Biblical Answer

A. Why Do Christians Die?

Christians die for a variety of reasons. The death of a Christian is not a punishment, but rather a result of the natural process of aging and the ultimate expression of the believer's faith in the sovereign will of God. As the Bible says, "For to me to live is Christ, and to die is gain" (Philippians 1:21). The believer's death is a transition from one life to another, from a life of service to God on earth to a life of worship and fellowship with Him in heaven.

B. The Death of Christian Friends and Relatives

The death of Christian friends and relatives can be a difficult experience for those who remain behind. While it is natural to feel sorrow and grief, the Christian's perspective on death is one of hope and joy. We can be confident that our loved ones who have died in Christ are now in the presence of the Lord, and that their souls are being comforted and supported by God. As the Bible says, "Blessed are those who have died in the Lord. From now on they are at rest from their labors, for their deeds will follow them" (Revelation 14:13).

C. What Happens After Death?

When a Christian dies, their spirit goes to be with the Lord. The believer's soul is immediately united with the Lord in heaven, where it will be comforted, supported, and blessed. The believer's body, which is perishable, will be raised from the dead at the time of Christ's return, when all believers will be given new, resurrection bodies that will never grow old or weak. This fact should bring comfort to those who remain behind, knowing that their loved ones are now with the Lord and will be reunited with their bodies in the resurrection. As the Bible says, "We believe that Jesus died and rose again and so we believe that God will bring with Jesus those who have fallen asleep in him" (1 Thessalonians 4:14).