It appears that the Spiritual realm existed before the creation of this world. In the Creation account, there is no mention of the creation of the angels or other spiritual beings. In fact, there is evidence that these being pre-existed the creation of the world.
"Where wast thou when I laid the foundations of the earth? declare, if thou hast understanding. Who hath laid the measures thereof, if thou knowest? or who hath stretched the line upon it? Whereupon are the foundations thereof fastened? or who laid the corner stone thereof; When the morning stars sang together, and all the sons of God shouted for joy?" – Job 38:4-7I have expressed my theory that, upon the rebellion of Satan and an undetermined number of angels, the Lord created man as a replacement for those angels who would no longer be allowed around His throne to praise and glorify His name. (please see God’s Perfect Plan – 12/28/13)
So, how many souls will be gathered around His throne to bring much deserved honor, praise, glory, adoration and worship to the King of the Universe and Ruler of All Nations?
The following is based upon estimates of population, births and child mortality. Various sources have estimated that there have been about 107.6 Billion people born on the earth. It is also estimated that until the 20th Century infant and child mortality was about forty percent. This is not difficult to believe when you visit a very old cemetery and see the family plots with all the small graves of children.
One further statistic; It is estimated that thirty-three percent of the earth’s current population is nominally Christian. Assuming this percentage has been applicable for many of the centuries between the time the Church was established and today, there have been about twenty-one billion Christians living on earth. Here is how I derived this number:
| Total number of births | 107.6 Billion |
| Child mortality (40%) | 43.0 Billion |
| Surviving adults | 64.6 Billion |
| Percentage of Christians (33%) | 21.3 Billion |
There is no doubt in my mind that the Lord, in His Righteousness, would not condemn the souls of innocent children. They will be with Him in Heaven. Remember the words of Jesus, “Suffer little children to come unto me, and forbid them not: for of such is the kingdom of God.” (Luke 18:16)
Based upon these estimates and assumptions, in addition to angelic beings, there will be BILLIONS of souls praising the Lord in Heaven, and children will far outnumber adults!
May there be another Great Awakening on earth, and may there be billions more souls gathered around the throne of God, praising His name for eternity!