What Happens When We Die?

When we die, do we just go in the box until Christ comes back?

This is a common question for those that believe in Christ and it seems to be a common question for those who do not believe as well. This is because, even if one does not believe, we have a hard time imagining what takes place when we cease living a physical mortal life.

There are some who believe in what is referred to as “the soul sleep”. The belief here is that when you die, you go in the grave and wait. You do not know you are dead you simply wait until Christ returns and then you are resurrected. This, if I am not mistaken, is the stance the Seventh Day Adventist take.

There are also some who believe that when we die, we simply cease to exist. This again, if I am not mistaken, is the belief of the Jehovah’s Witnesses. In this case, there is no resurrection, you are just dead.

There are other religions and cults that believe somewhere along these lines, but I believe a little differently. I believe that the moment we take our last breath we stand in the presence God. Those who believe in “Soul Sleep” have a compelling explanation for their belief that fits closely with this belief. Even though they believe that we wait in the grave (Soul Sleep), because there is no consciousness, when we are resurrected, it seems as though it is instantaneous.

Scripture is full of reassurance that tells us otherwise. 2 Corinthians 5:8 is one place. Here we read; “We are confident, yes, well pleased rather to be absent from the body and to be present with the Lord.”^[1] There is another place that I have taken solace in for a very long time. Hebrews 13:5 says; “⁵ Let your conduct be without covetousness; be content with such things as you have. For He Himself has said, “I will never leave you nor forsake you.”^[2] To me, it is plain and clear that we do not sit in the dirt and wait.

Paul also tells us in Philippians 1:21; “²¹ For to me, to live is Christ, and to die is gain.”^[3] If death is truly gain then we must stand in the presence of God when this occurs. There is a great deal to be discussed concerning this topic, but this writer wants to leave some room for discussion and questions. No matter where we stand on this subject, the promises of God are true. If you do not stand on these promises with a saving faith in Christ, now is the time. Don’t put it off. Begin a meaningful relationship with Jesus today and you will begin to live a life full of true life now, you will not have to wait.

Thank you for reading and I look forward to your questions and comments.

In Christ,

James

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^[1] The New King James Version (Nashville: Thomas Nelson, 1982), 2 Co 5:8.

^[2] The New King James Version (Nashville: Thomas Nelson, 1982), Heb 13:5.

^[3] The New King James Version (Nashville: Thomas Nelson, 1982), Php 1:20–21.