### Christians in Heaven ≠ Harp, Halo, Wings **Sunday School Lesson — Pastor Ed Decker** This lesson examines what the Bible teaches about heaven, the resurrection, and the future of believers. Through passages from 1 Corinthians 13, 1 Thessalonians 4:13–17, Matthew 18:3–12, and Mark 12:18, the lesson directs attention away from popular cultural images and toward the testimony of Scripture. First Corinthians 13 contrasts our present, partial understanding with the fuller understanding associated with that which is perfect. First Thessalonians 4 provides the comforting promise of Christ's return, the resurrection of the dead in Christ, and the gathering of believers to be with the Lord. Matthew 18 addresses humility, conversion, the example of little children, and Christ's warning concerning the little ones. Mark 12:18 introduces the Sadducees, who questioned the resurrection, providing an opportunity to consider the biblical teaching concerning life after death. Together, these passages encourage believers to distinguish what Scripture actually says from assumptions that have developed through tradition, artistic representation, and popular imagination. **Central takeaway:** Our understanding of eternity should be grounded in the Word of God. The Christian hope is not founded on harps, halos, or wings, but on the promises of God and the assurance of being with the Lord. **Key Scripture:** 1 Thessalonians 4:17 (KJV) — "and so shall we ever be with the Lord."