Theology school equipped me with deep knowledge about many characters in the Bible. One of the characters that captured my attention was Isaac. He was the son of the father of faith (Abraham) and the chosen one by God among Abraham’s two sons. These fascinating facts made me study extensively about him and research how he lived his life and his final destination. I opened an online forum a few years ago where we discuss different topics in the Bible. Recently, one member asked about Isaac and wanted to know his eternal destination. Did he make it to heaven? Being well-informed about the scriptures and specifically the character Isaac, I was able to explain what the Bible says about Isaac’s eternal destination. So, did Isaac go to heaven?
Christians and most theologians believe that Isaac went to heaven. Well, you might be wondering where in the scriptures it is mentioned. According to Matthew 8:11, Jesus told his disciples that many would come from the East and West and would feast with Abraham, Isaac, and Jacob in the kingdom of heaven. This is proof of Isaac being in heaven, as Jesus, the son of God, confirmed it.
So, join me as I discuss the character Isaac in the Bible. I will expound on what happened to Isaac when Abraham died, how Isaac died if the Bible mentions that Isaac is in heaven, and what religious scholars think about Isaac’s eternal destination. Intrigued to know more about the mentioned subheadings and more? Keep reading!
What happened to Isaac after Abraham died?
Abraham passed on when his son Isaac was about 75 years old and left all his wealth to him, based on Genesis 25:5. According to Genesis 25:9, after Abraham’s death, Isaac and Ishmael buried their father honorably. Isaac’s life was a gift from God. God kept His promises to Abraham through Isaac and his generation (Genesis 26:1-6). Throughout his life, Isaac followed in his father’s footsteps, expressing the same faith in God.
How did Isaac die?
According to post-biblical Jewish interpretation, Isaac’s role is elaborated beyond the biblical description; it focuses on Abraham sacrificing Isaac, which was called the Aqedah (binding). According to this version and interpretation, Isaac died in the sacrifice, although he was revived. However, it is key to note that the Bible is clear that Abraham did not sacrifice his son. According to the scriptures, Genesis 35:27-29, Isaac possibly died of old age on his bed. He died at an old age of one hundred and eighty years, and his sons buried him.
Does the Bible mention that Isaac is in heaven?
Yes, the scripture does mention Isaac being in heaven. Jesus gives a picture of the future in Mathew 8:11. He mentions Abraham, Isaac, and Jacob being in the kingdom of heaven where people from the east and west will come and feast with them. This provides confirmation and assurance that Isaac is or we will meet him in heaven with his father and son.
Do Christians believe Isaac went to heaven after he died?
Christians believe that Isaac went to heaven after his death. During Jesus’s time on Earth, Jesus referred to the story of Moses in Exodus 3:6, where God said he was the God of Abraham, Isaac, and Jacob. He referred to them in a way showing that they are alive in the spirit world; Jesus as the second person of the trinity, definitely knows where these characters are. Therefore, Christians follow, obey, and believe in the teachings of Jesus Christ; this makes Christians believe that Isaac is in the kingdom of heaven.
What do religious scholars think about Isaac’s eternal destination?
Religious scholars hold different beliefs about Isaac’s eternal destination. Some believe that Isaac is already in heaven, as Jesus noted in the book of Matthew 8:11. However, others hold a different belief. They believe that Isaac and other characters who are predestined to go to heaven have not yet ascended to heaven. They base their belief on Acts 2:34, where the scripture says that David (a man who is described in the Bible to be after God’s own heart) has not yet ascended to heaven.
Furthermore, Mathew 22:32 notes that God, the Good of Jacob, Isaac, and Abraham, is the God of the living and not the dead. Therefore, the sect of theologians who believe Isaac is not yet in heaven argues that he is waiting with other saints, like David, for the second coming of Christ, where they will be resurrected and go to heaven.
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.
