In addition to rehashing the beatific vision as described in 1 John 3:2-3, this episode expounds on the theology of Paul regarding this issue, mostly from 2 Corinthians 3:18. While Paul acknowledges that the full manifestation of the beatific vision won't occur in this life (1 Corinthians 13:12), he nevertheless strongly suggests that degrees of it are possible in this life. "We all with unveiled face, beholding as in a mirror the glory of the Lord, are being transformed into the same image from glory to glory.." This description matches the MEANS of becoming like Christ in 1 John 3:2-3. Hope (of the beatific vision) fixed on God corresponds with "beholding the glory of the Lord." This means is the ongoing mechanism of being transformed, leading the full manifestation of the beatific vision.
