Will Dogs Be Outside Heaven?
“Blessed are those who do His commandments, that they may have the right to the tree of life, and may enter through the gates into the city. But outside are dogs and sorcerers and sexually immoral and murderers and idolaters, and whoever loves and practices a lie.”
Revelation 22:14, 15
In the ancient East dogs were mostly without masters, and wandered in the streets and fields. They were considered unclean in Levitical law (Leviticus 11:2–7), and to call one a dog was a strong expression of contempt (1 Samuel 17:43; 2 Kings 8:13). To the Jews, the evil heathens were considered unclean as the dogs (Matthew 7:6; 15:26).
Thus, the word “dog” was used as a figure for a vile, shameless person. Paul said, “Beware of dogs, beware of evil workers, beware of the mutilation” (Philippians 3:2). In this verse, Paul is literally saying, “look out for the dogs.” The definite article points to a definite group of people. Paul is probably referring to a well-known party of professed Christians, the Judaizers. Concerning these, Paul said, “The former preach Christ from selfish ambition, not sincerely, supposing to add affliction to my chains” (Philippians 1:16).
There will be animals in heaven and certainly dogs to enjoy. In the first Garden of Eden, God gave Adam all the animals to appreciate and take care of (Genesis 1:28). Likewise, in the restored garden of Eden, God will give the human race all the animals once again (Isaiah 11:6-9).
The redeemed will find complete happiness which will include the loving companionship of the animals. “it is written, Eye hath not seen, nor ear heard, neither have entered into the heart of man, the things which God hath prepared for them that love him” (1 Corinthians 2:9).
Check out our Bible Answers page for more information on a variety of topics.
In His service,
BibleAsk Team
