How can mortal man penetrate beyond the grave and find assurance and peace for his own heart? From Old Testament days till the present, mankind has tried to solve the riddle of death and the afterlife.
Philosophers have wrestled with the question of immortality. Spiritists have tried to communicate with those who have gone beyond.
In our modem world, scientists have investigated the experiences of people who claim to have died and returned to life again. They have also studied occult phenomena, hoping to find a clue to the mystery of life after death.
Christians need not wonder about death or life after death, for we have a revelation from God in His Word. Why substitute human speculation for divine revelation?
We must keep in mind that God’s revelation was gradual and progressive, and that it climaxed in the coming of Christ “who abolished death, and brought life and immortality to light through the Gospel” (2 Timothy 1:10, NASB).
We look to Christ and the New Testament for the complete revelation concerning death. The authority of God’s Word gives us the assurance and comfort we need.
Believe God’s Word: “We shall not all sleep, but we shall all be changed … and the dead shall be raised incorruptible…. Then shall be brought to pass the saying that is written, ‘Death is swallowed up in victory’” (1 Corinthians 15:51-54).
For further evidence: John 5:24-29; 11:21-27; 1 Corinthians 15:19-22.
Action assignment: See if you can find in your hymnal “I Know That My Redeemer Lives” by Samuel Medley. If you can sing it, sing it; otherwise read it, and thank God for the thoughts it expresses.
WARREN W. WIERSBE
www.backtothebible.in