Death evokes a myriad of emotions, but at its core, it remains ambiguous to many. Despite being an irreplaceable part of life, everyone fears death. What happens afterward is the question that looms over everyone’s mind. Does existence exist beyond the end of life?
The Bible clarifies what this means. It states that sin causes death, but believers see it as a gateway to more. Understanding what the Bible states about death is comfort in itself and, for most, provides hope too. Religion explains how to get comfortable with the idea of death.
How Did Death Come To Be?
The original notions of death and sin were never an integral part of God’s vision for humanity. When God decided to create the world, there was no death, difficulty, or anguish. However, a cataclysmic event, disobedience, altered the entire perspective. The story of Adam and Eve highlights how, upon evading the rules placed by God, they brought sin into the world along with death. The aftermath not only instituted physical demise but also an emotional disunion from God.
The Bible provides a deeper insight into this verse, Romans 5:12, when it states that death spread through the world as a result of the entry of sin. This forever altered the world we live in. With God offering the promise of eternal life through Jesus Christ, humans can witness the manifestation of mercy. As Jesus died on the cross, the bondage of sin and death was broken, making way for hope for everyone who believes in his resurrection.
Common Fear Regarding Death
Despite people’s reluctance to acknowledge it, death is an inevitable part of life, bringing with it a multitude of fears. Some people worry about life after death, while others fear the suffering they will endure when they die. In addition to the fears mentioned above, there is grim sadness that stems from the thought of departing from people you cherish and love, along with the solemn idea of meeting God, who will judge you.
While the fears that exist are valid, the Bible offers an entirely different perspective, which Jesus presented while he was alive. For Jesus, death was nothing but a transition point; lasting through the struggles and hurdles to reach freedom was never the end. With his faith, those who believed in him successfully were able to overcome everything, forever changing what death represents.
What Does the Bible Say About Death?
In the Bible, metaphors are employed to define death in terms of purpose and meaning. For instance, the Bible compares death to sleep. While talking about Lazarus, He once said, “He is sleeping; I am going to wake him up,” which implies death is not as severe as it is perceived. For believers, the act of Jesus’ return signifies an awakening from what is pronounced as sleep.
One of the most important aspects of death that needs to be accounted for is that it puts a permanent end to the suffering that one has to undergo on this earth—the intense pain, tests, and tribulations of life in this world. However, the Bible affirms that there is comfort at the end of the journey. In the book of Revelation 21:4, it states that he shall wipe away every tear, and there will be no more death, sorrow, crying or pain. For the believers, death means liberation from the infinite torture they have to face, but for others, the rapture should not be feared.
In addition, the scripture reveals that the death of a believer results in being in God’s presence. This truth was well supported by the Apostle Paul, stating in 2 Corinthians 5:8 that whether deceased or alive, a believer is with the Lord. There is an implication that upon death, the soul of Christians directly goes to God, where it stays until the last resurrection. The saved will receive glorified bodies during the last resurrection.
Death is also important in that it signifies something new. Jesus emphasized it in John 11:25, where He claimed, “I am the resurrection and the life”; whoever has faith in Him, though they may die, still lives. Instead of viewing physical death as the end, we should view it as the beginning of an endless life with God. For believers, eternity is free of sin and suffering, yet full of joy, worship, and the presence of God.
How Should Christians Prepare for Death?
Knowing that death is part of life, the Bible has some advice on death preparation. The most crucial provision is on the spiritual level. In one’s evaluation, every human must confirm they have a right relationship with God. God’s intention and affection for man is well articulated in the explanation Jesus gave in John 3:16, “For God so loved the world that He gave His only Son that whoever believes in Him shall not perish but have everlasting life.” Salvation is received when one believes in Jesus, repents of sin, and commits to a life of discipleship. A healthy relationship with God means prayer, studying the Bible, and living in accordance with His commandments. This guarantees that a person is spiritually ready for the life that is to come.
Along with spiritual preparation, practical preparations are equally essential. For instance, we should take steps such as writing wills, stating funeral preferences, and making provisions for dependents. In addition, the Scriptures encourage men to prepare themselves by trying to be at peace with others, and where there is conflict, they should attempt reconciliation. Matthew 5:9 exhorts those who are believers to actively pursue peace, for solving issues and forgiving is part of the life within the Christian faith.
The community is also significant when it comes to preparing for death. No one should have to go through this journey alone. The Bible directs that believers should help and comfort each other, as seen in Galatians 6:2, which speaks to the call people have to carry each other’s burdens. A church or a Christian community helps with emotional assistance and spiritual nurturing, as well as tangible aid for the person who is dying and those who are left behind.
The Bible gives a clear yet comforting message about death. It is a result of sin, but it is not the end for the follower of Jesus. Rather, it is the gateway to everlasting life. Through Christ’s resurrection, death no longer has the power it once did. There will be a day when death itself will be defeated, and all of God’s people will live in perfect joy with Him for eternity.
This fact ought to prompt each individual to pose a critical question: Are you prepared for eternity? The Bible indicates that every individual will encounter death and will ultimately stand before God. The good news is that for those who put their faith in Jesus Christ, eternal life is a gift that is offered to them. In John 14:6, Jesus claims that He is the way, the truth, and the life, and that no one comes to the Father except through him. He provides peace during life and assurance in death.
You should trust Jesus now, especially if you’re hesitant. There is no other decision as vital and transformative as committing one’s life to Him. The prospect of death is harmless when one has a guaranteed everlasting life with God.
Visit Church At The Epicenter