Do you believe in life after death and in the resurrection of your body, if you should die today? Would you want to come back to live in the same body you currently have with all its limitations and pains? Do you believe in second chances after you die, or in reincarnation, or in the annihilation of the wicked dead?
Why are some people so opposed to the idea of the resurrection of our human bodies? Why did the Epicurean (pleasure seeking) and Stoic (rationalistic) philosophers in Athens, Greece mock the Apostle Paul when he talked to them about Christ’s bodily resurrection out from among the dead ones (Acts 17:16-32)? [1] How does His bodily resurrection affect us? Does Jesus have the power to raise everyone who has died physically? If He does, when will He do this?
Could it be that some people strongly oppose the idea of being resurrected from the dead because, if they believed in it, they might be held accountable to God for their lawless behavior while they lived here on the earth? Does living a “good life” enable us to enter heaven, and does living a “sinful/lawless life” send us to hell? Can we get into heaven if our good deeds outweigh our bad deeds? What is the purpose of the different judgment days mentioned in the Bible?
Has John Lennon’s song “Imagine” (There’s No Heaven Or Hell) contributed to your philosophy of life which would allow you to live any way you wanted to live for today without any negative consequences that it might have on you or others, including your children and grandchildren?
Jesus said, “I am the resurrection and life. He who believes in Me, though he may die, he shall live” (John 11:25). Since He is all powerful (Revelation 1:8), He will destroy death by raising up everyone who has died, each in his/her own order (1 Corinthians 15:26).
The bodies of the dead people that will be raised back to life will be everlasting. Believers in God/Christ through the Gospel message will receive bodies with flesh and bones, but without blood. These bodies will house their souls and spirits, and they will have garments of light (1 Corinthians 15:49; 1 Timothy 6:16; 1 John 3:2; Daniel 12:1-3). Unbelievers will be raised from the dead and their bodies will be changed so as never to die again physically. They will stand before Judge Jesus (John 5:22) at the Great White Throne where their works will be evaluated to determine their degree of suffering in the the lake of fire forever (Matthew 25:30, 41, 46; Luke 16:19-31; Revelation 21:8). [2] We don’t want this to happen to you or any other person. If you’re still alive physically, there is hope for you.
God’s Word is truth (John 17:17). The Lord Jesus Christ is the [only] way [to God], the [absolute] truth, and the [giver of eternal] life (John 14:16). He died for the sins [lawless behavior] of the whole world…and rose again bodily from the dead on the third day (1 Corinthians 15:3, 4; John 3:16, 18, 36; 1 John 2:2). Believe on the Lord Jesus Christ alone (apart from your good works), and you will be saved from hell to heaven (Acts 16:31; Ephesians 2:8, 9). If you’ve never done this before, why not trust Him right now, wherever you are? [3]
If you’ve just done this, we’d like to help you so you can start living a life that pleases God. Contact us here or through our website: www.kelseypeach.com. We’re here to assist those who are teachable, willing to learn, and grow spiritually.
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Scripture taken from the New King James Version
Copyright c. 1982 by Thomas Nelson, Inc. Used by Permission. All rights reserved
Christ’s death for the sins of all mankind, His burial for three (not four) days and nights in the tomb, His bodily resurrection from the dead, which was validated by over 500 witnesses, on ten different occasions, over a 40 day period of time, before He ascended publicly, gradually, and literally into heaven, in the presence of His disciples, with a promise to return, are the most import events in human history.
They fulfill Bible prophecy, validate the Old and New Testament Scriptures, and guarantee the bodily resurrection of all human beings who have died. Some to everlasting life with God, and others who will be separated forever from Him in the lake of fire to suffer with the devil and his angels/demons.
The Scriptures teach, and we believe –
#1 –In Life After Death
Orthodox Jews and Christians believe in life after death (John 11:24). The Apostle Paul wrote, “We are confident, I say, and willing rather to be absent from the body, and to be present with the Lord” (2 Corinthians 5:8). “For I am hard pressed between [life and death], having a desire to depart and be with Christ [in heaven], which is far better…” (Philippians 1:23).
As He was getting ready to go to the cross to die for our sins…and then rise from the dead, Jesus said to His disciples, “Let not your heart be troubled; you believe in God, believe also in Me. In My Father’s house are many mansions [dwellings]; if it were not so, I would have told you. I go to prepare a place for [all of] you [believers]. And 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). This beautiful place (the heavenly New Jerusalem, will be the home of Christ’s Bride, the glorified Church). It is described for us in Revelation 21:9 ff.
(Before you continue reading, may we suggest that you download our FREE “Bible Study Book Marker and Dispensations Chart” to help you see where we are and when things will happen. Get it from our website www.kelseypeach.com.)
The Old Testament patriarch Job said, “And after my skin is destroyed, this I know, that in my flesh I shall see God.” (Job 19:26). Abraham believed that even if he had to actually kill his son, as God had ordered him to do to test his true devotion to God, God could and would raise Isaac from the dead (Hebrews 11:19) and fulfill His promises to him (Genesis 12, 15, 17).
#2 – In A Bodily Resurrection
The religious Pharisees (but not the Sadducees) believed in the resurrection of the dead (Acts 23:6-8). Martha, the sister of Lazarus who had died, believed her brother would be resurrected on the last day (John 11:24). Jesus said, “I am the resurrection and the life…” (John 11:25).
#3 – We Don’t Need To Fear Death
Many people are fearful of death and rightfully should be if they are not true Christians. They don’t know what is on the other side of death. But true Christians need not be afraid of it. Jesus Christ took the sting out of death by dying for our sins and rising again bodily from the dead (1 Corinthians 15:55-57). True Christians have hope of a better life or their “Best Life” in the future, not now as one “preacher” tells others. This hope is not wishful thinking, but it is a confident expectation based on a promise from God.
In the Old Testament times the devil held the keys of death (Hebrews 2:14; Job 1:18, 19). But Jesus Christ took them from him when He rose again bodily from the grave (Revelation 1:18). Jesus is the One who turns the key and decides when we depart from this life and enter the next one (1 Thessalonians 4:14).
#4 – We Might Be The Exception To The Rule
Death is inevitable but there are some exceptions (Genesis 2:17; Romans 6:23). This is a general rule: “…it is appointed for men to die once, but after this the judgment” (Hebrews 9:27). Enoch and Elijah were two men who passed from this life into the next one without dying (Genesis 5:24; 2 Kings 2:11). The Scriptures teach us that there will be a whole generation of Christians who will pass from this life into the next life without dying (1 Corinthians 15:51-53; 1 Thessalonians 4:13-18). You could be in this group if you have faith in the Christ of the Scriptures alone (James 2:19). Don’t be one who believesin vain (1 Corinthians 15:2). This happens when a person puts his/her faith and trust in the wrong Christ (Mathew 24:5), or believes another Gospel (2 Corinthians 11:3, 4), or who tries to add his/her good works to faith alone in Christ alone (Ephesians 2:8, 9; Titus 3:5).
#5 – We Are Not The Most Pitiable People
If Jesus Christ didn’t really rise from the dead, as some false teachers are claiming, then Christians are of all people the most pitiable (1 Corinthians 15:19). But His bodily resurrection out from among the dead ones is a historical fact that was witnessed by over 500 people over a 40 day period of time. Then He ascended back to heaven in the presence of His disciples (1 Corinthians 15:1-8, Acts 1:1-11; Luke 24 33-43). He promised to return for them and us some day (John 14:1-6). Avoid false teachers who deny His incarnation and His bodily resurrection (1 John 4:3; 2 John 1:7).
#6 – We Shouldn’t Let The Scoffers Trouble Us
With God a day is like a thousand years (2 Peter 3:1-9). Relax! He’ll return for us when all whom the Father has given to Him have come to Him and been saved and they have done some praiseworthy works for Him to reward at the “Bema Seat Judgment” (John 6:37; 1 Corinthians 3:11-15; 4:5; Ephesians 2:10). We can’t save people but we can have a part in this work by leading people to Christ to so they can saved (Acts 1:8; John 1:41). We can even earn the crown of rejoicing for doing this (1 Thessalonians 2:19, 20).
# 7 – Our Resurrection Is Assured
Christ’s bodily resurrection also assures us of our bodily resurrection from the dead (John 14:19; 1 Corinthians 15:26, 51, 52). Every human being who has ever lived and died will one day be resurrected “in his/her own order” (1 Corinthians 15:23, 24, 51-53). The last enemy Christ will destroy is physical death (1 Corinthians 15:26). He will do this by raising up everyone who has died physically. Do you know in which resurrection will you participate? Fourmajor resurrections are mentioned in these verses.
#8 – We Know Why People Die
Death is very ugly and brings sorrow to so many people. It all started in the Garden of Eden when Eve and then Adam ate the forbidden fruit that God had told them not to eat (Genesis 2:17; 3:6; Romans 5:12; 6:23). Death (separation) took place in the physical and spiritual realms. At the time of physical death the immaterial soul and spirit are separated from the body. Spiritual death (separation from God) took place the moment they ate the forbidden fruit. Physical death happened later (Genesis 5). They had no idea of the suffering that would follow in the generations to come.
#9 – We Will Get A Garment Of Light
We believe that they also realized that they had been stripped of their garment of light (Genesis 3:7). When the Rapture occurs Christians will get a garment of light like Christ’s (1 Corinthians 15:49; 1 Timothy 6:16; 1 John 3:2). Old Testament Jewish believers will get their garments of light seven years later when they are raised from the dead to live on the refurbishedearth (Daniel 12:2, 12; Isaiah 40:4; Luke 3:5). After Christ’s 1,000 year rule of the heavens over the earth (Daniel 2:44, 45; Matthew 3:2; 4:17; Revelation 20:1-7), Jesus Christ, the God-man will destroy the present heavens and earth and create new heavens and a new earth in which righteousness will finally settle down and feel at ease (2 Peter 3:10-13). The Jewish believers are promised a new world (Matthew 5:5; Romans 4:13). Christians are citizens of heavens (Philippians 3:20).
#10 – We Should Expect Opposition
Some people believe that there is only one general resurrection at the end of time rather than several resurrections of the dead as the Scriptures teach (1 Corinthians 15:23, 24; Acts 4:1-5). The Apostle Paul insisted that the bodilyresurrection of Jesus Christ from the dead be included in the Gospel message (2 Timothy 2:8-10). The sensual philosophers of Athens mocked him when he spoke of the resurrection (Acts 17:23). Without a risen Savior, we all would be doomed to hell and be without hope (1 Corinthians 15:1-19).
Perhaps their hostility to Christ’s resurrection and to mankind’s resurrection from the dead stems from the fact that unbelievers don’t want to give an account of their behavior to the true and living God (Romans 12:14; Hebrews 9:27; 10:31). Most people love darkness rather than light (John 3:19).
#11 – We Received A New Heart/Nature By Faith
Man’s heart (nature) is deceitful and desperately wicked (Jeremiah 17:9; Romans 3:10-23). We all need to be born again from above to receive a new one. God gives us one when we trust in Christ alone as our personal Savior (John 3:3; 2 Peter 1:4). But believers still retain their old heart (sin nature) until we die or are taken up in the Rapture (1 John 1:8; Romans 7:15-25). To be assured of victory over our sin nature, we must rely on God the Holy Spirit to kill the evil desires (lusts) that come from it (Galatians 5:16-25).
#12 – The Dead Are Not Annihilated Or Reincarnated
Some people choose to believe in the annihilation of the wicked or in reincarnation. Neither is taught in the Scriptures which are the authoritative Word of God. The Old Testament was authenticated by Jesus Christ Himself (John 17:17). He told His disciples that God the Holy Spirit would convey additional information to some of them after His death and resurrection (2 Timothy 3:16, 17; 2 Peter 1:21; 3:15, 16; John 16:13). In addition to the 39 books of the Old Testament, we have Biblical truth in the 27 books of the New Testament. We don’t accept the Apocryphal books as authoritative or believe the spurious writings of false teachers in the cults. Nor do we believe that God is still giving new revelation (information) to people today (1 Corinthians 13:8-10).
#13 – The Dead Get Intermediate Bodies
According to the Scriptures, as soon as a person dies, he/she moves out of time into eternity (Hebrews 9:27). All human beings have a spirit, soul, and a body (1 Thessalonians 5:23). By means of our bodies we express ourselves to others (James 2:18). Our soul seems to be most closely related to our emotions (Psalm 6:3; 7:5; 13:2; 23:3), and our spirit belongs to the mind (Ephesians 4:23). The spirit is the only part of the believer that is saved today (1 Corinthians 2:10, 11; 6:17). The Christian’s body and then the soul are the last parts of us Christians to be saved at the time of the Rapture (Romans 8:23; 1 Peter 1:9).
Incidentally, God the Holy Spirit can and does lead maturing believers to do those things He desires us to do (Romans 8:14; Philippians 2:13). But He will never lead us to do something that is contrary to the written, revealed Word of God to Christians.
#14 – There Are Different Groups Of People
We believe that as soon as a New Testament Christian dies he/she receives a temporary body from God to house his/her soul and spirit in the Paradise section of heaven (2 Corinthians 5:1-8; 12:4; Ephesians 4:8-10). [1] Christians will have these temporary, heavenly bodies until they return with Christ at the Rapture to reclaim their bodies that died and which were placed in the ground or in the sea to rest in sleep (1 Corinthians 15:51-53; 1 Thessalonians 4:15). It is only the body that sleeps until it is raised. Our souls and spirits don’t sleep.
When Christ comes back at the Rapture to meet us in the air (John 14:1-3; 1 Thessalonians 4:13-18), He will raise up the bodies of the New Testament believers and change them and make them like His resurrected, glorified human body which has flesh and bones, but no blood (1 Corinthians 15:49-53; 1 John 3:2; Luke 24:36-43). We don’t become little gods and reproduce children (Matthew 22:30). Those living at the time of His return in the Rapture will have their bodies changed to be like His glorified body.
The resurrection of the Old Testament believers will take place seven years after the rapture (Daniel 12:2, 12). They will live among the residents of the earth who physicallysurvived the Tribulation and who enter into the millennium. The resurrected believers will not be able to reproduce themselves (Matthew 22:30). But the believers who lived during and who survived the tribulation will repopulate the earth during the millennial reign of Christ on/over the earth (Matthew 10:22).
We also believe that during Christ’s millennium reign on/over the whole earth, the undefiled Jewish and Gentile believers will have access to the heavenly New Jerusalem. They will enter it through the gate with the name of the Jewish person’s tribe above it (Revelation 21:12, 27). It appears that the angels will accompany them up and down (Genesis 28:12; Zechariah 8:23).
King David will be resurrected from the dead and will be the topking on the earth over other Gentile kings, but under Christ, the King of kings, and His Bride, the true Church. Together they will rule from the satellite city which will circle the earth during the millennium (Jeremiah 30:9; Revelation 19:16; 21:10-27). It is about 1,5000 miles square at the base and 1,500 miles high either in the shape of a cube or more probably in the shape of a pyramid (Revelation 21:16). It will be the source of light for the earth during the millennium (Revelation 21:24). The sun will go out completely towards the end of the tribulation (Revelation 16:8-10; Matthew 24:29).
The believers who physically survive the seven year tribulation will enter the millennium and have children. But not all of their descendants will believe in the true and living God, Jesus Christ, in spite of the ideal conditions on earth at that time. The devil will be bound in the sides of the abyss for 1,000 years (Revelation 20:2; Isaiah 14:15), all man’s needs will be met (Isaiah 11:1-10; 35:1), and the sin nature of man will be curbed (Jeremiah 31:31-34). The present, diabolical world system, that was devised by the devil in the days of Cain, to curb the sinful nature of man (Luke 11:50, 51; Genesis 4:16-24), will also not exist during the millennium (1 John 2:15-17).
In spite of all this, a rebellion will break out at the end of the millennium when Satan is released from the abyss, which is in the heart of the earth, to deceive the nations (Revelation 20:7-10). This rebellion will be crushed and the devil along with all the rebels will be cast into the Lake of Fire where the beast (man of sin) and the false prophet were cast 1,000 years earlier (Revelation 19:20; 20:10-15). The fact that they are still there when the devil gets there disproves the annihilation of the wicked.
The resurrection of unbelievers will take place at the Great White Throne judgment at the end of time (Revelation 20:11-15). Currently the unsaved dead are confined to the “jail house” (Sheol / Hades) in the heart of the earth (Numbers 16:30; Deuteronomy 32:22; Luke 16:19-31) where they are suffering in great pain.
At the Great White Throne judgment, the unsaved people will have their works judged to determine their degree of torment in the lake of fire (Matthew 10:15; 11:22; Revelation 20:11-15). It was designed for the devil and his angels (demons), but those who reject God’s offer of salvation will end up there with them (Mathew 25:41, 46). We need Christ’s righteousness to get into heaven (John 16:10). It is imputed to those who believe on the Lord Jesus Christ through the Gospel (Romans 4:22-25). Jesus is the only way to God (John 14:6).
#15 – There Are Different Orders Of Resurrections
Review. Four major resurrections are mentioned in 1 Corinthians chapter 15. There is Christ’s bodily resurrection that insures other resurrections (15:23). Then the Apostle Paul mentions a resurrection of those who are Christ’s at His [second] coming (15:23) after the seven years of tribulation (Daniel 9:24-27). This resurrection was anticipated by the Jewish believers (John 11:24). The resurrection of unbelievers will take place 1,000 years later at the end of time (15:24).
But the Apostle Paul, under the inspiration of the Holy Spirit, revealed still another resurrection that was a mystery in the Old Testament times (1 Corinthians 15:51-53; Romans 16:25, 26). It will be for the dead New Testament believers who are part of the Body of Christ that becomes His bride (John 14:1-3; Ephesians 5:32; 1 Thessalonians 4:13-18).
The Apostle Paul wanted to be alive when the Rapture took place (Philippians 3:11). But God had another plan for him. God wants all His children to live each day anticipating Christ’s return.
If a Christian truly loves Christ’s imminent return, he/she will be more likely to live a righteous life and earn the crown of righteousness (2 Timothy 4:8). If you’re a Christian, are you living in the light of His any moment return? It will help purify you (1 John 3:3), and bring comfort to you when Jesus calls believers home to be with Him in heaven (1 Thessalonians 4:18). It is also called the blessed hope (Titus 2:13) and will bring happiness into the lives of those who believe it will occur at any moment.
#16 – We All Exist Forever Somewhere. Where Will You Spend Eternity?
Those who have placed their faith and trust in the Lord Jesus Christ alone, will spend eternity with God where there is joy evermore (Psalm 16:11). God will wipe away every tear from [the believers’] eyes; there shall be no more death, nor sorrow, and no crying. There will be no more pain and the former things will have passed away (Revelation 21:4; Isaiah 65:17).
But those unbelievers who lack Christ’s righteousness will suffer forever in the lake of fire (John 16:8-11; Revelation 20:15). When we place our faith in Christ alone, Who died for your sins…and rose again bodily on the third day, God puts Christ’s righteousness to our account and He will accept us into heaven (Romans 4:22-25).
You might ask, “What about those who have never heard about Jesus and the Gospel?” God has provided natural revelation for all of us. We can look at nature and know that there is a God and that He is powerful (Romans 1:20; Psalm 19:1). If one will accept this much light and desires more, God will see to it that he/she will gets the additional information about Christ (the Gospel) so he/she can believe and be saved.
The Gospel is the power of God for the salvation of the Jews and non-Jews (Romans 1:16, 17). God could send a missionary to that person (Acts 10). He could use a voice over the air waves, or a printed page to get the Gospel to that person so he/she can be saved.
#17 – We All Have A Choice To Make. How Will You Respond?
God desires that all men and women, boys and girls be saved (1Timothy 2:4). He made a way of escape from hell to heaven for all of us humans, but not for the fallen angels. If you place your faith and trust in Him alone you will be saved from eternal condemnation (Acts 16:31; Romans 5:1). If you’ve never done so before, will you trust Him now? You can know you have eternal life (God’s quality of life) even before you die (Romans 8:16; 1 John 5:13).
If the Lord Jesus Christ is your personal Savior, will you help us get this message out to others who aren’t saved yet? We get to go home to heaven when our work on earth is done. [2] Until then let’s be faithful to Him who called us to salvation (1 Corinthians 4:2; 15:58). He wants all Christians to be faithful, available, teachable, flexible, resilient, evangelistic, and enthusiastic (F.A.T.F.R.E.E.) [3]
Help
We’re here to assist those who are teachable, willing to change, and grow spiritually, and reproduce themselves (2 Timothy 2:2, 15; 3:16, 17; 2 Peter 3:18; Matthew 28:19, 20). If you need additional help or have questions, contact us here or through our website: www.kelseypeach.com. To receive future articles as they come out, click on “Follow.”
Scripture taken from the New King James Version
Copyright c. 1982 by Thomas Nelson, Inc. Used by Permission. All rights reserved
[1] The Comforting Hope Of An Intermediate Body, by Richard Schafer
There are no “accidents” in the lives of Christians, only “incidents.” They are designed to give us an opportunity to display before other believers and non-believers the “Fruit of the Spirit” which is Christlikeness (Galatians 5:22, 23). Question – will we pass or fail the test that is given to us? Will we demonstrate our “agape” love for God and earn “The Crown of Life” (James 1:12)?
James, the Lord’s half-brother (Matthew 13:35), wrote these words to Jewish Christians who were experiencing severe hardships and trials in life (James 1). The Apostle Paul wrote, “…all who desire to live godly in Christ Jesus will suffer persecution” (2 Timothy 3:12). Jesus said, “They will put you out of the synagogues; yes, the time is coming that whoever kills you will think that he offers God service” (John 16:2). But such suffering is not worth comparing to the glory that shall be revealed in us (Romans 8:18).
Since we who are Gentile Christians are one with Jewish Christians (Galatians 3:28, 29), we can apply these words to ourselves too (Ephesians 4:4-6; 1 Corinthians 12:12-14). BTW – The Church has NOT replaced Israel. God is not finished with the Jewish nation. (See 1 Corinthians 10:32; Romans 11). [1]
Profiting from Trials
2 My brethren, count it all joy when you fall into various trials, 3 knowing that the testing of your faith produces patience. 4 But let patience have its perfect work, that you may be perfect and complete, lacking nothing. 5 If any of you lacks wisdom, let him ask of God, who gives to all liberally and without reproach, and it will be given to him. 6 But let him ask in faith, with no doubting, for he who doubts is like a wave of the sea driven and tossed by the wind. 7 For let not that man suppose that he will receive anything from the Lord; 8 he is a double-minded man, unstable in all his ways.
The Perspective of Rich and Poor
9 Let the lowly brother glory in his exaltation, 10 but the rich in his humiliation, because as a flower of the field he will pass away. 11 For no sooner has the sun risen with a burning heat than it withers the grass; its flower falls, and its beautiful appearance perishes. So the rich man also will fade away in his pursuits.
Loving God Under Trials
12 Blessed is the man who endures temptation; for when he has been approved, he will receive the crown of life which the Lord has promised to those who love Him. 13 Let no one say when he is tempted, “I am tempted by God”; for God cannot be tempted by evil, nor does He Himself tempt anyone. 14 But each one is tempted when he is drawn away by his own desires and enticed. 15 Then, when desire has conceived, it gives birth to sin [lawlessness – 1 John 3:4]; and sin, when it is full-grown, brings forth death.
16 Do not be deceived, my beloved brethren. 17 Every good gift and every perfect gift is from above, and comes down from the Father of lights, with whom there is no variation or shadow of turning. 18 Of His own will He brought us forth by the word of truth, that we might be a kind of firstfruits of His creatures.
Qualities Needed in Trials
19 So then, my beloved brethren, let every man be swift to hear, slow to speak, slow to wrath;20 for the wrath of man does not produce the righteousness of God.
Doers—Not Hearers Only
21 Therefore lay aside all filthiness and overflow of wickedness, and receive with meekness the implanted word, which is able to save your souls.
22 But be doers of the word, and not hearers only, deceiving yourselves. 23 For if anyone is a hearer of the word and not a doer, he is like a man observing his natural face in a mirror; 24 for he observes himself, goes away, and immediately forgets what kind of man he was. 25 But he who looks into the perfect law of liberty and continues in it, and is not a forgetful hearer but a doer of the work, this one will be blessed in what he does.
26 If anyone among you thinks he is religious, and does not bridle his tongue but deceives his own heart, this one’s religion is useless. 27 Pure and undefiled religion before God and the Father is this: to visit orphans and widows in their trouble, and to keep oneself unspotted from the world.
Lessons
What valuable lessons do you believe God is trying to teach you through your trials? Write them down on a sheet of paper or in your journal. Share them with a few people to encourage and edify them (2 Corinthians 1:3, 4; 1 Thessalonians 5:11). Let God develop His character (the “Fruit of the Spirit”) through you so others can learn more about your God. This is a way for believers to glorify God (1 Corinthians 10:31).
Help
We’re here to assist those who are teachable, willing to change, and grow spiritually (2 Timothy 2:2, 15; 3:16, 17; 2 Peter 3:18). We can be reached here or through our website: www.kelseypeach.com. To receive future articles as they come out, click on “Follow.”
Thanatology is fast becoming a very popular course in many colleges and universities across the country. In fact, more and more of them are offering a “Master of Science” degree in this field. We’ve read that there is a three year waiting period before students can take one professor’s class that deals with this subject.
What is “thanatology?” One source describes it as “the scientific study of death and the practices associated with it, including the study of the needs of the terminally ill and their families. Thanatologists are supposed to be specialists in a multi-disciplinary field dedicated to better understanding death, dying, grief, loss, and bereavement. They utilize a wide variety of theory and applied practice to support and educate groups and individuals who are navigating end of life issues.”
However, those professors who disregard the Biblical truth (John 17:17) about death and dying are not providing a full and accurate picture for those whom they teach and counsel. Scripture warns us, “Beware lest anyone cheat you through philosophy and empty deceit, according to the tradition of men, according to the basic principles of the world, and not according to Christ” (Colossians 2:8). Furthermore, “There is a way that seems right to a man, But its end is the way of death” (Proverbs 14:12). “For the wisdom of this world is foolishness with God” (1 Corinthians 3:19).
Most people, including children, fear death and the unknown. You’ve probably asked some of these questions: What happens to us when we die? Does our soul go to sleep? Do we get reincarnated and live in another body? Do the wicked dead get a second chance to be saved from hell or are they simply annihilated? What is universalism? Do Christians go immediately to heaven or do they have to go to Purgatory first? Are heaven and hell real places? Why do some people actually prefer hell over heaven? Why is the word “hell” used in vulgar conversations? What about “out of body experiences” (OBE)? Do the Scriptures teach that everyone receives a temporary body at death until they get a permanent body sometime later when they are raised from the dead? How many resurrections are there? What is the last enemy that Christ defeats? How does He do this?
Are these some of the questions that you have? Would you like some answers from the Scriptures? Do you believe Jesus and that all 66 Booksof the Bibleare true and trustworthy sources of information (John 14:6; 17:17; 2 Timothy 3:16, 17)? If so, please keep reading. Otherwise, don’t.
In an article entitled “THE COMFORTING HOPE OF AN INTERMEDIATE BODY” Richard L. Schafer wrote the following:
“One of the things Christ accomplished on the cross was to nullify the power that Satan had over the death of believers. This work of Christ made it possible for a Christian to be unafraid of death. (Heb. 2:14-15; Rev. 1:18) In spite of Christ’s accomplishments on behalf of saints of the dispensation of Grace [in which we now live], [1]some believers still harbor the fear of death. This fear occurs because of a lack of understanding about what happens when we leave this body on earth. The Bible contains an abundant amount of revelation [information] concerning the process we call death and describes an existence after we leave this body on earth.
“What really happens when a Christian dies before the Rapture? We know that at the Rapture all the dead church saints [i.e., all true Christians] will be raised and all the living saints will be changed. Both groups will be caught up together to meet the Lord [in the air]. At that time all the church/bride of Christ will have [permanent] glorified bodies like that of the Lord Jesus Christ. (1 Cor. 15:51; 1 Thess. 4:13-18; Phil. 3:20-21; 1 John 3:1-3)
“Many think the dead Christian exists in the state of a disembodied spirit. In this condition the dead saint is thought to be in a blissful, semiconscious state: a state of inactivity or floating aroundas a spirit. Others picture death as a state of complete unconsciousness.
“Non-Christians [in the cults] have other fanciful imagined concepts of conditions after death. Jehovah’s Witnesses and Seventh Day Adventists hold to soul-sleep, a belief that the disembodied soul is unconscious until a resurrection. Mormons maintain there are seven levels of heaven that the dead enjoy. Others consider the soul to be extinct after death. Many think humans “return” in another form–reincarnation. All of these views are contrary to what is revealed in Scripture.
“The Bible teaches that the believer can have the hope of an intermediate, or temporary, body after physical death; death is when a person is separated from this present body on earth. To understand and to fully appreciate the concept of an intermediate body, it is necessary first to have a foundation of other important Biblical concepts such as the composition of man, what constitutes death and where both saved and lost go after leaving the surface of earth. [2]
CONCLUSION
“It is evident [from Scripture] that when humans die they do not go into any kind of soul sleep. After physical death, both saved and unsaved are able to express their personalities. At death saints [all believers] are housed in an intermediate body awaiting glorification. For church saints [but not for Old Testament believers] this change takes place at the Rapture. The hope [confident expectation] we have for an intermediate body, which is based on a promise from God, is comforting since we will never have to worry about being a naked disembodied sleeping spirit.
“Christ has the only immortal or glorified body, prior to the Rapture. (1 Tim. 6:16) However, if we are not the generation alive at the Rapture, our hope is of a smooth transition from life on earth to a conscious awareness, allowing us to perceive and participate in the action around us in heaven with Christ. This intermediate body will be replaced at the Rapture with a [permanent] glorified one.” [2]
These Biblical truths won’t be taught in a course on thanatology at a secular college or university. They will probably approach the subject from a philosophical and humanistic viewpoint which could leave a student in greater confusion.
The devil doesn’t want people to know the absolute truth that is found in Scripture (John 17:17; 2 Timothy 3:16, 17). “He was a murderer from the beginning, and does not stand in the truth, because there is no truth in him. When he speaks a lie, he speaks from his own resources, for he is a liar and the father of it” (John 8:44). He wants people (including Christians) to be kept in the dark and lulled to sleep (1 John 5:19).
So, wake up! “Beware lest anyone cheat you through philosophy and empty deceit, according to the tradition of men, according to the basic principles of the world, and not according to Christ” (Colossians 2:8). “But the wisdom that is from above is first pure, then peaceable, gentle, willing to yield, full of mercy and good fruits, without partiality and without hypocrisy” (James 3:17). If you’re a Christian, you can/should ask God for His wisdom (James 1:5).
Everyone needs to know “The Bad News & The Good News” so he/she can be delivered from eternal separation from God in the lake of fire with the devil and his angels/demons (Matthew 25:30, 41, 46). [3]
If you’d like to learn more about this important subject, we encourage you to read and study (2 Timothy 2:15) the entire article by Richard Schafer, where he develops many more thoughts from the Scriptures.
But, even before you read it, if you haven’t yet placed your faith and trust in the Lord Jesus Christ alone, Who died for your sins…and rose again bodily from the dead on the third day, why not believe on Him right now? Assurance of your deliverance from the lake of fire (hell) to heaven can be yours today. (See Romans 8:16; 1 John 5:13; John 3:16, 18, 36; 5:24; 10:28, 29). Furthermore, God the Holy Spirit will be in a position to illuminate your mind to Biblical truth (John 14:16, 26).
We’re here to assist those who are teachable, willing to change, and who want to grow spiritually (2 Timothy 2:2, 15; 3:16; 2 Peter 3:18). We can be reached here, or through our website: www.kelseypeach.com.
Please SHARE this with others to help them gain Biblical information about death and dying. Remember this – “…it is appointed for men to die once, but after this the judgment” (Hebrews 9:27). This is a general rule. There have been and there will be exceptions (1 Corinthians 15:51, 52). Click on “Follow” to receive future articles as they come out.
To read the entire article by Richard Schafer, which answers many more questions, go to link # [2] –
“Life Is Short, So Make It Count – Zoe. Thanatos. Deo Volente.”
“Our life (zoe) is like a vapor that appears for a little while and then vanishes away” (James 4:14). Death (thanatos) is certain and judgment day follows (Hebrews 9:27). Every decision we make in life should include the words or at least the thought, “God willing (Deo Volente), I will do this or that” (James 4:15). https://kelseypeach.wordpress.com/2014/09/16/lifes-a-vapor-make-it-count/
Scripture taken from the New King James Version
Copyright c. 1982 by Thomas Nelson, Inc. Used by Permission. All rights reserved.
John Lennon’s song “Imagine” has been sung at the Olympics for many years now. It suggests that we forget about heaven and hell, and live selfishly just for the moment and disregard any possible consequences that might come to us or our children. (Consider Ben Shapiro’s critique of this song below [1]).
A less popular, more recent song entitled “I Can Only Imagine” was written by Bart Millard. It apparently was inspired by the loss of his father, who was abusive before being diagnosed with cancer. But then his life was transformed by faith. This song struck a chord with many people. It asks a lot of questions about what heaven will be like without giving answers.
Yes, it’s true, that while the Bible tells us quite a bit about the everlasting lake of fire (hell) as a place to avoid (Matthew 25:30, 41, 46; Mark 9:42-48; Revelation 21:8), it doesn’t provide for us a lot of information about heaven (John 14:1-3). This may be due to our present inability to fully appreciate it because of our tendency, even as believers, to be more strongly motivated by our emotions (souls) rather than by our spirits that belong to the rational part of our minds (Ephesians 4:23). [2]
The heavenly New Jerusalem is laid out as a square at the base. The length, the width, and the height are the same – 1,500 miles. If it’s in the shape of a cube, it would have 3,375,000,000 cubic miles, and if it’s in the shape of a pyramid, it would have 1,125,000,000 cubic miles.
It would cover the United States from our northern border to our southern border, and would cover about half the country from the west coast eastward. It also has a wall around it that is 216 feet high and has 12 angels at the 12 gates with the names of the 12 tribes of the sons of Israel (Jacob). There are 12 foundation stones with the names of the twelve apostles of the Lamb on them (Revelation 21:9-27).
We believe that this city will be the source of diffused light during Christ’s 1,000 year reign on/over the earth since the sun will go out at the end of the 7 year tribulation (Matthew 24:29; Revelation 21:23). Such light will cause the desert to blossom as a rose and cause rapid growth (Isaiah 35:1; Amos 9:13). The light will come from Christ’s resurrected, glorified body which has a garment brighter than the midday sun (1 Timothy 6:15, 16; Acts 26:13). [3]
It seems that a pyramidal shapemight be the more likely shape with Christ at the apex of it. As this satellite city circles the earth, everyone on earth will be able to see Christ once a day. [4] Sadly, after some time, there will be people on earth who will begin to take this view for granted.
But more important than the place where Christians will live forever, is the One with Whom we will spend it. He is the Second Person in the Godhead, the Lord Jesus Christ, Who volunteered to come to our sin cursed world, and to die for our sins…and rise again bodily from the dead so He could deliver us from having to spend eternity in hell and take us to heaven (Hebrews 10:7-9; Philippians 2:1-11).
Is your faith resting in Him alone to save you? If not, why not believe on Him now, right where you are (Acts 16:31; John 3:16, 18, 36)? We’re here to help unsaved people so they can get saved and gain assurance of salvation (Romans 8:16; 1 John 5;13).
When Jesus decides to travel, whether it be to other galaxies in the new heavens, where unfallen spirit beings (cherubs, seraphs, and angels) apparently will dwell in the second heavens (Ephesians 6:12), or to the new earth to visit the Jewish believers and Gentile proselytes who will reside there (Romans 4:13), we (New Testament Christians – His Bride) will go with Him (John 14:1-3; Ephesians 5:25, 26; Revelation 1:1; 21:9 ff; 22:3). [5]
It will be like being on a never ending honeymoon with Jesus – the One Who graciously died for our sins…and rose again bodily on the third day. We will keep on learning new things about Him and the riches of His grace which will be shown to us in kindness in the ages of eternity yet to come (Ephesians 2:7). He said, “For, behold, I create new heavens and a new earth: and the former shall not be remembered, nor come into mind” (Isaiah 65:17).
In the eternal state righteousness will finally settle down and feel at home (2 Peter 3:10-13). All wars, being promoted by greedy people who defy God and His authority, will come to an end (James 4:1 ff; Revelation 20:11-15; Psalm 2).
In the eternal state we’re told that “[God] shall wipe away every tear from [the believers’] eyes; and there shall no longer be any death; there shall no long be any mourning, or crying, or pain; the first things have passed away” (Revelation 21:4 NAST).
This stands in sharp contrast to the lake of fire (hell) where there shall be weeping and gnashing of teeth…where the fire will not be quenched and the worm [sinful nature of man] won’t die. [6] This place was prepared for the devil and his fallen angels/demons but all unbelievers will end up with them forever (Matthew 25:30, 41, 46; Mark 9:42-48).
There will be no annihilation of the wicked, or second chances to be saved after we die physically (Hebrews 9:27). Now is the day of salvation (2 Corinthians 6:2). Don’t boast about tomorrow; you may die today (Proverbs 27:1; James 4:14). “For what will it profit a man if he gains the whole world, and loses his own soul” (Mark 8:36)?
Are you among those who have some mistaken ideas of heaven? “Sir Walter Scott dreaded for himself ‘an eternity of music’ and hoped for ‘some duty to discharge.’ Lloyd George confessed: ‘When I was a boy, the thought of heaven used to frighten me more than the thought of hell. I pictured heaven as a place where time would be perpetual Sundays, with perpetual services from which there would be no escape.’”
If you’d like to learn more about heaven, we invite you to read “The Business Of Heaven”
We’re here to extend hope to unbelievers who are lost, and to provide valuable, life changing information to believers who want to grow spiritually and become more like Jesus (2 Peter 3:18; 1 John 3:2, 3). Our hope (confident expectations) are based on promises from God for Christians. [7]
We can be reached here or through our website: www.kelseypeach.com. To receive future articles as they come out, click on “Follow.”
[2] It is our understanding that man is a three part being with a spirit, soul, and body (1 Thessalonians 5:23). We know that our bodies aren’t saved yet (Romans 8:23; 1 Corinthians 15:51-58; 1 John 3:2), and our souls (emotions) are yet to be saved at the time of the Rapture (1 Peter 1:9). The only part of a believer that currently is saved is his/her spirit that belongs to the mind (Ephesians 4:23; See John 3:3-8; Romans 8:16).
[3] When New Testament Christians see Christ face to face at the time of the Rapture in all His glory, we will also get our garments of light like His (1 John 3:2, 3; 1 Corinthians 15:51, 52). Old Testament believers will be raised from the dead and get their garments of light 75 days after the Tribulation (Daniel 12:1-3, 12).
[4] Some mathematicians have figured that the closest this satellite city could be to the earth during the millennial reign of Christ, and yet cover half of the earth with light at one time, would be about 17,500 miles above the earth.
[5] The devil and his angels/demons will spend eternity in the lake of fire (Revelation 20:10; Matthew 8:28, 29; 25:41, 46).
[6] Throughout the ages of eternity man’s sinful nature, likened to a worm, will continue to crave the perversions of good things, but he will never have them gratified in hell (Mark 9:42-48). See these links:
Extremely wealthy people, famous celebrities, and some politicians often hire body guards to protect them. In spite of this, many of them live in constant fear of dying or suffering at the hands of evil people. Most of us can’t afford to hire such body guards.
But did you know that Christian’s have angelic body guards? This doesn’t guarantee that we won’t suffer or die at the hands of others, but we can be assured of God’s never failing love for us (Romans 8:38, 39). We cannot and will not suffer or die without Jesus’ permission and according to His timing (Read Psalm 23; 34:7). Today He holds the “keys of death” (Revelation 1:18; See Hebrews 2:14). There are no “accidents,” only “incidents” in the Christian’s life. How we respond to them is very important (1 Thessalonians 5:18; Ephesians 5:20).
Did you know that there are good angels who are “ministering spirits sent forth to minister [i.e., serve “pre-Christians”] who will inherit salvation” [as a result of believing in/on Christ alone through the Gospel] (Hebrews 1:14; See John 6:37)? We don’t know who these people are, where they live, what language they speak, or when they will put their faith and trust in Christ alone, (and not in their good works), but they are out there among us.
The Apostle Paul believed this and thus engaged in the work of evangelism (2 Timothy 2:8-10; 1 Corinthians 9:16-18; Acts 18:9, 10). He encouraged Timothy and us to do the same (2 Timothy 4:5; See Acts 1:8; Mark 16:15).
If you’ve been saved, are you asking God to use you to share the clear Gospel with lost people so they can be saved? Would you like to become a better witness for the Lord, and have a part in their salvation, (perhaps a family member, a friend, or a fellow worker), or do you expect “Clerical George” to do the work for you, which could result in your not receiving the “Crown of Rejoicing” that God intended for youto have (1 Thessalonians 2:19, 20; See Revelation 3:11)? [1]
Examples of Angelic Protection
(See Hebrews 11)
For Elisha. “And Elisha [the Prophet] prayed, and said, ‘LORD, I pray, open [my servant’s] eyes that he may see.’ Then the LORD opened the eyes of the young man [who was fearful of the enemy army], and he saw. And behold, the mountain was full of horses and chariots of fire all around Elisha” (2 Kings 6:17). Elisha later died and was buried and another miracle happened (See 2 Kings 13:20, 21).
For Jesus. As Jesus was about to be arrested by His enemies in the Garden of Gethsemane, He said to His disciples, “Or do you think that I cannot now pray to My Father, and He will provide Me with more than twelve legions of angels” (Matthew 26:53)? However, He didn’t ask His Father for them because it was part of “God’s Decree” that He should die a horrible death on a cross (Psalm 22:1 ff) for our sins, and then rise again bodily from the dead on the third day (Ephesians 1:11). Had His enemies known that by crucifying Him, they were providing a Savior for all mankind, they wouldn’t have done it (1 Corinthians 2:8; Acts 4:10-28). That is how much they hate God and His rules. (See Psalm 2; John 3:18-20.)
For Peter. “Now behold, [as Peter was scheduled to be murdered by King Herod, as James was], an angel of the Lord stood by him, and a light shone in the prison; and he struck Peter on the side and raised him up, saying, ‘Arise quickly!’ And his chains fell off his hands…. “And when Peter had come to himself, he said, ‘Now I know for certain that the Lord has sent His angel, and has delivered me from the hand of Herod and from all the expectation of the Jewish people.’” (Acts 12:7, 11). He later died as a Christian martyr. [2]
The Story of John G. Patton
One of the most often recounted stories about angels helping believers involves this missionary, who ministered in the New Hebrides islands. One evening, John and his wife were surrounded by hostile natives who were intent on burning the Pattons’ hut and killing the missionaries.
John Paton says he and his wife spent a terror-filled evening desperately praying for God’s supernatural deliverance. When daylight came, John says they looked out the window–and mysteriously the hostile natives had disappeared.
About a year later, the chief of that tribe was converted to faith in Christ. And John Paton, remembering what had happened that evening, asked the chief why they did not attack them that night. The chief seemed surprised and said it was because of the men who were surrounding the hut.
Perplexed, John said, “There were no men surrounding our hut.” The chief insisted, “Oh, yes, there were. We saw hundreds of men in bright, shining garments standing before your hut with swords drawn ready to protect you. We didn’t dare invade.”
John Paton said at that moment he began to understand the delivering power of angels. The chief agreed there was no other possible explanation.
Our Story
“Every day, you and I have things that happen in our lives that can only be explained through the presence and the working of angels. Angels are a very real power in our world today. And although the Bible is clear that we are never to substitute the worship of angels for the worship of Jesus Christ [Colossians 2:8; Revelation 22:8, 9], understanding the reality and the ministry of angels helps us to more fully appreciate how much God really loves us and how He is working in our lives every day.” – Robert Jeffress [3]
Thank God. Perhaps we’ll never know how often our guardian angels have kept us from harm and danger, but we should thank God for them (1 Thessalonians 5:18; Ephesians 5:20; 1 Timothy 2:1-4). Furthermore, God heals all our diseases except the last one which terminates our time on earth and enables us to go home to heaven to be forever with the Lord which is far better (2 Corinthians 5:8; Philippians 1:23). “Precious in the sight of the LORD is the death of His saints” (Psalm 116:15). We sorrow not as unbelievers who have no hope (1 Thessalonians 4:13-18).
Martyrs
Throughout history God has allowed many believers to suffer and die as martyrs, as he did with James and Christ’s other disciples, although John was an exception. [2] This demonstrates to unbelievers how much we love God and that we don’t fear death. We have hope beyond the grave (1 Corinthians 15:19). It’s based on promises from God who cannot lie (John 14:1-3; Titus 1:2). [4]
The “Crown of Life” will be given to Christian martyrs and to those who resist temptations up to the point of death, if necessary (James 1:12; Revelation 2:10).
God’s Love for believers will never be withdrawn (Romans 8:38, 39; See Hebrews 11:36-40). Even the death of His children can result in His glory and the salvation of others. (Stephen’s testimony before his death by stoning probably was instrumental in the Apostle Paul’s being saved. Read Acts chapter 7.)
Our Substitute
Christ died for our sins, was buried for three days and three nights, and then rose again bodily from the dead so all mankind could be saved if they place their faith and trust in Him alone for their salvation (1 Corinthians 15:3, 4; Acts 16:31; Ephesians 2:8, 9). Have you done this yet? If not, why not now? Do you have assurance of your salvation? You can. (Read Romans 8:16; 1 John 5:13). [5]
Contact
If you would like additional spiritual help, we can be reached here or through our website: www.kelseypeach.com. To receive future articles as they come out, click on “Follow.”
When your physical life is in danger, and you want to keep on living, you want to have the best qualified people to help you. We can/should be very thankful for those who are specialists in their fields and pray for them and others. Have you ever done this? Why should we do this? (Read 1 Timothy 2:1-4)
The Surgical Team
Recently my dear wife of 56 years underwent heart surgery. Naturally we both were very concerned about her having this procedure done. We met with some of the surgical team before the operation and asked many questions of the Doctors and his assistants. They carefully explained to us what would be done during this procedure and told us about how long it would take.
The chief surgeon was the age of our youngest son, Judd (42). But we both felt that he was fully qualified to perform this procedure and had a capable team to assist him.
As a “spiritual physician,” I also wanted to share the Gospel with each of them so they could have “eternal life” (God’s quality of life as a present possession – John 3:16.) I have a “Gospel tract” that I wrote about our son, Bill’s death in Japan at the age of 38. In it I share the Gospel of Christ’s death for our sins…and His bodily resurrection from the dead and the need for each of us to trust in Him alone for our salvation. [1] I was able to give this tract out to most of them. God’s Word doesn’t return to Him void. It will accomplish what pleases God, and it shall prosper in the thing for which He sent it (Isaiah 55:11; See Hebrews 4:12).
Just before my wife was to be taken in for the procedure, I asked if I could pray with him and the others who were with him in the room. I thanked God for an opportunity to trust Him and the Doctor along with his team of well qualified individuals. I also humbly asked God to give my wife and me “the peace of God that surpasses all understanding to guard our hearts and minds through Christ Jesus” (Philippians 4;6, 7). And God did this for my wife and me.
I don’t know about you, but having an omnipotent and gracious God who can do this for us is very comforting when your life could come to an end by something unexpected or by a slip of a Doctor’s hand. For us Christians there are no “accidents,” only “incidents.” Today Jesus holds “the keys of death” (Revelation 1:18; 1 Thessalonians 4:13, 14; See Hebrews 2:14). Nothing or no one can separate us believers from God’s love (Romans 8:35). Friend, are you safe and secure in God’s hands (John 10:28, 29)? You can be.
The Apostle Paul committed believers “… to [God] who is able to do exceedingly abundantly above all that we ask or think, according to the power that works in us, to Him be glory in the church by Christ Jesus to all generations, forever and ever. Amen” (Ephesians 3:20, 21).
Although the recovery will take time, it gives us additional opportunities to trust God on a day by day basis. And not only that, but also on an hourly, and moment by moment basis to trust Him more.
‘Tis so sweet to trust in Jesus/ Just to take Him at His Word/ Just to rest upon His promise/ Just to know, “Thus saith the Lord”/ Jesus, Jesus, how I trust Him/ How I’ve proved Him o’er and o’er/ Jesus, Jesus, precious Jesus/ Oh, for grace to trust Him more.” – Songwriters: Canzetta Staton, Louisa M. R. Stead [2]
If you don’t know our Savior, the Lord Jesus Christ, as your personal Savior, and don’t have assurance of your salvation (Romans 8:16; 1 John 5:13), we’d be happy to assist you if you would like additional spiritual help.
Most people fail to realize the treasure they have if they own a Bible or have access to the Scriptures, which most of us do in this country. Sadly, many people around the world know little or nothing about the true and living God, and don’t have a Bible to read. Some people can’t read.
Within the 66 books of the Bible, that make up the Old and New Testaments, we have all that we need for life and godliness (2 Peter 1:3, 4). We don’t need to turn to the philosophies of sinful men to learn how to be saved or how to live a victorious Christian life (Colossians 2:8). God’s Word is “theocentric.” This means that it’s centered around God. By contrast, an anthropocentric life puts man at the center. “Unfortunately, living for the moment often leads to misery in the form of addiction, unwanted pregnancies, broken relationships, and other regrets. Living for humanistic, anthropocentric goals also has its problems—if the advancement of man is the highest good, ambitious leaders can justify almost anything to ensure the progress of humanity—even, ironically, genocide and ethnic cleansing.” [1]
The Scriptures teach us the truth about God (John 17:17), our sinful condition (Romans 3:10-23; Jeremiah 17:9), how to be saved from the lake of fire and enter into heaven to spend eternity with the One Who laid down His life to save us sinners (1 Corinthians 15:3,4; Acts 16:31). Such love should prompt us to live a life that pleases Him at all times (John 15:1-8; 2 Corinthians 5:9). Ten major themes include: The Bible, God, God the Father, God the Son, God the Holy Spirit, Man, Sin, Salvation, The Church, and Future Things. How familiar are you with these topics?
All Scripture is God breathed, and is profitable for doctrine, reproof, correction, and instruction in righteousness, that the man / woman of God (a believer) may be complete / thoroughly equipped to do the work God pre-planned for us to do (2 Timothy 3:16, 17; See Ephesians 2:10; 1 Peter 4:10). Question: If you’re saved, do you know what your spiritual gift is, and are you using it with love for the benefit of others (1 Corinthians 13; Galatians 5:13)? [2]
While all the Bible is for us, not all of it is addressed to us as New Testament believers. All the doctrines (teachings) of the Bible are to be believed, but not all of it is to be believed and practiced (Titus 1:9). God has given different rules for different people at different times known as “Dispensations – Rules for Living.” (They are NOT separate ways of salvation.) Three major ones are Law, Grace, and Kingdom. (See our Bible Study Book Marker with a Dispensations Chart on our website.) [3]
The devil[4] doesn’t want people to have access to the Scriptures and/or to read it. During the Middle Ages it was virtually inaccessible to the common man. But thanks to the printing press and the Protestant Reformation that began around A.D. 1500, mankind has had access to God’s Word in many languages of the world.
“Natural Revelation” (i.e., the things we can learn from nature) tells us that there is a God Who is powerful (Romans 1:20). But we need “Special Revelation” from God to learn other vital information including how we can be saved / delivered from everlasting condemnation to spend eternity with God.
God’s purpose is to glorify Himself (John 17:1-8). He wants to make Himself known to His creatures – human beings and spirit beings. His attributes include: goodness, righteousness, omnipotence, omniscience, truthfulness, holiness, and love. Man’s purpose is/should be to glorify God by making Him know to those around us (1 Corinthians 10:31). Question: What are others learning about God by your life and lip?
In the end every creature will acknowledge that Jesus Christ is LORD (i.e., that He is the God-man, Who died for our sins…and rose again bodily from the dead. See Philippians 2:11; 1 Corinthians 15:3, 4.) He is the One in Whom our faith and trust must rest if we are to be saved. We are NOT saved by our good works, or by our faith PLUS our good works lest anyone should boast (Ephesians 2:8, 9; Titus 3:5). The Scriptures do not teach the “universal salvation” of all men and fallen angels.
We’re here to assist those who would like to be assured of spending eternity in heaven with God rather than in hell with the devil and his angels/demons (1 John 5:13; Romans 8:16; Matthew 25:41, 46). We also want to help believers grow spiritually, serve God joyfully, and reproduce themselves (2 Peter 3:18; Matthew 28:19, 20).
We can be reached here or through our website: www.kelseypeach.com. To receive future articles as they come out, click on “Follow.”
“If you don’t know the date you were saved, then you’re not saved.” “When you miss an opportunity to share Christ with someone, it’s your fault if that person goes to hell.” “You shouldn’t keep company with sinners.” “If you want to be saved, just invite Jesus into your heart.” “Not true,” says veteran evangelist and teacher Dr. R. Larry Moyer in his book, “21 Things God Never Said.”[1]
Dr. Ron Shea wrote, “…before [an individual] is ever won to Christ, the gospel must first be proclaimed [clearly to him/her]. We believe that the greatest weakness in the church thwarting the fulfillment of the great commission is the prevalence of false gospels within the church that have perverted or distorted the true gospel of the Bible….If the gospel is unclear, it cannot point men toward the Savior. “For if the trumpet give an unclear sound, who shall prepare himself for battle?” (1 Corinthians 14:8). We seek not only to be accurate in our presentation of the gospel, but clear! If the lost cannot understand the message of the evangelist [or the believer who shares the gospel], how can he place his faith in the Savior?” [2] [3] Which Jesus saves? [4]
“Do We Really Know The Gospel” is the title of an excellent article that Dr. Manfred Kober wrote which shows us Christians how we can share the precise Gospel with a person who is very near death by using 24 words: “Friend: You have sinned. But Christ died for sinners and rose again. Trust Him alone and He will save you eternally. Do it now!” [5]
Sharing the Gospel with lost people, which can deliver them from everlasting suffering in the lake of fire and enable them to enter heaven, should be considered as a privilege, not a burdensome duty done out of guilt.
The “Crown of Rejoicing” awaits faithful believers who direct lost people to Christ for salvation (1 Thessalonians 2:19, 20). The greatest joy in life comes to believers who lead unbelievers to Christ and then help them go on to spiritual maturity as they walk in truth (3 John 1:4).
We’re here to show unbelievers how to be saved, and to help prepare Christians so they can share the Gospel with lost people at a moments notice as God opens doors of opportunity for us (1 Peter 3:15).
Pray for them regularly. Spend time with them in your home and in enjoyable activities. Share your personal testimony: Your past life, Your salvation experience, Your new life in Christ.
Share the Gospel with them: Christ died for our sins, was buried, and rose again bodily on the third day. Invite them to trust in the Lord Jesus Christ alone so they can be saved.
Why Pray?
“Therefore I [theApostle Paul] exhort first of all that supplications, prayers, intercessions [for or against others – Romans 11:2], and giving of thanks be made for all men, for kings and all who are in authority, that we may lead a quiet and peaceable life in all godliness and reverence. For this is good and acceptable in the sight of God our Savior, who desires all men to be saved and to come to the knowledge of the truth” (1 Timothy 2:1-4).
Paul’s Prayer
“For this reason we also, since the day we heard it, do not cease to pray for you, and to ask that you may be filled with the knowledge of His will in all wisdom and spiritual understanding; that you may walk worthy of the Lord, fully pleasing Him, being fruitful in every good work and increasing in the knowledge of God; strengthened with all might, according to His glorious power, for all patience and longsuffering with joy; giving thanks to the Father who has qualified us to be partakers of the inheritance of the saints in the light. He has delivered us from the power of darkness and conveyed us into the kingdom of the Son of His love, in whom we have redemption through His blood, the forgiveness of sins” (Colossians 1:9-14).
Scripture taken from the New King James Version
Copyright c. 1982 by Thomas Nelson, Inc. Used by Permission.
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