Text: 1 Peter 3:15
In our text, Peter explained that each Christian needs to be ready to give an answer for what we believe. Giving a defense for the HOPE within us requires an ability to articulate the basics of our faith. In this series, we are going to discuss some basic questions that may arise. This is to help reinforce our own faith and help prepare us to teach others as opportunities arise.
What Happens When We Die?
- Death is a sad reality of life – everyone understands this, whether they are religious or not
- But what comes after this? – many wonder about this; the Bible gives the answer
Our Spirit Goes to Hades
- As long as death plagues mankind, this place will still exist (Revelation 20:14) – this is where the souls of all men (righteous and wicked) go to await the final judgment (cf. Luke 16:19-31)
- Same “place,” but “a great chasm fixed” (Luke 19:26) – none could cross sides after they arrived
There Is a Final Judgment for All Mankind
- This was “appointed” by God (Hebrews 9:27) – each one will stand before Christ in judgment (2 Corinthians 5:10); we will be judged by His word (John 12:48)
- Jesus will separate the righteous from the wicked (Matthew 25:31-33)
The Righteous Will Be Taken to Heaven
- “The righteous [will go] into eternal life” (Matthew 25:46) – description given to the Thessalonians (1 Thessalonians 4:16-18); this is a comforting thought for the faithful
- Jesus has gone to “prepare a place” for us (John 14:3) – so we need to be preparing for His return
The Wicked Will Be Punished in Hell
- After being separated from the righteous at judgment, they will go to “eternal punishment” (Matthew 25:46) – this is a place “prepared for the devil and his angels” (Matthew 25:41), away from the presence of God (2 Thessalonians 1:9)
- Those who do not follow God’s will will be lost here (Revelation 20:14) – no one should want to go here and the Lord offers each one the opportunity to avoid it
Conclusion
- So what happens when we die? – our spirits go to Hades to await the final judgment
- Our eternal fate will be determined by how we have lived our lives here – so let’s prepare for that day
