Understanding Death in Light of Christ

Death is a universal enemy that brings an immediate cessation to our life “under the sun” (Ecclesiastes 9:5-6).  Death separates us from this world, our family and friends and our work and career.  We enter the great unknown beyond.  Many live in fear and dread of death.   

Because of Jesus’ resurrection to never die again, and our faith in and dependence on Jesus, absolutely nothing, not even death, things to come, or invisible spiritual powers “can separate us from the love of God in Christ Jesus our Lord” (Romans 8:35-39).  This relationship with God removes the fear of death.  The psalmist David knew this:  “Even though I walk through the valley of the shadow of death, I will fear no evil, for you are with me; your rod and your staff, they comfort me” (Psalm 23:4).  The Lord promises his people, “I will never leave you nor forsake you” (Hebrews 13:5).   

For the Christian, death is simply moving from one degree of relationship with God to a higher degree of relationship with God.  Jesus promises,   

In my Father’s house are many rooms. If it were not so, would I have told you that I go to prepare a place for you? 3 And if I go and prepare a place for you, I will come again and will take you to myself, that where I am you may be also. (John 14:2-3)  

The Apostle Paul knew that death was to “gain more of Christ”: 

I should honor Christ with the utmost boldness by the way I live, whether that means I am to face death or to go on living. For living to me means simply “Christ”, and if I die I should merely gain more of him (Philippians 1:20-21, J. B. Phillips paraphrase).   

This is why the Bible says, “Precious in the sight of the Lord is the death of his saints” (Psalm 116:15).  This verse in the last book of the Bible assures us, “Blessed are the dead who die in the Lord from now on. ‘Blessed indeed,’ says the Spirit, ‘that they may rest from their labors, for their deeds follow them!’” (Revelation 14:13).