Death Is Not The End, It’s Just The BEGINNING!
Ever wonder where people go after death? Yes, you guessed right, heaven or hell. If you do good, you make heaven, and if you do bad, you go to hell. You’re also right, but why then are you scared of death? If you’re sure of where you’re going, why then are you scared to die? Of course, if you’re not sure, you have every reason to not just be scared, but TERRIFIED!
This article is written for the sole purpose of making you understand what happens after death, and beyond the grave. Death is not the end, it's just the beginning.
Leggo!
When a person dies, their soul and spirit depart from their physical body. It is the body that dies, which is why it must be laid to rest. As it is written, "For dust you are, and to dust you shall return" (Genesis 3:19).
Now that the body is gone, where does the soul and spirit go?
According to the story of Lazarus and the rich man in Luke 16:19–31, Jesus made it clear that there are two compartments in the grave, often referred to as Hades or the realm of the dead—some even call it the underworld. These compartments are known as Abraham’s bosom or Paradise (not Heaven) and Hell.
It is commonly believed that those who lead righteous lives go to Paradise, while those who engage in evil deeds end up in Hell. However, this belief is not entirely accurate, and I will explain why later on.
According to Luke 16, Paradise (or Abraham’s bosom) is a place of comfort or rest, whereas Hell is a realm of anguish and torment. The souls that find themselves in Hell will endure ceaseless torment until the day of Judgment. It is appointed for each person to die once, and after death comes Judgment (Hebrews 9:27).
Judgment does not occur immediately; a designated day has been set aside for it. As it is written, "But by the same word the heavens and earth that now exist are stored up for fire, being kept until the day of judgment and destruction of the ungodly" (2 Peter 3:7).
The souls in Paradise are also awaiting Judgment, but it is a different kind of Judgment than the one previously mentioned. While the previous one is known as the Great White Throne Judgment (the judgment of unbelievers), the latter is called the Judgment Seat of Christ, also known as the Bema (the judgment of believers). As it is written, "For we must all appear before the judgment seat of Christ, so that each one may receive what is due for what he has done in the body, whether good or evil" (2 Corinthians 5:10).
So, it is evident that at this very moment, the souls in the grave—those who have passed away—are waiting for Judgment. Unfortunately, there is no opportunity for repentance in the grave, thus no second chance to reconsider one’s actions, which is why you should take heed to this scripture, "And if your hand or your foot causes you to sin, cut it off and throw it away. It is better for you to enter life crippled or lame than with two hands or two feet to be thrown into the eternal fire" (Matthew 18:8).
Soul and spirit are eternal; death is not the end. It signals the beginning of either eternal life or eternal damnation.
The only determining factor in whether a person’s soul experiences torment (Hell) or comfort (Paradise) upon death is belief in and acceptance of Jesus Christ as Lord and Savior. It’s as simple as that. It is not dependent on whether one performs good or evil deeds.
It hinges on whether one’s name is written in the Lamb’s Book of Life or not—and this achievement is what Jesus Christ accomplished for us on the cross. As it is written, "For God so loved the world that he gave his only begotten Son, that whosoever believes in him should not perish, but have eternal life" (John 3:16).
Why is this the case? I will explain comprehensively by God’s grace in another article, but for now, accept it as it is. Repent from your ways and turn to Jesus. He is waiting for you. As it is written, "The Lord is not slow to fulfill his promise as some count slowness, but is patient toward you, not wishing that any should perish, but that all should reach repentance" (2 Peter 3:9).
You may then inquire, "So, is this the end?" Well, certainly not. There is more yet to come. As I mentioned before, Death is only the beginning!
In conclusion, the journey beyond death is a reality we will all face, so it’s not something to be feared if you have assurance of your destination. Through the story of Lazarus and the rich man, Jesus revealed the existence of Paradise and Hell. However, the final judgment awaits all souls, both believers and unbelievers. The key to eternal life and avoiding eternal damnation lies in believing in and accepting Jesus Christ as your Lord and Savior. Good deeds alone cannot secure your place in Paradise. Repentance and faith in Jesus Christ are essential.
Death is not the end. It marks the beginning of a new phase, where the souls of the departed await their final judgment. Let this understanding lead you to reflect on your own life and the choices you make. Embrace the hope offered by Christ, who extends His love and forgiveness to all. It is an invitation to turn away from sin, embrace His grace, and prepare for the everlasting life that awaits beyond the grave. Remember, Death Is just the Beginning!
