What Does Jesus Say About Death

What does the Bible say about death?

Death is an unconquerable adversary who has claimed the lives of historical figures such as Alexander the Great and Julius Caesar. Postulates or ideas advanced by luminaries like Einstein or Stephen Hawking will never be proven on this subject. So, what does the Bible have to say about this? Topics from the Bible can be found here. Questions about the Bible are available here. Bible scriptures regarding death can be found here. What are the seven deadly sins, and what are they? The raising of Lazarus from the grave is considered to be one of Jesus’ most notable miracles, as described in the Bible (John 11).

Jesus said, “‘Our buddy Lazarus sleeps,’ but I travel so that I may rouse him up.” When Lazarus died, Jesus remarked, ” Then His followers said to Him, ‘Lord, if he sleeps, he will recover.’ He agreed.

What does the Bible say about death?

More than fifty times in the Bible, death is compared as sleeping. In the moments following death, we are sleepy, we are unconscious; we are unaware of the passage of time or of the events taking place around us. In a similar way, death is like this as well. According to the Bible, “because the living are aware that they will die; but the dead are unaware. their love, their hatred, and their jealousy have now vanished” whereas “the alive are aware that they will live” (Ecclesiastes 9:5, NKJV, see also Psalm 146:4; 115:17).

  1. He didn’t have much to say other than the fact that he had been dead and was now alive!
  2. He was merely “sleeping” in his grave, as the saying goes.
  3. In the presence of all of you, let me openly speak about the patriarch David, stating that he is both dead and buried, as well as that his tomb is still with us to this day.
  4. |

What happens to your soul when you die?

Many Christians believe that the soul is an immortal entity that exists within us and continues to exist after death. What does the Bible say about this? Described in the Bible as the beginning of human history, “And the LORD God fashioned man out of dust from the ground, breathed into his nostrils the breath of life, and man became a living soul,” the Bible describes the creation of human beings (Genesis 2:7, KJV). “. and man became a living creature,” according to some Bible translations (NKJV; NIV).

  1. He created the body out of the dust of the earth, and then He breathed His life-giving spirit into the lifeless body, resulting in the creation of a soul, or a living creature, in the process.
  2. The soul is extinguished when the body’s life-giving breath is expelled from the body.
  3. In the same way that dust returns to the earth where it came from, the spirit returns to the God who gave it (Ecclesiastes 12:7, NIV).
  4. In the event that souls exist as independent entities that continue to exist after we die, this would imply that we have immortality.

Only God has the ability to transcend death (see 1 Timothy 6:15, 16). The virtuous, according to Paul, “desire glory, honor, and immortality” in their lives (Romans 2:7). If we possessed everlasting souls, why would the virtuous seek after something they already had, as they do in the Bible?

Is there life after death?

“I am the resurrection and the life,” Jesus declares, despite the fact that we may die. Even if a person dies because of his or her faith in Me, that person will survive” (John 11:25). When Jesus returns, we shall be given immortality as a reward (see 1 Corinthians 15:51-54). According to the Bible, all individuals who have died, both virtuous and evil, will be brought back to life in one of two resurrections: the first and the second. The righteous will be resurrected to life when Jesus returns in his second coming.

  1. And the first to rise will be those who have died in Christ.” (1 Thessalonians 4:16, New King James Version).
  2. They will stay sleeping in the grave until Jesus returns and raises them to life eternal in the presence of the Father (see 1 Corinthians 15:50-57).
  3. When asked about this, Jesus responded, “Do not be surprised; for the hour is coming when all who are in the tombs will hear His voice and come forth—those who have done good, to the resurrection of life, and those who have done evil, to the resurrection of judgment” (John 5:28, 29, NKJV).
  4. It was not taught by Jesus or His apostles, either.
  5. “Do not allow your heart to be worried; you believe in God, believe likewise in Me,” the prophet says.
  6. I’m going to go set up a space for you.
  7. No matter how much time has gone, whether it has been a long or little period of time, it will feel like a brief instant to them.
  8. As a result, “the trumpet shall sound, and the dead shall be resurrected incorruptible.” In other words, when this corruptible has become incorruptible, and this mortal has become eternal, the proverbial phrase “Death is swallowed up in triumph” will come to pass.

What Jesus Really Said About Heaven and Hell

Everyone dislikes thinking about death, yet there are moments when we have no option but to confront it. As the infection spreads, hospitals become overcrowded, and systems become overburdened. Survival is the most pressing of our concerns, both personally and nationally. Many individuals – including the apparently healthy – have, however, found themselves confronted with the shadow of death itself, which has become our daily companion, despite our best efforts to ignore it the majority of the time.

  1. While NBC’s huge hit comedy seriesThe Good Place was the most recent and most memorable effort, the humor even there was founded exactly in horror, as Eleanor Shellstrop and her pals desperately tried to avoid the eternity they earned in the Bad Place and its unending torments.
  2. After learning he will spend forever groveling in dust and being devoured by worms, Gilgamesh writhes with misery in the epic poem The Epic of Gilgamesh.
  3. The prospect of endless sorrow, on the other hand, makes many people shiver.
  4. In the globe, there are more than two billion Christians, with the great majority of them believing in the existence of a heaven and a hell.
  5. In spite of an increasing number of “nones,” Americans continue to expect a version of the options shown in The Good Place: independent of religious affiliation, 72 percent believe in a genuine paradise and 58 percent believe in a literal hell, according to the Pew Research Center.

More from TIME

The great majority of these individuals understandably believe that this is what Jesus personally told them. However, this is not the case. Neither Jesus nor the Hebrew Bible, which he translated, supported the notion that departed souls go to either paradise or everlasting punishment. Ancient Jews, in contrast to the majority of Greeks, traditionally did not believe that the soul could exist independently of the body. The opposite was true for them; they saw the soul as more like “breath.” Adam, the first human being God created, began as a lump of clay, and God “breathed” life into him after that (Genesis 2: 7).

  1. Afterwards, everything was reduced to dust and ashes.
  2. It is not true that when we cease breathing, our breath does not leave our body.
  3. So too the “soul” doesn’t continue on outside the body, subject to postmortem pleasure or pain.
  4. The Hebrew Bible itself assumes that the dead are simply dead—that their body lies in the grave, and there is no consciousness, ever again.
  5. But in most instances Sheol is simply a synonym for “tomb” or “grave.” It’s not a place where someone actuallygoes.
  6. That is what made death so mournful: nothing could make an afterlife existence sweet, since there was no life at all, and thus no family, friends, conversations, food, drink – no communion even with God.
  7. The most one could hope for was a good and particularly long life here and now.

About two hundred years before Jesus, Jewish thinkers began to believe that there had to be something beyond death—a kind of justice to come.

But the problems with that thinking were palpable: God’s own people Israel continually, painfully, and frustratingly suffered, from natural disaster, political crises, and, most notably, military defeat.

Some thinkers came up with a solution that explained how God would bring about justice, but again one that didn’t involve perpetual bliss in a heaven above or perpetual torment in a hell below.

Even though God is the ultimate ruler over all, he has temporarily relinquished control of this world for some mysterious reason.

God is soon to intervene in earthly affairs to destroy everything and everyone that opposes him and to bring in a new realm for his true followers, a Kingdom of God, a paradise on earth.

Indeed, God will breathe life back into the dead, restoring them to an earthly existence.

The multitude who had been opposed to God will also be raised, but for a different reason: to see the errors of their ways and be judged.

This view of the coming resurrection dominated the view of Jewish thought in the days of Jesus.

The end of time is coming soon.

(Mark 1:15).

Those who enter this kingdom will enjoy a utopian existence for all time.

But Jesus put his own twist on the idea.

Instead, for Jesus, the earthly utopia will come to those who are fully dedicated to the most pervasive and dominant teachings of God’s law.

People who have not been living lives of complete unselfish love need to repent and return to the two “greatest commandments” of Jewish Scripture: deep love of God (Deuteronomy 6:4-6) and committed love of neighbor (Leviticus 19:18).

This may be simple, but it is not easy.

Jesus was concerned principally for the poor, the outcasts, the foreigners, the marginalized, and even the most hated enemies.

Especially those with good lives and abundant resources.

Most people today would be surprised to learn that Jesus believed in a bodily eternal life here on earth, instead of eternal bliss for souls, but even more that he did not believe in hell as a place of eternal torment.

(Matthew 5:22, 29-30).

It was where, according to the Old Testament, ancient Israelites practiced child sacrifice to foreign gods.

In the ancient world (whether Greek, Roman, or Jewish), the worst punishment a person could experience after death was to be denied a decent burial.

Jesus did not say souls would be tortured there.

Jesus’ stress on the absolute annihilation of sinners appears throughout his teachings.

(Matthew 7:13-14).

The other is broad and easy, and therefore commonly taken.

The wrong path does not lead to torture.

(Matthew 13:47-50).

He doesn’t torture them.

Or the kingdom is like a person who gathers up the plants that have grown in his field (Matthew 13:36-43).

He keeps the good grain, but tosses the weeds into a fiery furnace.

They are consumed by fire and then are no more.

Most notably Jesus speaks of all nations coming for the last judgment (Matthew 25:31-46).

Some are said to be sheep, and the others goats.

These are welcomed into the “kingdom prepared for you from the foundation of the world.” The (wicked) goats, however, have refused to help those in need, and so are sent to “eternal fire prepared for the devil and his angels.” At first blush, that certainly sounds like the hell of popular imagination.

  • So the punishment is annihilation.
  • Because the fire never goes out.
  • And why is the punishment called “eternal”?
  • These people will be annihilated forever.
  • And so, Jesus stood in a very long line of serious thinkers who have refused to believe that a good God would torture his creatures for eternity.
  • But the torments of hell were not preached by either Jesus or his original Jewish followers; they emerged among later gentile converts who did not hold to the Jewish notion of a future resurrection of the dead.
  • From at least the time of Socrates, many Greek thinkers had subscribed to the idea of the immortality of the soul.

Later Christians who came out of gentile circles adopted this view for themselves, and reasoned that if souls are built to last forever, their ultimate fates will do so as well.

This innovation represents an unhappy amalgamation of Jesus’ Jewish views and those found in parts of the Greek philosophical tradition.

Still, in one interesting and comforting way, Jesus’ own views of either eternal reward or complete annihilation do resemble Greek notions propagated over four centuries earlier.

His “Apology” (that is, “Legal Defense”) can still be read today, recorded by his most famous pupil, Plato.

On the contrary, he is rather energized by the idea of passing on from this life.

On one hand, it may entail the longest, most untroubled, deep sleep that could be imagined.

On the other hand, it may involve a conscious existence.

It would mean carrying on with life and all its pleasures but none of its pain.

And so the afterlife presents no bad choices, only good ones.

Twenty-four centuries later, with all our advances in understanding our world and human life within it, surely we can think that that both Jesus and Socrates had a lot of things right.

We should listen to him.

None of us, of course, knows what will happen when we pass from this world of transience.

On one hand, we may lose our consciousness with no longer a worry in this world.

In either scenario, there will be no more pain.

And so, in this, the greatest teacher of the Greeks and the founder of Christianity agreed to this extent: when, in the end, we pass from this earthly realm, we may indeed have something to hope for, but we have absolutely nothing to fear.

Ehrman’s new book, from which this essay is adapted, isHeaven and Hell: A History of the Afterlife. More Must-Read Stories From TIME

  • Most of these individuals understandably believe that this is what Jesus himself taught. It is not the case, however. It is not supported by either Jesus or the Hebrew Bible that he translated that departed souls go to paradise or suffer for all eternity. Traditional Jewish beliefs, in contrast to those held by the majority of Greeks, held that the soul could exist independently of the body. The opposite was true for them
  • They regarded the soul as more like “breathing.” Initially, Adam, the first human being God created, was nothing more than a lump of clay, into which God then “breathed” life (Genesis 2: 7). When Adam’s breathing stopped, he was still alive. Afterwards, everything was reduced to nothing more than dust and ash. According to ancient Jews, this was true for all of humanity. It is not true that when we stop breathing, our breath does not leave our bodies. It simply comes to a halt. In the same way, the “soul” does not continue to exist outside of the body, where it may experience postmortem joy or anguish. It doesn’t exist any more in its current form. The Hebrew Bible itself thinks that the deceased are just dead—that their body rests in the tomb, and there is no awareness, ever again. It is true that certain lyrical authors, like as those who wrote the Psalms, utilize the cryptic phrase “Sheol” to represent a person’s new location after death. However, in the majority of cases, the term “Sheol” is just a synonym for “tomb” or “grave.” It’s not a location where people really go to hang out. As a result, traditional Israelites did not believe in life after death, but rather just in death after death, as described above. The fact that there was no life at all, and thus no family, friends, conversations, food, drink – and even communion with God – made death so depressing: nothing could make an afterlife existence more pleasant because there was no life at all, and thus no sweet afterlife existence. God would forget about the individual, and the individual would be unable to worship. To be honest, the best one could hope for was an enjoyable and particularly long life in the here and now. Jews, on the other hand, began to shift their perspectives throughout time, albeit this did not entail the concept of a paradise or a hell. The belief that there was something beyond death—a form of justice to come—began to spread among Jewish philosophers some two hundred years before the birth of the Messiah. Jews have long held the belief that God was the supreme ruler of the entire globe and all people, both alive and dead, for thousands of years. However, the flaws in that line of reasoning were immediately apparent: God’s own people Israel suffered repeatedly, brutally, and frustratingly as a result of natural disasters, political crises, and, most significantly, military defeat. In light of God’s compassion for his people and his sovereignty over all of creation, why do his people suffer so much tragedy? Some philosophers came up with a solution that described how God would bring about justice, but one that did not require eternal happiness in a paradise above or eternal pain in a hell below, as had previously been proposed. In accordance with this new concept, there exist wicked powers in the earth who are allied against God and intended to torment his chosen ones. In spite of the fact that God is the ultimate master of the universe, he has temporarily ceded authority of this planet for an unexplained cause. However, the forces of evil have only a limited amount of time left. Heaven and earth are about to be thrown into chaos when God intervenes to destroy everything and everyone who stands in his way, and to usher in a new kingdom for his loyal followers, the Kingdom of God, a paradise on earth. Most importantly, this new earthly kingdom will be available not just to those who are living at the time of its establishment, but also to those who have passed away. Indeed, God will breathe life back into the dead, bringing them back to earthly existence, and God will bring all the dead back to life, not just the virtuous, to be with him forever. The multitude who had been antagonistic to God would likewise be resurrected, but for a different reason: to recognize the mistakes of their conduct and be condemned. Once they have been startled and filled with regret – but it is too late – they will be forever erased off the face of the earth. During the time of Jesus, this notion of the impending resurrection dominated the outlook of Jewish thought in general. It was also the point of view that he personally adopted and advocated for. The end of time is approaching quickly. In the earthly realm, the Kingdom of God is “near” (Mark 1:15). God will soon destroy everything and everyone who stands in his way, and a new order will be established on the planet. Those who enter this kingdom will live in a utopian state for the rest of their lives. All of the others will be wiped out. However, Jesus placed his own spin on the concept. Unlike other Jewish leaders, Jesus preached that no one will inherit the glorious future kingdom by strictly adhering to all of the Jewish laws in their most minute details
  • Or by meticulously following the rules of worship involving sacrifice, prayer, and the observance of holy days
  • Or by pursuing one’s own purity by fleeing from the vile world and the tainting influence of sinful others. Instead, according to Jesus, those who are completely devoted to the most prevalent and dominating teachings of God’s law will be granted entry into the earthly utopia. For the most part, this is placing God first in one’s life, despite personal difficulties, and dedicating one’s time and energy to the benefit of others, even when doing so is extremely difficult. It is necessary for people to repent and return to the two “biggest commandments” of Jewish Scripture: a profound love for God (Deuteronomy 6:4-6) and a dedicated love for one’s neighbor (Deuteronomy 6:13-15). (Leviticus 19:18). This may be simple, but it is not easy. In the same way that the Good Samaritan helped anybody in need, genuine love includes assisting everyone in need, not just those in your chosen social circles, as depicted in the parable of the Good Samaritan. When it came to the poor, outcasts, immigrants, those who were ostracized, and even the most despised opponents, Jesus was the most concerned person. Only a small number of individuals are. Those who have a comfortable life and a lot of money, in particular. No wonder it’s easier to shove a camel through the eye of a needle than for the affluent to enter the kingdom. Almost everyone today would be startled to find that Jesus believed in bodily eternal life here on Earth instead of soul-eternal happiness, and even more surprised to learn that Jesus thought there was no place called Hell where individuals would suffer for all eternity in anguish. Although Jesus does not explicitly mention “Hell” in the Sermon on the Mount, standard English translations suggest that he does so sometimes — for example, in his cautions that anybody who labels another a fool, or who permits their right eye or hand to transgress, will be put into “hell” (Matthew 5:22, 29-30). However, these verses do not truly pertain to the concept of “hell.” “Gehenna” is the term that Jesus used. The word does not allude to a location of perpetual torture but to an infamous valley just beyond the walls of Jerusalem, regarded by many Jews at the time to be the most unholy, god-forsaken spot on earth. Ancient Israelites conducted child sacrifices to foreign gods there, according to the Old Testament, and the Lord God of Israel had condemned and deserted this location, according to the Bible. For anyone who died in the ancient world (whether they were Greek, Roman, or Jewish), being refused a proper burial was the harshest punishment they could get after death. This viewpoint was elaborated by Jesus into a horrific scenario, in which the bodies of those who were excluded from the kingdom would be rudely thrown into the most desecrated dumping site on the face of the earth. Souls would not be tortured in that place, according to Jesus. They’d simply vanish off the face of the earth. Jesus’ insistence on the absolute destruction of sinners emerges throughout his teachings. He mentions that there are two gates that individuals must pass through at one time (Matthew 7:13-14). There are two paths to “life.” One is narrow and demands an arduous road, yet it leads to “life.” Few go that way. The other is broad and simple, and as a result is frequently chosen. However, it results in “destruction.” It is an extremely essential term. Torture does not result from choosing the incorrect route. In the same way, Jesus compares the coming kingdom to a fisherman who brings in a vast net of fish (Matthew 13:47-50). After separating the good fish from the bad, he retains the good ones and tosses the bad ones away. He does not subject them to torture. They just succumb to their injuries. Alternatively, the kingdom might be compared to a person who collects the plants that have grown in his or her field (Matthew 13:36-43). He retains the excellent grain, but he burns the weeds in a hot fire to make room for the good grain. These do not burn indefinitely. They are consumed by fire and then vanish from the face of the earth. Other verses, on the other hand, may appear to imply that Jesus believed in the afterlife. Most importantly, Jesus mentions that all nations will gather for the final judgment (Matthew 25:31-46). Some are referred to as sheep, while others are referred to as goats. The (good) sheep are those who have assisted those in need — the hungry, the ill, the impoverished, the alien. These are welcomed into the “kingdom prepared for you from the foundation of the world.” As a result of their refusal to assist people in need, the (wicked) goats are sentenced to “eternal fire reserved for the devil and his angels,” according to the Bible. Upon first glance, that surely sounds like a hellish creation of the public imagination. However, as Jesus finishes his argument, he clarifies that the contrasting destinies are “eternal life” and “eternal damnation,” respectively. They are not “eternal pleasure” and “eternal pain,” as some people believe. Death, not suffering, is the polar opposite of life. As a result, annihilation is the punishment. But why does it include “everlasting fire” in the first place? This is due to the fact that the fire never goes out. The fires, not the torments, continue indefinitely. And what is the significance of the term “eternal” punishment? It’s because it will never come to an end. These individuals will be exterminated for all time. Even if it isn’t nice to think about, it will have no negative impact after it is completed. In this way, Jesus followed in the footsteps of a long line of respectable philosophers who have refused to accept the notion that a benevolent God would torture his beings for all eternity. Fire and brimstone preaching, which subsequent followers often attributed to Jesus himself, was a latecomer to the Christian scene, having emerged decades after Jesus’ death and refined to a fine pitch in the teachings of fire and brimstone. Yet neither Jesus nor his early Jewish disciples taught about the torments of hell
  • Rather, they originated among later gentile converts who did not believe in the Jewish concept of a future resurrection of the dead, as did the apostle Paul. Greek culture and the notion that souls were immortal and would endure death influenced the development of these later Christians. A large number of Greek thinkers, dating back at least to Socrates’ time, have advocated for the idea of the immortality of the soul. Despite the fact that the human body will die, the human spirit will not and cannot perish. Following the example of gentile Christians, later Christians who emerged from these groups embraced this viewpoint for themselves, reasoning that since souls are made to survive forever, their final destinies will do the same. Either eternal happiness or eternal agony will be the outcome. As a result of this innovation, an unsatisfactory combination of Jesus’ Jewish beliefs with those found in elements of the Greek intellectual tradition has resulted. It was an odd mix, a point of view shared neither by the first Christians nor by the ancient Greek elite who came before them in their thought. Nonetheless, in a fascinating and comforting sense, Jesus’ own beliefs on either eternal recompense or full destruction are similar to Greek notions that were taught more than four centuries before Jesus. It was while Socrates was on trial before an Athenian jury for death crimes that he presented the concept in the most memorable way. His “Apology” (that is, “Legal Defense”), which was recorded by his most renowned pupil, Plato, is still available for reading today. Socrates asserts categorically that he has no need to be afraid of the death penalty. He is, on the contrary, energised by the prospect of going from this world to the next. One of two things will happen to Socrates in the event of his death. On the one hand, it may result in the deepest, most uninterrupted slumber that anyone could ever conceive. And who doesn’t appreciate a good night’s sleep? On the other hand, it may involve a conscious existence. That would also be beneficial, if not even better. It would mean continuing on with life and all of its joys while avoiding all of its suffering. In the case of Socrates, the most famous seeker of truth in the ancient world, it would entail numerous discussions on difficult themes with well-known intellectuals from his own time. As a result, there are no poor options in the afterlife, just good ones. Death was not a cause of anxiety, or even dread, for the characters. Two thousand and four hundred years later, with all of our improvements in our knowledge of our world and human existence within it, certainly we can conclude that both Jesus and Socrates were correct about a great many things. Jesus taught that we should spend our limited time on this planet to the wellbeing of others, particularly the poor, the needy, the ill, the downtrodden, the outcast, and the foreign. We should pay attention to what he has to say. However, Socrates was probably definitely correct in his observations as well. Of course, none of us can predict what will happen to us once we leave this realm of transience behind. However, his two alternatives remain the most plausible. On the one hand, we may lose our consciousness since we will no longer be concerned about anything in this world. Socrates perceived it as a peaceful deep slumber, but Jesus perceived it as eternal annihilation. Both scenarios result in the cessation of all suffering. But it’s possible that something better is still to come, a happy place, a wonderful place. To that end, the greatest teacher of the Greeks and the father of Christianity agreed on the following: when we finally go from this earthly sphere, we may have something to look forward to, but we have absolutely nothing to be afraid of. Ehrman’s new book, from which this article is taken, isHeaven and Hell: A History of the Afterlife. TIME Magazine has more must-read stories.
See also:  Why Did Jesus Decide To Be Baptized

Please contact us at [email protected].

20 Bible Verses about Death

What does the Bible have to say about the afterlife? So, according to the Word of God, what happens to us after we die? We will all suffer death and the loss of loved ones at some point in our lives. Grief is a normal feeling that, while we are experiencing it, feels entirely strange to us. The reality of loss serves to remind us of our mortality as well as our desire for something better. When we are in agony, God has promised that He would be with us and that He will bring us comfort. His message, found in the Bible, also provides us with the assurance of eternal life in paradise for those who place their faith in His Son, Jesus Christ.

  1. The love and divinity of God, as revealed in the Bible, may bring you peace and resolve.
  2. We pray that you will be their Comforter, that you would cover them with your kindness and mercy, and that you will keep them safe and secure throughout this difficult period.
  3. We require your assistance.
  4. Amen.

10 Important Things the Bible Says about Death

Death. The mere mention of the term may conjure up thoughts of gloom, men and women dressed in black, mourning, and, for others, terror. God, on the other hand, does not want us to live in dread or defeat. He desires for us to live and die with the assurance that comes from knowing that we are members of the triumphant, rising Kingwho vanquished death when He died on the cross and rose from the dead. In addition, the fact of death can serve as a reminder of the wonderful hope we have in Christ.

See also:  Where Is Jesus In The Old Testament?

It is my hope that we might all come to declare, “To live is Christ, and to die is victory” (Phil.

So, what exactly does the Bible have to say regarding the subject of death?

1. Death Is Not the End

Some people think that when we die, we simply cease to exist. It is their belief that human awareness develops gradually as the brain matures and that it will either progressively decline or just cease to exist. The Bible, on the other hand, states something very different. Our physical bodies will decay, but our souls will remain forever, either in God’s presence or eternally separated from Him, according to the teachings of Scripture. The book of Matthew 25 has a discussion of a time when Jesus would separate the “sheep from the goats,” following the telling of two parables intended to expose the realities of God’s kingdom.

It is by His blood that those who are deemed righteous will be granted eternal life, whilst those who reject Him will “go away to eternal damnation” (Matt. 25:45). In other words, we all have eternity ahead of us, even though our final destination appears to be completely different from one another.

2. We Don’t Have to Fear Death

God does not want us, His loving creations, to be filled with dread, doubt, or bewilderment at any point in our lives. As a result of Christ’s sacrifice, we have a definite, magnificent, and joy-filled future; a future devoid of suffering, sorrow, and disease. This invitation is extended to anybody who places their faith in Jesus and the price He paid, rather than in themselves or their own good efforts. Scriptural evidence indicates that we will be admitted into heaven if we believe Christ is who He claims to be—the sinless Son of God—and did what He said He did—died for our sins and rose from the dead—as He claims He did.

He who holds the cosmos in His hand also holds our lives in His grasp, both now and in the future.

3. Not Everyone Goes to the Same Place

According to Scripture, after we die, everyone of us will be resurrected and will travel to one of two destinations. The souls of those who have placed their confidence in Christ for salvation will be brought into His presence instantly, where they will stay for all of eternity. Individuals who turn their backs on Him and His gift of grace, on the other hand, will spend eternally in hell. The subject of hell is not one that most people enjoy discussing or reading about, yet Jesus, the One who offers eternal life, addressed the subject on more than one occasion.

“There is death,” and in this context, that implies separation from God, “and life,” He says in each story and speech, as if He were issuing a warning.

The Bible is unequivocal: God is a kind Father who does not want anybody to die.

33:11).

4. Because Jesus Overcame Death, So Will We

God created the universe without the presence of sin and death at its inception. Humanity’s rebellion against God (Genesis 3) resulted in a rupture in our connection with the Father, resulting in the curse of death and sin taking hold. Jesus died on the cross in our place, breaking the power of both, and “since we have been associated with Him in His death” by faith, “we shall likewise be resurrected to life in the same way He was” (Romans 6:4). (Rom. 6:5). When Jesus walked out of the tomb alive, He revealed that this is an unalterable reality.

We shall be reunited with our physical bodies, which will be “glorified” once they have been risen from the dead, later on, when Christ comes back to earth. 1

5. Spiritual Death Is Separation from God

Incorporating current meanings for terms and circumstances into biblical text is a simple process. This is a common occurrence when someone is thinking about death. Death, in our minds, signifies the completion of something and the cessation of all life.’ Death, on the other hand, is largely defined in Scripture as the separation of man’s spirit from his body, as well as the separation of man from God. In the case of our physical bodies, Scripture says that they will ultimately cease to function and will begin to decompose.

As a result, when we die from brain death, our bodies and souls separate completely.

In the event that we are granted eternal life, our relationship with God is restored.

This is the pits of hell.

6. We Don’t Have to Die Alone

Once we place our faith in Christ as our Savior, our connection with Him is restored, and it will never be damaged again. When He takes up residence in our hearts and lives there beside us, we are brought closer to Him and become one with Him. As a result, from that point on, we have never been and will never be alone. God’s presence surrounds us totally when we are in Christ. This was the message that Jesus was attempting to deliver to His followers on the night before He was executed by beheading.

No longer will I abandon you as orphans; instead, I will come to you.

Despite the fact that people, including those closest to us, may desert or reject us, Christ will never do so.

7. Death Was Never God’s Intent

It is clear from the Scriptures that God created mankind to live eternally in close contact with Him. He spoke stars, planets, and seas into existence with a single command, and he did the same for the rest of the cosmos. God’s participation, on the other hand, was far more immediate and intimate when it came to man. “Then the Lord God created man out of the dust of the earth and breathed into his nostrils the breath of life, and man was transformed into a living creature,” the Bible says (Gen.

Psalm 139 teaches us that He knits our inmost being together, that He knows us completely, and that He “searches” our depths.

Despite the fact that mankind’s sin brought death—and with it, separation from God—into the world, God never intended for this to happen. He created us for a purpose: to live. It is possible to live with Him.

8. Sin Won’t Always Reign

When we look at our world, with all of the rage, hatred, political instability, and conflicts, it might appear as if the forces of evil are prevailing and will continue to win indefinitely. However, the Bible assures us that this is not the case. One day, Jesus will come, sin will be permanently expelled from His presence, and He will put everything back in its proper place. “He will wipe away every tear from their eyes,” says the Bible’s Revelation 21:4. “There will be no more death, no more grieving, no more sobbing, no more agony, for the old order of things has been abolished.

9. We Mourn with Hope

When a loved one passes away, it is common to feel as if a piece of ourselves has been taken away with them. We mourn the memories that we will no longer be able to share and the goals or ambitions that may never come true because of this tragedy. Despite the fact that this suffering is genuine and intense, if our loved ones are in the care of Jesus, our sadness is always tinged with the knowledge that we shall see them again one day. This is something that the Bible guarantees, and Jesus’ death and resurrection confirmed it.

4:14).

10. Heaven Will Be Better Than Anything We Can Imagine

I’ve had some very incredible experiences. I’ve been to the Grand Canyon, Hawaii, and Yosemite National Park. When my daughter was still dressed in princess dresses and tutus, I used to take her to Disney Land and have a great time with her. The amount of ice cream I’ve consumed is enough to fill many freezers, yet none of these pleasures compare to what awaiting Christ-followers in the kingdom of heaven. In fact, paradise will be better than all of the joys of this world combined throughout the course of all of time.

  • 2:9).
  • This is also not the place where He intends us to dwell.
  • He desires to surround us in His love, from now until the end of time, and in doing so, He throws out all fear from our hearts.
  • Where has your sting gone, O Death?
  • Nevertheless, praise be to God!
  • 15:55-57).
  • Currently, she is working on her eighth novel, Restoring Her Faith, which will be released later this year.
  • She is driven by a desire to assist women in discovering, embracing, and living out who they are in Christ.
  • Visit her website to learn more about her speaking services or to hire her for your next women’s event.

Wayne Grudem is the author of the first book. Bible Doctrine: Fundamental Teachings of the Christian Faith (New York, NY: Doubleday, 1999). Zondervan Publishing House, Grand Rapids, Michigan Photograph courtesy of Getty Images/francescoch

20 Uplifting Bible Verses About Death to Bring You Peace and Hope

Several extraordinary events have occurred in my life. Yosemite, Hawaii, and the Grand Canyon are among the places I’ve traveled to. When my daughter was still dressed in princess gowns and tutus, I used to take her to Disney Land and have a good time. The amount of ice cream I’ve consumed is enough to fill many freezers, yet none of these pleasures compare to what awaiting Christ-followers in the kingdom of God. In fact, paradise will be better than all of the joys of this world combined over the course of all of time on the planet Earth.

  • 2:9).
  • He also does not want us to remain in this place.
  • He desires to surround us in His love, from now until the end of time, and in doing so, He throws out all fear from our lives.
  • Death’s sting is sin, and the law’s might is sin’s stinging force.
  • He provides us with victory through our Lord and Savior Jesus Christ’ (1 Cor.
  • Jennifer Slattery is a writer, editor, and public speaker who has spoken to women’s organizations, church groups, Bible studies, and writers groups all around the United States of America.
  • She also writes a devotional blog, which can be found at JenniferSlatteryLivesOutLoud.com, which is dedicated to her faith.
  • As the creator of Wholly Loved Ministries, she and her team collaborate with churches to host events that encourage women to recognize their actual value and live their lives to the fullest extent possible, according to their beliefs.
  • You can also sign up for her free quarterly newsletterHEREto keep up to current on her upcoming appearances, projects, and book releases.
  • Bible Doctrine: Essential Teachings of the Christian Faith (New York, NY: Doubleday, 1999).

What does the Bible say about death?

QuestionAnswer Death is depicted in the Bible as a process of separation: physical death is the separation of the soul from the body, and spiritual death is the separation of the soul from God (Ephesians 4:30). Death is a direct effect of human sin. “For the penalty of sin is death,” writes the apostle Paul in Romans 6:23. Because everyone has sinned, death has been decreed for the entire world. “Sin entered the world via one man, and death through sin, and death passed onto all men as a result of the fact that all have sinned” (Romans 5:12).

  1. (Genesis 3:8).
  2. Jesus died physically on the cross, as well as spiritually (Matthew 27:50).
  3. The resurrection of Jesus from the grave on the third day demonstrated His authority over death and sin (Matthew 28; Revelation 1:18).
  4. “Where hath thy sting gone, Death?” “Where hath thine victory gone, O grave?” Hosea 13:14; 1 Corinthians 15:55; 1 Corinthians 15:56).
  5. It is assigned to mankind once to die, but after that comes the judgment” (Hebrews 9:27).
  6. Because the promise of the believer’s resurrection is so tangible, physical death in the Christian faith is referred to as “sleep” (1 Corinthians 15:51; 1 Thessalonians 5:10).

We look forward to the day when “death will be no more” (Revelation 21:4). (Revelation 21:4). Return to the previous page: Questions regarding Heaven, Hell, and Eternity are frequently asked. When it comes to death, what does the Bible say?

These Bible Verses About Death Will Comfort You During Trying Times

Death is an unavoidable aspect of human existence. It is important to note that just though death is a reality that everyone must face does not mean that it is an easy thing to deal with. The following Bible passages about death can be a source of consolation during a difficult moment, whether you’re pondering your own mortality or suffering with the loss of a friend or family member. When tragedy strikes, it’s easy to feel bitter, angry, and disappointed with the world, and even with God, as a result of the experience.

  1. However, if you look to God’s word, you’ll discover that there are Bible passages regarding death and dying that may provide you with a fresh perspective, as well as consolation and reassurance as you cope with the loss of a loved one.
  2. In addition, when you are struggling with the loss of a loved one, it might be beneficial to seek out to a religious leader for more personalized counsel and support.
  3. And if you want to delve even deeper into the scriptures, check out theseBible passages regarding healing and theseBible verses for inspiration.
  4. As a result, whether we live or die, we are God’s possession.” — Paul in Romans 14:82 ‘Before the dust returns to the ground as it was before, and before the life-breath returns to the God who gave it,’ says the prophet.
  5. “Do you believe what I’m saying?” — John 11:265 (KJV) “Consequently, we are constantly assured, knowing that while we are physically present in the body, we are physically absent from our spiritual home with the Lord.
  6. In our hearts we know that leaving the body and going to live at home with the Lord is the best course of action.” The Bible says in 2 Corinthians 5:6-86: “I surely don’t want anyone to perish!” says the author.
  7. “Change your ways, and you will survive!” — Ezekiel 18:327 (KJV).
  8. Their bonds were destroyed by God, who delivered them from the depths of darkness and despair.” Scripture quotations are taken from Psalm 107:13-148.
  9. My protection is provided by your rod and staff.
  10. Death will be swallowed up by him for all time.
  11. — Isaiah 25:7-813 (NASB).

” — John 3:16-1714 (New International Version) “Due to our God’s profound compassion, the dawn from heaven will break upon us, bringing light to those who are sitting in darkness and the shadow of death, and guiding us on the path of peace.” “The dawn from heaven will break upon us, bringing light to those who are sitting in darkness and the shadow of death, and guiding us on the path of peace.” — Luke 1:78-7915; 1:79-80 And, having died with Christ, we believe that it is also our destiny to live with him.” Our faith is based on the fact that Christ has been risen from the grave and will never die again.

  • Death has no longer been able to hold him hostage.
  • Death will be swallowed up by triumph when the rotting body is clothed in what can’t decay and the dying body is clothed in what can’t die, according to the scriptures.
  • “My sheep are sensitive to my voice.
  • I provide them the gift of eternal life.
See also:  How Did Jesus Actually Look Like

Everyone knows that my Father, who has given them to me, is bigger than everyone else, and no one will be able to take them from my Father’s grasp.” In the book of John, verses 27-2919, “However, now that you have been set free from sin and have become God’s servants, you have the consequence of living a holy life, and the conclusion is everlasting life,” Paul says.

Everyone who drinks this water will be thirsty again, but whoever drinks from the water that I will provide will never be thirsty again,’ Jesus responded.

Those who trust in me will have eternal life, I guarantee you.” “I am the source of all nourishment.” — John 6:47-4823 (NASB) “As for you, you must hold on to what you have heard from the beginning of time.

This is the promise that Christ made to us directly: eternal life.” The Bible says in 1 John 2:24-25: Kelsey Hurwitz is a young woman who lives in New York City.

This material was generated and maintained by a third party and imported onto this website in order to assist users in providing their email addresses for further consideration. You may be able to discover further information on this and other related items at the website piano.io.

You Will Never See Death

The purpose of this speech, I think, is for you to understand two things: first, that you do not have to die; and, second, that Jesus, who makes this promise to you, is God – the God of Israel, the God of the entire universe. And, finally, you are here because God wants you to understand the implications of knowing that you will not die for the rest of your life. Another important aspect is shown in John 8:48–59, namely, the hostility Jesus faces from the Jewish people. The objective of displaying the contrast in this essay is not to make the reader feel good about themselves.

These are his own people who are accusing him of being a monster.

They are clamoring for it.

Deity and Deathlessness

To do this, let us take two of the most important facts in this text — the divinity of Jesus and the deathlessness of his disciples — and use the opposition they encounter in this text to help us understand them better. Furthermore, let us investigate the astounding implications of our deathlessness for our daily life. Because the struggle in the first half of the chapter has already been quite severe, the book begins with opposition to that conflict. Verse 47 concludes with the words of Jesus: “Whoever is of God hears the words of God.” Because you are not of God, you are not able to hear what they are saying.” As a result, they have already demonstrated that they are deaf to the significance of Jesus’ statements.

  • As a result, the beginning of our text opens with their accusation of Jesus.
  • The Samaritans and half-breeds, who had intermarried with Gentiles six centuries earlier and now practiced their own kind of Old Testament religion, were reviled by the Jews and were considered heretics.
  • And, to make the insult even more obvious, they claimed he was possessed by a demon.
  • It is incredible that Jesus continues to communicate with them.

In other words, if you disrespect me instead of praising me, you are pitting yourself against the Almighty. If you disagree with me, you are disagreeing with the person who is devoted to upholding my honor.

Judgment and Salvation

That is something you do not want to do since God is the one who judges, he explains later on (verse 50). In other words, the way we respond to Jesus has the potential to have far-reaching consequences. God the Almighty protects his majesty. Moreover, when it comes to final judgment, the glory of Jesus will be the criteria – what have we done with Jesus, what have we done with the glory of Jesus? And if we move away from him, or if we turn against him, God will be the one who decides our fate.

  • However, the theme has remained consistent throughout the whole book: The Son of God did not come to judge, but to save people from their sins.
  • “God did not send his Son into the world to judge the world, but in order that the world may be saved through him,” says John 3:17.
  • In other words, you have progressed to the point where you are blaspheming me, referring to me as a half-bred, and demonizing my existence.
  • “If you keep my word, you will never die.” “I promise you that.” It is here that two major facts are revealed — Jesus’ Godhead and the deathlessness of his disciples.” That is a fantastic promise, to be sure.
  • What exactly does this mean?
  • It is said by you that, if someone respects my promise, he will never experience death.” Jesus does not correct them in any way.
  • You will not get a taste of death.

Moreover, the death of Jesus is interpreted as a sacrifice for sinners such as his enemies — and for sinners like ourselves.

In this way, keeping the word of Jesus means receiving the words he speaks about himself and his Father as well as about the work of redemption that they have accomplished through his death and resurrection.

And you will never have to deal with death.

Death may be found everywhere.

He is undergoing hospice care at the age of 74 in order to prepare for death.

Harmon Killebrew hit a home shot that was precisely 520 feet from home plate – the longest home run ever hit by a Twins player — and it was exactly 520 feet from home plate.

With the help of my wife, Nita, and her unwavering love and support, I have exhausted all alternatives for treating and controlling this terrible condition.

Harmon Killebrew is on his way out of this world. You’re in the same boat. I’m in the same boat. Death is the great leveler of the playing field. It makes no difference how illustrious your professional life was. You’re going to die.

Do Christians Die?

Or do you think you do? The following verses are from the Bible: Verse 51: “Truly, truly, I say to you, whomever keeps my word will never experience death.” He will never have to face the prospect of death. One of the most moving experiences of my seminary years was at the burial of Jaymes Morgan, a 36-year-old systematic theology professor who had died unexpectedly. The sermon was being delivered by Lewis Smedes, who at one point raised his magnificent voice and exclaimed, “James Morgan is not dead!” My spine tingled as the wonderful truth was heralded in its majesty.

Is he no longer alive?

“I am the resurrection and the life,” he tells Martha at Lazarus’ grave: “I am the resurrection and the life.” Even if a person dies because of his or her belief in me, that person or that person’s belief in meshall will live forever.” Despite the fact that he dies, he never dies.

Yes, We Die — And, No, We Don’t

Yes, we die: “Though he die, he shall live,” says the Bible. The answer is no: “Everyone who lives and believes in me shall never die,” says the prophet. The body of Lazarus lay lifeless in the tomb. Lazarus, on the other hand, was not dead. His body was no longer alive. However, he was not dead. He had not passed away. Even more significant is the manner in which Jesus states it in John 5:24: I declare to you that whomever hears my message and trusts in him who sent me will have eternal life.

They have already been granted eternal life.

Death is not seen to believers.

Our Bodies Die, But We Do Not

Our bodies are subject to decomposition. In the grave, they lie until the final trumpet is sounded, and they appear to be sleeping, which is why the New Testament sometimes refers to death as “falling asleep.” We will be transformed because “because when the trumpet blows, the dead will be resurrected imperishable, and we will be changed” (1 Corinthians 15:52). We, on the other hand, do not die when our bodies expire. We have crossed the threshold from death to life. Eternal life is a state of being.

  1. “Keep Jesus’ teachings close to your heart, treasure them, and dwell in them, and you will never die.” What this means is the following: When we were reborn, we were given the gift of life once again.
  2. God brought us back to life while we were dead in our transgressions (Ephesians 2:4–5; cf.
  3. In this new spiritual life, we are able to commune with God, to know God, to experience God, to communicate with God, to hear from God via his word, and to feel the love of God spread abroad in our hearts, all of which are possible (Romans 5:5).
  4. We will never be able to put a stop to our relationship with God.
  5. It is indestructible.
  6. That same moment, in fact, brings our friendship to its pinnacle (Hebrews 12:23).
  7. We are not going to see the last of it.
  8. Because there isn’t a conclusion to it.

We’ll come back to this in a bit and discuss some of the ramifications of this for the way we conduct our lives. But let us take a moment to consider the grandeur of the one who has said these words to us and who has made this everlasting life possible in our lives.

Jesus Is Mocked for His Promise

It is inevitable that our bodies will perish. After death seems to be sleeping, which is why the New Testament refers to it as death “falling asleep,” they rest in the grave until the sound of the final trumpet. “For the trumpet will sound, and the dead will be resurrected imperishable, and we will be transformed.” (Revelation 14:12) (1 Corinthians 15:52). We, on the other hand, do not die when our bodies succumb. From death to life, we’ve made the transition. Life without end. Life that is unbroken and unending You will never die if you keep Jesus’ teachings in your heart, treasure them, and abide in them.

  • It is possible to have a spiritual existence (see John 3:16–8).
  • This new life is a life that will last for all of eternity.
  • The Holy Spirit is responsible for this.
  • It is indestructible.
  • When our physical bodies expire, we do not suffer a break in our relationship with God, which is established through the person of Jesus Christ.
  • Because of the new birth, we now have an eternal life with Christ in God that will last forever.
  • There is no way we will be satisfied with it.
  • Then we’ll discuss some of the ramifications of this for the way we conduct our lives when we get back together.

Eternally Relevant

Our bodies are going to perish. They lie in the grave until the final trumpet is sounded, and they appear to be sleeping, which is why the New Testament refers to death as “falling asleep.” “For the trumpet will sound, and the dead will be resurrected imperishable, and we will be transformed” (1 Corinthians 15:52). However, when our bodies expire, we do not pass away. We have made the transition from death to life. Eternal life is possible. Life is unbroken and unending. “Keep Jesus’ teachings close to your heart, treasure them, and dwell in them, and you will never see death.” This translates to the following: We were given the gift of life when we were reborn.

  1. God brought us back to life while we were dead in our transgressions (Ephesians 2:4–5).
  2. In this new spiritual life, we are able to commune with God, know God, experience God, communicate with God, hear from God through his word, and feel the love of God spread abroad in our hearts (Romans 5:5).
  3. We will never be able to sever our relationship with God.
  4. It exists in perpetuity.
  5. Our friendship, in fact, is consummated in that very moment (Hebrews 12:23).
  6. We’re not going to see the last of it.

Because there isn’t a conclusion. We’ll come back to this in a bit and discuss some of the ramifications of this for how we conduct our lives. But, for a moment, consider the grandeur of the One who has said these words to us and who has made this everlasting life possible.

Fear Is No Longer Your Master

Let us conclude with a major implication for our current life. The consequences of Jesus’ death on the cross in our place are described in Hebrews 2:14–15. Take a look at how he puts it: In order to eliminate the one who has the power of death, namely the devil, and to free all people who were subject to lifelong servitude because of their fear of death, he personally shared in flesh and blood with the children in order to partake in their flesh and blood with himself. According to the writer to the Hebrews, the entire human race is “subject to perpetual enslavement due to the fear of death” because of the fear of death.

His argument was in agreement with Hebrews: The central argument of this book is that the fear of death haunts the human animal like nothing else; it serves as a driving force behind human action, which is primarily directed at avoiding the fatality of death, or at least in denying in some manner that death is man’s ultimate fate.

When asked about his identity, Jesus said that he was the greatI Am from all eternity, who came to earth as a mortal man in order to die for sin, destroy in death the one who possesses the power of death, and rise from the dead triumphant over sin and death.

Both Hebrews and Becker assert that the fear of death produces a pervasive, lifelong bondage — even when we are unaware of it, fear is haunting our choices, making us cautious, wary, restrained, confined, narrow, tight, robbing us of risk and adventure and dreams for the sake of Christ and his kingdom, as well as the cause of love in the world — even when we are unaware of it, fear is haunting our choices, making us cautious, wary, restrained Fear of death serves as a slave master, tying us down with invisible cords and restricting us to tiny, safe, benign, and self-centered ways of living.

We may not even be aware of it.

He said, “Truly, truly, I tell to you, if someone respects my word, he will never die.” Alternatively, as Christ states in John 8:32, “You will know the truth, and the truth will set you free.

Be one of them.

Leave a Reply

Your email address will not be published.