What Happens When We Die?
This five-day reflection will be taking a deeper dive into the sermon from this weekend. Over the next few days, we will explore the transformative power of understanding what Scripture says about life after death and the hope that is offered through Jesus Christ.
5 Day Reflection
Day 1
Luke 16:22-24
As we reflect on Jesus’ story of the rich man and Lazarus, we are faced with the profound implications of what lies beyond this earthly life. The rich man's experience post-mortem illustrates the gravity and finality of our choices here on earth. Lazarus, comforted at Abraham's side, represents hope and solace for those who undergo trials and tribulations with faith.
What can we glean from these starkly contrasting fates? It's a call to contemplate our attitudes and actions towards others and God, for they have lasting consequences. This narrative urges us to view our time here as an opportunity to cultivate humility and compassion, fulfilled by looking beyond material wealth and towards spiritual richness.
What does the concept of eternal comfort or torment after death mean to you?
How might the example of the rich man challenge your understanding of wealth and compassion?
In what ways can you live a life that prioritizes spiritual richness over material abundance?
Pray for an open heart to receive the truths of Scripture and the courage to live them out.
Ask God to cultivate in you a spirit of humility and compassion towards others.
Day 2
Psalm 88:4-5
In the depths of despair, the psalmist likens his suffering to being near Sheol, the realm of the dead. His raw and honest outcry is a vivid portrayal of the human condition when faced with overwhelming trials. Yet, even in this place of darkness, there is a glimmer of hope—that even Sheol cannot separate us from God's presence.
This Psalm can resonate with us on our worst days when hope seems distant, and suffering feels close at hand. But the message is clear: God is ever-present, even in the depths of Sheol. It's a powerful reminder that our sorrows do not go unseen by God and that even in our lowest moments, we are still within His care.
How do you relate to the feelings of the psalmist expressed in Psalm 88?
Can you share a moment when God's presence felt real to you, even in a time of suffering?
What does it mean to you that God is present, even in the darkest of places?
Pray for comfort for those who feel they are in the depths of despair and to be reminded of God's constant presence.
Seek to trust God’s nearness even when your circumstances make it difficult to sense His care.
Day 3
Psalm 139:7-8
These verses from Psalm 139 reassures us of God’s inescapable presence. Whether we ascend to the highest heights or make our beds in the depths of Sheol, God is there. It's a testament to the boundless nature of God’s love and His indelible connection to all creation.
Understanding that we can never be far from God's spirit enables us to face the unknown without fear. It implicates our daily walk, encouraging us to cultivate a conscious awareness of God’s presence in every situation, in joy and in struggle, in life and in death.
In what areas of your life do you need to be more aware of God's presence?
How does understanding God's omnipresence shape your view of life and death?
What practical steps can you take to remain conscious of God's presence throughout your day?
Pray for a deepened awareness of God's omnipresence in both joyous and challenging times.
Ask for the strength to maintain your faith, knowing that God's presence spans all realms and circumstances.
Day 4
1 Peter 3:18-20
The passage from 1 Peter reveals the profound act of Jesus preaching to the spirits in prison—those who had previously been disobedient. It echoes the lengths to which Jesus went to affirm His Lordship over all creation, even over those in Sheol. This moment in Scripture marks a pivotal shift in the narrative of life after death, serving as a cornerstone for our understanding of Jesus' triumph.
What we must recognize is the transformation Jesus accomplished in the realm of the dead, His death marked the beginning of eternal life for those who believe. Reflect on the magnitude of Jesus' journey—not only in life but also in death—and the relentless pursuit of God to claim victory over every last remnant of sin and separation.
What impact does Jesus' descent into Sheol have on your understanding of salvation?
How does this element of the gospel narrative deepen your appreciation of Jesus' sacrifice?
In what ways can you embody the transformative power of Christ's victory in your life?
Pray for a heart of gratitude for the depth of Christ's sacrifice and victory over death.
Ask God to help you share the reality of this victory with those who may be living in spiritual captivity.
Day 5
2 Corinthians 5:8
To be ‘absent from the body’ and ‘present with the Lord’—such is the promise for those who are in Christ. This assurance offers us a profound sense of peace about the transition from life to eternity. It provides us with a hope that transcends the fears and uncertainties that often accompany thoughts of death.
This hope is not merely for the future but also invigorates our present reality. It influences the way we live, love, and lead in the now—knowing that our ultimate destination is secure in Christ. Let this truth encourage you to live abundantly and purposefully, treasuring each moment as a gift from God.
How does the promise of being 'present with the Lord' impact your view of death?
What changes might you make in your daily life knowing your eternal destination is secure?
How can you use this hope to encourage others who are facing fears about death and eternity?
Pray for the peace that surpasses all understanding as you contemplate being 'present with the Lord'.
Seek to inspire hope in those around you by living out the assurance of eternal life in Christ.This five-day devotional will be taking a deeper dive into the sermon from this weekend. Over the next few days, we will explore the transformative power of understanding what Scripture says about life after death and the hope that is offered through Jesus Christ.
Additional Resources
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Surprised By Hope
Surprised By Hope - N.T. Wright
For a deeper dive into the concepts of Heaven, the afterlife, resurrection, and more, we recommend Bishop N.T. Wright’s book Surprised By Hope.
Other Books
Heaven: A Comprehensive Guide to Everything the Bible Says About Our Eternal Home (Clear Answers to 44 Real Questions About the Afterlife, Angels, Resurrection, and the Kingdom of God)
Purchase Here
Four Views on Hell: Second Edition (Counterpoints: Bible and Theology)
Purchase Here
For All the Saints: Remembering the Christian Departed
Purchase Here
