Can people in heaven look down and see us?

Answer

Some interpret Hebrews 12:1 as suggesting that individuals in heaven may observe us from above: “Therefore, since we are surrounded by such a great cloud of witnesses. . . .” The “witnesses” refer to the heroes of faith mentioned in Hebrews 11, and the idea of being “surrounded” by them leads some scholars to believe that these heroes (and perhaps others) are observing us from heaven.

The concept of individuals watching us from heaven is prevalent in popular culture. However, despite the appeal of the notion that our departed loved ones are keeping an eye on us, this is not the message of Hebrews 12:1. Expanding on Hebrews 11, the author begins to impart practical lessons (hence why chapter 12 starts with “Therefore”). The “witnesses” are those individuals commended by God for their faith in chapter 11, and there is a multitude of them in heaven. The question is, in what capacity are they “witnesses”?

The correct interpretation of Hebrews 12:1 is that the men and women comprising the “great cloud of witnesses” bear witness to the importance of living a life guided by faith. Their stories from the Old Testament serve as evidence of the benefits of choosing faith over fear. To rephrase the beginning of Hebrews 12:1, “Since we have so many tried-and-true examples of proven faith . . . .” Therefore, it is not that individuals in heaven are observing us (as if our earthly lives are so captivating or they have nothing better to do!), but rather that those who have preceded us have established a lasting example. Their lives serve as a testament to faith, God, and truth.

Hebrews 12:1 goes on to say, “Let us throw off everything that hinders and the sin that so easily entangles, and let us run with perseverance the race.

Marked out for us.” Because of the faith and endurance of believers who went before us, we are inspired to stay the course in our race of faith. We follow the examples of Abraham, Moses, Rahab, Gideon, and others.

Some people point to the rich man’s mention of his brothers in Luke 16:28 as proof that departed souls (in Hades, at least) can see events on earth. However, the passage never says that the rich man could see his brothers; he knew he had brothers, and he knew they were unbelievers. Also, some people use Revelation 6:10 as a proof text: the tribulation martyrs call for God to avenge their deaths. Again, this passage says nothing about the martyrs seeing people on earth; it simply says that they knew they deserved justice and desired the Lord to take action.

The Bible doesn’t specifically say that people in heaven cannot look down on us, so we can’t be dogmatic. However, it is unlikely that they can. People in heaven are likely preoccupied with other things such as worshiping God and enjoying the glories of heaven.

Whether or not people in heaven can look down and see us, we are not running our race for them. We are not hoping for their approval or listening for their applause. Hebrews 12:2 keeps our focus where it belongs: “Fixing our eyes on Jesus, the pioneer and perfecter of faith.” Jesus is our blessed hope, no other «looking for that blessed hope, and the glorious appearing of the great God and our Saviour Jesus Christ; », (Titus 2:13).