Biblical Answer

The Afterlife: What Happens When I'm Gone?

As a Christian, when you die, you are not gone forever. Instead, you are entering into a new realm of existence, one that is governed by God's sovereignty and wisdom. The Bible teaches that the soul and spirit of the believer are immediately present with the Lord after death (2 Corinthians 5:8; Philippians 1:23). This is a great comfort to those who have placed their faith in Jesus Christ, as it means that they will not be separated from God's presence, even in death.

The Resurrection: A New Body

But what about the body? The Bible teaches that it will be resurrected at the end of time, when Jesus returns (1 Corinthians 15:51-55). The resurrected body will be a new or reconstituted body, one that has some points of continuity with the old body, but is also a new and spiritual body (1 Corinthians 15:43-45). This new body will be free from the limitations and weaknesses of the old body, and will be suited for eternal life in the presence of God. The Bible also teaches that the resurrected body will be like the body of Christ, which was raised from the dead and glorified (Philippians 3:20-21).

Eternal Life with God

So, when you are gone, you are not gone forever. Instead, you are entering into a new and eternal relationship with God, one that will be characterized by joy, peace, and glory. The Bible teaches that eternal life is a gift from God, one that is available to all who have placed their faith in Jesus Christ (John 3:16). As a believer, you can be confident that your eternal destiny is secure, and that you will spend eternity with God in heaven. This is a great comfort and encouragement to those who are facing the challenges and uncertainties of life, and it should motivate us to live our lives in a way that is pleasing to God, and to share the good news of salvation with others.