Ask a Pastor Column

Q: What really happens when we die? Do we go straight to heaven? Do we go to purgatory? What does the Bible say?

A: It is hard to get a full and detailed understanding of the afterlife from Scripture. We are given a general picture and can have complete confidence in the basic elements (i.e., Believers will dwell with God forever, believers will be resurrected, etc.). But there are details about the sequence and circumstances that are debated within the church. For now, let me share some of the truths I believe to be taught clearly, and those that aren’t, we’ll just have to wait to find out!

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