<![CDATA[ScriptureWay - Home]]>Wed, 13 May 2026 23:00:21 -0400Weebly<![CDATA[Biblical Meaning of "the Third Day"]]>Tue, 28 Apr 2026 01:30:00 GMThttps://www.scriptureway.com/home/biblical-meaning-of-the-third-day
by Mr. Whitney V. Myers
Download a printable PDF of this lesson.
Image source: Sweet Publishing/FreeBibleImages.org
The Third Day - Jonathan Speaks with David - 1 Samuel 20:12 - FreeBibleImages.org - Used under license
The Third Day - Jonathan Speaks with David - 1 Samuel 20:12 - FreeBibleImages.org - Used under license
"When I have sounded out my father about this time tomorrow, or the third day ..."  (1 Samuel 20:12)

This study explains the biblical meaning of "the third day" using examples from both the Old and New Testaments.  This study explains the timing from Jesus' death to Jesus' resurrection and why the biblical accounting of "three days" is correct according to language usage at that time.

Bible verse quotations in this lesson are taken from the New American Standard Bible (NASB) 1995 version unless noted otherwise (Ref. 1).

     Consider.  When the scripture (Matthew 17:22-23) says that Jesus would be raised on the third day, how do you count the three days?

1. The third day is the day after tomorrow.

"Then Jonathan said to David, 'The Lord, the God of Israel, be witness! When I have sounded out my father about this time tomorrow, or the third day, behold, if there is good feeling toward David, shall I not then send to you and make it known to you?'"  (1 Samuel 20:12)  For your best understanding of the context, please read 1 Samuel 20:1-40 (the entire chapter).  

     The simplest explanation of "the third day" in the Bible is that it means the day after tomorrow (1 Samuel 20:12).  Jonathan said that he would "sound out" his father (Saul) about this time tomorrow, or the third day.    

2. The third day is the third day in a sequence of time. A partial day counts as a whole day when counting 1, 2, 3.

     God established the pattern for a natural, biblical day beginning in Genesis 1:5.  A natural day began at sundown (sunset) when evening started, and continued through the next daytime until the next sundown (Genesis 1:8, 13, 19, 23, 31).  Each "day" included evening (nighttime) as well as daytime.  We see that pattern for a "day" repeated in Leviticus 23:32 where the Day of Atonement ran from evening to evening. 

In ancient Jewish timekeeping, a partial day was reckoned as a whole day when counting a sequence of days.  For example:
    

a. A male infant was to be circumcised on the eighth day

"And every male among you who is eight days old shall be circumcised throughout your generations ..."  (Genesis 17:12)

     A newborn male was to be circumcised on the eighth day (Genesis 17:12).  The day of birth counted as a whole day even if the child was born a short time before sundown.

b. Esther proclaimed a fast for three days

"Then Esther told them to reply to Mordecai, 'Go, assemble all the Jews who are found in Susa, and fast for me; do not eat or drink for three days, night or day.  I and my maidens also will fast in the same way.  And thus I will go in to the king, which is not according to the law; and if I perish, I perish.'"  (Esther 4:15-16)

"Now it came about on the third day that Esther put on her royal robes and stood in the inner court of the king’s palace in front of the king’s rooms ..."  (Esther 5:1)

     Esther proclaimed that the Jews in Susa [the capital of the Persian empire - Esther 1:2 AMP] fast for "three days" to prepare for her to plead with the king for her people (Esther 4:6-8, 16).  The "first day" was the portion of the natural day that Esther proclaimed the three-day fast to begin (Esther 4:16).  Esther went to speak with the king on the "third day" and to invite the king and Haman to a banquet that day (Esther 5:1, 3-5).  Thus, the total period of fasting was three days including a partial first day and a partial third day according to the way the Jewish people counted partial days as full days at that time (Ref. 2).    
 

c. Jonah was in the stomach of the great fish three days and three nights

"And the Lord appointed a great fish to swallow Jonah, and Jonah was in the stomach of the fish three days and three nights."  (Jonah 1:17)

"for just as Jonah was three days and three nights in the belly of the sea monster, so will the Son of Man be three days and three nights in the heart of the earth."  (Matthew 12:40)

     What we call day and night made up a natural day (Genesis 1:5, 31).  According to Matthew Poole's Commentary, "three days and three nights" is the same thing as three natural days (Ref. 3).  In our modern way of thinking, Jesus' body was in the grave two nights and part of three days.  In the Jewish way of thinking at that time, Jesus' body was in the grave three natural days -- a portion of the first day in which he was buried, a full second day, and a portion of the third day when he rose from the dead.  Taking into consideration the Jewish way of including partial days as whole days in a sequence of days, the prophesy in Jonah 1:17 and Jesus' quotation in Matthew 12:40 are consistent with Jesus being raised on the third day (Matthew 17:22-23, Mark 9:31).

3. The third day is the day when Jesus rose from the dead

"And while they were gathering together in Galilee, Jesus said to them, 'The Son of Man is going to be delivered into the hands of men; and they will kill Him, and He will be raised on the third day.'  And they were deeply grieved."  (Matthew 17:22-23)

"He is not here, but He has risen.  Remember how He spoke to you while He was still in Galilee, saying that the Son of Man must be delivered into the hands of sinful men, and be crucified, and the third day rise again." (Luke 24:6-7)

     In Luke 23:50-54, on the afternoon that Jesus died, Joseph of Arimathea went to Pilate and asked for the body of Jesus (Luke 23:52).  Joseph wrapped Jesus' body in a linen cloth, and laid Jesus' body in a tomb "cut into the rock" (Luke 23:53).  Joseph did this hastily because it still was "preparation day" (Ref. 4), and "the Sabbath was about to begin" (at sundown) (Luke 23:54).  This portion of the sixth day of the week when the body of Jesus was entombed counted as the first of the "three days."  Women who had come with Jesus out of Galilee saw the tomb and how the body was laid (Luke 23:55).

The "second day" of the "three days" was the Sabbath, the seventh day of the week.  The Sabbath began at sundown a short time after Jesus had died and his body was entombed.  On the "second day," the women rested according to the commandment (Luke 23:56, Exodus 20:10).

On the first day of the week (we now call Sunday), the women came to the tomb bringing spices (Luke 24:1) and were expecting to find the body of the Lord Jesus (Luke 24:2-3).  This was the "third day."  The men in dazzling appearance who spoke with the women at the tomb (Luke 24:4) told them that He had risen (Luke 24:5-6).  They reminded the women that Jesus had said that he would be "delivered into the hands of sinful men, and be crucified, and the third day rise again" (Luke 24:6-7). 

Jesus' death and resurrection perfectly fulfill Jesus' prophecy that on the third day he would rise again (Matthew 17:22-23, Mark 9:31).    

     Prayer.  Thank you, Lord Jesus, for redeeming us, your people, through your willing, sacrificial death on a cross.  We praise you, Lord Jesus, that you rose from death on the third day as you predicted.  Thank you, Lord Jesus, for your gift of eternal life so that we may live with you now and forever.  Amen.  

References
1.  https://www.biblegateway.com/versions/New-American-Standard-Bible-NASB1995/
2.  https://biblehub.com/commentaries/kad/esther/5.htm
Keil and Delitzsch OT Commentary - Esther 5:1
3.  https://biblehub.com/commentaries/poole/matthew/12.htm
Matthew Poole's Commentary - Matthew 12:40
4.  https://www.biblegateway.com/resources/encyclopedia-of-the-bible/Preparation-Day

]]><![CDATA[What Does the Bible Say about Joy?]]>Sun, 12 Apr 2026 01:00:00 GMThttps://www.scriptureway.com/home/what-does-the-bible-say-about-joy
by Mr. Whitney V. Myers
Download a printable PDF of this lesson.
"The Joy of the Lord is Your Strength" - Nehemiah 8:10 - Glacier National Park (Montana, USA) - Photo by Whitney V. Myers
"Do not be grieved, for the joy of the Lord is your strength."  (Nehemiah 8:10)

This lesson presents seven key Bible verses and principles about joy. 

Bible verse quotations below are taken from the English Standard Version (ESV) unless noted otherwise (Ref. 1).

1. The joy of the Lord is your strength

"Then he said to them, 'Go your way.  Eat the fat and drink sweet wine and send portions to anyone who has nothing ready, for this day is holy to our Lord.  And do not be grieved, for the joy of the Lord is your strength.'"  (Nehemiah 8:10)     

     The joy of the Lord is our refuge, our place of safety [literally, a fortified place], and our strength (Ref. 2).  The joy of the Lord as our source of strength can be relied upon when danger threatens (Ref. 2).

Note that joy is not the result of strength, but the source of strength.  

2. Fullness of joy is found in the Lord's presence

"You make known to me the path of life; in your presence there is fullness of joy; at your right hand are pleasures forevermore."  (Psalm 16:11)

     God's presence [God's face], is synonymous with favor, guidance, and life itself (Ref. 3).  In our devotion to God, when we seek God's presence, we find fullness of joy that satisfies our soul (Ref. 4). 
   

3. Joy is sustained by abiding in Christ and his word

"Abide in me, and I in you.  As the branch cannot bear fruit by itself, unless it abides in the vine, neither can you, unless you abide in me."  (John 15:4) 

"These things I have spoken to you, that my joy may be in you, and that your joy may be full."  (John 15:11)

     Jesus promised that his joy would be in us (believers in Christ) (John 15:11).  Jesus makes our joy full [literally, complete] (Ref. 5).  Jesus is the giver of joy.  We receive his joy by believing in him, abiding in him, and obeying his word.

All of the New Testament mentions of the word "joy" in this lesson are translated from the same Greek word, chara.  Chara means cheerfulness and calm delight (Ref. 6).  Joy is Spirit-given delight that arises from the redemptive acts and abiding presence of God (Ref. 6).         
       

4. Sorrow is turned into joy through the resurrection of Christ

"Truly, truly, I say to you, you will weep and lament, but the world will rejoice. You will be sorrowful, but your sorrow will turn into joy."  (John 16:20)

     On the night before he was crucified, Jesus told his disciples that they would be sorrowful, but that their sorrow would be turned into joy (John 16:20).  Jesus' disciples would be sorrowful because of his coming death, but their sorrow would be turned to joy because of his resurrection.  The resurrection of Jesus Christ gives us and our loved ones who die in Christ joy today.  We know we will see one another again (John 16:21-22). 

David expressed a similar thought about sorrow turning into joy for the Lord's "godly ones" (Psalm 30:4 NASB 1995):

"For His anger is but for a moment,
His favor is for a lifetime;
Weeping may last for the night,
But a shout of joy comes in the morning."  (Psalm 30:5 NASB 1995)

5. Joy is a fruit of the Holy Spirit in the life of the believer

"But the fruit of the Spirit is love, joy, peace, patience, kindness, goodness, faithfulness, gentleness, self-control; against such things there is no law."  (Galatians 5:22-23)

     A child of God passes the fruit test.  Jesus said, "You will know them by their fruit" (Matthew 7:16 NASB 1995, Ref. 7).  A true child of God produces the fruit of the Spirit -- "love, joy, peace, patience, kindness, goodness, faithfulness, gentleness, and self-control" (Galatians 5:22-23).  

6. Joy is found in doing the will of God, even when it is a cross

"Looking to Jesus, the founder and perfecter of our faith, who for the joy that was set before him endured the cross, despising the shame, and is seated at the right hand of the throne of God."  (Hebrews 12:2)

     Jesus found joy in doing the will of his heavenly Father, specifically suffering and dying on a cross to save the world (John 3:17, Hebrews 12:2).  In a similar way, as Jesus' followers, will find joy in serving God and in completing the assignments he gives us.

7. Joy is an enduring presence, especially during trials

"Consider it all joy, my brethren, when you encounter various trials, knowing that the testing of your faith produces endurance."  (James 1:2-3 NASB 1995)

     As believers in Christ, we should consider it joy when we encounter and go through trials because those trials strengthen our faith and produce endurance.  Trials can become a cause for joy because in them we see God's hand to deliver us.  Remembering how God helped us in the past will strengthen us and give us hope when new trials come. 

     Prayer.  Thank you, Lord Jesus, for your joy that you give us each day.  Thank you for making our joy complete.  Thank you for being with us and strengthening us through our trials and giving us endurance.  In your name we pray, Amen.

Related Lessons
"The Meaning of God's Favor" - Psalm 30:5
"Characteristics of a Child of God - Part 1" - Matthew 7:16
"Bible Verses About the Cross" - Hebrews 12:1-2

References
1.  https://www.biblegateway.com/versions/English-Standard-Version-ESV-Bible/
2.  https://biblehub.com/hebrew/4581.htm
3.  https://biblehub.com/hebrew/6440.htm
4.  https://biblehub.com/hebrew/7648.htm
5.  https://biblehub.com/greek/4137.htm 
6.  https://biblehub.com/greek/5479.htm
7.  https://www.scriptureway.com/home/characteristics-of-a-child-of-god-part-1

]]><![CDATA[The Dead in Christ Shall Rise First]]>Thu, 05 Feb 2026 04:00:00 GMThttps://www.scriptureway.com/home/the-dead-in-christ-shall-rise-first
by Mr. Whitney V. Myers
Download a printable PDF of this lesson.
"The dead in Christ shall rise first" - Sun and clouds with 1 Thessalonians 4:16 - 123RF photo - Used under license
"14 For if we believe that Jesus died and rose from the dead, so also God will bring with Him those who have fallen asleep through Jesus.
15 For we say this to you by the word of the Lord, that we who are alive and remain until the coming of the Lord will not precede those who have fallen asleep.
16 For the Lord Himself will descend from heaven with a shout, with the voice of the archangel and with the trumpet of God, and the dead in Christ will rise first.
17 Then we who are alive, who remain, will be caught up together with them in the clouds to meet the Lord in the air, and so we will always be with the Lord."  (1 Thessalonians 4:14-17 NASB)

 I recently received a question from a reader.  I will paraphrase the reader's question.  "Those who are dead in Christ or those who are 'asleep' will rise first.  How then will someone who is with him rise from sleep?" (Ref. 1, comments section).

This lesson responds to the reader's question.  This lesson explains:   
  1. As believers in Christ, we will always be with him, whether we die in Christ before he returns, or whether we are still alive when he returns.
  2. The biblical metaphor for "asleep" refers to the death of our physical body, but not to our soul and spirit which go immediately to be with Jesus.
  3. Our immaterial nature -- our soul and spirit -- will come with Jesus when he returns (assuming we have died before he returns), and at that time he will resurrect our bodies.

The title of this lesson, "The Dead Shall Rise First," is chosen from the King James Version for 1 Thessalonians 4:16.  The rest of the Bible quotations below are taken from the New American Standard Bible 2020 edition, unless noted otherwise (Ref. 2).

     Consider.  When Jesus returns, will you be with him?  Why?  Why not?

Background - Why Paul wrote this passage

"But we do not want you to be uninformed, brothers and sisters, about those who are asleep, so that you will not grieve as indeed the rest of mankind do, who have no hope."  (1 Thessalonians 4:13)
     
     1 Thessalonians 4:13 explains why the Apostle Paul wrote this section, 1 Thessalonians 4:14-17.  Verse 13 instructs the Thessalonians not to grieve (mistakenly) over those Christians who had already died versus those Christians who would be alive when Christ returns.  Many of them thought that Christ would return soon, in their lifetime (Ref. 3).  Some of them were mistakenly concerned that those Christians who had already died would miss out on the hope of seeing Christ return (Ref. 3).  Paul's writing taught them, and teaches us, that both the dead in Christ and those who remain alive when Jesus returns will share equally in the glorious resurrection life and will be with Jesus together. 

1. When Jesus returns, he will bring with him those who have fallen asleep through him.

"For if we believe that Jesus died and rose from the dead, so also God will bring with Him those who have fallen asleep through Jesus."  (1 Thessalonians 4:14)

Let's look first at the meaning of "fallen asleep."

a. "Asleep" is a biblical metaphor for "dead."

     "Asleep" has both a literal and a figurative meaning in the Bible.  The Greek word for "asleep" literally means physical rest or slumber (Ref. 4).  In Luke 22:45-46 Jesus found his disciples literally asleep in the Garden of Gethsemane.  The same Greek word for "asleep" figuratively means "dead" (Ref. 4).  1 Corinthians 15:20 tells us, "Christ has been raised from the dead, the first fruits of those who are asleep."  Likewise, the three verses,  1 Thessalonians 4:13, 14, and 15, use the word "asleep" in the  figurative sense for those who have died "through Jesus" (v. 14).

b. "Asleep" as a biblical metaphor for "dead" refers to our body only, not to our soul and spirit which live on.

     When the Bible uses the metaphor, "asleep," for death, it refers to death of our physical body only.  According to the Bible, when our body dies, our soul and spirit leave our body (Genesis 35:16-18, Acts 7:54-60, Ref. 5).  The Bible refers to our immaterial nature sometimes as "soul" only (Genesis 35:18, Mark 8:36), sometimes as "spirit" only (Ecclesiastes 12:7, John 19:30), and sometimes as "soul and spirit" together (1 Thessalonians 5:23, Hebrews 4:12, Ref. 5).

Consider the example of Jesus raising Jairus' daughter (Luke 8:40-42, 49-56).  Luke 8:49 tells us that Jairus' daughter died.  Note that her physical body had died, but not her spirit.  In Luke 8:52, Jesus said that "she has not died, but is asleep."  Then, in Luke 8:54, Jesus took her by the hand and said, "Child, arise!"  Luke 8:55 NKJV tells us, "Then her spirit returned, and she arose immediately."  

Consider the example of Stephen the martyr (Acts 7:54-60).  Right before Stephen died from stoning, he said, "Lord Jesus, receive my spirit!" (Acts 7:59).  Then, "Having said this, he fell asleep" (Acts 7:60).

c. As believers in Christ, when our body dies ("falls asleep" in the Greek figurative sense), our soul and spirit go immediately to be with Jesus.

     For the believer in Christ, there is no time when our soul and spirit will not be with him -- even when our physical body dies.  Jesus said to the penitent, physically dying, thief on the cross,  "Truly I say to you, today you will be with Me in Paradise" (Luke 23:43).  Jesus said to Martha, "The one who believes in Me will live, even if he dies, and everyone who lives and believes in Me will never die.  Do you believe this?" (John 11:25-26).  The Apostle Paul expected that as a consequence of his death he would immediately "depart and be with Christ, for that is very much better" (verse 23 in Philippians 1:21-23). 

d. When Jesus returns, he will bring with him the souls and spirits of believers who have "fallen sleep" (died) through him.

     When Jesus returns, God will bring with him the souls and spirits of believers in Christ -- people who have died "through" Jesus (1 Thessalonians 4:14, Ref. 5).  Examples of believers who have died through Jesus include the penitent thief (Luke 23:42-43), Stephen (Acts 7:59-60), and the Apostle Paul (Philippians 1:21-23).  The promise also applies to you and me and to all of us who put our faith and trust in Jesus during our lifetime and whose bodies physically die before Jesus returns (John 11:25-26).  

2. We who remain alive at the coming of the Lord shall not precede those who have fallen asleep in Jesus.

"For we say this to you by the word of the Lord, that we who are alive and remain until the coming of the Lord will not precede those who have fallen asleep."  (1 Thessalonians 4:15)

     When Paul wrote the phrase, "by the word of the Lord," in 1 Thessalonians 4:15, he was saying that his message is a direct revelation from God (Ref. 6).  Paul is saying that in no way those who have died in Christ are at a disadvantage compared to those who are still alive when Jesus returns.  This statement gave the Thessalonians hope about their friends and loved ones who had already died (Ref. 6).  This statement also gives us -- believers in Christ -- hope.  Both the dead in Christ and those who are alive and living in Christ when he returns are equally secure and will share in resurrection glory (Ref. 7 - Topical Lexicon).

3. The dead in Christ shall rise first.

"For the Lord himself shall descend from heaven with a shout, with the voice of the archangel, and with the trump of God: and the dead in Christ shall rise first."  (1 Thessalonians 4:16 KJV) 

a. The words, "dead in Christ" refer to the bodies (but not the soul and spirit) of believers in Christ who have died.

     The words, "dead in Christ," in 1 Thessalonians 4:16 refer to the bodies of believers who have already died before Christ returns.  For those believers who have died, their souls and spirits will have already gone to be with Jesus upon their death (Luke 23:43, Acts 7:59-60, Ref. 5).  They -- their souls and spirits -- will come with Jesus when he returns (1 Thessalonians 4:14, Ref. 5).

b. The dead in Christ shall rise first.

"The dead in Christ shall rise first." (1 Thessalonians 4:16 KJV)  

     The raising of the "dead in Christ" is contrasted only with what rapidly follows -- the changing [divine transformation] of those believers who are still alive when Jesus returns (1 Thessalonians 4:17, 1 Corinthians 15:51-52, Ref. 7).  The description in  1 Thessalonians 4:16 of the raising of the dead in Christ does not apply to the separate, future resurrection of the unrighteous to judgment (Revelation 20:11-15, Ref. 5).  Note that in 1 Thessalonians 4:16 the One who will do the raising of believer's bodies is Jesus himself.  Jesus said, "Everyone who sees the Son and believes in Him will have eternal life, and I Myself will raise him up on the last day" (John 6:40).       

4. Then we who are alive, who remain, will be caught up together with them in the clouds to meet the Lord.

"Then we who are alive, who remain, will be caught up together with them in the clouds to meet the Lord in the air, and so we will always be with the Lord."  (1 Thessalonians 4:17)

     Immediately following the raising of the bodies of the dead in Christ, the scripture says that those (believers) who remain alive will be "caught up" with them to meet the Lord in the air."  Then, "we will always be with the Lord."  That is an important, and comforting phrase.  The Greek word for "caught up" means seized -- suddenly and irresistibly (Ref. 8).  Believers are "caught up," not merely invited (Ref. 8).  Take comfort that as believers, we will always be with Jesus.    

When believers who are still alive when Christ returns are "caught up," they will be "changed."  1 Corinthians 15:51 and 52 describe this change:  

"Behold, I am telling you a mystery; we will not all sleep, but we will 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 will be changed."

The Greek word for "changed" means divinely transformed (Ref. 9 - Topical Lexicon.)  Their (possibly, "our" if we are still alive) bodies will be changed instantly ("in the twinkling of an eye") into "a glorified [and immortal] state suited for eternal fellowship together with Christ" (Ref. 9).

     Apply.  If you are a believer in Christ, rejoice that you have his gift of eternal life and that you will be with him forever.  Know that he has a glorious future planned for you with him.  If you do not yet know Christ (John 17:3), tell him you are sorry for your sins (1 John 1:9), and ask him to come into your heart (Revelation 3:20).  He will save you (Ephesians 2:8), and he will give you the gift of eternal life (Romans 6:23).

Related Lessons
"Where Does Your Soul Go When You Die?"
"What Is Eternal Life?" - John 17:3

References
1.  https://www.scriptureway.com/home/what-is-eternal-life
2.  https://www.biblegateway.com/versions/New-American-Standard-Bible-NASB/
3.  https://biblehub.com/commentaries/cambridge/1_thessalonians/4.htm
Cambridge Bible for Schools and Colleges - 1 Thessalonians 4:13
4.  https://biblehub.com/greek/2837.htm
5.  https://www.scriptureway.com/home/where-does-your-soul-go-when-you-die
6.  https://biblehub.com/commentaries/ellicott/1_thessalonians/4.htm  
Ellicott's Commentary for English Readers - 1 Thessalonians 4:15
7.  https://biblehub.com/greek/4035.htm
8.  https://biblehub.com/greek/726.htm
9.  https://biblehub.com/greek/236.htm

]]><![CDATA[You Must Be Born Again - John 3:7 Meaning]]>Thu, 30 Oct 2025 01:00:00 GMThttps://www.scriptureway.com/home/you-must-be-born-again-john-3-7-meaning
by Mr. Whitney V. Myers
Download a printable PDF of this lesson.
"You must be born again" - Jesus speaking with Nicodemus - John 3:7 - Shutterstock image - Used under license
"Do not marvel that I said to you, 'You must be born again.'"  (John 3:7)

This lesson explains the meaning of Jesus' statement, "You must be born again," in John 3:7.

The Bible verse quotations in this lesson are taken from the English Standard Version (ESV) unless noted otherwise (Ref. 1).

     Read:  John 3:1-8 

     Consider.  What does it mean to be "born again"?  Why did Jesus say we must be born again?

1. Who is included in "You must be born again"?

     The first "you" in John 3:7 is singular (Ref. 2), referring to Nicodemus.  Jesus said, "Do not marvel that I said to you ..." 

The second "you" in John 3:7 is plural, meaning you all (Ref. 2).  Jesus said, "You [all] must be born again" (John 3:7).  Nicodemus may have understood the plural you as referring to himself and the rulers and Pharisees (John 3:1).  However, the plural "you" in "You must be born again" is universal and applies to all people because all need to be born again to see [spiritually perceive] the kingdom of God (John 3:3, Ref. 3).  That includes all of us who are reading this message.

2. Why must we be born again?

"Just as sin came into the world through one man, and death through sin, and so death spread to all men because all sinned."  (Romans 5:12)
 
     Romans 5:12 tells us that because of Adam's sin, sin and death spread to all people (Greek anthrópos - all humans - men, women, and children) (Ref. 3; Genesis 2:16-17, 3:6-7).  There are no exemptions.  That is why we must be born again.

3. What does "born again" mean?

"Jesus answered him, 'Truly, truly, I say to you, unless one is born again he cannot see the kingdom of God.'"  (John 3:3)

"Do not marvel that I said to you, 'You must be born again.'"  (John 3:7)   

     The words "born again" in John 3:3 and 3:7 in the Greek mean to be regenerated anew (Ref. 4, Ref. 5).  The work of regenerating us anew spiritually is entirely the work of God's Holy Spirit, not our own works (Ezekiel 36:25-27, Titus 3:4-5).  God's work of regenerating us anew spiritually (making us born of God) is different in nature and timing from our natural human birth (being born of earthly parents) (John 1:12-13, John 3:6).

Becoming "born again" in John 3:3 and 3:7  is synonymous with becoming "born of God" in John 1:13.  John, the disciple of Christ and the gospel writer says, "He came to his own, and his own people did not receive him. 12 But to all who did receive him, who believed in his name, he gave the right to become children of God, 13 who were born, not of blood nor of the will of the flesh nor of the will of man, but of God" (John 1:11-13).  Further, John gives three characteristics of a person who is born of God:
In Ezekiel 36:25, God's action of cleansing us from sin (symbolized by water) is part of the inner transformation God does in us when God regenerates us anew and puts a new spirit within us (Ezekiel 36:26-27, Psalm 51:1-2, 10, Hebrews 10:22, 1 John 1:9).

To sum up, becoming born again means being regenerated anew by God's Holy Spirit (John 3:3, 7).  God cleanses us from our sin.  God puts a new spirit -- the Holy Spirit -- within us, and transforms us into a new person, born of God (Ezekiel 36:25-27, 2 Corinthians 5:17, 1 John 5:1). 

4. How do I become born again?

"But to all who did receive him, who believed in his name, he gave the right to become children of God, who were born, not of blood nor of the will of the flesh nor of the will of man, but of God."  (John 1:12-13)

John says quite clearly that to be born of God, we are to "receive him" and "believe in his name."  "Him" refers to Jesus Christ, the Word who became flesh, the only Son from the Father (John 1:1, 14, 17).  To "receive" him means to accept him and not to reject him (John 1:11, Ref. 8, John 13:20).  To "believe" in him means to have faith in him and to trust him (Ref. 9).  The Lexical Summary in Ref. 9 adds that "believe" means to entrust (especially one's spiritual well-being to Christ). 

Once you receive Jesus as your Savior and believe in (entrust your life to) him, the Holy Spirit will dwell in you to help you on an ongoing basis daily throughout the rest of your life (John 14:16-17, Colossians 1:27).  The Holy Spirit will help you:
     Prayer.  Lord Jesus, I am sorry for my sins.  Thank you for dying on the cross to forgive my sins.  Come and live in my heart.  I yield control of my life to you.  Teach me, and make me into the person you want me to be. Help me to love you and to serve others in your name.  Amen.     

Related Lessons
"11 Bible Verses About Being Born Again" - John 3:7 and others
"Becoming a Child of God" - John 1:12-13

References
1.  https://www.biblegateway.com/versions/English-Standard-Version-ESV-Bible/
2.  https://biblehub.com/interlinear/john/3-7.htm
3.  https://biblehub.com/greek/3708.htm
4.  https://biblehub.com/greek/1080.htm
5.  https://biblehub.com/greek/509.htm
6.  https://biblehub.com/greek/4160.htm
7.  https://biblehub.com/greek/25.htm
8.  https://biblehub.com/greek/2983.htm
9.  https://biblehub.com/greek/4100.htm

]]><![CDATA[Find Rest for Your Souls]]>Wed, 03 Sep 2025 01:00:00 GMThttps://www.scriptureway.com/home/find-rest-for-your-souls
by Mr. Whitney V. Myers
Download a printable PDF of this lesson.
Find Rest for Your Souls - Matthew 11:29 - Yoked Oxen Pulling a Loaded Cart Together
Find Rest for Your Souls - Matthew 11:29 - Yoked Oxen Pulling a Loaded Cart Together
"Take my yoke upon you and learn from me, for I am gentle and humble in heart, and you will find rest for your souls."  (Matthew 11:29)

The expression, "You will find rest for your souls" occurs only twice in the Bible, in Jeremiah 6:16 and Matthew 11:29.  This lesson explains how rest for our souls is found according to the Bible.

The scripture quotations in this lesson are taken from the New International Version (NIV) unless noted otherwise (Ref. 1).

     Consider.  According to the Bible, how does a person find rest for their soul?

1. Rest for our souls is found where God's ancient, good way is honored.

"This is what the Lord says: 'Stand at the crossroads and look; ask for the ancient paths, ask where the good way is, and walk in it, and you will find rest for your souls.'  But you said, ‘We will not walk in it.'"  (Jeremiah 6:16)

     In Jeremiah 6:16, God promised the people of Jerusalem that they would find rest for their souls if they would walk in obedience to God's good way as God had instructed their ancestors.  God's good way was expressed primarily in the Ten Commandments (Deuteronomy 5:1-21, 
Deuteronomy 5:33).

In Jeremiah 6:16, the promised "rest" in "rest for your souls" means inner peace and tranquility (Ref. 2, Ref. 3).  This Hebrew word for "rest" in Jeremiah 6:16 occurs only once in the Old Testament (Ref. 2). 

Unfortunately, the people of Jerusalem chose to refuse God's instruction.  Their ears were closed and the word of the Lord was offensive to them (Jeremiah 6:10).  By choosing their own way, they did not find rest for their souls.  By choosing their own way, they soon suffered siege and being carried away into captivity (2 Kings 24:10-14).

2. Jesus is the giver of rest to the weary and burdened.

"Come to me, all you who are weary and burdened, and I will give you rest."  (Matthew 11:28)

     In Matthew 11:28, we find the first part of Jesus' two-part summons.  The first part of his summons is "Come to me."  The second part, in Matthew 11:29, is "Take my yoke upon you and learn from me."

Jesus is the giver of true rest (Matthew 11:28).  When we come to Jesus as he has already invited us, he gives us rest from our toil, and rest from our burdens.  When we come to Jesus, he unburdens us by forgiving our sins and taking away our anxiety as we place our faith and trust in him (1 John 1:9, John 14:1). 

In Matthew 11:28, the rest that Jesus gives us is anapauó
[pronounced, an-ap-ow'-o], which means refreshment (Ref. 4).  The rest [refreshment] that Jesus gives from our anxiety, grief, and sin prepares us to enter (or re-enter) service to Jesus.  By coming to Jesus, and only to Jesus, we find the peace, comfort, and forgiveness that we need (John 14:27, Matthew 5:4, 1 John 1:9).    

3. Rest for our souls is found in submission to Jesus' gentle yoke.

"Take my yoke upon you and learn from me, for I am gentle and humble in heart, and you will find rest for your souls."  (Matthew 11:29)

     The surprise and main point for this lesson is that rest for our souls is found in submission to Jesus' gentle yoke.  Jesus said we are to take his yoke upon us and learn from him, and we will find rest for our souls.  

In Matthew 11:29, the Greek word for "rest" is anapausis [pronounced, ah-NAH-pow-sis] which means inner tranquility (Ref. 5).  This definition for "rest" is similar to the rest the Lord promised we would find by walking in his good way (Jeremiah 6:16, Ref. 2).

Jesus teaches that we find rest [tranquility] for our souls by responding to both parts of Jesus' two-part summons.  First, we come to Jesus and he unburdens us by forgiving our sins and taking away our anxiety as we trust in him (Matthew 11:28, 1 John 1:9, John 14:1).  Second, as Jesus promised, we find rest for our souls by taking on Jesus' yoke, and learning from him.  Taking on Jesus' yoke and learning from him is not "one and done," but is a continuing spiritual process throughout our lifetime (Matthew 11:29).

Rest for our souls is not found in escape from work and service but in submission to Christ for work and service.  Let us then take on Jesus' yoke, learn from him, and serve him daily.  Then we will find that his yoke is easy and his burden is light (Matthew 11:30).

     Apply.  Come to Jesus in prayer.  Receive his forgiveness, and release your burdens to him.  Take on his yoke by submitting your will to him, and learning from him.  Ask him to direct you in the work and service he would have you do for others.  Then you will find Jesus' promise -- rest for your soul.     
     
Related Lessons
"The Way of the Lord (Old Testament)" - Deuteronomy 5:33
"Jesus' Invitation - Come to Me and Rest" - Matthew 11:28-29

References
1.  https://www.biblegateway.com/versions/New-International-Version-NIV-Bible/
2.  https://biblehub.com/hebrew/4771.htm
3.  https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/repose
4.  https://biblehub.com/greek/373.htm
5.  https://biblehub.com/greek/372.htm
 
 

]]><![CDATA[God's Presence Bible Verses]]>Wed, 30 Jul 2025 23:30:00 GMThttps://www.scriptureway.com/home/gods-presence
by Mr. Whitney V. Myers
Download a printable PDF of this lesson.
God's Presence - Jesus speaking to his disciples -
God's Presence Bible Verses - Jesus speaking to his disciples - "Lo, I am with you always" - Matthew 28:20 - Free Bible Images - Used under license
"Lo, I am with you always, even to the end of the age."  (Matthew 28:20)

Throughout the Bible, God has promised his presence to be with his people.  God's presence is comforting and is real.  God's presence with his people is forever.

The Bible verse quotations for this lesson are taken from the New American Standard Bible 1995 edition unless noted otherwise (Ref. 1).

     Consider.  Through these scriptures, know that God is with you.  He will guide you, protect you, teach you, and be your companion all the days of your life.

God is with us throughout the pilgrimage of our life, wherever we go

     When Jacob was sojourning, looking for a wife, God spoke to him in a dream (Genesis 28:1-3, 10-14).  "Behold, I am with you and will keep you wherever you go, and will bring you back to this land; for I will not leave you until I have done what I have promised you" (Genesis 28:15, underlines added).  God fulfilled his promise to Jacob.  Later in his life after Jacob had gained a household, Jacob remembered God's promise.  In Genesis 35:1-3, we see that Jacob set up an altar to God who "has been with me wherever I have gone."

God promises to be with us wherever he leads us in the fulfillment of his purpose. 
  

God's presence is everywhere

     David wrote of God, "Where can I go from Your Spirit?  Or where can I flee from Your presence?  If I ascend to heaven, You are there; If I make my bed in Sheol, behold, You are there" (Psalm 139:7-8).  David went on to say that even in the remotest part of the sea, "there Your hand will lead me, And Your right hand will lay hold of me" (Psalm 139:9-10).  There is no place we can go that is beyond God's providential care, his authority, and control (Ref. 2).      

Because God is with us, we have nothing to fear

     Through the prophet Isaiah, God tells us not to fear.  "Do not fear, for I am with you; Do not anxiously look about you, for I am your God.  I will strengthen you, surely I will help you, Surely I will uphold you with My righteous right hand" (Isaiah 41:10, underline added).

God's presence is with us when we go through trials and troubles

     Through the prophet Isaiah, God spoke to his people.  "When you pass through the waters, I will be with you; And through the rivers, they will not overflow you.  When you walk through the fire, you will not be scorched, Nor will the flame burn you" (Isaiah 43:2, underline added).  Recall that God provided a fourth person "like a son of the gods" to be present with Shadrach, Meshach, and Abed-nego in Nebuchadnezzar's fiery furnace so they were not scorched (Daniel 3:24-27).  

Thank you, Lord, that when we experience trials and troubles, you are with us and you deliver us through them.  God's word says, "God is our refuge and strength, A very present help in trouble" (Psalm 46:1).
  

God's presence through the Holy Spirit is with us and in us to make our ministry effective

     On the evening before his death, Jesus promised that the Holy Spirit [literally, paraklétos - Helper, Comforter - one who comes alongside] would come to them and that the Holy Spirit would be with them forever (John 14:16, Ref. 3).  Jesus also said to his disciples that the Holy Spirit "will be in you" (John 14:17, underline added).  The promise of the indwelling Holy Spirit was fulfilled beginning on the day of Pentecost (Acts 2:1-4) and continues unabated to this day.  The indwelling Holy Spirit is God's presence and God's gift to all persons worldwide who believe in God's Son, Jesus Christ (Acts 2:37-39, John 14:17, 1 Corinthians 6:19).

The Holy Spirit, God's presence in us, empowers us for ministry (Acts 1:8).  The Holy Spirit, God's presence in us, gives us spiritual gifts that we may serve effectively the body of Christ and people in the world in Christ's name (1 Corinthians 12:4-11). 

God's presence will never fail us nor forsake us

     "Then Moses called to Joshua and said to him in the sight of all Israel, 'Be strong and courageous, for you shall go with this people into the land which the Lord has sworn to their fathers to give them, and you shall give it to them as an inheritance.  The Lord is the one who goes ahead of you; He will be with you.  He will not fail you or forsake you.  Do not fear or be dismayed'" (Deuteronomy 31:7-8).

God promises to be with us forever (John 14:16).  We shall have his constant, perpetual presence -- always -- even to the end of the age (Matthew 28:20).  Thanks be to God!  Amen.

Related Lesson
"God Our Refuge, Strength, and Help (Psalm 46:1)"

References
1.  https://www.biblegateway.com/versions/New-American-Standard-Bible-NASB1995/
2.  https://biblehub.com/commentaries/cambridge/psalms/139.htm
Cambridge Bible for Schools and Colleges - Psalm 139:10
3.  https://biblehub.com/greek/3875.htm

]]><![CDATA[Where Does Your Soul Go When You Die?]]>Mon, 26 May 2025 03:30:00 GMThttps://www.scriptureway.com/home/where-does-your-soul-go-when-you-die
by Mr. Whitney V. Myers

Download a printable PDF of this lesson.
Image Source: Good News Productions International and College Press Publishing.
Picture
     This lesson teaches that for believers in Jesus Christ, according to the Bible, our soul goes immediately to be with Jesus in heaven upon our death.  This lesson also explains where the souls of the righteous and unrighteous have gone before and after the resurrection of Jesus Christ.  This lesson concludes by discussing the final destiny for believers and the final destiny for unbelievers.

Scripture quotations in this lesson are taken from the New American Standard Bible (NASB) 2020 edition unless noted otherwise (Ref. 1).

     Consider.  Where will your soul go when you die?  Why?

1. At your physical death, your soul and spirit will depart from your body

"And it came about, as her soul was departing (for she died), that she named him Ben-oni; but his father called him Benjamin."  (Genesis 35:18)
Figure 1: When we die, our soul and spirit (shown as concentric circles within the body) leave our physical body
Figure 1: When we die, our soul and spirit leave our physical body
     When we die, our soul and spirit depart from our physical body.  Physical death is the separation of our immaterial nature (our soul and spirit) from our body (Figure 1 above, Ref. 2 below).  Genesis 35:18 tells us that when Rachel died, her soul departed.  The next verse, Genesis 35:19, tells us, "Rachel died and was buried."  Note that it was Rachel's body that was buried.  Rachel's soul continued to exist.  Her soul did not die or go to "sleep." 

Note that when Jesus died, Jesus called out with a loud voice and said, "Father, into your hands I commit my spirit!" "And having said this he breathed his last" (Luke 23:46 ESV).  Jesus' spirit continued to live after the death of his physical body. 

2. God has made us (humans) to have a material nature (our body) and an immaterial nature (our soul and spirit)

"And the Lord God formed man of the dust of the ground, and breathed into his nostrils the breath of life; and man became a living soul."  (Genesis 2:7 KJV)

     God has made us (humans) in God's image (Genesis 1:26).  God has made us to have both a physical, material nature (our body) and an immaterial nature (our soul and spirit) (Ref. 2 below).  Genesis 2:7 KJV tells us that God made Adam's body from the dust of the ground.  Genesis 2:7 KJV also tells us that God breathed into Adam, and Adam became "a living soul." 

The Bible refers to our immaterial nature in three ways.  Sometimes the Bible uses the single word "soul."  Sometimes the Bible uses the single word, "spirit."  Sometimes the Bible uses "soul and spirit" together.  Here are some example references:

a. "Soul" -- Genesis 35:18, Mark 8:36
b. "Spirit" -- Job 32:8, Ecclesiastes 12:7, Luke 8:55, John 19:30, Acts 7:59
c.  "Soul and spirit" together -- 1 Thessalonians 5:23, Hebrews 4:12

Our soul is our personality, emotions, and window to our physical world (Ref. 3, Ref. 4 below).  Our spirit enables us to perceive, communicate with, serve, and worship God (1 Corinthians 2:11-14, Romans 1:9, Romans 8:15-16, Ref. 4 below). 

In this lesson, the single word, "soul," and the single word, "spirit," are intended to mean our entire immaterial nature as distinguished from our physical body.

3. Our Soul Continues to Live After Our Physical Death

     After our death, our soul continues to live consciously and does not cease to exist, "go to sleep," or become extinct when our body dies (Figure 1 above, Ref. 5 below).  Consider these three examples from the scriptures. 

3.1. Elijah, the Widow, and the Widow's Son

     In 1 Kings 17:8-16, God sent Elijah to Zarephath during a drought. There God provided a miracle of continual flour and oil for Elijah, the widow, and her son until rain returned (1 Kings 17:14). 

Right after that miracle, the widow's son died (he was no longer breathing) (1 Kings 17:17-18).  The distraught widow spoke to Elijah, and Elijah prayed for the child (1 Kings 17:19-21 KJV).  Elijah prayed, "O Lord my God, I pray thee, let this child's soul come into him again" (1 Kings 17:21 KJV).  The Hebrew word nephesh translated as "soul" in 1 Kings 17:21 KJV is the same word the Bible uses for "soul" in Genesis 2:7.  The Lord heard Elijah's prayer, and "the soul of the child came into him again, and he revived" (1 Kings 17:22 KJV).

3.2. Jesus Raises Jairus' Daughter

"And they began laughing at Him, knowing that she had died.  He, however, took her by the hand and spoke forcefully, saying, 'Child, arise!'  And her spirit returned, and she got up immediately; and He ordered that something be given her to eat."  (Luke 8:53-55)  

     For the whole story, read Luke 8:40-56. 

The scripture tells us that the girl had died, that is, her material body had died (Luke 8:49, 53).  It is interesting that Jesus said, "Stop weeping, for she has not died, but is asleep" (Luke 8:52).  When Jesus said that she was "asleep" (Luke 8:52), he was referring to her dead body, not to her spirit (Ref. 6).  The girl's spirit had not died and was still very much alive, and had departed from her dead body.  When Jesus took her by the hand and said, "Arise," her spirit returned to her (Luke 8:54-55).

The metaphorical term "sleep" applied to the dead physical body (but not the soul and spirit) also occurs in Acts 7:59-60, 1 Corinthians 15:3-6, and 1 Thessalonians 4:13-14.    

3.3. Jesus and the Penitent Thief

     When Jesus was crucified, two criminals (two thieves) were crucified with him (Luke 23:22-23, Mark 15:27 KJV).  When the three were on their crosses dying together, the impenitent (unrepentant) thief hurled abuse at Jesus (Luke 23:39).  The other thief (the penitent thief) said to Jesus, "Jesus, remember me when You come into Your kingdom!" (Luke 23:40-42). 

Jesus told the penitent thief (but not the unrepentant thief), "Truly I say to you, today you will be with Me in Paradise" (Luke 23:43, underline added).  Not tomorrow.  Not some time in the future.  Today.  Even though their bodies would be dead soon on their crosses and in their earthly tomb or grave (Luke 23:50-53), the souls of the Savior and the penitent thief were both alive together in Paradise that very day (Ref. 7, Figure 2).  Likewise, as believers in Jesus Christ, we can look forward to our soul going to be with Jesus immediately upon the death of our physical body (Figure 3).

4. Before the death and resurrection of Jesus Christ, the souls of the righteous and the unrighteous all went to Sheol (Hades)

"Now the poor man died and was carried away by the angels to Abraham’s bosom; and the rich man also died and was buried.  In Hades he lifted up his eyes, being in torment, and saw Abraham far away and Lazarus in his bosom."  (Luke 16:22-23 NASB 1995)
Figure 2: Before the death and resurrection of Jesus Christ, the souls of the righteous and the unrighteous went to Sheol (Hades).
Figure 2: Before the death and resurrection of Jesus Christ, the souls of the righteous and the unrighteous went to Sheol (Hades).

4.1. Sheol in the Old Testament

     Throughout the Old Testament, sh'owl (pronounced sheh-OL) is the transliteration of the Hebrew word for the realm of the dead (Ref. 8).  Sh'owl occurs 66 times in the Old Testament.  The New American Standard Bible (NASB) translates the Hebrew word all 66 times as "Sheol" (Ref. 9).  The King James Version (KJV) translates sh'owl thirty times as "hell," thirty-one times as "grave," and three times as "pit" (Ref. 9).  In the ancient culture, Sheol was a temporary place where the souls of all the departed dead -- righteous and unrighteous -- awaited their final destiny (Ref. 8).

   Example Old Testament verses about Sheol:
(1).  Jacob expected to go there.  "Surely I will go down to Sheol in mourning for my son" (verse 35 in Genesis 37:31-35).
(2).  The place for the wicked - "The wicked will return to Sheol,
All the nations who forget God" (Psalm 9:17).
(3).  David expected to go to Sheol, but his time in Sheol would be temporary.  "For You will not abandon my soul to Sheol (Psalm 16:10)."  David also wrote, "But God will redeem my soul from the power of Sheol, For He will receive me" (Psalm 49:15). 

4.2. Jesus' Teaching About Sheol (Hades)

     Jesus taught that Sheol has two destinations for the departed souls of the dead (Figure 2).  Note that this teaching describes Sheol (Hades) before the death and resurrection of Jesus.  "Hades" is the Greek word in the New Testament equivalent to "Sheol" in the Old Testament Hebrew ("Sheol" - Ref. 8, "Hades" - Ref. 10).

Read the entire account of the rich man and the poor man ("Lazarus") in Luke 16:19-31.  Jesus said that when the poor man died the angels carried him to Abraham's Bosom, which was the place of comfort (Luke 16:22, 25 KJV).  In contrast, Jesus said that when the rich man died he was buried, and (his soul) went to the place of torment in Hades (Luke 16:22-28, Figure 2).  Jesus also stated that there is a great gulf fixed to keep those who wish to cross over from crossing over (Luke 16:26 KJV).

Think about why the rich man went to the place of torment in Hades when he died.
(1).  He was indifferent to the needs of the poor man outside his gate (Luke 16:19-21, 25).  Note the similar outcome for the future judgment of the "goats" in Matthew 25:31-33 and Matthew 25:41-46.
(2).  He was indifferent to God.  He had not listened to Moses and the Prophets (Luke 16:27-31).  He would not have been persuaded even "if someone rises from the dead" (Luke 16:31).

5. Now, because of the death and resurrection of Jesus, the souls of believers go immediately to heaven to be with Jesus when we die

"But he, full of the Holy Spirit, gazed into heaven and saw the glory of God, and Jesus standing at the right hand of God."  (Acts 7:55)
"And as they were stoning Stephen, he called out, 'Lord Jesus, receive my spirit.'  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."  (Acts 7:59-60)
Figure 3: After the death and resurrection of Jesus Christ, the souls of the righteous go to heaven to be with Jesus.
Figure 3: After the death and resurrection of Jesus Christ, the souls of the righteous go to heaven to be with Jesus.

5.1. Heaven - Destination for Believers

     Because of Jesus' sacrificial death for us and his resurrection, the souls of believers now go immediately to heaven to be with Jesus upon our death (Figure 3).  Our destination is to be where he is.  Jesus, since his ascension, now is in heaven (Acts 1:9-11, Hebrews 8:1).  Recall that Jesus said to Martha, "I am the resurrection and the life; the one who believes in Me will live, even if he dies, and everyone who lives and believes in Me will never die. Do you believe this?" (John 11:25-26).

   Example - Stephen's Death
     Let's take a look at the example set by Stephen, the first Christian martyr (read Acts 7:54-60).  As Stephen's opposers were about to stone him,  Stephen gazed (up) into heaven and supernaturally saw Jesus standing at the right hand of God (Acts 7:55).  Other scriptures such as Mark 16:19 and Hebrews 8:1 say that Jesus, after his ascension, was seated at the right hand of God.  It is interesting that in Acts 7:55 Jesus is standing, likely to welcome his faithful martyr, Stephen (Ref. 11).  It is comforting to know that Jesus is in heaven to welcome us.

As the men were stoning Stephen to death, Stephen called upon the Lord, and said, "Lord Jesus, receive [welcome] my spirit" (Acts 7:59, bracket added, Ref. 12).  Here, the single word, "spirit," refers to Stephen's immaterial nature (soul and spirit) which was about to leave his physical body (Figure 1).  Then, in Acts 7:60, Stephen cried out with a loud voice, "Lord, do not hold this sin against them!"  "Having said this, he fell asleep" (Acts 7:60). 

As we discussed above in Section 3.2, the metaphorical term "sleep" refers to the death of Stephen's body.  Stephen's body died as the result of the stoning.  Stephen's soul and spirit went to be with Jesus in heaven (where Jesus is) (Acts 7:55, 59, Figure 3).  As the Apostle Paul said, when we become absent from the body, we will be "at home with the Lord" (2 Corinthians 5:8).

5.2. What is the "Third Heaven"?

     The Old Testament begins, "In the beginning God created the heavens and the earth" (Genesis 1:1).  Note that in Genesis 1:1 the English word, "heavens," is plural.  The Hebrew word for "heavens" is shamayim, pronounced shah-MAH-yeem (Ref. 13).  In ancient Hebrew cosmology, shamayim was understood as a multi-layered expanse (Ref. 13): 
In 2 Corinthians 12:2, the Apostle Paul refers to heaven as the "third heaven" and in 2 Corinthians 12:4 as "Paradise" (Figure 3).  However, before the death and resurrection of Jesus, "Paradise" likely referred to the place of comfort in Hades (see Note 3 in Figure 2).  As the result of Jesus' death and resurrection, it appears that "Paradise" has moved to what we commonly call "heaven" (Figure 3 above, Ref. 14 below).  Since the death and resurrection of Jesus, "Third Heaven" and "Paradise" are now synonymous (Ref. 15 below).

5.3. Hades - Destination for Unbelievers

     Jesus' teaching in Luke 16:22-28 about the souls of the unrighteous going to the place of torment in Hades -- still applies (see Section 4.2, Figure 2, and Figure 3).  The souls of the unrighteous (unbelievers) go to the place of torment in Hades to be reserved there until the great white throne judgment (Revelation 20:11-15, Figure 4).

Unbelief, and its consequent indifference to God, results in eternal torment (Luke 16:27-31, Ref. 16 below, Revelation 20:11-15).  Instead, decide in this life (while you are still alive) to believe in Jesus Christ, and you will be saved (John 3:36, Acts 4:10-12, Acts 16:29-31, Ephesians 2:4-9). 

6. For believers, our final destiny is the new heaven and new Jerusalem

     We have established that the souls of those who have died in Christ are with him in heaven now.  Likewise, as believers in Christ, when we die, our souls will go to heaven to be with him (Acts 7:54-60, Figures 3 and 4).

This section, Section 6, discusses when Christ returns (6.1), the great white throne judgment (6.2), the book of life (6.3), the final destiny for unbelievers (6.4), and the final destiny for believers (6.5).

Figure 4 - As believers, our final destiny will be with God in the new heaven and new Jerusalem
Figure 4 - As believers, our final destiny will be with God in the new heaven and new Jerusalem

6.1. When Christ Returns

     1 Thessalonians 4:14 tells us that when Christ returns, he "will bring with Him those who have fallen asleep through Jesus" (Figure 4).  Then, "We who are alive, who remain, will be caught up together with them in the clouds to meet the Lord in the air, and so we will always be with the Lord" (1 Thessalonians 4:17).  Take comfort that we, as believers in Jesus, will always be with him.  We will be with him in heaven after our physical bodies die (Acts 7:54-60, Figure 4).  We will be with him when we receive our resurrection bodies and Jesus returns to earth to begin the thousand-year reign (Matthew 24:29-31, 1 Thessalonians 4:14-17, Revelation 20:4-6, Figure 4).

6.2. The Great White Throne Judgment

     The Bible tells us that after the thousand-year reign of Christ, the unrighteous dead will be resurrected (John 5:28-29, Revelation 20:4-6, Figure 4).  They will stand before the "great white throne" for their final judgment (Revelation 20:11-12).  The books will be opened, including the "book of life" (Revelation 20:12).  Our Lord -- the Son of God and the Son of Man -- will judge them "from the things which were written in the books, according to their deeds" (John 5:25-27, Revelation 20:12). Revelation 20:15 tells us that if anyone's name is not found in the book of life, they will be thrown into the "lake of fire."  

As believers in Christ, we will have nothing to fear from this judgment of unbelievers.  Jesus said, "Truly, truly, I say to you, the one who hears My word, and believes Him who sent Me, has eternal life, and does not come into judgment, but has passed out of death into life (John 5:24).

6.3. The Book of Life

     Note how valuable it is to have our names written in the Lamb's book of life (Revelation 21:10, 27).  Having our names written in the Lamb's book of life is far more valuable for us than all earthly power and possessions (Ref. 17).  Because our names (believer's names) are written in the Lamb's book of life (Revelation 3:5), we will enter into our final destiny -- new Jerusalem (Revelation 21:2, 27; Figure 4).  Jesus told his disciples (and tells us) that having our names "recorded in heaven" is a cause for rejoicing (Luke 10:20).

6.4. The Final Destiny for Unbelievers -- Lake of Fire (Gehenna, Hell)

"Then Death and Hades were thrown into the lake of fire. This is the second death, the lake of fire.  And if anyone’s name was not found written in the book of life, he was thrown into the lake of fire."  (Revelation 20:14-15)

     The New Testament gives us two names for the final destiny of eternal punishment for the unrighteous -- the "lake of fire," and "Gehenna" or "hell" (Figure 4).

   6.4.1 Lake of Fire
     The name, "lake of fire," occurs only in the book of Revelation (Revelation 19:20, 20:10, 20:14, 20:15, and 21:8).  The Bible tells us that the torment in the lake of fire is "day and night forever" (Rev. 20:10).  The Bible also tells us that the lake of fire burns perpetually with brimstone [sulfur] (Rev. 19:20, Rev. 20:10, Rev. 21:8, Ref. 18).  The presence of brimstone reminds us of the Lord's destruction of Sodom and Gomorrah (Luke 17:29, Genesis 19:24).

All of the wicked reserved temporarily in Hades will be delivered up and resurrected for the great white throne judgment (Rev. 20:12-13, Figure 4).  Those whose name is not found in the book of life will be thrown into the lake of fire (Rev. 20:15).

   6.4.2 Gehenna (Hell)
     In the Gospels of Matthew, Mark, and Luke, Jesus referred to the final destiny of eternal punishment as "Gehenna" (Greek, "hell" in English) (Figure 4).

   6.4.2.1 Biblical background - Gehenna
     The word, "Gehenna," [hell] -- originally came from Hebrew and meant the valley of the son of Hinnom (Ben-hinnom) (Joshua 15:8, Ref. 19).  The history of the valley of Ben-hinnom (west and south of Jerusalem) is horrible.  Jeremiah 7:31 tells us that the sons of Judah "built the high places of Topheth, which is in the Valley of Ben-hinnom, to burn their sons and their daughters in the fire, which I did not command, and it did not come into My mind."  (Compare with Leviticus 18:21 AMP.)

King Josiah later reformed this terrible situation.  2 Kings 23:10 says, "He also defiled Topheth, which is in the Valley of the Son of Hinnom, so that no one would make his son or his daughter pass through the fire for Molech."  The Bible does not tell us what Josiah did to make Topheth abhorrent to the Jewish people.  However, the prophet Jeremiah does tell us that Topheth in the valley of the son of Hinnom would become a burial place for bodies, some of which would not be interred and would become food for birds and animals (Jeremiah 7:31-33). 

   6.4.2.2 What did Jesus say about hell (Gehenna)?
     Jesus, as a master teacher, used something the people knew -- the terrible reputation of the Valley of Ben-himmon -- to teach them (and us) about the final destiny of eternal punishment for the wicked.  Jesus spoke of Gehenna (hell) by name.  Refer to Matthew 5:22, 5:29-30, 10:28, 18:9, 23:15; Mark 9:43-48; and Luke 12:5. 

For example, Jesus said, "And do not be afraid of those who kill the body but are unable to kill the soul; but rather fear Him who is able to destroy both soul and body in hell [Gehenna]" (Matthew 10:28, bracket added). 

Jesus also said, "And if your eye is causing you to sin, throw it away; it is better for you to enter the kingdom of God with one eye, than, having two eyes, to be thrown into hell [Gehenna], where their worm does not die, and the fire is not extinguished" (Mark 9:47-48 bracket added).

Note what Jesus is saying about the eternal hell, Gehenna (Figure 4):
Note that in the scriptures Jesus also spoke of Hades -- the temporary abode of the unrighteous dead (not Gehenna).  Refer to Matthew 11:23, Matthew 16:18 NKJV ("the gates of Hades shall not prevail"), and Luke 16:23 (Figures 2, 3, and 4).

The terrible destination for unbelievers and the wicked -- Hades and Gehenna -- can be avoided (Figure 4).  Turn to Jesus.  Now, in this life, while you are still alive, repent from your sins (1 John 1:9).  Put your faith and trust in Jesus Christ as your Lord and Savior (John 20:27-29; Acts 4:10-12; Acts 16:29-31).  Accept the gift that God has already offered in love to you and all the world - his Son (John 3:16).  Believe in him, trust him, and you will also receive God's gift of eternal life (John 3:16, Romans 6:23).

6.5. The Final Destiny for Believers -- New Heaven and New Jerusalem

"Then I saw a new heaven and a new earth; for the first heaven and the first earth passed away, and there is no longer any sea.  And I saw the holy city, new Jerusalem, coming down out of heaven from God, prepared as a bride adorned for her husband."  (Revelation 21:1-2)

     As believers in Jesus Christ, our final destiny is be with God in the new heaven, new earth, and new Jerusalem that God will provide (Rev. 21:1-27, Rev. 22:1-5, Figure 4).  Rev. 21:2 and Rev. 21:10 tell us that the holy city, the new Jerusalem, will come down out of heaven from God.

   6.5.1 A Wonderful Place
     The Bible tells us why the new heaven, new earth, and new Jerusalem will be a wonderful place.
  • God will make it new (Rev. 21:1, Rev 21:5).  The Greek word here for "new" is kainos.  Kainos means new in quality, fresh, and superior to what it succeeds (Ref. 20).
  • There, God will dwell among and be among his people (Rev. 21:3).  Literally, the Greek word for "people" here is plural -- "peoples" -- the saved from all nations (Ref. 21, Ref. 22).
  • God will wipe away every tear from our eyes.  There will no longer be any causes for tears -- no more death, mourning, crying, or pain (Rev. 21:4).
  • The new Jerusalem will be brilliantly beautiful, illuminated by the glory of God and the Lamb (Rev. 21:10-11, Rev. 21:23, Rev. 21:25).
  • The new Jerusalem will have plenty of room for all believers (Rev. 21:16).  Recall that Jesus said, "In My Father’s house are many rooms" (John 14:2).
  • As believers and ones made holy by God, we will come into the new Jerusalem because our names are written in the Lamb's book of life (Rev. 21:27, Figure 4). 

   6.5.2 The Price of Admission Has Already Been Paid for You
"Blessed are those who wash their robes, so that they will have the right to the tree of life, and may enter the city by the gates."  (Revelation 22:14)    

     Referring to the new Jerusalem, God says through his word that those who "may enter the city by the gates" are those "who wash their robes" (Rev. 22:14).  More specifically, they are ones who have washed their robes and "made them white in the blood of the Lamb" (Rev. 7:14).  It is the blood of Jesus Christ, the Lamb of God, that washes away our sins and cleanses us (John 1:29, 1 Peter 1:18-19, 1 John 1:7). 

By God's grace, Jesus Christ through his shed blood has paid the admission price for us to enter heaven and the new Jerusalem.  Accept God's gift of his Son, Jesus Christ, and the price he has paid for you (John 3:16, 1 Peter 1:18-19).  Then you will have God's gift of eternal life, and your soul will go to heaven to be with Jesus when your body dies.

     Prayer.  Thank you, Jesus, for dying for us that we may live forever with you.  Help us to live faithfully for you in this life on earth.  Then, thank you for receiving our souls into your presence in heaven. 

Related Lessons
"The Dead in Christ Shall Rise First" - 1 Thessalonians 4:16
"Paradise, Jesus, and the Penitent Thief" - Luke 23:42-43
"God's Offer of Salvation and Eternal Life" - John 3:16
"What Is Eternal Life?" - John 17:3
"What is the Tree of Life in the Bible?" - Revelation 2:7

References
1.  https://www.biblegateway.com/versions/New-American-Standard-Bible-NASB/
2.  Spiros Zodhiates, Th. D, "Life After Death," AMG Publishers, 2002, p. 19
3.  https://biblehub.com/hebrew/5315.htm
4.  Zodhiates, p. xiii-xiv
5.  Zodhiates, p. 4
6.  https://biblehub.com/commentaries/barnes/matthew/9.htm
Barnes Notes - Matthew 9:24
7.  https://biblehub.com/commentaries/barnes/luke/23.htm
Barnes' Notes - Luke 23:43
8.  https://biblehub.com/hebrew/7585.htm
9.  https://biblehub.com/hebrew/strongs_7585.htm
10.  https://biblehub.com/greek/86.htm
11.  https://biblehub.com/commentaries/pulpit/acts/7.htm
Pulpit Commentary - Acts 7:55
12.  https://biblehub.com/greek/1209.htm
13.  https://biblehub.com/hebrew/8064.htm
14.  Zodhiates, p. 41
15.  Zodhiates, p. 42
16.  Zodhiates, p. 40
17.  https://biblehub.com/commentaries/barnes/luke/10.htm
Barnes Notes - Luke 10:20
18.  https://biblehub.com/greek/2303.htm
19.  https://biblehub.com/greek/1067.htm
20.  https://biblehub.com/greek/2537.htm
21.  https://biblehub.com/interlinear/revelation/21-3.htm
22.  https://biblehub.com/commentaries/cambridge/revelation/21.htm
Cambridge Bible for Schools and College - Revelation 21:3

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