suggest that it is likely to bring fear and awe, and falling asleep will not be a priority.
Will our new bodies in Heaven get tired and need rest?
Theologians suggest that sleep can only occur in the physical body. Since Heaven exists within a spiritual realm, our earthly bodies are not designed for a heavenly existence. Since we will not have the same bodies as we do now when we get to Heaven, it will not be possible to get tired.
Just like other heavenly beings worship God, as recorded in Revelations 4:6-11, we are likely to do the same when we get there. Bible scholars suggest that we will do this continuously without needing rest. Revelation 7:15 also says that in Heaven, we will serve God day and night without tiredness.
How will we function in Heaven without sleeping?
Christians suggest that in Heaven, we will not have the physical bodies we have on Earth. Therefore, we will not need sleep since sleep is a physical necessity for an earthly body. In Heaven, we will function well without needing sleep since our spirits and souls will not need to rest. 1st Corinthians 15:40 tells us that there are heavenly bodies and earthly bodies. Theologians imply that heavenly bodies can function properly without the need for sleep.
What does the Bible say about rest and sleep in Heaven?
Though the Bible does not directly state whether we shall sleep in Heaven or not, there are certain Bible verses that talk about sleep in connection to Heaven. For instance, in Luke 16:23, Jesus describes the temporary resting place for the righteous as being near Abraham.
On the other hand, 1st Thessalonians 4:14-16 equates sleep with death. This Bible verse describes the departed fallen believers as having fallen asleep. It also proceeds to say that the believers will rise first once Jesus descends from Heaven. 1st Corinthians 15:17 also equates dying to falling asleep.
Additionally, in 1st Corinthians 15:20, Paul reminds us that there will be an awakening during resurrection. This verse tells us that Christ was raised from the dead, the first fruits of those that have died or fallen asleep. On the other hand, 1st Corinthians 15:51 says that we will not sleep; rather, we will be changed.
Can people in Heaven sleep?
No. As we mentioned earlier, people in Heaven cannot sleep since they do possess earthly bodies. When a person dies, their physical body is buried, but their soul goes to be with the Lord.
Things that are important to us, like sleep on Earth, will no longer be valuable when we get to Heaven since we will be amazed at the glory of Heaven. Some also suggest that we will be preoccupied with praising God and interacting with those that got there before us. Our spiritual bodies will be incapable of sleep.
As a devout Christian, I have always been passionate about the Christian faith. This inspired me to pursue a degree in Religious studies and a Masters in Theology in college. I have also been privileged to teach 4 Christian courses in a college and university. Since I am dedicated to spreading the word of God, I am actively involved in the Church. Additionally, I share his word online and cover diverse topics on the Christian faith through my platform. You can read more about me on the about us page.
