Where Do You Go When You Die? Death is a topic that has fascinated humanity for centuries. Many of us wonder what happens after we take our final breath. Is there an afterlife? Do we go to heaven or hell? These questions have been the subject of much debate and speculation. In this comprehensive article, we will explore various perspectives on the topic and delve into the beliefs of different religious traditions.
Where We Go When We Die
From a Biblical Perspective
The Mystery of Death
Death is a universal experience that every human being will eventually face. It is the ultimate transition, marking the end of our physical existence. But what happens to our consciousness, our essence, when our bodies cease to function? This is a question that has perplexed philosophers, theologians, and laypeople alike.
The Christian Perspective
Christianity, one of the world’s largest religions, offers a unique perspective on life after death. According to Christian belief, when we die, our spirits and bodies separate. Our physical bodies return to the earth, while our spirits continue to exist in another realm. This intermediate state, often referred to as the spirit world, is a waiting period until the time of resurrection.
The Gift of Resurrection
In Christianity, the concept of resurrection holds great significance. It is believed that at the time of resurrection, our spirits will be reunited with our perfected bodies. This future resurrected body will be free from pain, sickness, and imperfections. The promise of resurrection is made possible through the infinite love of Jesus Christ, who conquered death through his own resurrection.
The Final Judgment
Following the resurrection, Christians believe in the occurrence of a final judgment. This judgment is based on an individual’s desires, actions, and choices made during their earthly life. Only God and Jesus, who know our hearts and life circumstances perfectly, are capable of judging us with absolute fairness and mercy. The judgment will be one of healing, love, and ultimately, a means to help all of God’s children return to live with Him in the celestial kingdom.
The Importance of Faith and Repentance
In order to attain salvation and eternal life, Christians emphasize the importance of faith in Jesus Christ, repentance of sins, and adherence to God’s commandments. Believing in Jesus Christ as the Savior, being baptized in His name, and receiving the gift of the Holy Spirit are integral to this process. Christians are encouraged to strive for righteousness, constantly seeking forgiveness and repenting when they fall short.
The Concept of Soul Sleep
While the majority of Christian denominations teach the concept of an immediate afterlife following death, there are those who subscribe to the idea of soul sleep. This perspective, also known as psychopannychia, posits that the soul enters a state of suspended animation upon death. The soul remains unconscious until the time of resurrection, unaware of the passing of time.
However, proponents of soul sleep often draw this conclusion from a misinterpretation of biblical metaphors. The phrase “asleep” is used metaphorically to describe the peacefulness and tranquility experienced by those who have passed beyond the struggles of this world and into the presence of God.
Death as Sleep
The Bible frequently likens death to sleep, emphasizing the temporary and unconscious state of the deceased. This analogy is found throughout both the Old and New Testaments, shedding light on the understanding of death in biblical times.
Scriptures Describing Death as Sleep
Numerous verses in the Bible describe death as a state of sleep, highlighting the cessation of consciousness and the absence of awareness.
- “Why did I not die at birth? Why did I not perish when I came from the womb? … For now I would have lain still and been quiet, I would have been asleep; then I would have been at rest” (Job 3:11, 13).
- “So man lies down and does not rise. Till the heavens are no more, they will not awake nor be roused from their sleep” (Job 14:12).
- “For in death there is no remembrance of You; in the grave who will give You thanks?” (Psalm 6:5).
- “Consider and hear me, O LORD my God; enlighten my eyes, lest I sleep the sleep of death” (Psalm 13:3).
- “His spirit departs, he returns to his earth; in that very day his plans perish” (Psalm 146:4).
- “And many of those who sleep in the dust of the earth shall awake, some to everlasting life, some to shame and everlasting contempt” (Daniel 12:2).
- “These things He said, and after that He said to them, ‘Our friend Lazarus sleeps, but I go that I may wake him up.’ … However, Jesus spoke of his death, but they thought that He was speaking about taking rest in sleep” (John 11:11, 13).
- “For David, after he had served his own generation by the will of God, fell asleep, was buried with his fathers, and saw corruption” (Acts 13:36).
- “For this reason many are weak and sick among you, and many sleep” (1 Corinthians 11:30).
- “Then also those who have fallen asleep in Christ have perished. … But now Christ is risen from the dead, and has become the firstfruits of those who have fallen asleep” (1 Corinthians 15:18, 20).
These verses paint a consistent picture of death as a sleep-like state, devoid of consciousness and awareness.
The State of Unconsciousness
The biblical depiction of death as sleep suggests a state of unconsciousness. According to these scriptures, individuals who have died do not possess conscious thought or awareness. They are completely unaware of the passage of time and do not experience any feelings or sensations.
Verses such as “His breath goeth forth, he returneth to his earth; in that very day his thoughts perish” (Psalm 146:4) and “For the living know that they will die; but the dead know nothing” (Ecclesiastes 9:5) underscore the concept of unconsciousness in death.
Furthermore, the absence of work, knowledge, and wisdom in the grave is highlighted in Ecclesiastes 9:10: “Whatever your hand finds to do, do it with your might; for there is no work or device or knowledge or wisdom in the grave where you are going.”
The Promise of Resurrection
While death is depicted as a state of unconsciousness, the Bible also offers hope through the promise of resurrection. The sleep of death is not permanent but rather a temporary state. The concept of resurrection provides reassurance that the dead will awaken at a future time.
Jesus Christ Himself spoke of the resurrection: “Do not marvel at this; for the hour is coming in which all who are in the graves 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 condemnation” (John 5:28-29).
The apostle Paul also expounded on the topic, stating, “Behold, I tell you a mystery: We shall not all sleep, but we shall all be changed–in a moment, in the twinkling of an eye, at the last trumpet. For the trumpet will sound, and the dead will be raised incorruptible, and we shall be changed” (1 Corinthians 15:51-52).
These verses affirm that the dead will be raised from their sleep of death, transformed into incorruptible beings at the time of resurrection.
Perspectives on the Afterlife
The concept of life after death varies across different religious traditions and belief systems. Let’s explore some of these perspectives and the unique insights they offer.
Hinduism and Reincarnation
In Hinduism, death is viewed as a transition from one life to the next through the process of reincarnation. According to Hindu belief, the soul is immortal and undergoes a continuous cycle of rebirths, known as samsara. The actions and choices made in each lifetime determine the nature of the next incarnation.
Buddhism and the Cycle of Life and Death
Buddhism shares similarities with Hinduism in its belief in reincarnation. However, Buddhists seek to break free from the cycle of samsara through enlightenment and the attainment of nirvana. Nirvana is a state of liberation from suffering and the end of the cycle of birth, death, and rebirth.
Islam and the Day of Judgment
In Islam, death is seen as a transition to the next stage of existence. Muslims believe in the Day of Judgment, when all souls will be resurrected and held accountable for their deeds in life. The righteous will be rewarded with eternal paradise, while the wicked will face punishment in hell.
Judaism and Olam Ha-Ba
Judaism teaches that death is not the end but rather a doorway to the afterlife. While the specifics of the afterlife are not clearly defined in Jewish scripture, there is a belief in Olam Ha-Ba, the World to Come. This world is seen as a realm of spiritual reward and closeness to God.
Other Perspectives
These are just a few examples of the diverse perspectives on the afterlife. Other religions and belief systems, such as Sikhism, Jainism, and various indigenous traditions, also hold unique views on what happens after death. Exploring these different perspectives can enrich our understanding of the human experience and diverse beliefs.
Finding Meaning and Purpose in Life
Contemplating death and the afterlife can prompt us to reflect on the purpose and meaning of our lives. Regardless of our beliefs about what happens when we die, many find solace in the pursuit of a meaningful existence. Here are some ways to find purpose in life:
1. Cultivate Relationships
Nurturing meaningful connections with loved ones and building a strong support network can bring immense joy and fulfillment. Prioritize spending quality time with family and friends, and invest in meaningful relationships that bring out the best in you.
2. Pursue Passions and Hobbies
Engaging in activities that ignite your passion and bring you joy can give life a sense of purpose. Whether it’s painting, playing an instrument, or exploring the great outdoors, make time for activities that bring you fulfillment and allow you to express your creativity.
3. Help Others
Contributing to the well-being of others through acts of kindness and service can provide a deep sense of purpose. Volunteer your time and skills to organizations that align with your values and make a positive impact in your community.
4. Seek Personal Growth
Continuously striving for personal growth and self-improvement can lead to a more fulfilling life. Set goals, learn new skills, and challenge yourself to step outside of your comfort zone. Embrace opportunities for learning and personal development.
5. Embrace Spiritual Practices
For many, finding purpose and meaning in life involves exploring and nurturing their spiritual beliefs and practices. Engage in prayer, meditation, or other spiritual disciplines that resonate with your values and beliefs. Seek guidance from spiritual leaders or mentors who can support you on your spiritual journey.
Conclusion
The question of what happens when we die is one that has captivated humanity throughout history. While various religious traditions offer different perspectives on the afterlife, there is a common thread of hope and the search for meaning and purpose in life. Whether we believe in resurrection, reincarnation, or some other form of existence beyond death, contemplating the mysteries of life and death can deepen our understanding of ourselves and the world around us. Ultimately, it is up to each individual to seek the truth and find solace in what the truth holds about the journey that awaits us beyond this earthly life.
In regard to the search for truth, Jesus says in Matthew 7:7-8 – “Ask and it will be given to you; seek and you will find; knock and the door will be opened to you. For everyone who asks receives; the one who seeks finds; and to the one who knocks, the door will be opened.” Likewise, in John 14:6 Jesus said to him, “I am the [only] Way [to God] and the [real] Truth and the [real] Life; no one comes to the Father but through Me.” Similarly, John 3:16 says, “For God so loved the world, that he gave his only begotten Son, that whosoever believeth in him should not perish, but have everlasting life.“
Where Do You Go When You Die?
Luke 23:43 – “And he said to him, “Truly, I say to you, today you will be with me in Paradise.”
1 Thessalonians 4:14 – “For since we believe that Jesus died and rose again, even so, through Jesus, God will bring with him those who have fallen asleep.“
Leviticus 19:31 – “Do not turn to mediums or necromancers; do not seek them out, and so make yourselves unclean by them: I am the Lord your God.“
Leviticus 20:27 – “A man or a woman who is a medium or a necromancer shall surely be put to death. They shall be stoned with stones; their blood shall be upon them.”
Romans 14:8 -“For if we live, we live to the Lord, and if we die, we die to the Lord. So then, whether we live or whether we die, we are the Lord’s.”
Ecclesiastes 12:7 – “And the dust returns to the earth as it was, and the spirit returns to God who gave it.”
Revelation 21:4 – “He will wipe away every tear from their eyes, and death shall be no more, neither shall there be mourning, nor crying, nor pain anymore, for the former things have passed away.”
Isaiah 8:19 – And when they say to you, “Inquire of the mediums and the necromancers who chirp and mutter,” should not a people inquire of their God? Should they inquire of the dead on behalf of the living?
Matthew 10:28 – “And do not fear those who kill the body but cannot kill the soul. Rather fear him who can destroy both soul and body in hell.”
Psalm 23:4 – “Even though I walk through the valley of the shadow of death, I will fear no evil, for you are with me; your rod and your staff, they comfort me.”
John 11:26 – “And everyone who lives and believes in me shall never die. Do you believe this?”
Romans 6:23 – “For the wages of sin is death, but the free gift of God is eternal life in Christ Jesus our Lord.”
John 3:16 – “For God so loved the world, that he gave his only Son, that whoever believes in him should not perish but have eternal life.“
John 14:6 – Jesus said to him, “I am the way, and the truth, and the life. No one comes to the Father except through me.
1 Chronicles 10:13-14 – “So Saul died for his breach of faith. He broke faith with the Lord in that he did not keep the command of the Lord, and also consulted a medium, seeking guidance. He did not seek guidance from the Lord. Therefore the Lord put him to death and turned the kingdom over to David the son of Jesse.”
Group 1 – Where Do You Go When You Die
Hebrews 9:27 – “And just as it is appointed for man to die once, and after that comes judgment,“
Leviticus 20:6 – “If a person turns to mediums and necromancers, whoring after them, I will set my face against that person and will cut him off from among his people.”
Ecclesiastes 9:5 – “For the living know that they will die, but the dead know nothing, and they have no more reward, for the memory of them is forgotten.”
John 14:1-3 – “Let not your hearts be troubled. Believe in God; believe also in me. In my Father’s house are many rooms. If it were not so, would I have told you that I go to prepare a place for you? And if I go and prepare a place for you, I will come again and will take you to myself, that where I am you may be also.”
Ecclesiastes 12:7 – “And the dust returns to the earth as it was, and the spirit returns to God who gave it.”
John 11:25 – Jesus said to her, “I am the resurrection and the life. Whoever believes in me, though he die, yet shall he live,
Luke 23:43 – And he said to him, “Truly, I say to you, today you will be with me in paradise.”
Revelation 21:4 – “He will wipe away every tear from their eyes, and death shall be no more, neither shall there be mourning, nor crying, nor pain anymore, for the former things have passed away.”
1 Thessalonians 4:13-18 – “But we do not want you to be uninformed, brothers, about those who are asleep, that you may not grieve as others do who have no hope. For since we believe that Jesus died and rose again, even so, through Jesus, God will bring with him those who have fallen asleep. For this we declare to you by a word from the Lord, that we who are alive, who are left until the coming of the Lord, will not precede those who have fallen asleep. For the Lord himself will descend from heaven with a cry of command, with the voice of an archangel, and with the sound of the trumpet of God. And the dead in Christ will rise first. …“
Group 2 – Where Do You Go When You Die
Ecclesiastes 9:5-6 – “For the living know that they will die, but the dead know nothing, and they have no more reward, for the memory of them is forgotten. Their love and their hate and their envy have already perished, and forever they have no more share in all that is done under the sun.“
Matthew 25:41 – “Then he will say to those on his left, ‘Depart from me, you cursed, into the eternal fire prepared for the devil and his angels.“
Revelation 20:14 – “Then Death and Hades were thrown into the lake of fire. This is the second death, the lake of fire.“
1 Corinthians 15:51-57 – “Behold! I tell you a mystery. We shall not all sleep, but we shall all be changed, in a moment, in the twinkling of an eye, at the last trumpet. For the trumpet will sound, and the dead will be raised imperishable, and we shall be changed. For this perishable body must put on the imperishable, and this mortal body must put on immortality. When the perishable puts on the imperishable, and the mortal puts on immortality, then shall come to pass the saying that is written: “Death is swallowed up in victory.” “O death, where is your victory? O death, where is your sting?” … ”
John 14:1-4 – “Let not your hearts be troubled. Believe in God; believe also in me. In my Father’s house are many rooms. If it were not so, would I have told you that I go to prepare a place for you? And if I go and prepare a place for you, I will come again and will take you to myself, that where I am you may be also. And you know the way to where I am going.”
Psalm 146:4 – “When his breath departs, he returns to the earth; on that very day his plans perish.”
John 11:25-26 – Jesus said to her, “I am the resurrection and the life. Whoever believes in me, though he die, yet shall he live, and everyone who lives and believes in me shall never die. Do you believe this?”
Group 3 – Where Do You Go When You Die
Revelation 21:8 – “But as for the cowardly, the faithless, the detestable, as for murderers, the sexually immoral, sorcerers, idolaters, and all liars, their portion will be in the lake that burns with fire and sulfur, which is the second death.”
2 Kings 21:6 – “And he burned his son as an offering and used fortune-telling and omens and dealt with mediums and with necromancers. He did much evil in the sight of the Lord, provoking him to anger.“
2 Corinthians 5:6-8 – “So we are always of good courage. We know that while we are at home in the body we are away from the Lord, for we walk by faith, not by sight. Yes, we are of good courage, and we would rather be away from the body and at home with the Lord.”
Ezekiel 18:32 – “For I have no pleasure in the death of anyone, declares the Lord God; so turn, and live.”
1 Corinthians 15:26 – “The last enemy to be destroyed is death.”
Hebrews 9:27 – “And just as it is appointed for man to die once, and after that comes judgment,”
Ecclesiastes 9:5 – “For the living know that they will die, but the dead know nothing, and they have no more reward, for the memory of them is forgotten.”
Psalm 115:17 – “The dead do not praise the Lord, nor do any who go down into silence.”
Job 14:14 – “If a man dies, shall he live again? All the days of my service I would wait, till my renewal should come.”
Ecclesiastes 7:1 – “A good name is better than precious ointment, and the day of death than the day of birth.”
Revelation 14:13 – And I heard a voice from heaven saying, “Write this: Blessed are the dead who die in the Lord from now on.” “Blessed indeed,” says the Spirit, “that they may rest from their labors, for their deeds follow them!”
1 Corinthians 15:51 – “Behold! I tell you a mystery. We shall not all sleep, but we shall all be changed,”
Group 4 – Where Do You Go When You Die
Matthew 5:4 – “Blessed are those who mourn, for they shall be comforted.”
Romans 8:38-39 – “For I am sure that neither death nor life, nor angels nor rulers, nor things present nor things to come, nor powers, nor height nor depth, nor anything else in all creation, will be able to separate us from the love of God in Christ Jesus our Lord.”
1 Thessalonians 4:13 – “But we do not want you to be uninformed, brothers, about those who are asleep, that you may not grieve as others do who have no hope.”
Romans 8:13 – “For if you live according to the flesh you will die, but if by the Spirit you put to death the deeds of the body, you will live.”
Ecclesiastes 3:2 – “A time to be born, and a time to die; a time to plant, and a time to pluck up what is planted;”
2 Corinthians 5:8 – “Yes, we are of good courage, and we would rather be away from the body and at home with the Lord.”
Luke 2:29 – “Lord, now you are letting your servant depart in peace, according to your word;”
Philippians 1:21 – “For to me to live is Christ, and to die is gain.”
Psalm 116:15 – “Precious in the sight of the Lord is the death of his saints.”
Romans 5:12 – “Therefore, just as sin came into the world through one man, and death through sin, and so death spread to all men because all sinned.”
2 Corinthians 11:14 – “And no wonder, for even Satan disguises himself as an angel of light.”
Group 5 – Where Do You Go When You Die
Romans 10:9-13 – Because, if you confess with your mouth that Jesus is Lord and believe in your heart that God raised him from the dead, you will be saved. For with the heart one believes and is justified, and with the mouth one confesses and is saved. For the Scripture says, “Everyone who believes in him will not be put to shame.” For there is no distinction between Jew and Greek; for the same Lord is Lord of all, bestowing his riches on all who call on him. For “everyone who calls on the name of the Lord will be saved.”
Genesis 3:19 – “By the sweat of your face you shall eat bread, till you return to the ground, for out of it you were taken; for you are dust, and to dust you shall return.”
1 Timothy 6:7 – “For we brought nothing into the world, and we cannot take anything out of the world.”
Romans 8:38-39 – “For I am sure that neither death nor life, nor angels nor rulers, nor things present nor things to come, nor powers, nor height nor depth, nor anything else in all creation, will be able to separate us from the love of God in Christ Jesus our Lord.”
Psalm 39:4 – “O Lord, make me know my end and what is the measure of my days; let me know how fleeting I am!”
Isaiah 25:8 – “He will swallow up death forever; and the Lord God will wipe away tears from all faces, and the reproach of his people he will take away from all the earth, for the Lord has spoken.”
John 5:24-26 – “Truly, truly, I say to you, whoever hears my word and believes him who sent me has eternal life. He does not come into judgment, but has passed from death to life. “Truly, truly, I say to you, an hour is coming, and is now here, when the dead will hear the voice of the Son of God, and those who hear will live. For as the Father has life in himself, so he has granted the Son also to have life in himself.”
1 Corinthians 15:22 – “For as in Adam all die, so also in Christ shall all be made alive.”
Group 6 – Where Do You Go When You Die
Revelation 1:18 – “And the living one. I died, and behold I am alive forevermore, and I have the keys of Death and Hades.”
Psalm 23:1-6 – “A Psalm of David. The Lord is my shepherd; I shall not want. He makes me lie down in green pastures. He leads me beside still waters, He restores my soul, He leads me in paths of righteousness for his name’s sake. Even though I walk through the valley of the shadow of death, I will fear no evil, for you are with me; your rod and your staff, they comfort me. You prepare a table before me in the presence of my enemies; you anoint my head with oil; my cup overflows. …”
Matthew 11:28 – “Come to me, all who labor and are heavy laden, and I will give you rest.”
Ecclesiastes 9:10 – “Whatever your hand finds to do, do it with your might, for there is no work or thought or knowledge or wisdom in Sheol, to which you are going.”
Isaiah 41:10 – “Fear not, for I am with you; be not dismayed, for I am your God; I will strengthen you, I will help you, I will uphold you with my righteous right hand.”
Hebrews 13:14 – “For here we have no lasting city, but we seek the city that is to come.”
John 14:1-3 – “Let not your hearts be troubled. Believe in God; believe also in me. In my Father’s house are many rooms. If it were not so, would I have told you that I go to prepare a place for you? And if I go and prepare a place for you, I will come again and will take you to myself, that where I am you may be also.”
Proverbs 14:32 – “The wicked is overthrown through his evildoing, but the righteous finds refuge in his death.”
Philippians 3:20-21 – “But our citizenship is in heaven, and from it we await a Savior, the Lord Jesus Christ, who will transform our lowly body to be like his glorious body, by the power that enables him even to subject all things to himself.“
Group 7 – Where Do You Go When You Die
1 Corinthians 15:26 – “The last enemy to be destroyed is death.”
Matthew 27:52 – “The tombs also were opened. And many bodies of the saints who had fallen asleep were raised,“
John 11:11-14 – After saying these things, he said to them, “Our friend Lazarus has fallen asleep, but I go to awaken him.” The disciples said to him, “Lord, if he has fallen asleep, he will recover.” Now Jesus had spoken of his death, but they thought that he meant taking rest in sleep. Then Jesus told them plainly, “Lazarus has died,”
1 Corinthians 15:42-44 – “So is it with the resurrection of the dead. What is sown is perishable; what is raised is imperishable. It is sown in dishonor, it is raised in glory, It is sown in weakness, it is raised in power. It is sown a natural body, it is raised a spiritual body. If there is a natural body, there is also a spiritual body.”
1 Thessalonians 4:13-14 – “But we do not want you to be uninformed, brothers, about those who are asleep, that you may not grieve as others do who have no hope. For since we believe that Jesus died and rose again, even so, through Jesus, God will bring with him those who have fallen asleep.”
1 Corinthians 15:55 – “O death, where is your victory? O death, where is your sting?”
Romans 8:18 – “For I consider that the sufferings of this present time are not worth comparing with the glory that is to be revealed to us.”
John 11:25 – Jesus said to her, “I am the resurrection and the life. Whoever believes in me, though he die, yet shall he live,”
Romans 1:1-32 – “Paul, a servant of Christ Jesus, called to be an apostle, set apart for the gospel of God, which he promised beforehand through his prophets in the holy Scriptures, concerning his Son, who was descended from David according to the flesh and was declared to be the Son of God in power according to the Spirit of holiness by his resurrection from the dead, Jesus Christ our Lord, through whom we have received grace and apostleship to bring about the obedience of faith for the sake of his name among all the nations, …“
Group 8 – Where Do You Go When You Die
Deuteronomy 18:10-12 – “There shall not be found among you anyone who burns his son or his daughter as an offering, anyone who practices divination or tells fortunes or interprets omens, or a sorcerer or a charmer or a medium or a necromancer or one who inquires of the dead, for whoever does these things is an abomination to the Lord. And because of these abominations the Lord your God is driving them out before you.“
Revelation 21:8 – “But as for the cowardly, the faithless, the detestable, as for murderers, the sexually immoral, sorcerers, idolaters, and all liars, their portion will be in the lake that burns with fire and sulfur, which is the second death.””
Hebrews 2:14 – “Since therefore the children share in flesh and blood, he himself likewise partook of the same things, that through death he might destroy the one who has the power of death, that is, the devil,”
Revelation 1:18 – “And the living one. I died, and behold I am alive forevermore, and I have the keys of Death and Hades.”
Isaiah 57:1-2 – “The righteous man perishes, and no one lays it to heart; devout men are taken away, while no one understands. For the righteous man is taken away from calamity; he enters into peace; they rest in their beds who walk in their uprightness.”
John 5:24 – “Truly, truly, I say to you, whoever hears my word and believes him who sent me has eternal life. He does not come into judgment, but has passed from death to life.”
Ezekiel 18:21 – “But if a wicked person turns away from all his sins that he has committed and keeps all my statutes and does what is just and right, he shall surely live; he shall not die.”
1 Peter 2:24 – “He himself bore our sins in his body on the tree, that we might die to sin and live to righteousness. By his wounds you have been healed.”
Daniel 12:1-13 – “At that time shall arise Michael, the great prince who has charge of your people. And there shall be a time of trouble, such as never has been since there was a nation till that time. But at that time your people shall be delivered, everyone whose name shall be found written in the book. And many of those who sleep in the dust of the earth shall awake, some to everlasting life, and some to shame and everlasting contempt. And those who are wise shall shine like the brightness of the sky above; and those who turn many to righteousness, like the stars forever and ever. But you, Daniel, shut up the words and seal the book, until the time of the end. Many shall run to and fro, and knowledge shall increase.” …
Group 9 – Where Do You Go When You Die
1 Thessalonians 4:15 – “For this we declare to you by a word from the Lord, that we who are alive, who are left until the coming of the Lord, will not precede those who have fallen asleep.”
Revelation 20:14 – “Then Death and Hades were thrown into the lake of fire. This is the second death, the lake of fire.”
Psalm 115:17 – “The dead do not praise the Lord, nor do any who go down into silence.“
Romans 6:16 – “Do you not know that if you present yourselves to anyone as obedient slaves, you are slaves of the one whom you obey, either of sin, which leads to death, or of obedience, which leads to righteousness?”
Psalm 34:18 – “The Lord is near to the brokenhearted and saves the crushed in spirit.”
2 Corinthians 5:21 – “For our sake he made him to be sin who knew no sin, so that in him we might become the righteousness of God.”
1 Peter 2:24 – “He himself bore our sins in his body on the tree, that we might die to sin and live to righteousness. By his wounds you have been healed.”
1 John 5:12 – “Whoever has the Son has life; whoever does not have the Son of God does not have life.”
Acts 7:60 – “And falling to his knees he cried out with a loud voice, “Lord, do not hold this sin against them.” And when he had said this, he fell asleep.”
Luke 20:36 – “For they cannot die anymore, because they are equal to angels and are sons of God, being sons of the resurrection.”
Group 10 – Where Do You Go When You Die
1 Thessalonians 4:13-18 – “But we do not want you to be uninformed, brothers, about those who are asleep, that you may not grieve as others do who have no hope. For since we believe that Jesus died and rose again, even so, through Jesus, God will bring with him those who have fallen asleep, For this we declare to you by a word from the Lord, that we who are alive, who are left until the coming of the Lord, will not precede those who have fallen asleep, For the Lord himself will descend from heaven with a cry of command, with the voice of an archangel, and with the sound of the trumpet of God. And the dead in Christ will rise first. Then we who are alive, who are left, will be caught up together with them in the clouds to meet the Lord in the air, …”
Daniel 12:2 – “And many of those who sleep in the dust of the earth shall awake, some to everlasting life, and some to shame and everlasting contempt.”
Ezekiel 33:8 – “If I say to the wicked, O wicked one, you shall surely die, and you do not speak to warn the wicked to turn from his way, that wicked person shall die in his iniquity, but his blood I will require at your hand.”
John 14:6 – “Jesus said to him, “I am the way, and the truth, and the life. No one comes to the Father except through me.”
Job 16:22 – “For when a few years have come I shall go the way from which I shall not return.”
Group 11 – Where Do You Go When You Die
Acts 20:9-11 – “And a young man named Eutychus, sitting at the window, sank into a deep sleep as Paul talked still longer. And being overcome by sleep, he fell down from the third story and was taken up dead. But Paul went down and bent over him, and taking him in his arms, said, “Do not be alarmed, for his life is in him.” And when Paul had gone up and had broken bread and eaten, he conversed with them a long while, until daybreak, and so departed.”
Ecclesiastes 5:15 – “As he came from his mother’s womb he shall go again, naked as he came, and shall take nothing for his toil that he may carry away in his hand.”
1 Corinthians 15:21 – “For as by a man came death, by a man has come also the resurrection of the dead.”
Romans 8:6 – “For to set the mind on the flesh is death, but to set the mind on the Spirit is life and peace.“
Ecclesiastes 8:8 – “No man has power to retain the spirit, or power over the day of death. There is no discharge from war, nor will wickedness deliver those who are given to it.”
Matthew 25:46 – “And these will go away into eternal punishment, but the righteous into eternal life.”
Proverbs 12:28 – “In the path of righteousness is life, and in its pathway there is no death.”
Genesis 19:24 – “Then the Lord rained on Sodom and Gomorrah sulfur and fire from the Lord out of heaven.”
Group 12 – Where Do You Go When You Die
Acts 9:40-41 – But Peter put them all outside, and knelt down and prayed; and turning to the body he said, “Tabitha, arise.” And she opened her eyes, and when she saw Peter she sat up. And he gave her his hand and raised her up. Then, calling the saints and widows, he presented her alive.
2 Samuel 12:23 – “But now he is dead. Why should I fast? Can I bring him back again? I shall go to him, but he will not return to me.”
Genesis 2:7 – “Then the Lord God formed the man of dust from the ground and breathed into his nostrils the breath of life, and the man became a living creature.“
Psalm 30:5 – “For his anger is but for a moment, and his favor is for a lifetime. Weeping may tarry for the night, but joy comes with the morning.”
Revelation 2:11 – “He who has an ear, let him hear what the Spirit says to the churches. The one who conquers will not be hurt by the second death.’”
Acts 7:59 – And as they were stoning Stephen, he called out, “Lord Jesus, receive my spirit.”
Revelation 9:6 – “And in those days people will seek death and will not find it. They will long to die, but death will flee from them.”
Revelation 12:11 – “And they have conquered him by the blood of the Lamb and by the word of their testimony, for they loved not their lives even unto death.”
John 14:27 – “Peace I leave with you; my peace I give to you. Not as the world gives do I give to you. Let not your hearts be troubled, neither let them be afraid.”
Group 13 – Where Do You Go When You Die
Acts 2:32-36 – This Jesus God raised up, and of that we all are witnesses. Being therefore exalted at the right hand of God, and having received from the Father the promise of the Holy Spirit, he has poured out this that you yourselves are seeing and hearing. For David did not ascend into the heavens, but he himself says, “‘The Lord said to my Lord, “Sit at my right hand, until I make your enemies your footstool.”’ Let all the house of Israel therefore know for certain that God has made him both Lord and Christ, this Jesus whom you crucified.”
Hebrews 2:15 – “And deliver all those who through fear of death were subject to lifelong slavery.”
Matthew 25:46 – “And these will go away into eternal punishment, but the righteous into eternal life.”
Hebrews 2:14-15 – “Since therefore the children share in flesh and blood, he himself likewise partook of the same things, that through death he might destroy the one who has the power of death, that is, the devil, and deliver all those who through fear of death were subject to lifelong slavery.“
Luke 23:39-43 – One of the criminals who were hanged railed at him, saying, “Are you not the Christ? Save yourself and us!” But the other rebuked him, saying, “Do you not fear God, since you are under the same sentence of condemnation? And we indeed justly, for we are receiving the due reward of our deeds; but this man has done nothing wrong.” And he said, “Jesus, remember me when you come into your kingdom.” And he said to him, “Truly, I say to you, today you will be with me in Paradise.”
Group 14 – Where Do You Go When You Die
John 11:1-57 – “Now a certain man was ill, Lazarus of Bethany, the village of Mary and her sister Martha. It was Mary who anointed the Lord with ointment and wiped his feet with her hair, whose brother Lazarus was ill. So the sisters sent to him, saying, “Lord, he whom you love is ill.” But when Jesus heard it he said, “This illness does not lead to death. It is for the glory of God, so that the Son of God may be glorified through it.” Now Jesus loved Martha and her sister and Lazarus. …“
John 11:25 – Jesus said to her, “I am the resurrection and the life. Whoever believes in me, though he die, yet shall he live,
John 11:43-44 – When he had said these things, he cried out with a loud voice, “Lazarus, come out.” The man who had died came out, his hands and feet bound with linen strips, and his face wrapped with a cloth. Jesus said to them, “Unbind him, and let him go.”
John 20:26 – Eight days later, his disciples were inside again, and Thomas was with them. Although the doors were locked, Jesus came and stood among them and said, “Peace be with you.”
Luke 24:1-7 – “But on the first day of the week, at early dawn, they went to the tomb, taking the spices they had prepared. And they found the stone rolled away from the tomb, but when they went in they did not find the body of the Lord Jesus. While they were perplexed about this, behold, two men stood by them in dazzling apparel. And as they were frightened and bowed their faces to the ground, the men said to them, “Why do you seek the living among the dead? …“
Group 15 – Where Do You Go When You Die
Revelation 4:2 – “At once I was in the Spirit, and behold, a throne stood in heaven, with one seated on the throne.”
Revelation 6:9-11 – “When he opened the fifth seal, I saw under the altar the souls of those who had been slain for the word of God and for the witness they had borne. They cried out with a loud voice, “O Sovereign Lord, holy and true, how long before you will judge and avenge our blood on those who dwell on the earth?” Then they were each given a white robe and told to rest a little longer, until the number of their fellow servants and their brothers should be complete, who were to be killed as they themselves had been.“
Matthew 9:23-25 – “And when Jesus came to the ruler’s house and saw the flute players and the crowd making a commotion, he said, “Go away, for the girl is not dead but sleeping.” And they laughed at him. But when the crowd had been put outside, he went in and took her by the hand, and the girl arose.“
Ezekiel 18:4 – “Behold, all souls are mine; the soul of the father as well as the soul of the son is mine: the soul who sins shall die.”
James 2:10 – “For whoever keeps the whole law but fails in one point has become guilty of all of it.”
Group 16 – Where Do You Go When You Die
1 Thessalonians 5:23 – “Now may the God of peace himself sanctify you completely, and may your whole spirit and soul and body be kept blameless at the coming of our Lord Jesus Christ.“
Luke 24:39-43 – “See my hands and my feet, that it is I myself. Touch me, and see. For a spirit does not have flesh and bones as you see that I have.” And when he had said this, he showed them his hands and his feet. And while they still disbelieved for joy and were marveling, he said to them, “Have you anything here to eat?” They gave him a piece of broiled fish, and he took it and ate before them.“
Psalm 48:14 – “That this is God, our God forever and ever. He will guide us forever.”
John 3:16-17 – “For God so loved the world, that he gave his only Son, that whoever believes in him should not perish but have eternal life. For God did not send his Son into the world to condemn the world, but in order that the world might be saved through him.”
2 Corinthians 4:17-18 – “For this light momentary affliction is preparing for us an eternal weight of glory beyond all comparison, as we look not to the things that are seen but to the things that are unseen. For the things that are seen are transient, but the things that are unseen are eternal.”
Group 17
1 John 3:2 – “Beloved, we are God’s children now, and what we will be has not yet appeared; but we know that when he appears we shall be like him, because we shall see him as he is.”
Philippians 3:20-21 – “But our citizenship is in heaven, and from it we await a Savior, the Lord Jesus Christ, who will transform our lowly body to be like his glorious body, by the power that enables him even to subject all things to himself.”
Genesis 25:8 – “Abraham breathed his last and died in a good old age, an old man and full of years, and was gathered to his people.”
Psalm 104:29 – “When you hide your face, they are dismayed; when you take away their breath, they die and return to their dust.”
Hosea 13:14 – “Shall I ransom them from the power of Sheol? Shall I redeem them from Death? O Death, where are your plagues? O Sheol, where is your sting? Compassion is hidden from my eyes.”
John 10:10 – “The thief comes only to steal and kill and destroy. I came that they may have life and have it abundantly.”
Romans 1:1-4 – “Paul, a servant of Christ Jesus, called to be an apostle, set apart for the gospel of God, which he promised beforehand through his prophets in the holy Scriptures, concerning his Son, who was descended from David according to the flesh and was declared to be the Son of God in power according to the Spirit of holiness by his resurrection from the dead, Jesus Christ our Lord,“
Group 18
Ephesians 1:19-23 – “And what is the immeasurable greatness of his power toward us who believe, according to the working of his great might that he worked in Christ when he raised him from the dead and seated him at his right hand in the heavenly places, far above all rule and authority and power and dominion, and above every name that is named, not only in this age but also in the one to come. And he put all things under his feet and gave him as head over all things to the church, which is his body, the fullness of him who fills all in all.”
1 Corinthians 15:16-23 – “For if the dead are not raised, not even Christ has been raised. And if Christ has not been raised, your faith is futile and you are still in your sins. Then those also who have fallen asleep in Christ have perished. If in Christ we have hope in this life only, we are of all people most to be pitied. But in fact Christ has been raised from the dead, the firstfruits of those who have fallen asleep. …“
1 Corinthians 15:55-57 – “O death, where is your victory? O death, where is your sting?” The sting of death is sin, and the power of sin is the law. But thanks be to God, who gives us the victory through our Lord Jesus Christ.
John 5:28-29 – “Do not marvel at this, for an hour is coming when all who are in the tombs will hear his voice and come out, those who have done good to the resurrection of life, and those who have done evil to the resurrection of judgment.”
Also Read
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