Posted by Robert on 1/4/2007, 9:01 am We know that when sin entered, so did death and that death is part of our fallen nature. But since our sins have been forgiven and there is atonement, why must we still die? Our body of sin must be destroyed as it is written: Knowing this, that our old man is crucified with him, that the body of sin might be destroyed, that henceforth we should not serve sin. (Ro 6:6) In response, a person may point out that God is all-powerful and we know that He is able to change our body of sin in an instant as written during the Acts dispensation, “In a moment, in the twinkling of an eye…and the dead shall be raised incorruptible, and we shall be changed” (1Cor 15:52). So, why not a “change” for each believer instead of death? A counter-argument would be that resurrection is NOT an on-going process and anyone who thinks so, is in serious error: “Who concerning the truth have erred, saying that the resurrection is past already; and overthrow the faith of some (2Ti 2:18). And how could such a thing be for those who have a heavenly hope since not only a bodily change is needed, but also a vastly difference sphere of blessing (in heavenly places)? Would man perceive the difference if a change of body took a half second or 200 years? Also, is it man’s place, who knows nothing in comparison to his Creator, to try to reason out a plan contrary to what God has established? For as the heavens are higher than the earth, so are my ways higher than your ways, and my thoughts than your thoughts (Isa 55:9). Be not rash with thy mouth, and let not thine heart be hasty to utter any thing before God: for God is in heaven, and thou upon earth: therefore let thy words be few. (Ecc 5:2) Man often sees the sting of death as being dreadful. However, those of strong faith know that it is not as “dreadful” as living in this world, “…the day of death [is better] than the day of one's birth.” (Ecc 7:1) This is true because of the many afflictions, toil, sorrow, and weariness that come from many sources in the course of this life. The world is filled with wickedness, and this becomes more and more evident over time to one whose eyes are open. Man should consider the good that can be found in his having to confront death: 1. Death is a “problem” for man that needs a fix. The prospect of death should cause any man who lacks knowledge to seek truth and the way to righteousness and life. “Jesus saith unto him, I am the way, the truth, and the life: no man cometh unto the Father, but by me.” (Jn 14:6) 2. Those who think they are immortal (undying soul) tend not to put their trust in God. In contrast, a full understanding of death forces man, contrary to his stubborn nature, to absolutely and completely put all trust in Him for resurrection and life: “How excellent is thy lovingkindness, O God! therefore the children of men put their trust under the shadow of thy wings.” (Ps 36:7). 3. For many believers, humility, lowliness, and meekness are increased by the aging process and by fully considering our mortality. “By humility and the fear of the LORD are riches, and honour, and life.” (Prov 22:4) 4. The prospect of death helps to put the brakes on any inclination a man might have to end his time on earth so that he can be with Christ Jesus (or a close, loved one who had just departed). Also, if it was quite clear that eternal life immediately followed this life, this life would be “cheapened” and man would likely become more reckless and dangerous in his activities than he already is. 5. Earthly riches, physical strength, intellect, and pride all pale and become worthless when confronted with the prospect of death. Even a man who is blind in his ways may get an inkling of this late in life. “…None of them [that trust in riches] can by any means redeem his brother, nor give to God a ransom for himself:” (Ps 49:6-7 with C. B. substitution) 6. The aging process and impending death causes a believer to more fully “let go” of this life and to devote more time to prayer and a godly life. “Now she that is a widow indeed, and desolate, trusteth in God, and continueth in supplications and prayers night and day.” (1Ti 5:5) 7. To understand why man, though forgiven of sins, must still die compels us to consider death from the perspective of our Creator – death is sleep. “Our friend Lazarus sleepeth; but I go, that I may awake him out of sleep.” (Jn 11:11) In summary, death brings down wicked man and his wicked ways, causes man to seek God and live a godly life, and causes the faithful man to be patient and longsuffering while seeking those things that are above. Death becomes a peaceful sleep that ends with these words: “Awake thou that sleepest, and arise from the dead, and Christ shall give thee light.”
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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: (Ro 5:12)
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