The Universe Is Dying

Well ,it is settled.  They have suspected it for a long time. Last week scientists officially announced that the universe is dying.  Researchers from the International Center of Radio Astronomy Research (ICRAR) just completed their study of 200,000 galaxies.  They concluded that the energy created in those galaxies is one-half what it was two billion years ago.  Bottom line: the universe is winding down and, in 100 billion years, will be no more.

Professor Simon Driver, who heads the Galaxy and Mass Assembly project (GAMA) said, "The universe will decline from here on in, sliding gently into old age. The universe has basically sat down on the sofa, pulled up a blanket and is about to nod off for an eternal doze."

That the universe will fade away is no surprise.  The Bible predicted this would happen.  “The earth will be completely laid waste and completely despoiled, for the Lord has spoken this word. The earth mourns and withers, the world fades and withers, the exalted of the people of the earth fade away.” (Isaiah 24:3-5).  And again, “Lift up your eyes to the sky, then look to the earth beneath; for the sky will vanish like smoke, and the earth will wear out like a garment.” (Isaiah 51:6).

But what happens after the universe disappears?  For some, the end of the universe robs life of any meaning.  Nick Stockton, writing for WIRED magazine, put it this way, “To the extent that anything was ever important, it won’t be. Time, space, energy, matter—all gone. ... Just the fact that you are alive now is a novelty, a signal that vanishes against the vast noise of cosmic space.”

The Bible has another story.  “For behold, I create new heavens and a new earth; and the former things will not be remembered or come to mind.  But be glad and rejoice forever in what I create.” (Isaiah 65:17-18).   “The heavens will pass away with a roar and the elements will be destroyed with intense heat, and the earth and its works will be burned up. ... But according to His promise we are looking for new heavens and a new earth, in which righteousness dwells.”  (1 Peter 3:10-13). John the Apostle wrote, “Then I saw a new heaven and a new earth for the first heaven and the first earth passed away.” (Revelation 21:1).

All that exists today had to come from somewhere.  Scientists call it the Big Bang. And all that exists today will vanish away.  In this the Bible agrees with the scientists. Our universe had a beginning and it will come to an end.  But there is more. The One who created our known universe is also the author of a new creation that will replace the one we know now. 

Jesus said, “Do not let your heart be troubled; believe in God, believe also in Me. In My Father’s house are many dwelling places; if it were not so, I would have told you; for I go to prepare a place for you. If I go and prepare a place for you, I will come again and receive you to Myself, that where I am, there you may be also.” (John 14:1-3).