SEPTEMBER 10

2 Corinthians 5:6-8

                           JESUS DESTROYED DEATH (II)
Paul and his workers were not afraid of death. By sharing the gospel, some Christians were even killed. Today, when a Christian dies, pastors conducting vigil services often use 2 Cor 5:2 to comfort those left behind. Is death so scary? To a Christian, it isn’t. To a Christian, it is going to a better place – Heaven!

When Sarah died, Abraham mourned for her. He had been married to her for years, enjoying many things together. They travelled to Canaan, setting up their tents in many different places. And when Abraham was called to rescue Lot, his nephew, Sarah must have been worried and prayed to God for Abraham’s safety. They talked about God’s promises. They laughed about having a child when they were so old. They had also cried together.

It was very painful for Abraham that his beloved wife had died. But he had hope.

Like Abraham, Christians have great hope when confronted with death. Here are two sayings that illustrate the Christian’s great hope:

• 2 Timothy 1:10 recorded that Jesus destroyed death.
• Jesus in John 11:25 says “I am the r_________________ and the l__________: he that b__________ in me, though he were d__________, yet shall he l__________.” ( The first letters are given as clues.)

Jesus gives us life. All who trust in Him will live again, in heaven, after they die.

Now read this aloud — “For God so loved the world, that he gave his only begotten Son, that whosoever believeth in him should not perish but have everlasting life” ( John 3:16). The verse tells of God’s great love that because of what His Son did on the cross. When believers die, they will not go to hell even though they deserve to. Instead, believers shall enjoy life with God in heaven. Every Christian should look forward to heaven, for when we say goodbye to this world, we say hello to our heavenly home.

Thought: Should you be afraid of death? Why not?
Prayer: Heavenly Father, thank You for sending Your Son to die for sinners and that He had victory over death. There is no more fear of death but hope of life. Heaven is my home. In Jesus’ name I pray, amen.