WHAT HAPPENS WHEN A CHRISTIAN DIES
READ 1 Thessalonians 4:13-18
In this passage, Paul seeks to encourage the Thessalonian believers in their view of death.
Many of these new believers had come from a completely pagan background that viewed death with an utter lack of hope.
One Ancient Historian stated: ''Hope is for the living - the dead are without hope.'' Nothing, however, could be further from the truth for a believer who dies in the Lord.
Paul wants us to understand that sound theology has a way of taking a burden off our minds. He addresses the issues and encourages us to take a proper view of death and the return of Christ.
1. Notice that Hope Is Not Lost For Those Who Die in Christ – vs. 13.
Death is not the end; it's the beginning of our reward. Death is not our destination; it's a doorway to eternity. Paul wrote this section of the book to minister to their grief and alleviate confusion.
Paul wants us to have this proper view of death; a sound theology that gives us the information we desire and the comfort we need. “…that ye sorrow not, even as others which have no hope.”
2. Notice that Heaven is Real – vs. 13-18.
When a Christian dies he or she immediately goes to heaven and lives in the presence of Jesus.
Verse 14 states, “For if we believe that Jesus died and rose again, even so them also which sleep in Jesus will God bring with Him.” It is apparent that if a believer dies and he is “in Jesus” then he is with Jesus. Also, it would be impossible for God to bring a believer with Him if he were not already present with Him.
Verse 17 states, “Then we which are alive and remain shall be caught up together with them in the clouds, to meet the Lord in the air: and so shall we ever be with the Lord.” Believers who are alive at the rapture of the church are caught up and they too, shall forever be with the Lord.
Paul is specifically dealing with this issue to:
A. Overcome confusion – vs. 13
B. Establish confidence – vs. 14-17
C. Instill Comfort – vs. 18
Will you allow God to comfort you concerning your loved ones who have died in Christ? “Wherefore comfort one another with these words.”
Your Friend and HIS,
Pastor Abbott
MEDITATIONS
1. How does this passage help you understand what happens when a believer dies?
2. What is one thing concerning death that most people are confused about?
3. Are you confident that when a believer dies, he or she is immediately in heaven living in the presence of God? Explain
4. How does this passage help instill comfort in your heart in relation to loved ones who have died in Jesus?