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Living While You Live (Ecclesiastes 9:1-12)

DEATH! There I said itthe infamous d word. Death is one of those subjects we dont like to discuss. Thats why its

a subject of so many euphemisms. Instead of using the word dead, we say, passed away, returned home, gone to a

better place, sleeping in Jesus, or went to be with the Lord. At least we use those terms around the church and the

funeral home. In less guarded moments, we speak of taking a dirt nap, kicking the bucket, buying the farm,

cashing in the chips, biting the dust, or the ever-popular croaked. Whether we lean to the reverent right or the

flippant left, we shy away from speaking directly of the ultimate enemy.343

It seems that we are hesitant to come to grips with our impending death. We would rather avoid any discussion about itAfter all, death is a depressing subject. And who wants to be depressed? Yet, I would argue that we are not prepared to

live until we are prepared to die. Solomon tackles the subject of death head-on. Instead of denying death, he discusses

its reality and our response. In Eccl 9:1-12, Solomon provides two reminders that will enable us to make the most of our

few days on earth.344

1. Death is certain (9:1-6). In this first section, Solomon explains that death is the Great Equalizer. Death plays no

favorites and overlooks no one. Regardless of your strength and wealth, you are going to die In 9:2-3, youre going to

find out why Solomon is not coming over for dinner. He writes, It is[i.e., death]the same for all. There is one fate349for

the righteous and for the wicked;350

for the good, for the clean and for the unclean; for the man who offers a sacrifice

and for the one who does not sacrifice. As the good man is, so is the sinner; as the swearer is, so is the one who is

afraid to swear. This is an evil in all that is done under the sun, that there is one fate351

for all men. Furthermore, the

hearts of the sons of men are full of evil and insanity is in their hearts throughout their lives. Afterwards they go to

the dead.Solomon could summarize verses 2-3 with these words: Under the sun, youre done. If he were living today,

he would say, Were all going to take a dirt nap. Ultimately, every man who has ever lived or will ever live will die.

Solomon was right; the same destiny overtakes us all. You and I can work out, take our vitamins, drink bottled water,

stay away from McDonalds, and swear off Krispy Kreme, but even with the best of care for this flesh, it is one day going

to give out and we will die.

In 9:3, death is labeled the evil, not simply a natural phenomenon.352Death is an intrusion, its an enemy. This means

we shouldnt go to funerals and singThe Lion Kingsong, The Circle of Life. The most ridiculous and pathetic advice you

could give someone is: Death is just part of life. No it isnt, it is death! Its the wages of our rebellion and sin against

God. Its cosmic treason and it is punished by death.353We were created by a living God, to be a living people, who live

forever with this living God. The only way to get rid of death is to get rid of sin. That is why Jesus died for our sin, so we

could live.354Today, will you believe in Jesus Christ as you Savior from sin? He offers you eternal and abundant life.355

Despite the inequities of life, Solomon argues that life is better than death. In 9:4-6 he explains: For whoever is joinedwith all the living, there is hope; surely a live dog is better than a dead lion. For the living know they will die; but the

dead do not know anything, nor have they any longer a reward, for their memory is forgotten. Indeed their love, their

hate and their zeal have already perished, and they will no longer have a share in all that is done under the sun.

Solomon has pulled no punches in his death-dealing expos. The fact that our days are numbered ought to motivate us

to live earnestly for God. In light of the brevity of life, we must live with seriousness, recognizing the importance of a life

well invested. Twice a week for the rest of our lives, we ought to begin the day by looking in the mirror and saying, I am

going to die somedaymaybe today. What a difference that would make in our lives. The fact that we will die should

affect the way we live.

2. Life is uncertain (9:7-12). In this section, Solomon urges us to make the most of our lives because time and chance

can overtake us. In 9:7-10, Solomon unveils five imperatives that advocate living life to the fullest (go, eat, drink,

enjoy, and do). These five imperatives are located in the central part of this chapter and are recorded there topresent the central thrust of the chapter: life is short; death is certain; so live in the most meaningful way that you

can.360

Party while you can (9:7-8). In 9:7 Solomon writes, Go then, eat your bread in happiness and drink your wine with a

cheerful heart; for God has already approved your works. Solomon says, Party on down with family and friends, for life

is short and then you die. Throughout the Scriptures, wine and bread are frequently representative of that which God

gives us to comfort and cheer us.361Even today they are symbols of the joy of the Lord and His goodness and blessing.

Thus, we are to enjoy Gods good gifts and celebrate life with others. So slow down and enjoy a meal with your family

and friends. The reason Solomon gives is that God has already approved your works. This means such enjoyment is

Gods will for us. This encouraging word does not contradict the fact that we are the stewards of all God entrusts to us.

However, it should help us realize that it is not sinful to take pleasure in what God has given us

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even luxuries. We need to balance gratefulness and generosity, retaining some things and giving away others. This

balance is not easy, but it is important.

Solomon continues in 9:8 by saying, Let your clothes be white all the time, and let not oil be lacking on your head. In

the Old Testament, births, weddings, and harvest festivals were special occasions and required one to dress up and be

fresh. In Solomons day, black clothes and ashes on the head were a sign of mourning. Conversely, white clothes and

oil362on the head were a sign of rejoicing. Oil on your head is the ancient equivalent of deodorant and perfume and

cologne, so do yourself and others a favor and use it. Solomon tells us to dress every day as if were on the way to a

celebration of life.363Some would say, What do I have to rejoice about? I could die any time. Exactly! Thats a great

reason to let every waking moment be a celebration of Gods gift of life. Get dressed. Eat out with a friend. Why?Because you can and because God enjoys your enjoyment.364Therefore, have a blast while you last.365

Enjoy your spouse while you can (9:9). Solomon writes, Enjoy life with the woman whom you love all the days of your

fleeting life which He has given to you under the sun; for this is your reward in life and in your toil in which you have

labored under the sun. Solomon had many honeys and many honeymoonsto the demise of his kingdom. He treated

himself to hundreds of wives and concubines. Now, at the end of his life, he wishes he had lavished all his love on the

wife of his youth. A man who had a thousand women now speaks in the singular rather than the plural. One partner, one

heart.366Husbands, love your wife with every fiber of your being, for this may be your last day on earth. Listen to her,

talk with her, spend time with her, make love to her no matter how many times she resists, tell her she is beautiful.

Wives, we know this works both ways. Are you easy to enjoy? I will tell you that if you want your husband to enjoy you,

be easy to enjoy. If you want your husband to desire your company, make your company pleasant to be around. You

might say, This is hard, sheneeds to show me first or He needs to demonstrate leadership. But guess whatyoure

going to die! What are you waiting for? Dont waste your time; enjoy your life. Enjoy it now!Have a blast while you last.

Glynn Wolfe died alone in Los Angeles at the age of 88. No one came to claim his body; the city paid to have him buried

in an unmarked grave. This is sad, but not unusual. It happens all too often in large cities where people tend to live

disenfranchised lives. Glynns situation was unique, however, because he was no ordinary man. He held a world record.

The Guinness Book listed him as the Most Married Man, with 29 marriages to his credit. This means 29 times he was

asked, Do you take this woman to be your lawfully wedded wifeforsaking all others, do you pledge yourself only to

her, so long as you both shall live? Twenty-nine times Glynn Wolf said, I do, but it never quite worked out that way.

He left behind several children, grand-children, great grand-children, a number of living ex-wives, and innumerable ex-

in-lawsand still, he died alone. He spent his entire adult life looking for something he apparently never foundand he

died alone.367

How different this mans life and death would have been if he invested all his love and energy into one woman. There is

an ancient quote from The Talmuda commentary on Jewish lawthat states, A man should eat and drink beneath hismeans, clothe himself within his means, and honor his wife above his means.368This summarizes well the last three

verses.

Solomon concludes in 9:12 with these powerful words: Moreover, man does not know his time: like fish caught in a

treacherous net and birds trapped in a snare, so the sons of men are ensnared at an evil380time when it suddenly falls on

them. Unfortunately, man does not often recognize this truth. We live as if we are the master of our own fate, the

captain of our soul. How foolish we are! Rather than the master of our fate, we are more like little fish. We swim along,

minding our own business, and suddenly we are snatched up by a netand there is absolutely nothing that we can do

about it! Time, chance, and death catch one unexpectedly, like a trap, and there is no escape. When the trap has closed,

any opportunity to enjoy life is over. Just stop for a moment and think about it: What will we do if our heart or lungs fails

us? What can we do if we contract a fatal disease? What can we do if we lose our job or our business? What will we do if

a child dies or if a spouse leaves us? Sooner or later, we will all find out that our present existence and future destinybelong to the Lord alone. So have a blast while you last.

You play the board game Monopoly. You buy railroads and place hotels on Park Place and Boardwalk. You pass Go and

collect $200. Everyone has fun. Then the game ends, and all the hotels, all the colorful tokens, and all the funny money

go back into the box. Solomon, who held an empire much less plastic, would tell us that whether you build in plastic or

gold its all the same. Build the temple, extend a dynasty, even write three God-inspired booksin the end, it all goes

back in the box.381Likewise, life is short. You and I are going to die. Stop and ask yourself, What really matters? How do

I want to be remembered? What do I want others to say about me? And then make a commitment tohave a blast

while you last.

Scripture References

Ecclesiastes 9:1-12

http://bible.org/seriespage/living-while-you-live-ecclesiastes-91-12#P899_317832http://bible.org/seriespage/living-while-you-live-ecclesiastes-91-12#P899_317832http://bible.org/seriespage/living-while-you-live-ecclesiastes-91-12#P899_317832http://bible.org/seriespage/living-while-you-live-ecclesiastes-91-12#P900_318181http://bible.org/seriespage/living-while-you-live-ecclesiastes-91-12#P900_318181http://bible.org/seriespage/living-while-you-live-ecclesiastes-91-12#P900_318181http://bible.org/seriespage/living-while-you-live-ecclesiastes-91-12#P901_318578http://bible.org/seriespage/living-while-you-live-ecclesiastes-91-12#P901_318578http://bible.org/seriespage/living-while-you-live-ecclesiastes-91-12#P901_318578http://bible.org/seriespage/living-while-you-live-ecclesiastes-91-12#P902_318668http://bible.org/seriespage/living-while-you-live-ecclesiastes-91-12#P902_318668http://bible.org/seriespage/living-while-you-live-ecclesiastes-91-12#P902_318668http://bible.org/seriespage/living-while-you-live-ecclesiastes-91-12#P904_319444http://bible.org/seriespage/living-while-you-live-ecclesiastes-91-12#P904_319444http://bible.org/seriespage/living-while-you-live-ecclesiastes-91-12#P904_319444http://bible.org/seriespage/living-while-you-live-ecclesiastes-91-12#P906_321153http://bible.org/seriespage/living-while-you-live-ecclesiastes-91-12#P906_321153http://bible.org/seriespage/living-while-you-live-ecclesiastes-91-12#P906_321153http://bible.org/seriespage/living-while-you-live-ecclesiastes-91-12#P908_321520http://bible.org/seriespage/living-while-you-live-ecclesiastes-91-12#P908_321520http://bible.org/seriespage/living-while-you-live-ecclesiastes-91-12#P908_321520http://bible.org/seriespage/living-while-you-live-ecclesiastes-91-12#P928_328834http://bible.org/seriespage/living-while-you-live-ecclesiastes-91-12#P928_328834http://bible.org/seriespage/living-while-you-live-ecclesiastes-91-12#P928_328834http://bible.org/seriespage/living-while-you-live-ecclesiastes-91-12#P931_331645http://bible.org/seriespage/living-while-you-live-ecclesiastes-91-12#P931_331645http://bible.org/seriespage/living-while-you-live-ecclesiastes-91-12#P931_331645http://bible.org/seriespage/living-while-you-live-ecclesiastes-91-12#P931_331645http://bible.org/seriespage/living-while-you-live-ecclesiastes-91-12#P928_328834http://bible.org/seriespage/living-while-you-live-ecclesiastes-91-12#P908_321520http://bible.org/seriespage/living-while-you-live-ecclesiastes-91-12#P906_321153http://bible.org/seriespage/living-while-you-live-ecclesiastes-91-12#P904_319444http://bible.org/seriespage/living-while-you-live-ecclesiastes-91-12#P902_318668http://bible.org/seriespage/living-while-you-live-ecclesiastes-91-12#P901_318578http://bible.org/seriespage/living-while-you-live-ecclesiastes-91-12#P900_318181http://bible.org/seriespage/living-while-you-live-ecclesiastes-91-12#P899_317832

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Hebrews 9:27

Proverbs 5:28-29; 18:22

1 Timothy 6:17

Colossians 3:17, 23

Romans 9:16

Job 1:21

What would you do . . .

if you found out you had one week to live?Would you do anything differently?

DEATH IS.

Introduction

A. Death, by definition, is a separation.

1. Physical death is the separation of the spirit from the body

a. Genesis 2:7

b. Thus when the spirit leaves this body of clay, so does life

2. Spiritual death, which is the second death (Rev. 20:6), is a separation of the soul from God

a. Isaiah 59:1-2

b. 2 Thessalonians 1:7-9B. Death is lifes greatest mystery, therefore it is only natural for men to fear death.

1. Only the faithful Christian has reason to face death with confidence.

2. Even though a faithful Christian does not know everything about death, he doesnt need to be afraid

a. Psalm 23:4

b. God has promised to protect us

1) 2 Chronicles 16:9

2) Psalm 91:4

C. Let us now look to the Scriptures and inform ourselves better concerning death.

DISCUSSION

A. DEATH IS AN ENDING

1. To the unbeliever it is indeed THE END.

a. The unbeliever or one who is unfaithful can see nothing beyond the grave.b. Those who are unprepared for death have a horrible surprise coming

2. Luke 12:20a. The rich man found death to be THE END of his previous lifestyle

b. At death it is THE END there will be no chancesthats it, no more, its finished!

3. Hebrews 9:27

a. Death comes to all

b. Judgment follows death

4. But on the other hand

B. DEATH IS A BEGINNING

1. For the unbelieving and unfaithful death is the beginning of eternal damnation.

a. Psalm 37:35-38

b. Matthew 25:41-462. For the faithful child of God death is the beginning of eternal life

a. 1 Thessalonians 4:13-18

b. John 14:1-3

C. DEATH IS INEVITABLE

1. No one can avoid death

a. There are a few exceptions:1) Enoch did not see death (Gen. 5:24)

2) Elijah did not see death (2 Kgs. 2:11)

3) Those that are alive when the Lord returns (1 The. 4:17)

b. But for the most part all will see death

2. Death will come to us all, as a whole

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a. Job 30:23

b. Ecclesiastes 8:8

c. Hebrews 9:27

3. Even though death is inevitable

D. DEATH IS UNCERTAIN

1. Many in past as well as in our present day try to predict the end of the world.

a. Men know nothing about the time, or death either.

b. Death is not only for the aged but for the young as well

c. Cemeteries are full of little boys and little girls who have met an untimely deathd. No one knows when death may knock at their door.

2. Isaac said, I know not the day of my death (Gen. 27:2)

3. Death is like the end of time

a. 1 Thessalonians 5:2

b. Death also comes as a thief in the night

E. DEATH IS A TRANSITION

1. Life holds many changes, but nothing compares to the change from the physical to the spiritual

2. 1 Corinthians 15:51-53

a. The wicked will become immortal

1) Will not be burned up, will live forever in a burning fire

2) Will never be consumed by the fires of hell

3) Will suffer eternally

b. The righteous will also put on immortality

1) As a result of this, notice what the faithful Christian can say _ 1 Corinthians 15:55-57

2) This will be a marvelous transition for the faithful child of God

3. Revelation 21:4 the physical things will be no more

F. DEATH IS THE GREAT EQUALIZER

1. In this life we see many classes of people.

a. Divisions are made because of:

1) Race

2) Culture

3) Economic circumstances

4) Social statusb. But at death these kinds of divisions will cease

2. Luke 16:25

a. The rich man and Lazarus changed places, so to speak

b. There was a turnaround in fortune

3. 1 Timothy 6:7

a. We brought into this world exactly what we will take out nothing

b. Job 1:21

c. Ecclesiastes 5:15

G. DEATH IS A CURSE

1. This is true for the majority who have ever lived

a. For those who have refused to obey God it would have been better for them never to have been bornb. Matthew 7:13-142.

2. Notice the torment that the Bible says will befall those are not faithful children of God

a. Psalm 11:6

b. Malachi 4:1

c. Matthew 18:9

d. 2 Peter 2:9

e. Revelation 14:11

H. DEATH IS A BLESSING

1. To the faithful few, death will be a blessing beyond our wildest dreams

2. 2 Timothy 4:7-8

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3. Philippians 1:21

CONCLUSION

A. Instead of fearing death, we should live every day in such a way that we can say, as John did, even so, come, Lord

Jesus (Rev. 22:20).

B. Invitation

Aim: The aim of this lesson is to answer questions concerning death thereby comforting the faithful Christian and

warning the unfaithful and unbelieving of the judgment to come.

a. What is Death? James 2:26b. Why do we have death? Romans 6:23

c. Who is going to die? Hebrews9:27

d. When can we expect death? Psalm 90:9-12

I. What is death? Death is the separation of the body and spirit.

1. PhysicalJames 2:26 For as the body without the spirit is dead, so faith without works is dead also.

2. SpiritualGenesis 2:17 But of the tree of the knowledge of good and evil, thou shalt not eat of it: for in the day that

thou eatest thereof thou shalt surely die.

3. BeneficialRomans 6:1-10

4. EternalRevelation 20:14 And death and hell were cast into the lake of fire. This is the second death.

II. Why do we have death?Because we have sinned.

1. Genesis 2:17 But of the tree of the knowledge of good and evil, thou shalt not eat of it: for in the day that thoueatest thereof thou shalt surely die.

2. Romans 5:12 Wherefore, as by one man sin entered into the world, and death by sin; and so death passed upon all

men, for that all have sinned:

3. 1 Corinthians15:56 The sting of death is sin; and the strength of sin is the law.

III. Who is going to die?

1. Hebrews9:27 And as it is appointed unto men once to die, but after this the judgment:

2. Ecclesiastes3:2 A time to be born; a time to die.

3. Psalm89:48 What man is he that liveth, and shall not see death? shall he deliver his soul from the hand of the

grave?

4. Ecclesiastes12:7 Then shall the dust return to the earth as it was: and the spirit shall return unto God who gave it.

IV. When can we expect death?Anytime.

1. Psalm 90:9-12 For all our days are passed away in thy wrath: we spend our years as a tale that is told. The days of ouyears are threescore years and ten; and if by reason of strength they be fourscore years, yet is their strength labour and

sorrow; for it is soon cut off, and we fly away. Who knoweth the power of thine anger? even according to thy fear, so is

thy wrath. So teach us to number our days, that we may apply our hearts unto wisdom.

2. Luke 12:37-40 Blessed are those servants, whom the lord when he cometh shall find watching: verily I say unto you,

that he shall gird himself, and make them to sit down to meat, and will come forth and serve them. And if he shall come

in the second watch, or come in the third watch, and find them so, blessed are those servants. And this know, that if the

goodman of the house had known what hour the thief would come, he would have watched, and not have suffered his

house to be broken through. Be ye therefore ready also: for the Son of man cometh at an hour when ye think not.

3. James 4:14, 15 Whereas ye know not what shall be on the morrow. For what is your life? It is even a vapour, that

appeareth for a little time, and then vanisheth away. For that ye ought to say, If the Lord will, we shall live, and do this,

or that.

LIFE & DEATH:

REALITIES WE MUST FACE

"As for man his days are as the grass: as the flower of the field, so he flourisheth. For the wind passeth over it, and it

is gone; and the place thereof shall know it no more." --KING DAVID

Billy Graham was asked recently, "What is the most amazing thing you have ever encountered"?

He answered, "The brevity of life"!

At best, life is brief. The scripture speaks of seventy years as the norm, but what is seventy years, when you have lived

them? What is any amount of time, when it is used up?

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Think of it - No More Time To Live! And that moment will come to each of us!

The Bible says, "Whereas ye know not what shall be on the morrow. For what is your life? It is even a vapour, that

appeareth for a time, and then vanisheth away". (James 4:4)

The Bible states, "The days of our years are three score and ten; and if by reason of strength they be four score years,

yet is their strength, labour and sorrow. For it is soon cut off and we fly away". (Ps. 90:10)

ALL WE REALLY HAVE IS TODAY!

We have no guarantees of tomorrow. All we are certain of, is today. Our future is in God's hands! He's the only one

Who really knows what tomorrow will bring, for us!

The hymnwriter penned the words:"Today is mine, tomorrow may not come

I may not see the rising of the sun,

But, when evening falls,

May my work on earth be done

Today is mine. Tomorrow may not come!"

What guarantee do any of us have that we will live to be forty, fifty or seventy? Even if we had a guarantee we could

live until we were one hundred years of age, what is that in comparison to eternity?

Some are taken at an early age, others are allotted more time. For each of us, life is precious! We have much to

accomplish. So many friends to visit, places to go and things to see!

In more than 30 years of ministry, I have witnessed a lot of deaths. There have been many funerals - for both young

and old. And the uppermost thought in my mind has been: "Did he know Jesus Christ as his personal Saviour? Was

she ready to meet God"?

And at times, I think of my life. "If I were taken today, have I fulfilled my calling? Is there something I have failed to

communicate or share? Have I been faithful in warning my fellowman of the certainty of death and the Coming

Judgment?"

My question is: "What have we, as Christians, done to spread the gospel? To share the love of Jesus Christ to a world

lost in sin, degradation, poverty, superstition and fear? How many poor and sickly have we helped to feed, heal and

nurture"?

What Does The BibleSay About Death

Eternity: What Awaits After Death

Sermon #1

What Does The Bible Say About Death

Hebrews 9:27-28

This morning we are going to consider Eternity: What Does the Bible Say About Death. Youve probably heard the old

saying - The only things guaranteed in life are death and taxes. Im not so sure that statement is absolutely true,

though. Im guessing that with enough deductions, loopholes, and creative accounting, some people avoid paying

most, if not all, of their taxes. So, theres no guarantee there, about taxes. But that still leaves us with death to deal with

People have used and continue to use some unusual methods to attempt to peer past the portal of death, into the

afterlife. People who say they have had Near Death Experiences write books to tell what they say eternity will be like.

Books like Betty Eadies book Embraced by the Light which tells of her supposed death and her visit to heaven.

Unfortunately, the book not in line with the teaching of the Bible and is in fact closer to Mormon theology than it is to

the New Testament. That is hardly a trustworthy source.Others attempt to find out about the afterlife by so called psychic research attempts to contact the dead through

sances and mediums. The Bible explains these experiences as not truly communication with the dead but rather with

devious evil spirits impersonating the dead. Once again I would hardly consider that a trustworthy source.

The only sure word concerning life after death is the Word of God. In 1 Thess 4:15 the Apostle Paul says, But I do not

want you to be ignorant, brethren, concerning those who have fallen asleep, lest you sorrow as others who have no

hope. Now obviously the term fallen asleep is a softened term to refer to those believerswho have already died. Paul

is concerned that the church at Thessalonica not be misinformed about what happens after death.

So perhaps I should begin by dispelling some misconceptions about death.

Some folks say that death is the end of existence.

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As is evident from the video clip that we began the sermon with, some people think that when you die, you simply cease

to exist. But that isnt true according to the Bible. The Bible says in Genesis 2:7 And the LORD God formed man of the

dust of the ground, and breathed into his nostrils the breath of life; and man became a living soul. (KJV). This implies an

existence after death. So death is NOT the end of existence.

Yet that this body is a temporary dwelling place is a universal truth, instinctively understood by all until as Ray Stedman

says, they are educated beyond their intelligence and they start denying it. He tells of an incident when his children

were small, years ago, when one of my daughters crawled into bed with me one morning. I kept my eyes shut and, as

children will, she tried to wake me up by poking and punching me and trying to get me to open my eyes. Finally, she

crawled up and sat right on my chest and, reaching down, pried open my eyelid. Then she leaned over and said, "Are youin there, Daddy?" *Ray Stedman. Life Beyond Death. www. pbc.org/dp/Stedman/misc/0295.html]

Even a child can understand that we are more than this temporary body.The story is told of a preacher who was

conducting a funeral and he wanted to say something memorable and profound, but he ended up with a laugh line.

Comparing the human body to an external shell, he gestured down at the dearly departed in the casket in the front of

the church, Here we have the shell, he said solemnly, but the nut is gone. He didnt mean for it come out quite that

way! But there was nothing wrong with his theology. *Greg Laurie. The Best Is Yet To Come. (Sisters, Oregon:

Multnomah Pub, 2005) p. 112]

Some folks say that when a person dies, they are "reincarnated" into something or someone else.

If you ever see reincarnation in its rawest form such as in India where Hinduism has a firm hold, you will understand that

they see reincarnation as a hopeless cycle of endless misery. Reincarnation as it is presented today has been

Americianized that means changed to suit the needs of the American culture. When you hear someone talk about

reincarnation in our country, it is always talk about coming back in another human form. It is interesting that it seems

that they almost always were some important or famous historical figure in a previous life. But Indians understand

reincarnation to be an endless cycle whose only hope is to finally enter into Nirvana the place of nothingness. Now

isnt that encouraging.

But as we will see from our text today (Heb. 9:27) you get just one run in life and thats it.

Some folks think they will get their live together before they die or somehow there is a "second chance" after death.

Although it may sound feasible to get our

life together before we die wouldnt it be grand if we were given a 30 minute warning buzzer, but unfortunately we

are not. Death almost always catches us by surprise. Sometimes death comes when its generally expected after we

have lived a long and full life. Butat other times death comes abruptly far too soon in our way of viewing things.And by the same token, the person who

says, No" to Jesus in this life, thinking that theyll be given another chance in the life to come, is banking on nothing

more than wishful thinking. One day we will die and unless we have accepted Christ as our personal savior we are going

to face the judgment of God after we die. The only opportunity we will ever have to get right with God is the

opportunity God gives us in this life. There is NO second chance after death.

Now that we have dealt with a few of the misconceptions about death, now lets talk about what WILL happen when we

die. Lets talk about . . .

First, Death Is A Certainty.

Medical science has done wonders in extending our lives. New medical procedures bypass clogged arteries, as I

personally found out a few years ago. New procedures are available to filter impurities from our blood, to fight cancercells and to replace worn out joints. Vaccines have nearly eliminated diseases such as polio and other dreaded diseases

of the past. But no one has discovered a cure for death. Despite all the advances of that have been made in medical

science, it is still true that the death rate remains exactly as it has always been: a flat 100%. Every one will die.

Death Is No Respecter Of Persons.

Death is no respecter of persons. It marches into the mansions of the rich and squalor of the slums. It doesnt matter

how well you feel or how in shape you are. No one escapes the certainty of death.

There is a statement that I have made many times in funeral services, We are not given a choice about whether to mee

death or even when to meet death, only HOW to meet death.

In Hebrews 9:27 we are told, And as it is appointed for men to die once, but after this the judgment. In Eccles 7:2

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Solomon wrote, for death is the destiny of every man. (NIV) The question is not how can we remain but what awaits

us when we die.

Death is Permanent

There was an item printed in Newsweek magazine a few years ago. It was a letter from the Greenville County, South

Carolina, Department of Social Services. The letter was written to a dead person. It said: "To whom it may concern: Your

food stamps will be stopped effective immediately, because we have received notice that you passed away. You may

reapply if there is a change in your circumstances." But the fact is that Death when it come is irreversible. When you

cross over, there is no coming back.Not only is death a certainty but

Second, Judgment Is A Reality.

The word of God tells us that after death each of us will certainly face judgment. Gods word speaks of two vastly

different judgments.

The first judgment is for believers - Judgment Seat Of Christ (2 Cor. 5:10) For we must all appear before the judgment

seat of Christ, that each one may receive the things done in the body, according to what he has done, whether good or

bad.

This judgment does not concern salvation, this judgment is for believers and that has already been settled. This

judgment is to determine rewards for service given to the Lord.

The second judgment is for Unbelievers - Great White Throne Judgment. (Rev. 20:11-15) Then I saw a great white

throne and Him who sat on it, from whose face the earth and the heaven fled away. And there was found no place for

them. (12) And I saw the dead, small and great, standing before God,[a] and books were opened. And another book was

opened, which is the Book of Life. And the dead were judged according to their works, by the things which were written

in the books. (13) The sea gave up the dead who were in it, and Death and Hades delivered up the dead who were in

them. And they were judged, each one according to his works. (14) Then Death and Hades were cast into the lake of fire

This is the second death. (15) And anyone not found written in the Book of Life was cast into the lake of fire.

Obviously no one would wish to be part of that judgment, but all those who have rejected Christ in this life, will face Him

as judge in the next life. It will a horror beyond description to stand before Him and hear him say, Depart from Me,

you cursed, into the everlasting fire prepared for the devil and his angels. (Matt 25:41) But on the day it will be too late

The time for decision is past. So the time to make a decision for Christ is now!!!

Not only is Judgment real but thank the Lord

Third, Salvation Is A Possibility. (v. 28)

So Christ was offered once to bear the sins of many. To those who eagerly wait for Him He will appear a second time,

apart from sin, for salvation.

The death of Christ according to this verse is applied to the many. Underline the word many. You see Christ death

doesnt take away the sins of everyone. Not everyone receives the salvation that is available through Christs death on

the cross. Not everyone believes and receives, that why eternal salvation is only a possibility.

But if have never done so, there is still time. Today can be the day of salvation. Death is not end. Death is but the

beginning for those who believe in Christ. What I want to remember throughout this series is the truth that for those

who believe in Jesus, the best is yet to come.

Eternity: What Does The Bible Say About Death

Hebrews 9:27-28

Misconceptions about death

Some believe at death we cease to _________

Some believe at death a person is __________

into something or someone else.

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Some believe that after death we will get a ______ chance.

First, ________ Is A Certainty. (v. 27a)

And as it is appointed for men to die once

Death is no __________ of persons.

Death is ____________.

Second, __________ Is A Reality. (v.27b)

but after this the judgment.

The first judgment is for ___________

Judgment Seat Of Christ (2 Cor. 5:10)

The second judgment is for _____________

Great White Throne Judgment (Rev. 20:11-15)

Third, _________ Is A Possibility. (v. 28)

The Reality Of Life After Death.

The Bible teaches that life continues after the physical death of the body. God created man with a natural, temporal

body and an eternal soul. The soul of man consists of who we really are. It is the center of our mind, will and

emotions. The Bible teaches that life is eternal. 1 John 2:25, 2 Corinthians 5:1

What Will Heaven Be Like?

The Bible refers to Heaven as being above the world, in that God looks down upon the earth and that when Jesus left

this earth he was received "up into Heaven". Mark 16:19

Heaven will be a place of light, love, holiness, righteousness, worship, service, joy, peace and life eternally because Jesus

the Redeemer will be there. The New Jerusalem will be the new capital of the universe and the place where the

redeemed gather for worship and service. There will be no darkness, hate, sin, unrighteousness, sorrow, discord ordeath there. Without these things, it will be heaven indeed. What a wonderful and worthy reward of the God who

redeemed us!

It Is A Place of No More Thirst, Hunger, Sorrow, Pain or Death Revelation 21:4

Heaven Is A Place Where Nothing Can Be Corrupted Matthew 6:20, Rev. 21:27

It Is A Place Of Pleasures Forevermore Psalm 16:11, 1 Corinthians 2:9

It Will Be A Place Of Worship Revelation 15:4

It Will Be A Place Of Constant Illumination Revelation 21:23.

Heaven is clearly described in the Bible as an actual place. It is not a feeling or a state of mind. When people refer to

Heaven as being on earth they are partially correct in that we can experience a personal relationship with God while we

are still alive. This is experiencing some of what is in store for those who will go to Heaven when they die.

What Is Needed To Enter Into The Gates Of Heaven?

No one in Heaven will deserve to be there as result of any merit of his own. Because of this fact three will not be anyone

boasting that he or she had earned the right to live in Heaven.

Choosing Heaven means choosing to have a personal relationship with Jesus Christ. Such a relationship brings a

foretaste of Heaven in this life, and an eternity of happiness. You can make your decision today!

A2005 CBS News pollrevealed that 78% of Americans believe in life after death.

http://www.cbsnews.com/stories/2005/10/29/opinion/polls/main994766.shtmlhttp://www.cbsnews.com/stories/2005/10/29/opinion/polls/main994766.shtmlhttp://www.cbsnews.com/stories/2005/10/29/opinion/polls/main994766.shtmlhttp://www.cbsnews.com/stories/2005/10/29/opinion/polls/main994766.shtml

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The most religiously observant Americans are most likely to say there is an afterlife: about nine in 10 of those who

attend religious services weekly or almost every week believe in it. This view is shared by seven in 10 of those who rarely

or never attend services. Americans of all age groups believe in an afterlife. So do most men and most women.

The poll went a step further and asked if science will ever be able to prove there is life after death. Here the response

was even more overwhelming. 8% said yes while 87% said no. That leaves us in a fascinating place.

*Most people believe in life after death.

*Most people believe it will never be proven by science.

It is impossible to overstate the importance of this question. If there is no life after death . . .

*Death really is the end.*There is no heaven or hell.

*There is no reward or punishment.

*There is no resurrection of the dead.

*There is no purpose to history.

And if there is no life after death, then those of us who believe in Jesus have been profoundly deceived. We are, to borrow a phrase

from the Apostle Paul, of all men most to be pitied. If there is no life after death, then we have believed a fairy tale, a

nice story that has no real meaning. If there is no life after death, why pray? Why believe? Why live for Jesus?

Sometimes I hear well-meaning Christians say, Even if its not true, Christianity is still the best way to live. Count me

out.If its not true, then I want no part of it. I know some people say that Christ is so wonderful that even without heaven,

its good to be a Christian. Listen, if this life is all there is, then what you call Christ is just a figment of your

imagination. To borrow some words from Shakespeares Macbeth:

If there is no life after death, then those of us who believe in Jesus have been profoundly deceived.

Lifes but a walking shadow, a poor player

That struts and frets his hour upon the stage

And then is heard no more: it is a tale

Told by an idiot, full of sound and fury,

Signifying nothing.

So is there life after death? Thousands of years ago Job raised the same question. If a man dies, will he live again?(Job

14:14). That is thequestion, isnt it? We all die, but what then?

Ashes to ashes, dust to dust.

Is that all there is?

Death rate: 8.12 deaths/1,000 population

note: this rate results in about 107 worldwide deaths per minute or 1.8 deaths every second (July 2011 est.)Definition: This entry gives the average annual number of deaths during a year per 1,000 population at midyear; also

known as crude death rate. The death rate, while only a rough indicator of the mortality situation in a country,

accurately indicates the current mortality impact on population growth. This indicator is significantly affected by age

distribution, and most countries will eventually show a rise in the overall death rate, in spite of continued decline in

mortality at all ages, as declining fertility results in an aging population.

http://biblia.com/bible/niv/Job%2014.14http://biblia.com/bible/niv/Job%2014.14http://biblia.com/bible/niv/Job%2014.14http://biblia.com/bible/niv/Job%2014.14http://biblia.com/bible/niv/Job%2014.14http://biblia.com/bible/niv/Job%2014.14