Paul tells us we will see perfectly in heaven in 1 Corinthians chapter thirteen, but that is not so on this earth. Paul is not talking about physical eyesight but how we understand spiritual things in this lifetime. In this lifetime, Paul tells us it is like looking through an imperfect mirror, especially in connection with our spiritual gifts. It would be wonderful to see perfectly on this side of eternity, but that is impossible because of our sinful nature.
1 Corinthians 13:12 We see things imperfectly, like puzzling reflections in a mirror, but then we will see everything with perfect clarity. All that I know now is partial and incomplete, but then I will know everything completely, just as God now knows me completely. [1] Our knowledge of the Lord on this earth is imperfect compared to what it will be like in heaven.
When Paul wrote this letter, Corinth was known for making metal mirrors, but most people could not afford a high-quality one. Paul compared the lack of insight into spiritual matters to these poor-quality mirrors.
Our Knowledge of the Lord is Unfinished
Paul describes our knowledge of the Lord and His ways as partial or unfinished. The use of God-given spiritual gifts, such as tongues, prophecy, and knowledge, only gives us a dim version of what may be known about Him. Romans 11:33Oh, how great are God’s riches and wisdom and knowledge! How impossible it is for us to understand his decisions and his ways! [2] Jesus calls us, as His followers, to reflect Him to the world around us. Like the imperfect Corinthian mirrors, we reflect a poor image of Jesus because we are sinful. Although one day, when Jesus comes again, or we go to heaven following our death, we will be changed. It is then that we will see the Lord clearly.
The Lord completely understands us. Psalm 139:1 O Lord, you have examined my heart and know everything about me.[3] When we arrive in heaven, we will also understand the Lord completely. We will love others perfectly in heaven, just as the Lord loves us.
Heaven is a Place of Perfect Love
When we go to heaven, it will be a place of perfect love. Finally, we can show love toward God and each other perfectly. On earth, we are growing in faith, hope, and love, but it will be only love in heaven because faith and hope will be completed. The gifts the Lord has given us will one day pass away because they are for this earth, but love will never pass away in this lifetime or the next.
To learn how we will see perfectly in heaven, listen here:
https://podpoint.com/light-of-christ-church-podcast/worship-in-love
[1-3] Tyndale House Publishers. (2015). Holy Bible: New Living Translation . Tyndale House Publishers.