"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:
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).
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
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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 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).
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.
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
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.
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
Woman Praising God - Ephesians 2:4-5 - 123RF Photo - Used under license
"But God, being rich in mercy, because of the great love with which he loved us, even when we were dead in our trespasses, made us alive together with Christ—by grace you have been saved." (Ephesians 2:4-5)
God has made believers in Christ alive together with Christ. We identify with the resurrection of Christ, and God gives us a new quality of life -- eternal life.
Consider. If you are a believer in Christ, how would you describe to an inquisitive unbeliever or a new believer what it means to be "made alive together with Christ"?
1. Who is Paul writing to?
Paul begins his letter, "Paul, an apostle of Christ Jesus by the will of God, to the saints who are in Ephesus, and are faithful in Christ Jesus:" (Ephesians 1:1). The Greek word for saints is hagios (hag'-ee-os) which means different or holy. Christians are different from the world because we are like the Lord (Ref. 1). Clearly, Paul is writing to believers in Jesus Christ.
2. What was the former spiritual condition of the Ephesian believers before God made them alive together with Christ?
Paul writes, "And you were dead in the trespasses and sins in which you once walked, following the course of this world ..." (Ephesians 2:1-2). In the same way, without Christ, we were dead in our trespasses and sins. We inherited our spiritual "deadness" from Adam (Genesis 2:16-17, Genesis 3:6). Romans 5:12 says, "When Adam sinned, sin entered the world. Adam’s sin brought death, so death spread to everyone, for everyone sinned" (Romans 5:12 NLT).
Trespasses are a lapse or deviation from the truth, a slip-up, or an error that can be unintentional or willful (Ref. 2). Sins are thoughts, words, or deeds where we miss the mark or target (Ref. 3). 3. Even when we were dead in our trespasses and sins, before we were in Christ, God loved us.
God's divine attributes of mercy and love moved God to plan for and provide for our salvation (Ephesians 1:3-5, Ephesians 2:4-5, Colossians 2:13-14). Romans 5:8 tells us, "But God shows his love for us in that while we were still sinners, Christ died for us." Jesus said about himself, "For God so loved the world, that he gave his only Son, that whoever believes in him should not perish but have eternal life. For God did not send his Son into the world to condemn the world, but in order that the world might be saved through him" (John 3:16-17).
4. Together with Christ, God has made us alive.
Ephesians 2:5 tells us (believers) that God has made us alive together with Christ. In the Greek, the verb does not just say "made alive." It says, "made alive together with" (Ref. 4). Strong's Exhaustive Concordance defines this verb, suzóopoieó (sood-zo-op-oy-eh'-o), as "to reanimate conjointly with, (figuratively) -- quicken together with." As believers in Christ, we identify with and are co-joined with Christ in his resurrection. Paul writes, "If you confess with your mouth that Jesus is Lord and believe in your heart that God raised him from the dead, you will be saved" (Romans 10:9).
5. When God makes us alive together with Christ, God gives us a new quality of life -- eternal life.
When we believe in Jesus Christ and in his resurrection, God makes us alive together with Christ. God gives us a new quality of life -- eternal life (Romans 6:23). Eternal life begins for the believer when they put their faith and trust in Christ, and continues after their physical death (John 11:25-26, Ref. 6).
Being made alive in Christ results in a new quality of life. The Greek word for eternal in eternal life is aiónios, which means perpetual, unending, age-long (Strong's Concordance, Ref. 5, Ref. 6). Aiónios includes the character of that which lasts for an age, as contrasted with that which is brief and fleeting (Ref. 5, Ref. 6). "Aiónios does not focus on the future per se, but rather on the quality of the age it relates to. People who are alive spiritually in Christ live in eternal life right now, experiencing this quality of God's life now as a present possession" (Helps Word-studies, Ref. 5, Ref. 6).
Apply. If you already are a believer in Jesus Christ, praise God that God has made you spiritually alive together with Christ. Thank God for the quality of new life that he has given you in Christ. If you are not yet a believer in Jesus Christ, put your faith and trust in him today. He will forgive your trespasses and sins. He will make you spiritually alive together with himself, and he will give you a new quality of life -- eternal life.
Related Lessons
"What is Eternal Life?" (John 17:3) "I Am the Resurrection and the Life" (John 11:25-26) "Jesus Christ is the Life - John 14:6" "Jesus is the Way to Heaven" (John 14:6)
References
1. https://biblehub.com/greek/40.htm 2. https://biblehub.com/greek/3900.htm 3. https://biblehub.com/greek/266.htm 4. https://biblehub.com/greek/4806.htm 5. https://biblehub.com/greek/166.htm 6. https://www.scriptureway.com/home/what-is-eternal-life
Image: GoodSalt.com - used under license
The Penitent Thief Speaks to Jesus from the Cross
"And he was saying, 'Jesus, remember me when You come into Your kingdom!' And He said to him, 'Truly I say to you, today you will be with Me in Paradise.'" (Luke 23:42-43)
Consider. For the person who puts their faith in Jesus, upon the death of their body, their soul goes immediately to be with Jesus in Paradise.
Two thieves were crucified with Jesus that day - one on the right and the other on the left (Luke 23:33). Both thieves were next to the One who could save them. Yet, one thief hurled abuse (literally, blasphemed) at Jesus (Luke 23:39, Ref. 1). The other, penitent thief recognized that he himself was guilty yet Jesus was innocent. The penitent thief said, "Jesus, remember me when You come into Your kingdom!" (Luke 23:40-42). To this thief, the penitent thief, Jesus said, "Truly I say to you, today you will be with Me in Paradise" (Luke 23:43).
Jesus' promise to the penitent thief has brought hope to millions of believers over the centuries since Jesus' death and resurrection. Jesus' promise to the penitent thief brings believers hope today as we consider the destination of our souls upon our death and the destination of the souls of our loved ones.
In the next two sections, I would like to focus on two important points, or "take aways" from Jesus' promise to the penitent thief.
Paradise is Where Believers Will Be with Jesus after Death
Jesus could have told the penitent thief, "Today you will be in Paradise." But Jesus did not say that. Jesus said, "Today you will be with Me in Paradise" (Luke 23:43, underline added).
Paradise in Greek is paradeisos (par-ad'-i-sos), which is "an ancient Persian word meaning 'enclosure, garden, park'" (Ref. 2). Paradise is mentioned in the New Testament only three times - in Luke 23:43, 2 Corinthians 12:4, and Revelation 2:7. The Apostle Paul expressed his desire (his passionate longing) to be with Jesus after his death when he wrote, "But if I am to live on in the flesh, this will mean fruitful labor for me; and I do not know which to choose. But I am hard-pressed from both directions, having the desire to depart and be with Christ, for that is very much better" (Philippians 1:22-23, Ref. 3). Likewise, the early Christians were encouraged, that when they were absent from their body, they would be at home with the Lord (2 Corinthians 5:8, Ref. 4). Note that Jesus' promise to the penitent thief, "Today you will be with Me in Paradise," did not apply to the unrepentant thief who verbally abused Jesus and did not believe in him. Scripture teaches that the souls of the unrighteous go to the place of torment Jesus described in Luke 16:22-26 . There they await judgment and the second death (Revelation 20:11-15). It is far better to believe in Jesus during our earthly lifetime and to have his assurance that upon the death of our body our soul will be in Paradise with him. The Souls of Believers Immediately Enter Paradise to be with Jesus after Death
Jesus told the penitent 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. Jesus spoke to the penitent thief in language that he would understand. Even though their dead bodies would be on the cross or in the grave (Luke 23:50-53), the souls of the Savior and the penitent thief would be alive and in Paradise together that day (Ref. 5).
Another biblical example illustrates a believer's expectation of going immediately to be Jesus upon his death. At the time of his death from stoning, Stephen the martyr said, "Lord Jesus, receive my spirit!" Then he died (Acts 7:57-60).
Apply. Let the words of Jesus to the penitent thief comfort you as you consider the destination of your soul upon your death. "Truly I say to you, today you will be with Me in Paradise" (Luke 23:43).
Put your faith and trust in Jesus who is the Messiah, the Christ, the Son of God. You will receive God's gracious gift of eternal life (Romans 6:23), and upon the death of your body, your soul will go to Paradise to be with Jesus.
Related Lesson
"What is Eternal Life?" (John 17:3) "What is the Tree of Life in the Bible?" (Genesis 2:9, Revelation 2:7) "Where Does Your Soul Go When You Die?" - Genesis 35:18
Updated 3 July 2024
Photo source: FreeBibleImages.org
Jesus says to Martha, "I am the resurrection and the life; he who believes in Me shall live even if he dies" (John 11:25)
"Jesus said to her, 'I am the resurrection and the life; he 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)
Consider. Do you believe in Jesus, and do you believe that you will live in him even after your physical death?
This lesson discusses Job's question, "If a man dies, will he live again?," (Job 14:14), and Jesus' answer, "I am the resurrection and the life; he who believes in Me will live even if he dies" (John 11:25).
The scriptures quoted in this lesson are from the New American Standard Bible, 1995 version, unless noted otherwise (Ref. 1).
Job's Question - "If a man dies, will he live again?"
Job asked, "If a man dies, will he live again? All the days of my struggle I will wait until my change comes" (Job 14:14). Job looked forward to a future time when he would be changed and revived from death. The Hebrew word for change in Job 14:14 is chaliphah (pronounced as khal-ee-faw'). Chaliphah means a change of garments (Genesis 45:21-22) as well as revival after death (Job 14:14, Ref. 2).
Job also believed that in a future time in the flesh he would see God. "As for me, I know that my Redeemer lives, and at the last He will take His stand on the earth. Even after my skin is destroyed, Yet from my flesh I shall see God" (Job 19:25-26). Jesus' Answer - "I Am the Resurrection and the Life"
John, the disciple of Jesus, wrote in John 11:1-5 about Jesus receiving news his friend Lazarus was sick. Jesus waited two more days (John 11:6), and then he took his disciples to Bethany, the village of Mary, Martha, and Lazarus (John 11:1). Jesus knew before he traveled to Bethany that Lazarus already was dead (John 11:14).
When Jesus came to Bethany, Martha came out to meet him (John 11:20). Martha said to Jesus, "Lord, if You had been here, my brother would not have died" (John 11:21). Jesus assured her, "Your brother will rise again" (John 11:23). Martha replied to Jesus, "I know that he will rise again in the resurrection on the last day" (John 11:24). The Greek word for resurrection in John 11:24-25 is anastasis (pronounced as an-as'-tas-is), which means standing up again, referring to physical resurrection of the body (Ref. 3). Note that Martha believed in a resurrection - as a future event. Believe in Jesus - Receive Eternal Life
Jesus then turned his discussion with Martha to the present. Jesus told Martha, and these words assure us today -- "I am the resurrection and the life; he 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).
Job's question was, "If a man dies, will he live again?" (Job 14:14). Jesus answered Job's question in the affirmative (yes) and with a promise. Jesus' promise is that when you believe in (trust in, have faith in) him you will live even after your physical death (Ref. 4). Jesus is referring to the eternal life of our soul and spirit which begins during this earthly life when we believe in him, and that eternal life continues with Jesus after our physical death ("What is Eternal Life"- Ref. 5).
Apply. Jesus said to Martha, "I am the resurrection and the life; he who believes in Me will live even if he dies, and everyone who lives and believes in Me will never die" (John 11:25-26). Then Jesus asked Martha, "Do you believe this?" ... (pause) Do you believe this?
Related Lessons and Resources
"What is Eternal Life?" (John 17:3) "Bible Verses About Eternal Life" "Made Alive Together with Christ - A New Quality of Life" (Ephesians 2:45) "Paradise, Jesus, and the Penitent Thief" (Luke 23:42-43)
Sun and Clouds - Pixabay Stock Photo - with John 17:3 Added
"This is eternal life, that they may know You, the only true God, and Jesus Christ whom You have sent." (John 17:3)
"Life eternal, then, is not mere conscious and unending existence, but a life of acquaintance with God in Christ." (Jamieson-Fausset-Brown Bible Commentary, Ref. 1)
This lesson describes the biblical definition of eternal life. This lesson primarily uses the Scriptures about eternal life in the Gospel of John. In the next lesson in the series, we will focus on who receives eternal life and how to receive eternal life.
Consider. Think for a moment. How would you define eternal life? How would you explain eternal life to an inquisitive unbeliever, or to a new Christian? For believers in Christ, eternal life certainly includes living with God after our physical death (John 11:25-26). However, the Bible has much more to say about the characteristics of eternal life.
Eternal life is a free gift of God to believers in Jesus Christ.
The Apostle Paul states, "For the wages of sin is death, but the free gift of God is eternal life in Christ Jesus our Lord" (Romans 6:23). In this verse, the Greek word for gift is charisma. Charisma means a gift of grace, an undeserved favor (Ref. 2). Thus, eternal life is not something we deserve or earn. Eternal life is an undeserved gift of God's grace and favor. "In spite of your sanctification as Christians, still you will not have earned eternal life; it is the gift of God’s grace" (Ref. 3).
Jesus said, "My sheep hear My voice, and I know them, and they follow Me; and I give eternal life to them, and they will never perish; and no one will snatch them out of My hand" (John 10:27-28). For the believer, eternal life begins in the present, the here and now.
Jesus described eternal life in the present tense. Thus, eternal life is not just in the future, but is a present possession of the believer which continues into the future.
John 3:36 - "He who believes in the Son has eternal life; but he who does not obey the Son will not see life, but the wrath of God abides on him." John 5:24 - "Truly, truly, I say to you, he 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 6:47 - "Truly, truly, I say to you, he who believes has eternal life." In John 5:24, note the importance of hearing Jesus' words. Jesus said, "He who hears My word, and believes Him who sent Me, has eternal life." For believers in Christ, eternal life continues with God after our physical death.
Jesus said to Martha, "I am the resurrection and the life; he 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).
To the thief on the cross who asked Jesus to remember him, Jesus said, "Truly I say to you, today you shall be with Me in Paradise" (Luke 23:42-43). Jesus said to his disciples, "In My Father’s house are many dwelling places; if it were not so, I would have told you; for I go to prepare a place for you. If I go and prepare a place for you, I will come again and receive you to Myself, that where I am, there you may be also" (John 14:2-3). Jesus defined eternal life as knowing God experientially.
"Jesus spoke these things; and lifting up His eyes to heaven, He said, 'Father, the hour has come; glorify Your Son, that the Son may glorify You, even as You gave Him authority over all flesh, that to all whom You have given Him, He may give eternal life. This is eternal life, that they may know You, the only true God, and Jesus Christ whom You have sent" (John 17:1-3).
In John 17:3, the Greek word for know is ginóskó. Ginóskó means to know, especially through personal experience (first-hand acquaintance) (HELPS Word-studies, Ref. 4). Knowing God experientially requires knowing Jesus who is the truth (John 14:6), as well as knowing and living the Word of God on a daily and life-long basis. "This life eternal, then, is not mere conscious and unending existence, but a life of acquaintance with God in Christ" (Ref. 1). Eternal life is a quality of life, not just the duration of life.
The Greek word for eternal is aiónios, which means perpetual, unending, age-long (Strong's Concordance, Ref. 5). Aiónios includes the character of that which lasts for an age, as contrasted with that which is brief and fleeting (Ref. 5). "Aiónios does not focus on the future per se, but rather on the quality of the age it relates to. Thus, believers live in eternal life right now, experiencing this quality of God's life now as a present possession" (Helps Word-studies, Ref. 5).
Summary. Eternal life is a free gift of God to those who believe in Jesus Christ. Eternal life begins when we put our faith in Jesus. As believers in Christ, eternal life continues with God after our physical death. Eternal life is the quality of life that results when we know Jesus Christ by experience, on a first-hand basis.
Apply. Think for a moment. In your own words, how would you describe eternal life? Write down your description of eternal life in a few sentences. What Scripture verse would be your key reference?
Related Lessons
"Paradise, Jesus, and the Penitent Thief" (Luke 23:42-43) "What is the Tree of Life in the Bible?" (Genesis 2:9, Revelation 2:7) "Made Alive Together with Christ - A New Quality of Life" (Ephesians 2:4-5) "Jesus is the Resurrection and the Life (Job's Question, Jesus' Answer)" (Job 14:14, John 11:25-26) "Where Does Your Soul Go When You Die?" - Genesis 35:18 |
Daily Bible Verse
(Published on my Bluesky account) AuthorMr. Whitney V. Myers. Christian. For more information, please visit the Author Page. Posting ScheduleI plan to provide new postings about once a month. Planned Topics(subject to change) Recent Posts(most recent three months) Popular Posts(top 10) Categories
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