Biblical Answer

Preparing for Death Biblically

Preparing for death biblically is not just about saying a one-time prayer or attending church. It requires a life of apprenticeship to Jesus in the here and now. This involves developing a personal relationship with Jesus Christ, which is essential for salvation and spiritual growth. It means getting alone with Jesus and deciding to let go of sin, identifying with His death, and acting in confident faith in what our Lord did on the cross.

To prepare for death biblically, one must understand the doctrines of death and the intermediate state. This involves recognizing that death was a result of the old covenant ministry, with commandments engraved in letters on stone, which brought death (Romans 7:10). It also means acknowledging that the death of a Christian is not the end, but rather a transition to a new life in the presence of Christ (2 Corinthians 5:8). Moreover, it involves understanding that the believer's death is a means of sanctifying the grave for them, and that the death of Christian friends and relatives can be a source of comfort and joy (1 Thessalonians 4:13-14).

Preparing for death biblically requires a practical approach, engaging in a holy war against sinful desires and committing to thinking God's thoughts after Him (Romans 12:2). It means delighting in the fear of the Lord, engaging the battle at the level of the imagination, and sanctifying the grave for oneself and others. Ultimately, preparing for death biblically involves living a life that reflects Christian values and teachings, and trusting in the sovereignty of God over all creation, including death and the intermediate state. By doing so, one can face death with a joyful expectation of being in Christ's presence, and take confidence in His unshakable kingdom and eternal purposes.