Existence between one's death and the universal resurrection in some forms of Christian eschatology
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God's Eternal Judgment starts after death and it's vital we are ready for it. He will judge us all individually & seal our eternal destiny, based on our response to Him in this life. We go through 3 Phases of Existence. *(1) THIS LIFE, where our inner man lives in a mortal body - a temporary state, for when we die our spirit leaves our body. *(2) The INTERMEDIATE STATE, when we continue to exist as a disembodied spirit. This is also temporary, ending with our resurrection. *(3) The ETERNAL STATE starts at our resurrection, when our spirit puts on an immortal body. All men are ultimately divided into 2 groups, with 2 opposite eternal destinies, either everlasting glory in God's Presence, or everlasting separation from God in Hell. This is decided at death, when a permanent separation between the saved & unsaved takes place –Stage 1 of man's Eternal Judgment. The condition of each soul at death determines its destiny for eternity (Ecc 11:3). Only in this life do you have the chance to get right with God. After you die, your eternity is fixed forever (Rev 22:11). A man either dies under condemnation or in grace. Man is born in a state of sin & guilt before God (John 3:17-18, Eph 2:1-3). Jesus is our only hope of salvation (Acts 4:12). We have a choice to accept or reject Christ & His salvation. Those in Christ will be with Him forever in Heaven. But those who reject Him will die in their sins & be lost forever in Hell (John 8:24). So, Stage 1 of man's Eternal Judgment happens right after death (Heb 9:27). When his spirit leaves his body, he faces a private judicial sentencing from God. If he dies in his sins, (1) he is found guilty and sent to a place of punishment in Hades. Then later, at his resurrection, (2) he'll stand before God a 2nd time for final sentencing at the Great White Throne & dismissal into the Lake of Fire, the degree of his punishment determined by the degree of his rebellion (Rev 20:11-15). But, Christ made another eternal destiny possible. Those who trust in Him don't face damnation when they die, for Jesus took it for us. They'll be found to be righteous in Him & go to Heaven. So, at death, God sends a man to one of 2 locations - a place of punishment or a place of blessing (Paradise). At this point his eternal destiny is fixed. When God reunites man's spirit with his body in the resurrection, we'll stand before God for the 2nd & final stage of Eternal Judgment, when we'll be released into our final Eternal State, either in glory or in the Lake of Fire. He who dies in his sins will be sent to a place of initial punishment in Hades, to await his resurrection to his final Eternal Judgment. But he who dies in the Lord has passed from death to life (John 5:24-25, Rom 8:1). So, when we die, we'll be released to go to Paradise to await our resurrection, when we'll stand before Christ's Judgment Seat, to receive our eternal rewards and be released into our eternal state, with a corresponding measure of glory. God's Eternal Judgment operates like our court-system: in 2 Stages. Stage 1 at death determines guilt or innocence. At death, God separates mankind into 2 groups. Saved spirits go to Paradise, but the wicked go down to a place of punishment in Hades, a holding cell, where they're kept until their final judgment. Then Stage 2 after his resurrection, decides his sentencing (degree of punishment or reward), based on his works. (1) The righteous will stand before the Judgment Seat of Christ to be judged to determine the degree of their eternal rewards of glory, according to their works, and then be released into their eternal state of glory. (2) When the unsaved are resurrected at the end of time, they'll stand before the Great White Throne for final sentencing & dismissal into their eternal state & place of punishment, the Lake of Fire (Rev 20). They'll be judged according to their works, to determine the degree of their everlasting punishment. We have 2 appointments with God we can't miss, which determine our eternal future. (1) After our death, to determine if we go up to Heaven or down to Hades. (2) After our resurrection, to determine the degree of our eternal reward or punishment. Before Jesus' resurrection, the departed spirits of all men went down to an invisible realm under the earth (SHEOL or HADES), a holding cell, where all men awaited their final judgment. The true story of the rich man& Lazarus (Luke 16:19-31) describes life after death in Hades, for the saved & lost, before Christ's resurrection. It proves men's souls are conscious after death. All went down to HADES, but to different compartments. The saved went to PARADISE (Luke 23;43) or ABRAHAM'S BOSOM, but the wicked to TORMENTS, a place of punishment. By His resurrection Jesus overcame the power of Hades for His Church (Matt 16:18), and when we trust in Him our spirits are born again & made perfect by our union with the resurrected Christ (1Pet 1:3), so at death our spirits no longer go down to Hades, but up to Heaven.
God's Eternal Judgment starts after death and it's vital we are ready for it. He will judge us all individually & seal our eternal destiny, based on our response to Him in this life. We go through 3 Phases of Existence. *(1) THIS LIFE, where our inner man lives in a mortal body - a temporary state, for when we die our spirit leaves our body. *(2) The INTERMEDIATE STATE, when we continue to exist as a disembodied spirit. This is also temporary, ending with our resurrection. *(3) The ETERNAL STATE starts at our resurrection, when our spirit puts on an immortal body. All men are ultimately divided into 2 groups, with 2 opposite eternal destinies, either everlasting glory in God's Presence, or everlasting separation from God in Hell. This is decided at death, when a permanent separation between the saved & unsaved takes place –Stage 1 of man's Eternal Judgment. The condition of each soul at death determines its destiny for eternity (Ecc 11:3). Only in this life do you have the chance to get right with God. After you die, your eternity is fixed forever (Rev 22:11). A man either dies under condemnation or in grace. Man is born in a state of sin & guilt before God (John 3:17-18, Eph 2:1-3). Jesus is our only hope of salvation (Acts 4:12). We have a choice to accept or reject Christ & His salvation. Those in Christ will be with Him forever in Heaven. But those who reject Him will die in their sins & be lost forever in Hell (John 8:24). So, Stage 1 of man's Eternal Judgment happens right after death (Heb 9:27). When his spirit leaves his body, he faces a private judicial sentencing from God. If he dies in his sins, (1) he is found guilty and sent to a place of punishment in Hades. Then later, at his resurrection, (2) he'll stand before God a 2nd time for final sentencing at the Great White Throne & dismissal into the Lake of Fire, the degree of his punishment determined by the degree of his rebellion (Rev 20:11-15). But, Christ made another eternal destiny possible. Those who trust in Him don't face damnation when they die, for Jesus took it for us. They'll be found to be righteous in Him & go to Heaven. So, at death, God sends a man to one of 2 locations - a place of punishment or a place of blessing (Paradise). At this point his eternal destiny is fixed. When God reunites man's spirit with his body in the resurrection, we'll stand before God for the 2nd & final stage of Eternal Judgment, when we'll be released into our final Eternal State, either in glory or in the Lake of Fire. He who dies in his sins will be sent to a place of initial punishment in Hades, to await his resurrection to his final Eternal Judgment. But he who dies in the Lord has passed from death to life (John 5:24-25, Rom 8:1). So, when we die, we'll be released to go to Paradise to await our resurrection, when we'll stand before Christ's Judgment Seat, to receive our eternal rewards and be released into our eternal state, with a corresponding measure of glory. God's Eternal Judgment operates like our court-system: in 2 Stages. Stage 1 at death determines guilt or innocence. At death, God separates mankind into 2 groups. Saved spirits go to Paradise, but the wicked go down to a place of punishment in Hades, a holding cell, where they're kept until their final judgment. Then Stage 2 after his resurrection, decides his sentencing (degree of punishment or reward), based on his works. (1) The righteous will stand before the Judgment Seat of Christ to be judged to determine the degree of their eternal rewards of glory, according to their works, and then be released into their eternal state of glory. (2) When the unsaved are resurrected at the end of time, they'll stand before the Great White Throne for final sentencing & dismissal into their eternal state & place of punishment, the Lake of Fire (Rev 20). They'll be judged according to their works, to determine the degree of their everlasting punishment. We have 2 appointments with God we can't miss, which determine our eternal future. (1) After our death, to determine if we go up to Heaven or down to Hades. (2) After our resurrection, to determine the degree of our eternal reward or punishment. Before Jesus' resurrection, the departed spirits of all men went down to an invisible realm under the earth (SHEOL or HADES), a holding cell, where all men awaited their final judgment. The true story of the rich man& Lazarus (Luke 16:19-31) describes life after death in Hades, for the saved & lost, before Christ's resurrection. It proves men's souls are conscious after death. All went down to HADES, but to different compartments. The saved went to PARADISE (Luke 23;43) or ABRAHAM'S BOSOM, but the wicked to TORMENTS, a place of punishment. By His resurrection Jesus overcame the power of Hades for His Church (Matt 16:18), and when we trust in Him our spirits are born again & made perfect by our union with the resurrected Christ (1Pet 1:3), so at death our spirits no longer go down to Hades, but up to Heaven.
Notes - https://www.generationword.com/notes/Glorification_and_the_Intermediate_State_after_Death.pdf
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This is The Briefing, a daily analysis of news and events from a Christian worldview.On today's edition of The Briefing, Dr. Mohler discusses current Democratic messaging and what it's missing, A.I. bots hijacking political polling, who's responsible for the death of Noella Casillo, the intermediate state, if the Lord's supper is a means of grace, if a man abandoned by his wife is disqualified from pastoral ministry, and the revival of classical Christian education.Part I (00:13 – 08:14)Gov. Newsom, Rahm Immanuel, and Democratic Messaging: Newsom and Immanuel Want ‘Sane' Policies on Bathrooms and Locker Rooms, But Their Pragmatism Lacks Something BigFor Democrats, the Era of the Girl Dad and Male Ally Is Over by The New York Times (Matthew Schmitz)Part II (08:14 – 11:07)A.I. Bots are Hijacking Political Polling: Axios Reports That Many Polling Subjects are Not Even HumanThis Is What Will Ruin Public Opinion Polling for Good by The New York Times (Leif Weatherby and Benjamin Recht)Part III (11:07 – 13:21)Who is Responsible for the Death of Noella Castillo? — Dr. Mohler Responds to Letters From Listeners of The BriefingPart IV (13:21 – 17:38)What Do We Know About the Intermediate State? — Dr. Mohler Responds to Letters From Listeners of The BriefingPart V (17:38 – 20:29)Is the Lord's Supper a Means of Grace? — Dr. Mohler Responds to Letters From Listeners of The BriefingPart VI (20:29 – 23:44)Is It Plausible that a Man Whose Spouse was an Unrepentant Adulterer or Abandoned the Marriage Could be an Elder or Pastor? — Dr. Mohler Responds to Letters From Listeners of The BriefingPart VII (23:44 – 27:22)What About the Revival of Classical Christian Education? Are There Cautions Classical Christian Schools Should Keep in Mind as It Grows? — Dr. Mohler Responds to Letters From Listeners of The BriefingSign up to receive The Briefing in your inbox every weekday morning.Follow Dr. Mohler:X | Instagram | Facebook | YouTubeFor more information on The Southern Baptist Theological Seminary, go to sbts.edu.For more information on Boyce College, just go to BoyceCollege.com.To write Dr. Mohler or submit a question for The Mailbox, go here.
In Final Things Lesson 5, we dive deep into the seven dispensations of history, focusing on the Church Age, Pentecost, the Rapture, and the Intermediate State.For the study resources and manuscript go to messiahbible.org
From the 2026 EFCA Theology Conference Breakouts, Dr. Michael Wittmer—professor of systematic and historical theology at Cornerstone Theological Seminary—leads a session on "Physical Death and the Intermediate State: Holistic Dualism, Non-Reductive Physicalism, Port-Mortem Opportunity and Purgatory."
A verse-by-verse Bible study class. This study covers Hebrews 9:27-28. These studies focus on what the Bible says, and what it means. If you want to follow along, a written transcription of the study can be found here: https://www.mediafire.com/file_premium/rtr49kd22638e8u/Hebrews_09_27-28.pdf/fileThe visual slides of this study can be found here: https://www.mediafire.com/file_premium/jm7rnqhd84k21ct/Hebrews_09_27-28_SLIDES.pdf/fileTopics: Hebrews 9:27-28 and the ultimate destiny of humanity -- The biblical timeline of end-time events -- The return of Christ to bring salvation to those waiting -- The promise of a bodily resurrection for all believers -- Comparison of major theological views: Intermediate State, Purgatory, and Soul Sleep -- The impact of Einstein's theory of relativity on the understanding of time and the afterlife -- Biblical passages that describe those who are dead as "asleep" -- The significance of Christ's resurrection as the "firstfruits" or model for our own -- Reconciling Jesus' promise to the thief on the cross with the concept of a future resurrection -- The necessity of a body for maintaining full human identity -- Arguments against the "intermediate state" theory -- The biblical depiction of a single, universal Judgment Day -- The transformation of earthly bodies into glorified, imperishable bodies -- The beauty of the entire church being raised from the dead together at once..For more Bible studies, visit ScriptureStudies.com
When he dies, the believer enjoys many blessings during the intermediate state because of his union with the Lord Jesus Christ.
hell, judgment, salvation, repent, Sheol, Hades, Intermediate State
Rev. Mark Miller continues through 1 Corinthians with a message on the burial of Christ from 1 Cor 15:3.
Welcome to the ARCC podcast where I have 15-20 minutes to catch you up on the mission, vision, and conviction of ARCC and how and why any of that matters to the gospel of the Lord Jesus Christ.
Satyaraja offers this practical exploration of some themes from the Bardo Thodol, or the Great Liberation through Hearing in the Intermediate State. The talk was given at Padmaloka Retreat Centre, 2022. ••• Help us keep FBA Podcasts free for everyone! Donate now: https://freebuddhistaudio.com/donate Subscribe to our Free Buddhist Audio podcast: A full, curated, quality Dharma talk, every week. Apple Podcasts: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/dharmabytes-from-free-buddhist-audio/id416832097 Spotify: https://open.spotify.com/show/4UHPDj01UH6ptj8FObwBfB YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@FreeBuddhistAudio1967
Series: The End Times Title: The Intermediate State The post Equipping Hour | The Intermediate State first appeared on Redeemer Bible Church.
Brian and Ryan have a conversation about a question many people wrestle with: what happens after we die? They acknowledge that it's a heavy topic, especially for those grieving loved ones, and discuss common ideas about the afterlife—like the belief that the dead watch over us or reunite with family in another realm. While these ideas can be comforting, they question whether they align with what the Bible actually says. Looking at scripture, they point out that the New Testament often describes death as “sleep,” suggesting a temporary state rather than a permanent end. They highlight the emphasis on resurrection, explaining that, for believers, death isn't the final stop but a step toward being raised and glorified in God's presence.LinksSupport Ryan and Brian's Bible BistroPatreon: https://www.patreon.com/thebiblebistroFacebook: https://www.facebook.com/thebiblebistroInstagram: https://www.instagram.com/thebiblebistro/Apple Podcasts: https://apple.co/3H7qRmgSpotify: https://spoti.fi/3I7Gw6AWebsite: https://www.thebiblebistro.comRyan and Brian's Bible Bistro is a podcast all about the Bible, theology, and all things related to the Christian faith.
What happens between death and the final resurrection, the so-called “intermediate state”? In this sermon on “The Intermediate State,” Dr. Martyn Lloyd-Jones presents and explains several views on the intermediate state. Some propose that souls sleep until Jesus comes again; some argue that the dead reside in Abraham's bosom or a place of suffering until the final judgment; others argue that only those who have eternal life with God will even exist eternally, a view called conditional mortality. But what does the Bible say? Dr. Lloyd-Jones presents a biblical case for why both believers and unbelievers will live eternally, either with God or apart from Him forever in suffering. Many people are troubled by this thought—how could a loving God cause and allow people to suffer forever? “Surely,” they say, “those who die will have another chance to be saved after they die.” Dr. Lloyd-Jones answers these questions firmly but biblically, reminding the listener that one must not allow one's own idea of justice and love to influence how they look at and interpret Scripture. One's eternal destiny is decided by their choice to repent or rebel in this life.
What happens between death and the final resurrection, the so-called “intermediate state”? In this sermon on “The Intermediate State,” Dr. Martyn Lloyd-Jones presents and explains several views on the intermediate state. Some propose that souls sleep until Jesus comes again; some argue that the dead reside in Abraham's bosom or a place of suffering until the final judgment; others argue that only those who have eternal life with God will even exist eternally, a view called conditional mortality. But what does the Bible say? Dr. Lloyd-Jones presents a biblical case for why both believers and unbelievers will live eternally, either with God or apart from Him forever in suffering. Many people are troubled by this thought—how could a loving God cause and allow people to suffer forever? “Surely,” they say, “those who die will have another chance to be saved after they die.” Dr. Lloyd-Jones answers these questions firmly but biblically, reminding the listener that one must not allow one's own idea of justice and love to influence how they look at and interpret Scripture. One's eternal destiny is decided by their choice to repent or rebel in this life. To support this ministry financially, visit: https://www.oneplace.com/donate/603/29
Where do our souls go after we die? Michael Horton, Justin Holcomb, Walter Strickland, and Bob Hiller explore how theological and confessional perspectives on sin, judgment, and resurrection help us confront the fear of mortality—offering believers unshakable hope. CHECK OUT THIS MONTH'S OFFERS: Become a Partner to support the work of White Horse Inn as we apply the riches of the Reformation to the modern church. For more information, visit us at whitehorseinn.org or email us at info@whitehorseinn.org.
Jesus' parable of the rich man and Lazarus offers a vivid glimpse into life after death. Dr. John Neufeld unpacks this story from Luke 16:19–31, exploring the intermediate state and the eternal hope found in Christ. Learn how this passage challenges us to reflect on our relationship with God and the life to come.The Minute You Die: As death comes to all, not only is it a common fear, but a common question. We all are anxious to know what happens after death. While God does not answer every curiosity, the Bible offers enough evidence to grant us hope, courage and comfort. Dr. John reminds us that despite having limited information, the Bible points us to a conscious blessed state, immediately after death, for every believer. Our confidence rests upon the person and work of Jesus Christ. He is Victor over death.
What happens to believers when they die? Dr. John Neufeld begins an in-depth discussion on the "intermediate state"—the period between physical death and the final resurrection. Drawing from John 5:24, this message confronts common misconceptions, such as purgatory, and offers clarity on the biblical promise of eternal life. Explore the profound hope found in Christ's assurance that those who trust in Him pass from death into life, resting securely in His presence.The Minute You Die: As death comes to all, not only is it a common fear, but a common question. We all are anxious to know what happens after death. While God does not answer every curiosity, the Bible offers enough evidence to grant us hope, courage and comfort. Dr. John reminds us that despite having limited information, the Bible points us to a conscious blessed state, immediately after death, for every believer. Our confidence rests upon the person and work of Jesus Christ. He is Victor over death.
This week on Theology Simply Profound, Rob and Bob discuss Louis Berkhof's little book, Summary of Christian Doctrine. On today's episode, we come to the last section of the Summary, “The Doctrine of the Last Things.” Rob and Bob begin to a discuss chapter XXVIII, “Physical Death and the Intermediate State.” What is physical death? Why is there death? What is death for believers? Participants: Rob McKenzie
This week on Theology Simply Profound, Rob and Bob discuss Louis Berkhof's little book, Summary of Christian Doctrine. On today's episode, we come to the last section of the Summary, "The Doctrine of the Last Things." Rob and Bob begin to a discuss chapter XXVIII, “Physical Death and the Intermediate State.” What is physical death? Why is there death? What is death for believers?
This week on Theology Simply Profound, Rob and Bob discuss Louis Berkhof's little book, Summary of Christian Doctrine. On today's episode, we come to the last section of the Summary, “The Doctrine of […]
This episode comes with an interesting lineup of topics: Why did Jesus allow Lazarus to die? What does the Bible say about death and the intermediate state? Do Christians who have died know what's happening on earth? Do they experience emotion, such as regret? Why would God allow Job to suffer? Did God offer Job up as a pawn or is something else going on? + + + Check out Matt's newest book: The End of the World As You Know It: (link here) Don't forget to subscribe to The Bible (Unmuted)! Support the podcast via Patreon: https://www.patreon.com/TheBibleUnmuted
Listen as Mark James preaches a sermon called What Happens in the Intermediate State from 1 Samuel 28:8-19; Matthew 17:2-3; Luke 20:17-18.
#27 in our series, "Sermons Shaped by the Westminster Shorter Catechism"
What happens to us when we die? In this episode, Barry Cooper inquires into the state of our souls after death and before the resurrection. Read the transcript: https://simplyputpodcast.com/the-intermediate-state/ A donor-supported outreach of Ligonier Ministries. Explore all of our podcasts: https://www.ligonier.org/podcasts
On the occasion of Mrs. Jan Vermillion -member and wife of Mr. Chuck Vermillion for 60 years- going to glory last Tuesday, July 30. This was not a memorial service but for our comfort. --All who look to Jesus facing their death on earth will immediately see themselves with Him in glorious heavenly life. Jan's soul went immediately from her bedroom into her Father's house.Jan's soul went immediately from her bedroom into her Father's house.-Jan is right now and forever in heavenly paradise. Christians Go Immediately to Christ in Paradise.
Dharma talk given by Acharya Sergio Garkyi Wangchuk, July 21, 2024. Music by Barefoot Bran Music.
Once we really understand how much better it is to be in God's presence when we die, it can transform our outlook on life here on earth.Heaven: Everyone wants to know what happens at the end of life and beyond. There are fanciful descriptions, hopeful expectations and wild imaginations. Better to listen to God, who dwells in eternity and knows. Listen to Dr. John's 10-message series on “Heaven.” You will find that, while God doesn't answer every one of our curious questions, He speaks truth to grant us salvation and hope.
Reformed Brotherhood | Sound Doctrine, Systematic Theology, and Brotherly Love
Join Tony and Jesse in this thought-provoking episode of the Reformed Brotherhood Podcast as they dive deep into the topic of the judgement of the apostate angels and the second death. Explore the eschatological realities and the implications of works in salvation, justification and sanctification, and the tension between hope and condemnation. Gain insights into the complex nature of eternal consequences and discover the ultimate message of hope and redemption in the face of the final judgement. Don't miss this enlightening discussion on the Reformed Brotherhood Podcast!
Mike and Brian sit down to discuss 2 Corinthians 5 and how it informs our understanding of what is often called "The Intermediate State," which is the time in between Christ's ascension and his return, including the time a believer personally experiences after they die, but before Christ returns.
Reformed Brotherhood | Sound Doctrine, Systematic Theology, and Brotherly Love
In this thought-provoking episode of the Reformed Brotherhood Podcast, Tony and Jesse delve into the profound concept of the intermediate state and its implications for believers. They explore how the immediate glorification of the souls of believers at death, in union with Christ, is a testament to the sufficiency of Christ's work and the beauty of God's mercy. With biblical references and insightful commentary, they challenge the notion of purgatory and emphasize the assurance of being with Jesus for eternity. Join them on this theological journey as they shed light on the comforting truth that death is a transition to blessedness and the full enjoyment of God. Tune in to gain a deeper understanding of the intermediate state and find encouragement in the hope that awaits all believers.
Death is not natural; it is the last enemy Christians must face in this fallen world. Today, R.C. Sproul helps us obtain a biblical understanding of death and what happens to God's people when they die. Get the 'Foundations: An Overview of Systematic Theology' DVD Series for Your Gift of Any Amount: https://gift.renewingyourmind.org/2381/foundations Don't forget to make RenewingYourMind.org your home for daily in-depth Bible study and Christian resources. A donor-supported outreach of Ligonier Ministries. Explore all of our podcasts: https://www.ligonier.org/podcasts
Death is not natural; it is the last enemy Christians must face in this fallen world. Today, R.C. Sproul helps us obtain a biblical understanding of death and what happens to God's people when they die. Get Guy Waters' Latest Book 'Facing the Last Enemy' and the Audio and Video Download of 'Foundations' with R.C. Sproul for Your Gift of Any Amount: https://gift.renewingyourmind.org/2856/facing-the-last-enemy-foundations Don't forget to make RenewingYourMind.org your home for daily in-depth Bible study and Christian resources.