What do you think happens when you die?

[chrissy2231]

Kind of like the question "What is Love?":thumbup::thumbup:

[Taltarzac725]

Kind of like the question "What is Love?":thumbup::thumbup:

If we die in the Villages maybe we come back as some of the wildlife for those of us who behaved and as golf balls for those who did not.

[LuvNH]

I was always told "do not discuss either religion or politics" and I think this might be bordering on religion, so no takers.

[Taltarzac725]

What Happens after We Die? | ComeUntoChrist (https://www.churchofjesuschrist.org/comeuntochrist/believe/life-has-purpose/what-happens-after-we-die)

This is interesting. I had to go to Mormon services when I was at BYU Law School in 1982. I found the people there friendly for the most part. I went there on a Merit Scholarship which was for non-Mormons but covered the cost as much as if had been a Mormon.

I had a recent convert as a roommate which was a huge problem as I needed to study and not talk about religion. and recent converts often want to spread the news, so to speak.

[djlnc]

What do you think happens when you die?


Heart stops beating, brain activity ceases.

[Michael G.]

"What do you think happens when you die?"

You get died. :thumbup:

[Kenswing]

The worms crawl in, the worms crawl out……

[Taltarzac725]

Mahmood asks "Where are my seventy-two virgins?"

[Djean1981]

I'm going home to the Lord.

[Gpsma]

I'm going home to the Lord.

Is it like living in the Villages? Will you have a golf cart? Will you be able to get a Tee Time of your choice?

[Robbb]

Your monthly activity fee ends.

[manaboutown]

You can't take it with you.

[JMintzer]

Kind of like the question "What is Love?":thumbup::thumbup:

https://media.tenor.com/Hxffdbp4LkIAAAAd/snl-saturday-night-live.gif

[bsloan1960]

It is actually comforting to me to believe that I will cease to exist. I have a happy life. I think we all get our turn on this 'ride' and then the ride stops and I'm OK with that.

[BobnBev]

I leave my golf cart behind, and get transported to that great Dunkin Donuts in the sky, where everything is free.:bigbow::a040::clap2::boom:

[fdpaq0580]

Other people get your stuff. Don't worry, you won't miss it.😍

[Djean1981]

Is it like living in the Villages? Will you have a golf cart? Will you be able to get a Tee Time of your choice?
Even better!
"What no eye has seen, what no ear has heard, and what no human mind has conceived” — the things God has prepared for those who love him—". 1 Cor 2:9. ;)

[fdpaq0580]

What Happens after We Die? | ComeUntoChrist (https://www.churchofjesuschrist.org/comeuntochrist/believe/life-has-purpose/what-happens-after-we-die)

This is interesting. I had to go to Mormon services when I was at BYU Law School in 1982. I found the people there friendly for the most part. I went there on a Merit Scholarship which was for non-Mormons but covered the cost as much as if had been a Mormon.

I had a recent convert as a roommate which was a huge problem as I needed to study and not talk about religion. and recent converts often want to spread the news, so to speak.

immersion conversion is a strategy to gain new converts. Hence your new convert roommate, and not just by chance I'm guessing.

[fdpaq0580]

Even better!
"What no eye has seen, what no ear has heard, and what no human mind has conceived” — the things God has prepared for those who love him—". 1 Cor 2:9. ;)

I think the answer is: "no eye has seen it" = complete void, "no ear has heard" = complete and absolute silence, "what no human mind has conceived" = infinity.

[chrissy2231]

By "Infinity," are you saying after life? Please explain what you mean.

[chrissy2231]

It's a tragedy what hunters do to wild animals; then hanging up their heads as trophies. Watch the movie "Sequoia." The Capitol Presents 'Sequoia,' a Distinguished Animal Film The New York Times - Breaking News, US News, World News and Videos (https://www.nytimes.com) › 1935/02/23 › archives › the-c...
But the film possesses genuine artistic distinction, and it encompasses an emotional cycle that is more profoundly touching than most human make-believe.

[manaboutown]

What Happens after We Die? | ComeUntoChrist (https://www.churchofjesuschrist.org/comeuntochrist/believe/life-has-purpose/what-happens-after-we-die)

This is interesting. I had to go to Mormon services when I was at BYU Law School in 1982. I found the people there friendly for the most part. I went there on a Merit Scholarship which was for non-Mormons but covered the cost as much as if had been a Mormon.

I had a recent convert as a roommate which was a huge problem as I needed to study and not talk about religion. and recent converts often want to spread the news, so to speak.

My son and his wife converted to the LDS church a few years ago and I attended their baptism. When I asked my son why he was converting he said "They take care of you, Dad". Well, right after the service his bishop, a dentist, came up to me and asked me when my son was going to get a job. lol

Later on after my son and his family moved to the Reno area I went to church with them when I visited. I got to know his bishop who I liked very much and visited in his office on occasion. One time his assistant came to the door and announced Mr. So and so was there with his W2. They are serious about tithing!

[Taltarzac725]

immersion conversion is a strategy to gain new converts. Hence your new convert roommate, and not just by chance I'm guessing.

More than likely. And two BYU ladies already seemed to have me in their future plans. You need BYU's approval for where you live when attending so I was on campus in a dorm that had separate towers like for the sexes. But a shared food court.

I think the BYU Law School Class of 1985 had two women in it and maybe almost 100 men. Most of these married. And they could bring babies to classes. The law school seemed to encourage it.

[fdpaq0580]

By "Infinity," are you saying after life? Please explain what you mean.

Since we are finite creatures with a begining, middle, and end, infinity is a concept that, imho, is impossible to convey or conceive. My spur of the moment attempt goes like this. "With out end. No up, down, right, left, begining, ending. No point of reference. FOREVER."

Can you imagine you are on a line that goes to your righ and to your left. You go one we and I go the other. We both set out. We travel a trillion times the speed of light and we live a million life times. Neither of us are any closer to the end of the line because there is no end. No end! That would be infinity in one dimension. We exist in 3 dimensions. No mater what direction you go you are never any closer to an end, because the is no end. Eternal life would not get you closer to an end, and since you have eternal (never ending, infinite) life, even death can't release your never ending travel.

So, Infinity, could be a curse or a blessing. There is always the possibility of infinite joy and love.

What do you think?

[Velvet]

I’m not sure what happens after death. I have a very close person pass away recently. Then a few days ago, as I was watching golf on the television and checking my emails on the iPad at the same time, this person came to me dressed as usual, from the air and gave me a sweet hug and left the same way. I have never, as a scientist, never believed in ghosts but this event was as real as the couch I’m sitting on.

[jswirs]

Kind of like the question "What is Love?":thumbup::thumbup:

All depends on what you did when you were alive.

[jonathanb]

Believers in Jesus will spend eternity In heaven with Him. Those who do not believe will spend eternity in hell If you repent and believe in the Lord Jesus Christ you will be saved. He is the only one who paid the price for sin. Many will say I’m narrow minded but you asked a really serious question and you deserved the Truth and a serious answer.

[Worldseries27]

I agree. The fun part is defining the " we". Our real selves, our unreplaceable selves is the electrical impulses that course through our bodies, which like dominoes can be traced to the creation of energy at the big bang. Hence the phrase brain dead when this energy is no longer present. Remember after the big bang energy cannot be destroyed.to me this energy houses our souls not the mystical enchantment assigned to the heart . Be prepared to meet our creator for " you know not the hour".

[MandoMan]

Kind of like the question "What is Love?":thumbup::thumbup:

Ever had a general anesthetic? There’s a momentary rush of relief, then nothing. No pain. No tears. No knowing.

[rustyp]

Believers in Jesus will spend eternity In heaven with Him. Those who do not believe will spend eternity in hell If you repent and believe in the Lord Jesus Christ you will be saved. He is the only one who paid the price for sin. Many will say I’m narrow minded but you asked a really serious question and you deserved the Truth and a serious answer.

Only 30% of the world is christian. Combine that with how many of those christians are hypocrites.What if one believes one day and the next has doubts I.E. waffles. Do they get an admission ticket? That heaven you speak of is a pretty exclusive place.

[tvbound]

No one truly knows/can prove (belief/faith is not fact) what happens after the mortal body ceases - except that it slowly decomposes. THAT can be proved. Another thing that has been proved over and over throughout history however, is that the promise and belief of perpetual utopia is the single best way to try and manipulate how adherents act during their lives, both good and bad. The sad part being, that having the 'faith/belief' that there is something great waiting after we die and one only needs to convert/believe (even at the very last second), somehow justifies the abhorrent behavior so many show toward fellow human beings (particularly against those who are not the same as oneself) - while alive.

Not to say that having belief and faith is a bad thing, as it certainly isn't and should be a huge positive toward having a better living world...and how we treat others while alive.

So why hasn't/doesn't it - actually work that way?

[Worldseries27]

i’m not sure what happens after death. I have a very close person pass away recently. Then a few days ago, as i was watching golf on the television and checking my emails on the ipad at the same time, this person came to me dressed as usual, from the air and gave me a sweet hug and left the same way. I have never, as a scientist, never believed in ghosts but this event was as real as the couch i’m sitting on.
thank you for sharing

[tvbound]

Since we are finite creatures with a begining, middle, and end, infinity is a concept that, imho, is impossible to convey or conceive. My spur of the moment attempt goes like this. "With out end. No up, down, right, left, begining, ending. No point of reference. FOREVER."

Can you imagine you are on a line that goes to your righ and to your left. You go one we and I go the other. We both set out. We travel a trillion times the speed of light and we live a million life times. Neither of us are any closer to the end of the line because there is no end. No end! That would be infinity in one dimension. We exist in 3 dimensions. No mater what direction you go you are never any closer to an end, because the is no end. Eternal life would not get you closer to an end, and since you have eternal (never ending, infinite) life, even death can't release your never ending travel.

So, Infinity, could be a curse or a blessing. There is always the possibility of infinite joy and love.

What do you think?


"There is always the possibility of infinite joy and love."

"What do you think?"


Why is it so darned hard, for so many, to give it a trial run - while still alive?

[Worldseries27]

immersion conversion is a strategy to gain new converts. Hence your new convert roommate, and not just by chance i'm guessing.
in my career i've worked in many high crime areas. During this time i was amazed at how the mormon missionaries could walk the streets and be left alone to perform their vocation.

[Life as I know it]

Believers in Jesus will spend eternity In heaven with Him. Those who do not believe will spend eternity in hell If you repent and believe in the Lord Jesus Christ you will be saved. He is the only one who paid the price for sin. Many will say I’m narrow minded but you asked a really serious question and you deserved the Truth and a serious answer.

I don’t believe in hell, if I did I would say it’s what happens here on earth to people that have suffered or are now suffering from the way their fellow humans treat them…..

[me4vt]

Amen

[Worldseries27]

since we are finite creatures with a begining, middle, and end, infinity is a concept that, imho, is impossible to convey or conceive. My spur of the moment attempt goes like this. "with out end. No up, down, right, left, begining, ending. No point of reference. Forever."

can you imagine you are on a line that goes to your righ and to your left. You go one we and i go the other. We both set out. We travel a trillion times the speed of light and we live a million life times. Neither of us are any closer to the end of the line because there is no end. No end! That would be infinity in one dimension. We exist in 3 dimensions. No mater what direction you go you are never any closer to an end, because the is no end. Eternal life would not get you closer to an end, and since you have eternal (never ending, infinite) life, even death can't release your never ending travel.

So, infinity, could be a curse or a blessing. There is always the possibility of infinite joy and love.

What do you think?
since you asked. I've always pondered why some of us are born in good circumstances where one can thrive
to aspire to salvation. Others, say mongol warriors were born into a culture that demanded of them pillaging and murder. They had no choice. Why was i given one and not them? Hence i believe that some of us are granted another life, a different chance to gain salvation.

[tvbound]

I don’t believe in hell, if I did I would say it’s what happens here on earth to people that have suffered or are now suffering from the way their fellow humans treat them…..

I totally agree.

[golfing eagles]

I don't know, but I'm pretty sure I'll no longer have to hunt a parking space at popular venues:1rotfl::1rotfl::1rotfl:

[oneclickplus]

Mahmood asks "Where are my seventy-two virgins?"

The thing is ... no one said the 72 virgins were women.

[GizmoWhiskers]

Have had two open heart surgeries. 2005 post surgery dream encounter was a woman dressed in a long white gown that as I was sinking, pulled me out of the finest, softest gold dust you could ever imagine. For Believers, the streets of Heaven are paved in gold so pure you can see through it. 2019 had Cath Lab gone bad. Last word before the first Code Blue episode was "I feel dizzy!"

To this day and everyday I can still see the complete and utter darkness. A pitch black, lights out darkness that is like no other darkness you have ever seen. When you close your eyes light still passes through your eyelids and the brain and mind is still processing. I was brought back to life again. I did not "see or walk toward the light" nor did I experience hell. Though I did not have a heavenly encounter in 2019, I have not lost my faith in God's eternal promises.

GOD gives FREE WILL. To each their own on how they use it. For me, I choose to worship the Lord.

[Blackbird45]

It doesn't matter if there is anything after you die you deal with it.
I'm not a believer. I always looked at the promise of a better place was to keep people in line.
If you're good boys and girls Santa will bring you gifts.
I've signed up to donate my organs after I die.
Does that mean if there is a better place, I will show up missing body parts

[oneclickplus]

Kind of like the question "What is Love?":thumbup::thumbup:

Ecclesiastes 9:10 - Whatever your hand finds to do, do it with your might; for there is no work or device or knowledge or wisdom in the grave where you are going.

So, there you go. Your body is buried and your consciousness ceases completely. You do not go to heaven. You sleep and await a resurrection.

John 3:13 - No one has ascended to heaven but He who came down from heaven, that is, the Son of Man who is in heaven.

Revelation 20:4-6 And I saw thrones, and they sat on them, and judgment was committed to them. Then I saw the souls of those who had been beheaded for their witness to Jesus and for the word of God, who had not worshiped the beast or his image, and had not received his mark on their foreheads or on their hands. And they lived and reigned with Christ for a thousand years. But the rest of the dead did not live again until the thousand years were finished. This is the first resurrection. Blessed and holy is he who has part in the first resurrection. Over such the second death has no power, but they shall be priests of God and of Christ, and shall reign with Him a thousand years.

Anything else any church teaches is lies and deception. Read your Bible. There is a good chance that what you have been taught is not in there.

[Nucky]

The worms crawl in, the worms crawl out……

Nope, there is going to be NOTHING but a extremely big pile of ashes! Then I get to see everyone passed before me!

[frankandeb]

I appreciate the lightheartedness in some of the answers to this very important question. “Laughter is good medicine”
However, I feel I must interject to say that if we are honest with ourselves we somehow know that there is more after this life. I’m convinced in that same awareness that Jesus is the Way, the Truth and the Life; and no one gets to Heaven except through Him. Please take time to connect with Him, and His Word, on a regular basis.

[kayak]

Some people think when you die it's like turning off a light switch, nothing. Others believe in heaven and hell. None of us are going to change what will actually happen by believing or not believing something. It's up to us to seek the truth. Eternity is a long long time. Claiming ignorance after the fact sounds like a poor strategy to me. I chose Jesus.

[Byte1]

Ecclesiastes 9:10 - Whatever your hand finds to do, do it with your might; for there is no work or device or knowledge or wisdom in the grave where you are going.

So, there you go. Your body is buried and your consciousness ceases completely. You do not go to heaven. You sleep and await a resurrection.

John 3:13 - No one has ascended to heaven but He who came down from heaven, that is, the Son of Man who is in heaven.

Revelation 20:4-6 And I saw thrones, and they sat on them, and judgment was committed to them. Then I saw the souls of those who had been beheaded for their witness to Jesus and for the word of God, who had not worshiped the beast or his image, and had not received his mark on their foreheads or on their hands. And they lived and reigned with Christ for a thousand years. But the rest of the dead did not live again until the thousand years were finished. This is the first resurrection. Blessed and holy is he who has part in the first resurrection. Over such the second death has no power, but they shall be priests of God and of Christ, and shall reign with Him a thousand years.

Anything else any church teaches is lies and deception. Read your Bible. There is a good chance that what you have been taught is not in there.

Try reading the whole BIBLE before picking out small parts that suit your view. I am no expert, even though I have studied the Bible in college. You can make up your own mind what it is for you, but that doesn't mean that your opinion is correct. But, before announcing that it is incorrect, at least know something of it; read it.
In the Bible, GOD promises salvation from sin by man repentance and the belief that Jesus is is LORD. Paraphrasing, "All have sinned and fallen short of the Glory of GOD." "For God so loved the world that he gave his one and only Son, that whoever believes in him shall not perish but have eternal life. " And Jesus said "I go to prepare a place for you" speaking of heaven. There's much more to it than just that, but it really is simple. The Bible states that you cannot get to heaven by "works alone."
So, what does it mean to me? I believe that I will go to a BETTER place when my body ceases to work. That's my choice to believe. I consider this my "Life" insurance. For those that do not believe, then what happens to them once they die really shouldn't even matter, right? Some say, nothing happens and you just cease to exist. I believe in an after life. If they are right and I am wrong, then I have lost nothing. If I am right and they are wrong, then they have a problem. I have lost nothing by believing.
I won't argue my faith. I only say what I believe.

[ThirdOfFive]

Kind of like the question "What is Love?":thumbup::thumbup:
Everything else stops...you go on.

[Rooklift]

Actually the Bible tells you to share your faith. Make sure you do as you were “told”.

[ThirdOfFive]

The thing is ... no one said the 72 virgins were women.
///

[ThirdOfFive]

We can't know--for sure--but there is plenty of evidence not only of a level of existence and self-awareness that continues after our bodies die, as well as of a higher power that controls access to it. You can call that level of existence "Heaven" and that higher power "God". Other faiths have other names. But the general idea is always the same.

I'm no great God guy. My wife, on the other hand, is a person of great faith. Some years back we were at a seminar. While there, I sprained my thumb. Pretty painful, as well as discolored and swelled up. My wife asked if she could pray for me. I agreed, figuring I had nothing to lose. So she did. Right before my eyes I watched the swelling go down. In a matter of minutes it was completely back to normal. I know all about psychosomatic conditions but there is no way a sprain can be classified as that. Higher power?

About 20 years ago my dad died. He and Mom were living in Las Vegas at the time. We lived in Minnesota. On morning when I was out mowing the lawn, I felt my dad's presence. There was no vision. No miraculous manifestation. It was just "you can make your rows straighter than that", a quiet laugh and he was gone. A pleasant experience on a beautiful May morning. But in that instant I knew he had died. The phone call came about an hour later, confirming it. He had died about an hour earlier--at the precise time I felt his presence. I told Mom about the experience some time later and she remarked "that's EXACTLY what he would have said". Life after death?

About the only thing we CAN know for sure is that there is an overwhelming amount that we DON'T know.

[fdpaq0580]

Actually the Bible tells you to share your faith. Make sure you do as you were “told”.

Like a food at a potluck dinner, by all means bring something to share. But, it would be rude to insist or demand that everyone eat only what you brought and that all the other offerings were poison.

[Nanettek3]

Kind of like the question "What is Love?":thumbup::thumbup:
This is a very important question. And there are so many beliefs. I believe Heaven is a glorious place. There is quite an interesting book “ Proof of Heaven” by E Alexander. A neurosurgeon disbeliever in heaven, who faces brain cancer and researches and interviews those who have died for a period of time and came back to life. What they experienced. It’s a cross selection of people to rule out religion. I found the book fascinating and comforting.

[OhioBuckeye]

Well we better have a strong belief in god. I guess nobody really knows for sure if we come back as another baby or what. I don’t know anybody that died & reappeared. Good question, I often wondered about this to, but I do believe in god, & my life is rapidly coming to an end. I just hope everything we’ve been told is true!

[airstreamingypsy]

Believers in Jesus will spend eternity In heaven with Him. Those who do not believe will spend eternity in hell If you repent and believe in the Lord Jesus Christ you will be saved. He is the only one who paid the price for sin. Many will say I’m narrow minded but you asked a really serious question and you deserved the Truth and a serious answer.

Then you should have given him a serious answer instead of a silly one.

[DonnaNi4os]

Kind of like the question "What is Love?":thumbup::thumbup:

Faith, it is knowing, not thinking. I KNOW what will happen when I die. Therefore, I have no fear of death.

[airstreamingypsy]

Kind of like the question "What is Love?":thumbup::thumbup:

What happens when you die? They change the sheets and give someone else your bed.

[hypart]

Believers in Jesus will spend eternity In heaven with Him. Those who do not believe will spend eternity in hell If you repent and believe in the Lord Jesus Christ you will be saved. He is the only one who paid the price for sin. Many will say I’m narrow minded but you asked a really serious question and you deserved the Truth and a serious answer.

Just because you wish for people who don't agree with you to go to hell doesn't make it the Truth.

[YeOldeCurmudgeon]

My son and his wife converted to the LDS church a few years ago and I attended their baptism. When I asked my son why he was converting he said "They take care of you, Dad". Well, right after the service his bishop, a dentist, came up to me and asked me when my son was going to get a job. lol

Later on after my son and his family moved to the Reno area I went to church with them when I visited. I got to know his bishop who I liked very much and visited in his office on occasion. One time his assistant came to the door and announced Mr. So and so was there with his W2. They are serious about tithing!

Mormons might be the most hypocritical organized religion of all. Your spiritual life doesn't matter to them nor do you, so long as you are contributing to the coffers of their church.

[JMintzer]

You live on thru others...

"At the rustling of the leaves and in the beauty of the autumn; We remember them. At the beginning of the year and when it ends; We remember them. As long as we live, they too will live, for they are now a part of us as We remember them. When we are weary and in need of strength; We remember them."

[Velvet]

No one truly knows/can prove (belief/faith is not fact) what happens after the mortal body ceases - except that it slowly decomposes. THAT can be proved. Another thing that has been proved over and over throughout history however, is that the promise and belief of perpetual utopia is the single best way to try and manipulate how adherents act during their lives, both good and bad. The sad part being, that having the 'faith/belief' that there is something great waiting after we die and one only needs to convert/believe (even at the very last second), somehow justifies the abhorrent behavior so many show toward fellow human beings (particularly against those who are not the same as oneself) - while alive.

Not to say that having belief and faith is a bad thing, as it certainly isn't and should be a huge positive toward having a better living world...and how we treat others while alive.

So why hasn't/doesn't it - actually work that way?

I’ve always suspected that I agree with you. So we are “manipulated” into behaving better…lol…if it works….

Personally, I think there maybe many ways to “heaven”. I don’t think the Lord left anybody out if they are good people. The Buddhist have enlightment as sort of heaven equivalent. The Muslims have several different heavens. The Judeo Christians have the same set of guys waiting for them. Speaking personally, no way I’m not going to see if I can meet Moses and Isaiah if they have time for me. And since I fail in my good intentions so often, I will need help from Jesus to get there in the first place. Just saying….

[Blackbird45]

According to Google there are over 4,000 thousand religions in the world and even though today many religions tolerate each other's existence they all claim to be the true path to God. Which means the other religions are dead ends, this will continue to create divisions among us. I believe religion and politics should be a personal thing. They should not intermingle, and they should not be thrusted on people who do not want to conform with their views. Religious institutions should not get banket tax breaks to promote their beliefs period.

[cindyfeh]

Ecclesiastes 9:10 - Whatever your hand finds to do, do it with your might; for there is no work or device or knowledge or wisdom in the grave where you are going.

So, there you go. Your body is buried and your consciousness ceases completely. You do not go to heaven. You sleep and await a resurrection.

John 3:13 - No one has ascended to heaven but He who came down from heaven, that is, the Son of Man who is in heaven.

Revelation 20:4-6 And I saw thrones, and they sat on them, and judgment was committed to them. Then I saw the souls of those who had been beheaded for their witness to Jesus and for the word of God, who had not worshiped the beast or his image, and had not received his mark on their foreheads or on their hands. And they lived and reigned with Christ for a thousand years. But the rest of the dead did not live again until the thousand years were finished. This is the first resurrection. Blessed and holy is he who has part in the first resurrection. Over such the second death has no power, but they shall be priests of God and of Christ, and shall reign with Him a thousand years.

Anything else any church teaches is lies and deception. Read your Bible. There is a good chance that what you have been taught is not in there.

You cannot take passages out of context in the Bible. Ecclesiastes is written from the perspective of the ungodly man! Read all of Ecclesiastes.

The John passage refers to Jesus being the only to go to heaven and come back down. Son of Man is an Old Testament reference which refers to Jesus.

The Revelation passage refers to the first resurrection being for the believers waiting to go to heaven. The second resurrection is for the ungodly. If you continue reading, verses 11 - 15, this is described. The second death is for the ungodly who will be with the devil. Revelation is hard to understand because of its symbolism. John could not speak directly because he was isolated on an island, but wanted to get his message out without it being intercepted by the Romans. The Bible has overarching themes from Genesis through Revelation with many many Old Testament prophesies pointing to Christ. Please start by reading the Gospel of John and continuing through Revelation, and then the Old Testament. The Law (Old Testament) was fulfilled by Jesus in the New Testament, the Gospel.
John 3:16 - For God so loved the world that He gave his only begotten Son that whosoever believes in Him will not perish, but have eternal life.

[cindyfeh]

You cannot take passages out of context in the Bible. Ecclesiastes in written from the perspective of the ungodly man! Read all of Ecclesiastes.

The John passage refers to Jesus being the only to go to heaven and come back down. Son of Man is an Old Testament reference which refers to Jesus.

The Revelation passage refers to the first resurrection being for the believers waiting to go to heaven. The second resurrection is for the ungodly. If you continue reading, verses 11 - 15, this is described. The second death is for the ungodly who will be with the devil. Revelation is hard to understand because of its symbolism. John could not speak directly because he was isolated on an island, but wanted to get his message out without it being intercepted by the Romans. The Bible has overarching themes from Genesis through Revelation with many many Old Testament prophesies pointing to Christ. Please start by reading the Gospel of John and continuing through Revelation, and then the Old Testament. The Law (Old Testament) was fulfilled by Jesus in the New Testament, the Gospel.
John 3:16 - For God so loved the world, He gave his only begotten Son that whosoever believes in Him will not perish, but have eternal life.
After John, read the rest of the Gospels.

[Ptmckiou]

For me, I combine spirituality (not structured religion) and science because they support each other. Physics states energy cannot be created, or destroyed, but only change molecular structure.

Energy is all that is…all matter in the universe is made from energy. Energy has always been, and will always be. Energy can’t be destroyed. Energy can’t die. Thereby, since I am made of matter (atoms, molecules, quarks etc), then when mu body stops functioning, the energy that made me is still there. I see collectively, all that is, as….God. God being an intelligent energy. The soul, is a small aspect of God, that collective divine intelligent energy that has always been, and will always be….because “energy cannot be created or destroyed…”

To answer your question my consciousness (also energy) will continue past the demise of the vessel it’s temporarily housed in.

[PersonOfInterest]

Kind of like the question "What is Love?":thumbup::thumbup:

There are 4 'heavens' to choose from. Don't worry about choosing the wrong one, you can always submit a 'Heaven change order' and try one of the other 3. Everything you could ever want is there. You are continually immersed in conversation with God who will nurture you over eternity. There is no pain only warm, happy, pleasant feelings. You are never alone for God is always at your side. You'll have a beautiful house made of gold and the finest of things. You will want for nothing. When you get there you'll be able to discuss and debate politics all you want. Its a grand and glorious place with pickleball till you drop and parties every night. You're going to love it!

[dewilson58]

Read your Bible.

Yes, PLEASE do.

[Velvet]

I love this thread, so happy to hear your various views!

[djlnc]

What is love?

"Five feet of heaven in a pony tail". The Playmates, 1959

[Ginmato]

I'm going home to the Lord.

I like to think there is an afterlife. And I do believe in evolution. But at what point did evolutionary man develop an ever lasting soul? Are Neanderthals in heaven?

[TNKYGAL]

Ecclesiastes 9:10 - Whatever your hand finds to do, do it with your might; for there is no work or device or knowledge or wisdom in the grave where you are going.

So, there you go. Your body is buried and your consciousness ceases completely. You do not go to heaven. You sleep and await a resurrection.

John 3:13 - No one has ascended to heaven but He who came down from heaven, that is, the Son of Man who is in heaven.

Revelation 20:4-6 And I saw thrones, and they sat on them, and judgment was committed to them. Then I saw the souls of those who had been beheaded for their witness to Jesus and for the word of God, who had not worshiped the beast or his image, and had not received his mark on their foreheads or on their hands. And they lived and reigned with Christ for a thousand years. But the rest of the dead did not live again until the thousand years were finished. This is the first resurrection. Blessed and holy is he who has part in the first resurrection. Over such the second death has no power, but they shall be priests of God and of Christ, and shall reign with Him a thousand years.

Anything else any church teaches is lies and deception. Read your Bible. There is a good chance that what you have been taught is not in there.

I was in my late teens having been raised in a Methodist Church, saved and baptized in a Baptist Church, and attended a few other denominations, participating in Bible studies at each. This, IMHO, is the most puzzling overlooked truth of the Bible that became clear the more I studied. When the Bible speaks of death, it speaks of sleep. Yet in my experience, when a friend or family member dies, those left behind continually say that they are now in heaven. But I find more comfort in knowing that the very next instant they DO know (if they invited Jesus into their lives) is their resurrection and then heaven. Kinda like (as one already noted) after being put to sleep - next thing you know you're back, and it only seemed like a second. So whether you are a believer or not, death yields sleep. I pray that all of you who read this thread will find the joy of Jesus in your life! There is nothing like it, and trust me, when Christians do stray (and they definitely do), their joy is diminished and getting back to Jesus is the only thing that can bring back that same joy. Nothing like it!

[jimbomaybe]

For me, I combine spirituality (not structured religion) and science because they support each other. Physics states energy cannot be created, or destroyed, but only change molecular structure.

Energy is all that is…all matter in the universe is made from energy. Energy has always been, and will always be. Energy can’t be destroyed. Energy can’t die. Thereby, since I am made of matter (atoms, molecules, quarks etc), then when mu body stops functioning, the energy that made me is still there. I see collectively, all that is, as….God. God being an intelligent energy. The soul, is a small aspect of God, that collective divine intelligent energy that has always been, and will always be….because “energy cannot be created or destroyed…”

To answer your question my consciousness (also energy) will continue past the demise of the vessel it’s temporarily housed in.
So when my cell phone battery dies, or gets run over by a truck it is still operating on another plane of existence ?

[Michael G.]

The thing is ... no one said the 72 virgins were women.

Oh no, now I lost all hope, my everlasting life is over...........:cry:

[charlieo1126@gmail.com]

I hope wherever I go , I can get a great slice of pizza

[Michael G.]

I what they are true, and you can't take it with you, can I take a blank check along??

[fdpaq0580]

I’ve always suspected that I agree with you. So we are “manipulated” into behaving better…lol…if it works….

Personally, I think there maybe many ways to “heaven”. I don’t think the Lord left anybody out if they are good people. The Buddhist have enlightment as sort of heaven equivalent. The Muslims have several different heavens. The Judeo Christians have the same set of guys waiting for them. Speaking personally, no way I’m not going to see if I can meet Moses and Isaiah if they have time for me. And since I fail in my good intentions so often, I will need help from Jesus to get there in the first place. Just saying….

"If they have time for me". Of course they will have time for you. They and you will have have FOREVER. Time never ending in an existence where even the concept of time is meaningless.

[fdpaq0580]

There are 4 'heavens' to choose from. Don't worry about choosing the wrong one, you can always submit a 'Heaven change order' and try one of the other 3. Everything you could ever want is there. You are continually immersed in conversation with God who will nurture you over eternity. There is no pain only warm, happy, pleasant feelings. You are never alone for God is always at your side. You'll have a beautiful house made of gold and the finest of things. You will want for nothing. When you get there you'll be able to discuss and debate politics all you want. Its a grand and glorious place with pickleball till you drop and parties every night. You're going to love it!

Only 4 heavens? 😠 Surely there will be an unlimited number to move through as you like.

[Jerry101]

Believers in Jesus will spend eternity In heaven with Him. Those who do not believe will spend eternity in hell If you repent and believe in the Lord Jesus Christ you will be saved. He is the only one who paid the price for sin. Many will say I’m narrow minded but you asked a really serious question and you deserved the Truth and a serious answer.

… some say ‘don’t talk religion’. By my faith I am commanded to by the Lord Jesus, and I do it boldly!

Matthew 28: 19-20

[19] Go ye therefore, and teach all nations, baptizing them in the name of the Father, and of the Son, and of the Holy Ghost: [20] Teaching them to observe all things whatsoever I have commanded you: and, lo, I am with you alway, even unto the end of the world. Amen.

… I honestly pray that God open the hearts & minds of people!

[fdpaq0580]

I like to think there is an afterlife. And I do believe in evolution. But at what point did evolutionary man develop an ever lasting soul? Are Neanderthals in heaven?

Why not? Plenty of room for everyone and everything.

[fdpaq0580]

I hope wherever I go , I can get a great slice of pizza

With or without anchovies? 🍕

[fdpaq0580]

So when my cell phone battery dies, or gets run over by a truck it is still operating on another plane of existence ?

What a silly question! Of course it is.

[fdpaq0580]

You cannot take passages out of context in the Bible.

Of course you can. People do it all the time.

[Blackbird45]

I'm not religious, but I feel sorry for God. He is the scapegoat for whatever followers of whatever religion want to promote. Just once I would love to see after a hurricane a reported interviewing a survivor the person says, thank God he spared my life, but look what he did to my house I'm homeless. Please, whatever you do don't tell me he's testing us. If he is powerful to cause a hurricane, he should be able to go to Staples and print out some type of written exams.

[fdpaq0580]

For me, I combine spirituality (not structured religion) and science because they support each other. Physics states energy cannot be created, or destroyed, but only change molecular structure.

Energy is all that is…all matter in the universe is made from energy. Energy has always been, and will always be. Energy can’t be destroyed. Energy can’t die. Thereby, since I am made of matter (atoms, molecules, quarks etc), then when mu body stops functioning, the energy that made me is still there. I see collectively, all that is, as….God. God being an intelligent energy. The soul, is a small aspect of God, that collective divine intelligent energy that has always been, and will always be….because “energy cannot be created or destroyed…”

To answer your question my consciousness (also energy) will continue past the demise of the vessel it’s temporarily housed in.

Very similar to my own beliefs.

[cindyfeh]

Of course you can. People do it all the time.
Yes, people take Bible passages out of context all the time. I guess I should have said to get the true meaning from the passage in the Bible, you should read the entire chapter and know the context; who is talking, when, where, and to whom.

[fdpaq0580]

I wouldn't say you were narrow minded.
Just sad, mean, and mindless.

Pretty cold response. Some might even say sad, mean and mindless.
People can't really help what they believe. They are taught/indoctrinated what to think and how to think and what to believe from childhood. As they grow thoughts and thinking patterns become more structured. Some rebel or refute anything that goes against their teaching. Others may be more flexible to allow them to see, accept and adapt to newer, better ways and ideas. People don't/can't just decide to believe differently any more than they decide to be a different blood type or change their species. Beliefs can be changed if one is able to assimilate new/different information.

[golfing eagles]

Pretty cold response. Some might even say sad, mean and mindless.
People can't really help what they believe. They are taught/indoctrinated what to think and how to think and what to believe from childhood. As they grow thoughts and thinking patterns become more structured. Some rebel or refute anything that goes against their teaching. Others may be more flexible to allow them to see, accept and adapt to newer, better ways and ideas. People don't/can't just decide to believe differently any more than they decide to be a different blood type or change their species. Beliefs can be changed if one is able to assimilate new/different information.

Like climate change?????:1rotfl::1rotfl::1rotfl: (Sorry, cross-threading---10 yard penalty)

[fdpaq0580]

…

… I honestly pray that God open the hearts & minds of people!

I have done the same since childhood. Still do. Sadly, it hasn't changed a thing.
Makes one wonder, maybe Peace, Love and Brotherhood are not part of God's plan?

[fdpaq0580]

Like climate change?????:1rotfl::1rotfl::1rotfl: (Sorry, cross-threading---10 yard penalty)

Haha! No penalty. Just glad you remember me after they closed the climate thread.. We, at least I was, having a good time. Then they closed it. How rude of them to do that.
😃 Peace!

[55&Out]

I hope death is like the quick loss of conciousness one undergoes during anesthesia prior to a surgical procedure. Count backwards 3...2...(inject Milk of Amnesia), blackness, no pain...

[ThirdOfFive]

… some say ‘don’t talk religion’. By my faith I am commanded to by the Lord Jesus, and I do it boldly!

Matthew 28: 19-20

[19] Go ye therefore, and teach all nations, baptizing them in the name of the Father, and of the Son, and of the Holy Ghost: [20] Teaching them to observe all things whatsoever I have commanded you: and, lo, I am with you alway, even unto the end of the world. Amen.

… I honestly pray that God open the hearts & minds of people!
Don't confuse faith and religion.

Faith is a personal relationship between a person and his/her God/Higher Power/Whatever. It is "the assurance of things hoped for, the conviction of things not seen". Faith, by definition, has to be sincere, or it cannot be faith. I respect faith.


Religion on the other hand, is a construct of man, not of God, and no matter how nobly or flawlessly they begin, the one thing in common is that they ALL, over time, become corrupt, profiteering in innumerable ways from how the sincerity of the believers is channeled to meet the ends of the religious hierarchy. Everything from temple moneychangers, to selling indulgences, to burning witches, to inflaming the masses to war by insisting that "God wills it", to convincing the "believers" that the more money they contribute the greater the proof will be of their faith and the greater God will reward them, to using adolescent boys as sexual objects, to overlook the crimes of persons in power because those persons have great value to their particular sect, to hiding behind various tax regulations while amassing huge fortunes, to...you name it.

I despise religion.

[ThirdOfFive]

I hope death is like the quick loss of conciousness one undergoes during anesthesia prior to a surgical procedure. Count backwards 3...2...(inject Milk of Amnesia), blackness, no pain...
I heard a guy opine some time back that the moment of death is like the most powerful orgasm you can imagine, times about one thousand.

Kinda like that idea...

[Worldseries27]

believers in jesus will spend eternity in heaven with him. Those who do not believe will spend eternity in hell if you repent and believe in the lord jesus christ you will be saved. He is the only one who paid the price for sin. Many will say i’m narrow minded but you asked a really serious question and you deserved the truth and a serious answer.
amen. There is no sin greater than god's mercy. Bend your knee to save your soul. If you had 5 minutes to live you can be forgiven. Ego is the devil were born with

[Worldseries27]

no one truly knows/can prove (belief/faith is not fact) what happens after the mortal body ceases - except that it slowly decomposes. That can be proved. Another thing that has been proved over and over throughout history however, is that the promise and belief of perpetual utopia is the single best way to try and manipulate how adherents act during their lives, both good and bad. The sad part being, that having the 'faith/belief' that there is something great waiting after we die and one only needs to convert/believe (even at the very last second), somehow justifies the abhorrent behavior so many show toward fellow human beings (particularly against those who are not the same as oneself) - while alive.

Not to say that having belief and faith is a bad thing, as it certainly isn't and should be a huge positive toward having a better living world...and how we treat others while alive.

So why hasn't/doesn't it - actually work that way?
because humanity hasn't evolved to the point where we alll care about our fellow man. When wars cease, when all children are safe from hunger, famine, disease etc. When the world is committed to peace and live, thats when humanity evolves

[Worldseries27]

because humanity hasn't evolved to the point where we alll care about our fellow man. When wars cease, when all children are safe from hunger, famine, disease etc. When the world is committed to peace and love thats when humanity evolves
bvm

[Worldseries27]

have had two open heart surgeries. 2005 post surgery dream encounter was a woman dressed in a long white gown that as i was sinking, pulled me out of the finest, softest gold dust you could ever imagine. For believers, the streets of heaven are paved in gold so pure you can see through it. 2019 had cath lab gone bad. Last word before the first code blue episode was "i feel dizzy!"

to this day and everyday i can still see the complete and utter darkness. A pitch black, lights out darkness that is like no other darkness you have ever seen. When you close your eyes light still passes through your eyelids and the brain and mind is still processing. I was brought back to life again. I did not "see or walk toward the light" nor did i experience hell. Though i did not have a heavenly encounter in 2019, i have not lost my faith in god's eternal promises.

God gives free will. To each their own on how they use it. For me, i choose to worship the lord.
amen

[fdpaq0580]

Don't confuse faith and religion.

Faith is a personal relationship between a person and his/her God/Higher Power/Whatever. It is "the assurance of things hoped for, the conviction of things not seen". Faith, by definition, has to be sincere, or it cannot be faith. I respect faith.


Religion on the other hand, is a construct of man, not of God, and no matter how nobly or flawlessly they begin, the one thing in common is that they ALL, over time, become corrupt, profiteering in innumerable ways from how the sincerity of the believers is channeled to meet the ends of the religious hierarchy. Everything from temple moneychangers, to selling indulgences, to burning witches, to inflaming the masses to war by insisting that "God wills it", to convincing the "believers" that the more money they contribute the greater the proof will be of their faith and the greater God will reward them, to using adolescent boys as sexual objects, to overlook the crimes of persons in power because those persons have great value to their particular sect, to hiding behind various tax regulations while amassing huge fortunes, to...you name it.

I despise religion.

Same here. I think Dr Frankenstein's creation might have put it like this, "Faith good. Religion bad.

[PugMom]

Mahmood asks "Where are my seventy-two virgins?"

he gets a room full of video nerds, :a20:

[Worldseries27]

it doesn't matter if there is anything after you die you deal with it.
I'm not a believer. I always looked at the promise of a better place was to keep people in line.
If you're good boys and girls santa will bring you gifts.
I've signed up to donate my organs after i die.
Does that mean if there is a better place, i will show up missing body parts
things humanity takes for granted as if it's their birthright
rather than a gift from our creator.
The air you breathe.
The water you drink
the soil that supports our bio diverse life.
The van allen belt that protects our atmosphere from destruction
the earths magnetic field created by its molten core and distributed by the earth's poles that protect us from cosmic radiation
and charged particles
the ecosystem that recycles everything for your survival.
All of this supported by extraterrestrial bodies, our sun and moon.
Now you can take the position that you are entitled to all of the above or you can see with your own eyes god's master plan at work in this small solar system of ours

[PugMom]

It's a tragedy what hunters do to wild animals; then hanging up their heads as trophies. Watch the movie "Sequoia." The Capitol Presents 'Sequoia,' a Distinguished Animal Film The New York Times - Breaking News, US News, World News and Videos (https://www.nytimes.com) › 1935/02/23 › archives › the-c...
But the film possesses genuine artistic distinction, and it encompasses an emotional cycle that is more profoundly touching than most human make-believe.

i can't watch that stuff, i find it more upsetting that the latest horror movie. seriously.

[rogerrice60]

It all depends on how you lived your life.
Very simple! If you accepted Jesus as your Lord and Savior then you go to Heaven, if you didn't accept Jesus, then you go to HELL!
Eternity is a VERY long time.
Make the correct decision!!

[Worldseries27]

i’ve always suspected that i agree with you. So we are “manipulated” into behaving better…lol…if it works….

Personally, i think there maybe many ways to “heaven”. I don’t think the lord left anybody out if they are good people. The buddhist have enlightment as sort of heaven equivalent. The muslims have several different heavens. The judeo christians have the same set of guys waiting for them. Speaking personally, no way i’m not going to see if i can meet moses and isaiah if they have time for me. And since i fail in my good intentions so often, i will need help from jesus to get there in the first place. Just saying….
you have to ask to be saved. Seek and you shall find, knock and it will be opened, ask and it will be given you
there is no sin greater than god's mercy.

[Worldseries27]

well we better have a strong belief in god. I guess nobody really knows for sure if we come back as another baby or what. I don’t know anybody that died & reappeared. Good question, i often wondered about this to, but i do believe in god, & my life is rapidly coming to an end. I just hope everything we’ve been told is true!
peace be with you

[Worldseries27]

so when my cell phone battery dies, or gets run over by a truck it is still operating on another plane of existence ?
yes if the other jimbo is better prepared

[chrissy2231]

I attended Canal Rec Ctr today, Humanist Club. The topic was "Is Jesus Real?" Fascinating presentation and audience questions. The speaker & facilitator are Atheists, and the speaker spoke of actual facts that Jesus is a myth. I believe in Reincarnation. I honor "The Light" in anyone who believes otherwise.

[Worldseries27]

i have done the same since childhood. Still do. Sadly, it hasn't changed a thing.
Makes one wonder, maybe peace, love and brotherhood are not part of god's plan?
you may have changed one mind in the future

[chrissy2231]

I occasionally hear muted voices and/or music. Can't understand a word, but I can hear the low music. Makes me believe I am in 2 dimensions.

NO, I don't hear voices if that's what you're thinking.

[chrissy2231]

yes if the other jimbo is better prepared

I occasionally hear muted voices and/or music. Can't understand a word, but I can hear the low music. Makes me believe I am in 2 dimensions.

NO, I don't hear voices normally if that's what you're thinking.

[chrissy2231]

:highfive:yes if the other jimbo is better prepared
A zoo giraffe, let out of his cage, swallows a cell phone announcing sports. The words go on playing as the giraffe walks back to his cage.

[fdpaq0580]

you have to ask to be saved. Seek and you shall find, knock and it will be opened, ask and it will be given you
there is no sin greater than god's mercy.

Many have asked and were never answered.
Many have sought, but never found.
Many have knocked, but found the doors locked and no one home.
Many keep searching and finding nothing, while many more have lost heart and have no strength left.

[chrissy2231]

Join "The Humanist Club" at Canal St Rec.
Villages Discussion Groups (https://www.villagesdiscussiongroups.com/)

[chrissy2231]

Many have asked and were never answered.
Many have sought, but never found.
Many have knocked, but found the doors locked and no one home.
Many keep searching and finding nothing, while many more have lost heart and have no strength left.

web site seatofthesoul.com

"Seat of the Soul" by Gary Zukav
On Amazon.com under $13

[jimjamuser]

Other people get your stuff. Don't worry, you won't miss it.😍
I hope not. I tend to miss a lot of STUFF that I lost in the past - like my stolen green and green hardtop 57 Chevy!

[chrissy2231]

The EXACT moment of death is peaceful. Birth is the pain - being pushed out, entering a too bright, noisy room, then getting a spank; HMPF!

[chrissy2231]

agree

[jimjamuser]

immersion conversion is a strategy to gain new converts. Hence your new convert roommate, and not just by chance I'm guessing.
I don't ascribe to any religion that started after 1825. Or any after the age of the dinosaurs. But, I might try to start my own if I could just get enough followers and donations.

[chrissy2231]

I heard a guy opine some time back that the moment of death is like the most powerful orgasm you can imagine, times about one thousand.

Kinda like that idea...[

The EXACT moment of death is peaceful. Birth is the pain - being pushed out, entering a too bright, noisy room, then getting a spank; HMPF!

[chrissy2231]

Join "The Humanist Club"
Villages Discussion Groups (https://www.villagesdiscussiongroups.com/)

[chrissy2231]

amen. There is no sin greater than god's mercy. Bend your knee to save your soul. If you had 5 minutes to live you can be forgiven. Ego is the devil were born with



More info on Soul on Amazon.com "Seat of the Soul" by GARY ZUKAV
web site seatofthesoul.com

[chrissy2231]

because humanity hasn't evolved to the point where we alll care about our fellow man. When wars cease, when all children are safe from hunger, famine, disease etc. When the world is committed to peace and live, thats when humanity evolves

Seat of the Soul meets the 1st and 3rd Weds at Sea Breeze 7-8:30PM

[jimjamuser]

My son and his wife converted to the LDS church a few years ago and I attended their baptism. When I asked my son why he was converting he said "They take care of you, Dad". Well, right after the service his bishop, a dentist, came up to me and asked me when my son was going to get a job. lol

Later on after my son and his family moved to the Reno area I went to church with them when I visited. I got to know his bishop who I liked very much and visited in his office on occasion. One time his assistant came to the door and announced Mr. So and so was there with his W2. They are serious about tithing!
Typical, witchcraft mentality, trading dollars for a seat in a pretty building and a dream of eternal salvation. Less believable than the wildest fantasy or sci/fi film.

[chrissy2231]

amen

Join the Humanist Club Villages Discussion Groups (https://www.villagesdiscussiongroups.com/)

[chrissy2231]

things humanity takes for granted as if it's their birthright
rather than a gift from our creator.
The air you breathe.
The water you drink
the soil that supports our bio diverse life.
The van allen belt that protects our atmosphere from destruction
the earths magnetic field created by its molten core and distributed by the earth's poles that protect us from cosmic radiation
and charged particles
the ecosystem that recycles everything for your survival.
All of this supported by extraterrestrial bodies, our sun and moon.
Now you can take the position that you are entitled to all of the above or you can see with your own eyes god's master plan at work in this small solar system of ours

I donated my body to Medcure because In the 1700s, interns had to rob graves.

[lennythenet]

Mormons might be the most hypocritical organized religion of all. Your spiritual life doesn't matter to them nor do you, so long as you are contributing to the coffers of their church.
That is a totally untrue and rude statement! I think members of the Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints are some of the kindest and most service oriented people I know.

[Taltarzac725]

That is a totally untrue and rude statement! I think members of the Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints are some of the kindest and most service oriented people I know.

I found that to be true, too.

[chrissy2231]

It all depends on how you lived your life.
Very simple! If you accepted Jesus as your Lord and Savior then you go to Heaven, if you didn't accept Jesus, then you go to HELL!
Eternity is a VERY long time.
Make the correct decision!!

Be sure to join The Humanist Club Villages Discussion Groups (https://www.villagesdiscussiongroups.com/)

[Jerry101]

I have done the same since childhood. Still do. Sadly, it hasn't changed a thing.
Makes one wonder, maybe Peace, Love and Brotherhood are not part of God's plan?

… of course they are a part of God’s plan … everybody read John 3:16-17. Then think about it… it is the pure & perfect ‘baby formula’ for believers! 😎👊

[Worldseries27]

seat of the soul meets the 1st and 3rd weds at sea breeze 7-8:30pm
that's why it's called evolution

[Worldseries27]

… some say ‘don’t talk religion’. By my faith i am commanded to by the lord jesus, and i do it boldly!

Matthew 28: 19-20

[19] go ye therefore, and teach all nations, baptizing them in the name of the father, and of the son, and of the holy ghost: [20] teaching them to observe all things whatsoever i have commanded you: And, lo, i am with you alway, even unto the end of the world. Amen.

… i honestly pray that god open the hearts & minds of people!
amen

[Willow&Darla]

Sleep forever!

[fdpaq0580]

i can't watch that stuff, i find it more upsetting that the latest horror movie. seriously.

Sometimes being upset is what spurs people to action to help make things better.

[fdpaq0580]

he gets a room full of video nerds, :a20:

Did it ever occur to Mahmoud that after he sleeps with the 72 virgins that they are virgins no longer? Then what does he do??? I don't think I want to know.

[jrandall]

I am glad you were treated well at BYU. I am a member of The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-Day Saints. I joined 29 years ago and it was the best de union in my life. I know Jesus Christ is our Savior and by following him my life is at peace even during this tumultuous time. I have been devastated by the passing of my 16 year old Grandson and my faith is what helped me through that most heartbreaking experience. If you ever want to come to our Church Service we are happy to have you. You can DM me if you would like to learn more about where and when. What Happens after We Die? | ComeUntoChrist (https://www.churchofjesuschrist.org/comeuntochrist/believe/life-has-purpose/what-happens-after-we-die)

This is interesting. I had to go to Mormon services when I was at BYU Law School in 1982. I found the people there friendly for the most part. I went there on a Merit Scholarship which was for non-Mormons but covered the cost as much as if had been a Mormon.

I had a recent convert as a roommate which was a huge problem as I needed to study and not talk about religion. and recent converts often want to spread the news, so to speak.

[jrandall]

I will live with The Lord and my family forever 💖

[fdpaq0580]

The EXACT moment of death is peaceful. Birth is the pain - being pushed out, entering a too bright, noisy room, then getting a spank; HMPF!

And don't forget the part where the Dr drops you on the head and says, "Oops!". Or doesn't that happen to everyone? 😯

[fdpaq0580]

Sleep forever!

Sounds great to me.😴

[ThirdOfFive]

Join the Humanist Club Villages Discussion Groups (https://www.villagesdiscussiongroups.com/)
Evangelical atheist...?

[Worldseries27]

did it ever occur to mahmoud that after he sleeps with the 72 virgins that they are virgins no longer? Then what does he do??? I don't think i want to know.
hopefully raise 144 children

[fdpaq0580]

… of course they are a part of God’s plan … everybody read John 3:16-17. Then think about it… it is the pure & perfect ‘baby formula’ for believers! 😎👊

I always figured that if God has this great plan, then how dare we pray for him to change things just for us. The arrogance of humans! "Making a Godly omelette requires breaking some eggs. How dare you to ask me to change the recipe."
And, if God has it right, he will not change the recipe, maybe that means all things are pre-ordained. Prayer cannot change anything. Oh, sometimes it makes you feel better.

[fdpaq0580]

Evangelical atheist...?

Oh, why the hail not? The more the merrier, right? Such fun! 😆

[jimjamuser]

I’m not sure what happens after death. I have a very close person pass away recently. Then a few days ago, as I was watching golf on the television and checking my emails on the iPad at the same time, this person came to me dressed as usual, from the air and gave me a sweet hug and left the same way. I have never, as a scientist, never believed in ghosts but this event was as real as the couch I’m sitting on.
I believe you because you believe it. And all your other posts seemed to be logical and normal. In 1992 my wife and I were babysitting a friend's children one summer night in Arizona near Sedona. We saw some lights circling in a large ring about mid-sky, or about 45 degrees. I said that I was going to walk up with the friend's dog and maybe get a better look at it. My wife was spooked and did NOT want me to go. Of course, I went anyway. out of curiosity, I suppose. I watched and petted the dog for about 1/2 of an hour and walked back. It kept up all night. And the sunrise washed it out. Our friend lived there for 10 years and had never seen that. And definitely, no mushrooms were involved. It was probably an inversion layer of some kind reflecting light from some airport. But, the light rotation looked like something from a Star Wars movie!

[Worldseries27]

i always figured that if god has this great plan, then how dare we pray for him to change things just for us. The arrogance of humans! "making a godly omelette requires breaking some eggs. How dare you to ask me to change the recipe."
and, if god has it right, he will not change the recipe, maybe that means all things are pre-ordained. Prayer cannot change anything. Oh, sometimes it makes you feel better.
jesus prayed and gave us the our father prayer

[Bonanza]

Dead is dead. It is permanent. No one's ever proven it to be different.
Same for heaven and hell. They've never been proven to be real "places."
There are those who want to think they're real because of blind faith.

No one really cares anyway and no one is reading this because we're almost beyond the 10th page of this thread!

:girlneener:

[jimjamuser]

I tend to think of it like after you die, you get to spin a giant roulette wheel and it can stop on fish, grasshoppers, rabbits, bears, insects, and even humans. That way you get more variety and respect for the ecosystem.

[MrFlorida]

Kind of like the question "What is Love?":thumbup::thumbup:

Somebody will collect your life insurance.

[jimjamuser]

What happens when you die? They change the sheets and give someone else your bed.
Maybe the best post so far!

[Michael 61]

As a very soon to be resident of TV, the stereotype I had that this post has proven incorrect, is that most residents were of deep Christian faith, regular church-goers, and having a biblical understanding of the afterlife. Though there are some, I am finding though I agree with most TV residents politically and economically, that many have no desire for anything spiritually or of Jesus, but a main focus of a temporal life devoted to leisure and fun.

[jimjamuser]

Pretty cold response. Some might even say sad, mean and mindless.
People can't really help what they believe. They are taught/indoctrinated what to think and how to think and what to believe from childhood. As they grow thoughts and thinking patterns become more structured. Some rebel or refute anything that goes against their teaching. Others may be more flexible to allow them to see, accept and adapt to newer, better ways and ideas. People don't/can't just decide to believe differently any more than they decide to be a different blood type or change their species. Beliefs can be changed if one is able to assimilate new/different information.
"change their species" that suggested to me a possible similar thread like......if you had to come back as another species........what would that be?

[Worldseries27]

dead is dead. It is permanent. No one's ever proven it to be different.
Same for heaven and hell. They've never been proven to be real "places."
there are those who want to think they're real because of blind faith.

No one really cares anyway and no one is reading this because we're almost beyond the 10th page of this thread!

:girlneener:
i read it.

[Jack58033]

Your wife thought you had more life insurance.

[fdpaq0580]

"change their species" that suggested to me a possible similar thread like......if you had to come back as another species........what would that be?

Yah! If you had to be reincarnated, and could choose, what would you be and why. Go for it. Could be a funny thread.

[fdpaq0580]

Your wife thought you had more life insurance.

Where did she think those new golf clubs came from?

[deej012160]

John 3:16 says it all. "For God so loved the world (all of us) that He gave His only begotten son (Jesus) so that whoever believes in Him will not perish (be banned to an eternity away from God, in Hell) but will live everlasting life (will live in eternal paradise with God)." Think about it, Jesus left Heaven to come down to earth, live a perfect, sinless life as a human, then in obedience to the Father went to a terrible death on the cross to pay the price for all of our sins so that we would not have to pay the price for our sins. ---posted in love from a Bible-believing Christian---

[Worldseries27]

john 3:16 says it all. "for god so loved the world (all of us) that he gave his only begotten son (jesus) so that whoever believes in him will not perish (be banned to an eternity away from god, in hell) but will live everlasting life (will live in eternal paradise with god)." think about it, jesus left heaven to come down to earth, live a perfect, sinless life as a human, then in obedience to the father went to a terrible death on the cross to pay the price for all of our sins so that we would not have to pay the price for our sins. ---posted in love from a bible-believing christian---
amen

[ex34449]

It was extremely peaceful. A peace and existence I still can't describe. I will say this though, I was upset when I came back. And no, there was no religion or politics. There was an incredible feeling of understanding.
What would you like to know?

[ex34449]

Yah! If you had to be reincarnated, and could choose, what would you be and why. Go for it. Could be a funny thread.

"The law of conservation of energy states that energy can neither be created nor destroyed - only converted from one form of energy to another."

If you die in a field and grass grows from your fertilizer. Then a cow comes along and eats the grass, have you not continued as grass and a cow?

[fdpaq0580]

"The law of conservation of energy states that energy can neither be created nor destroyed - only converted from one form of energy to another."

If you die in a field and grass grows from your fertilizer. Then a cow comes along and eats the grass, have you not continued as grass and a cow?

If I died in a field and grass grew from MY fertilizer and a cow ate it, the cow would vomit and when the farmer tried to milk the cow all he would get would be cheese curds.
😬

[Worldseries27]

"the law of conservation of energy states that energy can neither be created nor destroyed - only converted from one form of energy to another."

if you die in a field and grass grows from your fertilizer. Then a cow comes along and eats the grass, have you not continued as grass and a cow?
the grass absorbed your body aka matter.
The energy that powered your brain and body that's another question for the hereafter

[Blackbird45]

[

The EXACT moment of death is peaceful. Birth is the pain - being pushed out, entering a too bright, noisy room, then getting a spank; HMPF!

If only this was true. I've seen people die and it's not always peaceful.

[Paul1934]

Get to sleep in

[chenault55]

[QUOTE=chrissy2231;2147240]Kind of like the question "What is Love?":thumbup::thumbup:[/QU

Nothing. From dust you came and from dust you shall return and at that point it probably doesn’t matter what happens. I will always respect another persons opinion. I don’t need to agree with it. Unless they are being mean or hateful then their opinion doesn’t mean anything.

[MidWestIA]

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=rDrDYPzbvlc

[chenault55]

[QUOTE=chrissy2231;2147240]Kind of like the question "What is Love?":thumbup::thumbup:[/QU

Nothing. From dust you came and from dust you shall return and at that point it probably doesn’t matter what happens. I will always respect another persons opinion. I don’t need to agree with it. Unless they are being mean or hateful then their opinion doesn’t mean anything.

I didn’t mean to respond to you personally you were the first one after the question posted but since I’m here. John Legend’s song All Of Me sounds like a good explanation as any🙃

[Two Bills]

For me, dead is not a problem.
It's the dying bit I am more concerned about!.
As for afterlife, I am a firm believer that we are just compost or ashes after death.
No spirits in the sky, harps, or fluffy clouds.

[temartin]

That's the most important question you'll ever consider. I hope you make the right choice.

[Larchap49]

It's a tragedy what hunters do to wild animals; then hanging up their heads as trophies. Watch the movie "Sequoia." The Capitol Presents 'Sequoia,' a Distinguished Animal Film The New York Times - Breaking News, US News, World News and Videos (https://www.nytimes.com) › 1935/02/23 › archives › the-c...
But the film possesses genuine artistic distinction, and it encompasses an emotional cycle that is more profoundly touching than most human make-believe.

What hunters do is help the population control of wild animals so they don't die a horrible death from starvation due to overpopulation. Not to mention the millions of dollars they put into the economy pursuing this activity. Try doing some research on the subject before condeming it.

[fdpaq0580]

For me, dead is not a problem.
It's the dying bit I am more concerned about!.
As for afterlife, I am a firm believer that we are just compost or ashes after death.
No spirits in the sky, harps, or fluffy clouds.

My very thoughts.

[fdpaq0580]

What hunters do is help the population control of wild animals so they don't die a horrible death from starvation due to overpopulation. Not to mention the millions of dollars they put into the economy pursuing this activity. Try doing some research on the subject before condeming it.

Ha ha!
First, I am not against hunting. But your response sounded almost like a public service announcement to me. "We kill them to control the population and keep to keep them from a horrible death of starvation". Wonder if that would work as a defense for serial killers and school shooters.
Might be good for another thread. This is about what happens when YOU die.

[dougawhite]

Kind of like the question "What is Love?":thumbup::thumbup:

My wife goes on a 15 night Mediterranean cruise.

[MidWestIA]

the what happens when you die got overwhelmed with cute answers - if you want to know listen to at least the 1st 10 minutes

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=rDrDYPzbvlc

[Nucky]

Yeah about an hour after my beloved Mother died I bumped into a friend, at that time a real friend and he told me something very comforting. He said only 104,000 of earths very best people will be resurrected when earth doesn’t exist anymore.

I accepted his words because I had no interest in resurrecting his beliefs to align with mine. He really was a fine person who needed polishing in his presentation of how and when to deal his beliefs to others who he knew didn’t share his outlook.

His way showed little help for the future once you pass. The way I was raised taught us that the best is yet to come once you pass away. When I questioned my cousin who was a Monsignor in the Catholic Church he explained the importance of our faith he also never spoke down about my friends beliefs.

I feel good about my chances of going to what we call heaven and being reunited with everyone who has gone before me. I imagine it to be The Villages time’s a thousand.

I respect everyone’s opinions and or views on this matter. I lost my Dad when he was 53 and I think I was 17. My beliefs kept me from pulling the plug at that moment. I was raised with the beliefs I stated and still have them. Don’t get me wrong I don’t want to go yet because I’m just learning how to really live here but if it did happen I have NOTHING to worry about, I’m covered.

[44Apple]

How many religions or spiritual belief systems have there been? Hundreds? Thousands? There have been many, each with its own group of stories re a possible afterlife. They can't all be correct. And at this point, I doubt any of them are. The 72 virgins? The golden plates story? Angels flying, with wings no less? Unfortunately, or fortunately, when you go, you go.

[fastboat]

That's why it's called faith.

[mkjelenbaas]

Kind of like the question "What is Love?":thumbup::thumbup:
You are buried.

[fastboat]

To all the nonbelievers: We are NOT human beings with an immortal soul, we are immortal souls with a human body. At the time of death our soul lives on, our body returns to the earth from which it came. I for one would rather go thru life thinking there is a God and an afterlife and be disappointed to find I was wrong than to go thru life denying God only to find at the time of death that He does exist.

[Taltarzac725]

The Eyes of God – Karlukovo, Bulgaria
- Atlas Obscura (https://www.atlasobscura.com/places/the-eyes-of-god-karlukovo-bulgaria)

Too many sublime things in nature and elsewhere not to believe that some kind of divine intelligence is involved. Also for evolution itself. You cannot get everything out of NOTHING. And there had to be some kind of direction in the chaos of evolution.

A lot of religions do seem to be about rulers devising ways to manipulate their subjects into behaving themselves with a better afterlife for them. Other religions I am not so sure. Judaism, Islam, Christianity, Buddhism, and Hinduism seem to have something more going on than say how the ancient Egyptians controlled their subjects. Hinduism Basics - Hindu American Foundation (https://www.hinduamerican.org/hinduism-basics)

[OhioBuckeye]

A silly answer, you didn’t saying anything very bright except you must not believe in GOD. I just gave my opinion what I think!

[The Chipster]

Trying to figure out what happens to us after we die is like an ant trying to figure out how a nuclear power plant works. We have been evolving as a species for only a miniscule 300,000 years, while the universe is chock full of billions of planets (according to most astronomers and cosmic physicists), many of which are billions of years old. We simple humans cannot even figure out what "dark matter" is, even though it makes up 90% of the mass of the universe.

If there is some sort of force that we transcend to after our body shuts down, it is way, way beyond our imagination. This is why many people grab onto religion as a comfortable way to predict a happy landing as long as you follow various superstitious.

In the meantime, I am looking forward to an unimaginable journey which, in many millions of years from now, humans will be able to comprehend something called death that was back in archaic 2022. Bon Voyage!

[OhioBuckeye]

Good answer!

[Ptmckiou]

So when my cell phone battery dies, or gets run over by a truck it is still operating on another plane of existence ?

Is your cell phone made from atoms? Is your cell phone made from everything else in the universe? Energy? Consciousness is everywhere. “God”. is everywhere. Is there anywhere God is not? All that IS….collectively is God. Nothing but God, who is experiencing through zillions of aspects of itself…some aspects have forgotten who they are and drifted far away from the main godhead of most divine energy (God/heaven), and the 3D game is to find your way back to knowing who you really are, because nothing in 3D can harm the REAL you…soul divine energy.

[Byte1]

Reading through all the answers, it appears that one will not have to worry about Heaven being over crowded. Of course, this is just my opinion, because it may also just mean that many "believers" are just not into these discussions on controversial subjects.
Perhaps another appropriate thread would be titled "what is Faith?" More than half the answers on this thread seem to indicate a huge lack of FAITH. A 2021 Pew poll found that only 63% of Americans consider themselves Christians. That is way down from years past. Maybe the lack of Faith and the lack of fear of one's judgement after death is a contributing factor in all the violence in the world, especially in the mass increase in criminal activity in the U.S.
When I was in Vietnam in the middle of several firefights, I found the old saying that there are a lot of believers created in the foxhole to be very true. Some folks that believe that they are close to impending death suddenly find remorse for their less than honorable lives. Ever notice how many charity drives there are in the Villages? How many food drives to collect food for food pantries and soup kitchens? How many volunteers for school mentors, VA clinic, neighborhood drivers, etc? Perhaps, folks are exploring different means that they hope will buy their way into heaven if they are worried about the possibility that Heaven exists and that they might be excluded for their less than stellar lives in the past?
I believe that I have been blessed to have always believed in GOD since as far back as I can remember. I never understood the concept of salvation through the death and resurrection of Jesus until the early '70's. I won't go into the "how" but I suddenly saw the proverbial "light" and felt the relief that I now knew that my past sins were forgiven. It's a great feeling. Now, I promised that I would not argue my "faith" or religion. I am just expressing my thoughts, and maybe it will give some an itch to learn more, or maybe it will just make some think about the OP's subject of "what happens when you die."
Let me just ask one question related to the subject. If you don't believe in salvation through Christ, what if you are wrong? If I am wrong (I have faith that I am right) then what happens to me? According to those that do not believe, NOTHING would happen because I would just be dead. If I am right (my faith says I am ) then I will live an infinity in GOD's glory. I have a saying that I like to use, that I have LIFE insurance. I don't like to use the threat of eternal damnation to HELL when I speak about the evils of sin, because I think that most folks already know that sin is wrong. The Bible says that "ALL" have sinned. It also states that the only way out of the punishment for sin is for Jesus to be there for us as our mediator upon our final judgement. He died a sinless death of torture upon the cross to pay for our sins and will stand before GOD the Father for us with a promise that our debt has been "paid in full." If someone offered to take your place for something you have done wrong, wouldn't you accept that great gift? All GOD requires of you is to accept HIS gift. So, you don't believe? I am sorry. That's what is great about having a FREE WILL. I am not judging anyone. The Bible says that ALL are sinners. Accept it or not, that's your option. What have you lost for accepting GOD's gift?
I apologize for the long post. It was not my intention.

[Byte1]

To all the nonbelievers: We are NOT human beings with an immortal soul, we are immortal souls with a human body. At the time of death our soul lives on, our body returns to the earth from which it came. I for one would rather go thru life thinking there is a God and an afterlife and be disappointed to find I was wrong than to go thru life denying God only to find at the time of death that He does exist.

Outstanding post! :coolsmiley:

[Djean1981]

John 3:16 says it all. "For God so loved the world (all of us) that He gave His only begotten son (Jesus) so that whoever believes in Him will not perish (be banned to an eternity away from God, in Hell) but will live everlasting life (will live in eternal paradise with God)." Think about it, Jesus left Heaven to come down to earth, live a perfect, sinless life as a human, then in obedience to the Father went to a terrible death on the cross to pay the price for all of our sins so that we would not have to pay the price for our sins. ---posted in love from a Bible-believing Christian---
Amen!

[fdpaq0580]

Is your cell phone made from atoms? Is your cell phone made from everything else in the universe? Energy? Consciousness is everywhere. “God”. is everywhere. Is there anywhere God is not? All that IS….collectively is God. Nothing but God, who is experiencing through zillions of aspects of itself…some aspects have forgotten who they are and drifted far away from the main godhead of most divine energy (God/heaven), and the 3D game is to find your way back to knowing who you really are, because nothing in 3D can harm the REAL you…soul divine energy.

Huh? "God is everywhere. Consciousness is everywhere". Ok! So when you talk to God you are actually just talking to yourself. Makes sense, sort of.

"The main godhead"?? "Aspects" (of God?) "have forgotten who they are" sounds like universal consciousness does not equal universal awareness. God has amnesia? Or dementia? No wonder the world is in such a state. This does not make sense to me. Sorry.

[Aces4]

Huh? "God is everywhere. Consciousness is everywhere". Ok! So when you talk to God you are actually just talking to yourself. Makes sense, sort of.

"The main godhead"?? "Aspects" (of God?) "have forgotten who they are" sounds like universal consciousness does not equal universal awareness. God has amnesia? Or dementia? No wonder the world is in such a state. This does not make sense to me. Sorry.

The world is in such a state because of Godlessness.
I guess people are reaping what they are sewing. Have a blest day!

[fdpaq0580]

Reading through all the answers, it appears that one will not have to worry about Heaven being over crowded. Of course, this is just my opinion, because it may also just mean that many "believers" are just not into these discussions on controversial subjects.
Perhaps another appropriate thread would be titled "what is Faith?" More than half the answers on this thread seem to indicate a huge lack of FAITH.
What have you lost for accepting GOD's gift?
I apologize for the long post. It was not my intention.

Don't apologize, I thought you expressed yourself quite well. And don't worry about over crowding in Heaven. According to one old tv evangelist, only 144,000 Kings and priests are all that are getting in.
"Seem to indicate a huge lack of FAITH." Do not confuse faith with religion. Just because one does not exhibit your brand of Christian faith, does not mean they are without faith. I, for example, have absolute faith that when I am dead, the energy in this body which powers my brain which creates the sense of self, or ME, will be dispersed into the ether and I will be no more. The best sleep never known by a living person. Yes, "never".
Even atheists have faith that God does not exist. I consider myself a "spiritual agnostic". My way of saying that I don't believe in God or any god(s) in the traditional sense. But, I do believe or suspect that there is something more, unknowable, inconceivable, without thought or emotion for us, unlike the gods of human religions.
As for accepting God's gift, I say "Thank You". But I don't think he is likely there to hear. And, after all, a true "gift" is something given without thought of reward, praise or even thanks. A true gift comes with No Strings Attached!
Peace! 🙏

[ThirdOfFive]

"Reading through all the answers, it appears that one will not have to worry about Heaven being over crowded. "

Heh. I once remember reading a comment (can't remember who made it) to the effect that when he died he preferred going to hell over going to heaven. His reason? In hell he'd get to meet kings, popes, lawyers, etc. Heaven on the other hand would be populated with lepers and monks.

[Taltarzac725]

"Reading through all the answers, it appears that one will not have to worry about Heaven being over crowded. "

Heh. I once remember reading a comment (can't remember who made it) to the effect that when he died he preferred going to hell over going to heaven. His reason? In hell he'd get to meet kings, popes, lawyers, etc. Heaven on the other hand would be populated with lepers and monks.

That is assuming people would be visiting with each other in Hell. BBC Radio 4 - In Our Time, Hell (https://www.bbc.co.uk/programmes/p0038xb6)

[Two Bills]

That is assuming people would be visiting with each other in Hell.

I was told many years ago, that the punishment for going to hell, was to stand in eternity in a sea of poop. Evidently is wasn't as bad as new arrivals thought, until they found out The Devil went water skiing on it daily! :smiley:

[fdpaq0580]

The world is in such a state because of Godlessness.
I guess people are reaping what they are sewing. Have a blest day!

Since time immemorial humans have fought and killed one another in the name of and with the blessings of their gods. Not only other religions, but different groups of the same religion.

[Taltarzac725]

Since time immemorial humans have fought and killed one another in the name of and with the blessings of their gods. Not only other religions, but different groups of the same religion.

Very true.

[Byte1]

I was told many years ago, that the punishment for going to hell, was to stand in eternity in a sea of poop. Evidently is wasn't as bad as new arrivals thought, until they found out The Devil went water skiing on it daily! :smiley:

I heard a different version of it, where Satan was giving a newbie a tour and everyone was standing knee deep in manure drinking coffee. Just before moving on, Satan shouted "OK, coffee break is over. Back on your heads. :mornincoffee:

[ThirdOfFive]

Don't apologize, I thought you expressed yourself quite well. And don't worry about over crowding in Heaven. According to one old tv evangelist, only 144,000 Kings and priests are all that are getting in.
"Seem to indicate a huge lack of FAITH." Do not confuse faith with religion. Just because one does not exhibit your brand of Christian faith, does not mean they are without faith. I, for example, have absolute faith that when I am dead, the energy in this body which powers my brain which creates the sense of self, or ME, will be dispersed into the ether and I will be no more. The best sleep never known by a living person. Yes, "never".
Even atheists have faith that God does not exist. I consider myself a "spiritual agnostic". My way of saying that I don't believe in God or any god(s) in the traditional sense. But, I do believe or suspect that there is something more, unknowable, inconceivable, without thought or emotion for us, unlike the gods of human religions.
As for accepting God's gift, I say "Thank You". But I don't think he is likely there to hear. And, after all, a true "gift" is something given without thought of reward, praise or even thanks. A true gift comes with No Strings Attached!
Peace! ������
Interesting post.

For me, the existence of the watch proves the existence of a watchmaker. I accept the idea that the Creator exists/existed because the more scientific advancements and discoveries we make, the more those advancements indicate to me that we, as with all life on this planet, are NOT an accident. The proof? I read recently that one molecule of human DNA contains something like 215 petabytes of information. One petabyte is equal to about 500 BILLION pages of typed text. The Library of Congress contains only (only?) about 20 petabytes of information. ONE molecule of our DNA contains more data than eleven equivalent Libraries of Congress. I have a hard time envisioning such a number. And that molecule, aside from being just a blueprint, is also in effect a computer program designed to run for about 70-80 years before self-terminating--and each individual "computer" is that of a person unique from all the billions of other "computers" both dead and alive--well, to believe that all of that happened by accident beggars the imagination.

But that is only half. The other half, that of salvation and the assumption into an eternal life in a place with an all-good and all-caring God, is based purely on faith, and no direct proof of that "place" exists. I do however think that there is indirect evidence: miraculous events that cannot be explained by science, for example, or of lives changed upon acceptance of a benevolent higher power. That fact has been part of AA since it's inception: the second step of the 12-step program follows the step where the addict admits that he or she is powerless, but in the second step acknowledges that reliance on a higher power is needed before the addiction is controlled. AA is no surefire cure, but many, many lives have been changed for the better because of it.

We have no hard answers, but when one looks at the evidence, the existence of a benevolent watchmaker is hard to refute.

[Worldseries27]

reading through all the answers, it appears that one will not have to worry about heaven being over crowded. Of course, this is just my opinion, because it may also just mean that many "believers" are just not into these discussions on controversial subjects.
Perhaps another appropriate thread would be titled "what is faith?" more than half the answers on this thread seem to indicate a huge lack of faith. A 2021 pew poll found that only 63% of americans consider themselves christians. That is way down from years past. Maybe the lack of faith and the lack of fear of one's judgement after death is a contributing factor in all the violence in the world, especially in the mass increase in criminal activity in the u.s.
When i was in vietnam in the middle of several firefights, i found the old saying that there are a lot of believers created in the foxhole to be very true. Some folks that believe that they are close to impending death suddenly find remorse for their less than honorable lives. Ever notice how many charity drives there are in the villages? How many food drives to collect food for food pantries and soup kitchens? How many volunteers for school mentors, va clinic, neighborhood drivers, etc? Perhaps, folks are exploring different means that they hope will buy their way into heaven if they are worried about the possibility that heaven exists and that they might be excluded for their less than stellar lives in the past?
I believe that i have been blessed to have always believed in god since as far back as i can remember. I never understood the concept of salvation through the death and resurrection of jesus until the early '70's. I won't go into the "how" but i suddenly saw the proverbial "light" and felt the relief that i now knew that my past sins were forgiven. It's a great feeling. Now, i promised that i would not argue my "faith" or religion. I am just expressing my thoughts, and maybe it will give some an itch to learn more, or maybe it will just make some think about the op's subject of "what happens when you die."
let me just ask one question related to the subject. If you don't believe in salvation through christ, what if you are wrong? If i am wrong (i have faith that i am right) then what happens to me? According to those that do not believe, nothing would happen because i would just be dead. If i am right (my faith says i am ) then i will live an infinity in god's glory. I have a saying that i like to use, that i have life insurance. I don't like to use the threat of eternal damnation to hell when i speak about the evils of sin, because i think that most folks already know that sin is wrong. The bible says that "all" have sinned. It also states that the only way out of the punishment for sin is for jesus to be there for us as our mediator upon our final judgement. He died a sinless death of torture upon the cross to pay for our sins and will stand before god the father for us with a promise that our debt has been "paid in full." if someone offered to take your place for something you have done wrong, wouldn't you accept that great gift? All god requires of you is to accept his gift. So, you don't believe? I am sorry. That's what is great about having a free will. I am not judging anyone. The bible says that all are sinners. Accept it or not, that's your option. What have you lost for accepting god's gift?
I apologize for the long post. It was not my intention.
amen and thank you

[ThirdOfFive]

Since time immemorial humans have fought and killed one another in the name of and with the blessings of their gods. Not only other religions, but different groups of the same religion.
Absolutely! Which is why I detest all religion(s). In the end, all of them manipulate their devotees to the ends of the manipulators.

[Aces4]

Since time immemorial humans have fought and killed one another in the name of and with the blessings of their gods. Not only other religions, but different groups of the same religion.

They have fought one another because of human egos and oppression of faith. It is still happening but God does not teach us to kill one another in his name.

[Worldseries27]

huh? "god is everywhere. Consciousness is everywhere". Ok! So when you talk to god you are actually just talking to yourself. Makes sense, sort of.

"the main godhead"?? "aspects" (of god?) "have forgotten who they are" sounds like universal consciousness does not equal universal awareness. God has amnesia? Or dementia? No wonder the world is in such a state. This does not make sense to me. Sorry.
if you want to be logical explain why are we entitled to a glass of water or a breath of fresh air or tje planet and universe itself. Are you grateful for that? Who do you think provided for you? Is the universe designed or did it magically show up? Your choice

[Velvet]

if you want to be logical explain why are we entitled to a glass of water or a breath of fresh air or tje planet and universe itself. Are you grateful for that? Who do you think provided for you? Is the universe designed or did it magically show up? Your choice

Why do you need to assume that someone provided something for us? Do the animals wonder about why the pond is there to drink for them?
We did not ask to be born, why are we suppose to regret it?
Personally, of course I believe in the Creator, but all this guilt stuff baffles me.

[Worldseries27]

interesting post.

For me, the existence of the watch proves the existence of a watchmaker. I accept the idea that the creator exists/existed because the more scientific advancements and discoveries we make, the more those advancements indicate to me that we, as with all life on this planet, are not an accident. The proof? I read recently that one molecule of human dna contains something like 215 petabytes of information. One petabyte is equal to about 500 billion pages of typed text. The library of congress contains only (only?) about 20 petabytes of information. One molecule of our dna contains more data than eleven equivalent libraries of congress. I have a hard time envisioning such a number. And that molecule, aside from being just a blueprint, is also in effect a computer program designed to run for about 70-80 years before self-terminating--and each individual "computer" is that of a person unique from all the billions of other "computers" both dead and alive--well, to believe that all of that happened by accident beggars the imagination.

But that is only half. The other half, that of salvation and the assumption into an eternal life in a place with an all-good and all-caring god, is based purely on faith, and no direct proof of that "place" exists. I do however think that there is indirect evidence: Miraculous events that cannot be explained by science, for example, or of lives changed upon acceptance of a benevolent higher power. That fact has been part of aa since it's inception: The second step of the 12-step program follows the step where the addict admits that he or she is powerless, but in the second step acknowledges that reliance on a higher power is needed before the addiction is controlled. Aa is no surefire cure, but many, many lives have been changed for the better because of it.

We have no hard answers, but when one looks at the evidence, the existence of a benevolent watchmaker is hard to refute.
agreed

[Worldseries27]

they have fought one another because of human egos and oppression of faith. It is still happening but god does not teach us to kill one another in his name.
he actually forbids it
the sixth commandment
" thou shalt not kill"

[Worldseries27]

There's an old saying
" if the shoe fits, wear it

[Boston1945]

I have been told that the lights go out.

[JMintzer]

he actually forbids it
the sixth commandment
" thou shalt not kill"

The correct is "Thou shall not commit murder"...

[chrissy2231]

I promise to respond to all posts. I have time constraints because of:jester: PR I have to do. Here are my other sides; outrageous and outlandish...not just Spiritual and Inquisitive.

In case you’re interested in having a great time with lots of laughter…ALL SHOW INFO AND TIX PURCHASE are IN BELOW LINK.
IMPROV 2022, Saturday 10/28, 6-7:30PM, ONLY $7 at Rohan.
Improv 2022 - Show on Friday 10-28-22 Tickets, Rohan Regional Recreation Center, The Villages, October 28 2022 | AllEvents.in (https://allevents.in/the%20villages/improv-2022-show-on-friday-10-28-22/80005306204115)

[jimbomaybe]

Is your cell phone made from atoms? Is your cell phone made from everything else in the universe? Energy? Consciousness is everywhere. “God”. is everywhere. Is there anywhere God is not? All that IS….collectively is God. Nothing but God, who is experiencing through zillions of aspects of itself…some aspects have forgotten who they are and drifted far away from the main godhead of most divine energy (God/heaven), and the 3D game is to find your way back to knowing who you really are, because nothing in 3D can harm the REAL you…soul divine energy.
As a matter of fact I don't believe in Animism

[tophcfa]

The state and federal government taxes your estate, even though they already taxed it when you earned it.

[jimjamuser]

What hunters do is help the population control of wild animals so they don't die a horrible death from starvation due to overpopulation. Not to mention the millions of dollars they put into the economy pursuing this activity. Try doing some research on the subject before condeming it.
Yeah, hunters' lives matter!

[jimjamuser]

How many religions or spiritual belief systems have there been? Hundreds? Thousands? There have been many, each with its own group of stories re a possible afterlife. They can't all be correct. And at this point, I doubt any of them are. The 72 virgins? The golden plates story? Angels flying, with wings no less? Unfortunately, or fortunately, when you go, you go.
Those that spin the most compelling after-life story WIN. They get the most followers and therefore the most money. Maybe I can start a religion that allows everyone to saddle up a dragon and ride around Disney World in their afterlife. Or maybe become an invisible spirit so they can easily snoop on their Villager friends. That has potential.

[Aces4]

Those that spin the most compelling after-life story WIN. They get the most followers and therefore the most money. Maybe I can start a religion that allows everyone to saddle up a dragon and ride around Disney World in their afterlife. Or maybe become an invisible spirit so they can easily snoop on their Villager friends. That has potential.

And without faith, most would be reduced to that; cynicism, acrimony, oh why list it… we can see what the world has become. (I said most, not all.)

[fdpaq0580]

if you want to be logical explain why are we entitled to a glass of water or a breath of fresh air or tje planet and universe itself. Are you grateful for that? Who do you think provided for you? Is the universe designed or did it magically show up? Your choice

Who says we are "entitled" to anything? When your parents created you, you were born into a world, country, town family that was making use of the things they worked for, whatever kind of work that might have been. All living things work for there survival.

Am I "grateful"? The word "Grateful" implies a benefactor(s). Instead of saying grateful, it might be more accurate to say I am happy for the many good things in my life. I am thankful to my parents, family for providing for me and loving me.

"Is the universe designed or did it magically show up?" Only two choices? God or Harry Potter are my two choices?. If I were an atheist with a sarcastic sense of humor, I would probably say, "What difference does it make. They are both fictional characters". But I am not an atheist. What if I said that I think that God, as most people envision him, doesn't exist, and He didn't make the universe. But, something incomprehensible might exist, and it came into being with the universe and is part of it.

[jimjamuser]

The state and federal government taxes your estate, even though they already taxed it when you earned it.
Taxes, in general, are MERELY designed to provide revenue for various governments. "Fairness" isn't attempted because it would be impossible to please everyone. Too many people look for logic and "fairness" in the tax system. The system is created by lawmakers that are available and imperfect. Better to just accept taxes as part of modern life.

Estate taxes, the so-called death taxes, are not actually unfair as most would think - but actually in keeping with the VERY American ideal that each generation and each individual should be required to earn THEIR own wealth........not get their wealth HANDED to them on a platter from their parents. The basic HISTORIC principle is that without estate taxes the US would evolve FROM a Democracy into a KINGDOM, like the Old England that the Colonists ran (or sailed) away from. So, Estate or death taxes are basically a good thing that helps INNOVATION and helps the average man keep the KINGS away. There are and have been many schemes implemented by large estates to avoid paying estate taxes. These are all to the benefit of individual families, but to the detriment of American SOCIETY.

Therefore, after you die, if your estate has paid its FAIR share of estate taxes, you can float around in the clouds of heaven playing a harp and feeling GOOD that you left the world a better place.

[ex34449]

Having been dead and not at all religious... it was quite peaceful. Never saw any supreme being either good or bad. Just an indescribable peace and understanding of everything. It took me months to relive what I had experienced in as many seconds. Still haven't completed the job as I've started to forget many of the finer details of the trip.
If and when it happens again, I Do Not want to come back.

[JMintzer]

Taxes, in general, are MERELY designed to provide revenue for various governments. "Fairness" isn't attempted because it would be impossible to please everyone. Too many people look for logic and "fairness" in the tax system. The system is created by lawmakers that are available and imperfect. Better to just accept taxes as part of modern life.

Estate taxes, the so-called death taxes, are not actually unfair as most would think - but actually in keeping with the VERY American ideal that each generation and each individual should be required to earn THEIR own wealth........not get their wealth HANDED to them on a platter from their parents. The basic HISTORIC principle is that without estate taxes the US would evolve FROM a Democracy into a KINGDOM, like the Old England that the Colonists ran (or sailed) away from. So, Estate or death taxes are basically a good thing that helps INNOVATION and helps the average man keep the KINGS away. There are and have been many schemes implemented by large estates to avoid paying estate taxes. These are all to the benefit of individual families, but to the detriment of American SOCIETY.

Therefore, after you die, if your estate has paid its FAIR share of estate taxes, you can float around in the clouds of heaven playing a harp and feeling GOOD that you left the world a better place.

:1rotfl::1rotfl::1rotfl:

[tophcfa]

Taxes, in general, are MERELY designed to provide revenue for various governments. "Fairness" isn't attempted because it would be impossible to please everyone. Too many people look for logic and "fairness" in the tax system. The system is created by lawmakers that are available and imperfect. Better to just accept taxes as part of modern life.

Estate taxes, the so-called death taxes, are not actually unfair as most would think - but actually in keeping with the VERY American ideal that each generation and each individual should be required to earn THEIR own wealth........not get their wealth HANDED to them on a platter from their parents. The basic HISTORIC principle is that without estate taxes the US would evolve FROM a Democracy into a KINGDOM, like the Old England that the Colonists ran (or sailed) away from. So, Estate or death taxes are basically a good thing that helps INNOVATION and helps the average man keep the KINGS away. There are and have been many schemes implemented by large estates to avoid paying estate taxes. These are all to the benefit of individual families, but to the detriment of American SOCIETY.

Therefore, after you die, if your estate has paid its FAIR share of estate taxes, you can float around in the clouds of heaven playing a harp and feeling GOOD that you left the world a better place.

Bla bla bla

[jimbomaybe]

Huh? "God is everywhere. Consciousness is everywhere". Ok! So when you talk to God you are actually just talking to yourself. Makes sense, sort of.

"The main godhead"?? "Aspects" (of God?) "have forgotten who they are" sounds like universal consciousness does not equal universal awareness. God has amnesia? Or dementia? No wonder the world is in such a state. This does not make sense to me. Sorry.
I guess the good news is that my cell phone is still working, somewhere

[Veiragirl]

Kind of like the question "What is Love?":thumbup::thumbup:

I believe when we pass, our energy goes to a loving, kind "space" where will see our loved ones who passed before us.
I was raised Catholic but do not practice it or any other "man made" religion. To me, they were mostly made for power and money. I definately do believe in a "God"...a higher spirit with no particular religion. I think Budda, Jesus, Allah etc. do represent God. To me the Higher Spirit is the combination of them all

[Babubhat]

Absolutely nothing

[fdpaq0580]

I guess the good news is that my cell phone is still working, somewhere

Oh my! I hope you have an unlimited plan.

[fdpaq0580]

Absolutely nothing

There is another thread for that. 😏

[coffeebean]

What do you think happens when you die?


Heart stops beating, brain activity ceases.

Lights out. That's all folks!

[coffeebean]

The worms crawl in, the worms crawl out……
The worms crawl in and then you shake 'em all about...............La la la la la la la la la.
That's what it's all about.

[coffeebean]

I'm going home to the Lord.

Have a good time.

[chrissy2231]

Having been dead and not at all religious... it was quite peaceful. Never saw any supreme being either good or bad. Just an indescribable peace and understanding of everything. It took me months to relive what I had experienced in as many seconds. Still haven't completed the job as I've started to forget many of the finer details of the trip.
If and when it happens again, I Do Not want to come back.


The exact moment of death is peaceful. Just that moment, no matter what took you there. It's birth that's painful. Being pushed out of a warm, safe place into a brightly lit, noisy room, then being spanked is the pain!

[chrissy2231]

You can't take it with you.
figure out a way to spend it all. And if you can't, be sure everything is in a trust or Uncle Sam will rob your inheritors.

[chrissy2231]

Yeah, hunters' lives matter!
On Venus the animals have the guns, and they mount human heads on their walls!

[chrissy2231]

Live in the Now. Find Inner Peace. Work on your childhood issues. Learn your life lessons, and work on those. Practice Acceptance, Love, Forgiveness, Understanding, and be a Good Listener

[chrissy2231]

Yes, we must leave the world a better place! Sadly, there are way too many humans suffering from their childhood issues, and taking their anger out inappropriately. Too many overwhelmed, exhausted working parents who don't have the time to understand their childrens' needs and emotions.

[chrissy2231]

Watch the movie "Sequoia." An escaped giraffe from a zoo swallows a small portable radio playing sports news. While the giraffe is walking back to his zoo cage, the radio keeps playing. If you love movies, this one is grrrrrrrrrrreat!

[coffeebean]

I heard a guy opine some time back that the moment of death is like the most powerful orgasm you can imagine, times about one thousand.

Kinda like that idea...

Sounds like it is that orgasm that kills ya.

[OhioBuckeye]

I apologize to the person that said something about a silly comment. They were talking about another comment, not mine.

[fdpaq0580]

On Venus the animals have the guns, and they mount human heads on their walls!

And some of those people never looked better. Almost lifelike. 👵👴👩👳👷👦👱

[fdpaq0580]

Sounds like it is that orgasm that kills ya.

My tombstone will read, " He came and went!"

[jimjamuser]

On Venus the animals have the guns, and they mount human heads on their walls!
Yes, turnabout is fair play. And I was just joking about the, "hunter's lives matter".

[Taltarzac725]

Rodney Dangerfield's tombstone reads--

"There goes the neighborhood."

Rodney Dangerfield'''s Funny Tombstone | Tombstone, The last laugh, Tombstone epitaphs (https://www.pinterest.com/pin/74942781270809298/)

[jimjamuser]

figure out a way to spend it all. And if you can't, be sure everything is in a trust or Uncle Sam will rob your inheritors.
Another post about thwarting the estate tax. Please refer to my post at 211. Estate tax gets a bad rap in layman's terms, Actually, 90% of all people are never affected by estate tax because it applies ONLY to very large estates. Many people only WISH that they had enough wealth to be affected by it.

Taxes get a bad rap as does LARGE State and Federal government. Without taxes, there would be no interstate highways to drive on. Without taxes, the US would NOT have a large and effective military, which keeps Russian and Chinese soldiers from kicking people out of their homes and into concentration camps. So, be careful what you wish for when you want lower taxes because we are all too old to learn a new language like Russian or Chinese.

So, in thinking about what happens when you are deceased, I would recommend not focusing on how one feels about big government's worth and efficiency, but on the efficiency of the US military, which gave America GREAT wealth and prosperity after WW2. We owe the ones that died too early that much.

[coffeebean]

… of course they are a part of God’s plan … everybody read John 3:16-17. Then think about it… it is the pure & perfect ‘baby formula’ for believers! 😎👊

What else is part of God's plan? How about childhood cancer or natural disasters with loss of life and total devastation or....... you get the idea. Asking for a friend.

[coffeebean]

For me, dead is not a problem.
It's the dying bit I am more concerned about!.
As for afterlife, I am a firm believer that we are just compost or ashes after death.
No spirits in the sky, harps, or fluffy clouds.
What he said^^^^

[coffeebean]

How many religions or spiritual belief systems have there been? Hundreds? Thousands? There have been many, each with its own group of stories re a possible afterlife. They can't all be correct. And at this point, I doubt any of them are. The 72 virgins? The golden plates story? Angels flying, with wings no less? Unfortunately, or fortunately, when you go, you go.
The Christians "stole" that fairy tale about a virgin mother from the Pagans. The least the Christians should have done was make up their own story.

[coffeebean]

That's why it's called faith.

Correction.......BLIND faith.

[Byte1]

What else is part of God's plan? How about childhood cancer or natural disasters with loss of life and total devastation or....... you get the idea. Asking for a friend.

What's GOD have to do with cancer? How do you know that cancer is not caused by man? According to some on here, natural(?) disasters are caused by man caused climate change. Interesting how there are many folks in the world that wish to blame GOD for anything that happens to them, yet insist that man has caused all of the naturally occurring changes. Some folks need to make up their minds.

[Byte1]

Correction.......BLIND faith.

Isn't that part of the definition of "faith?" Faith is the belief in something without the requirement of evidence, right?

[coffeebean]

Why do you need to assume that someone provided something for us? Do the animals wonder about why the pond is there to drink for them?
We did not ask to be born, why are we suppose to regret it?
Personally, of course I believe in the Creator, but all this guilt stuff baffles me.
Paleontology proves differently. At least the theory of evolution has evidence one can SEE.

[coffeebean]

My tombstone will read, " He came and went!"
Good one!

[coffeebean]

What's GOD have to do with cancer? How do you know that cancer is not caused by man? According to some on here, natural(?) disasters are caused by man caused climate change. Interesting how there are many folks in the world that wish to blame GOD for anything that happens to them, yet insist that man has caused all of the naturally occurring changes. Some folks need to make up their minds.

I was taught in Catholic catechism as a child........
God is good.
God is all loving.
God is all knowing.
God is all powerful.

Yet, there is childhood disease that kills children, there are natural disasters that cause death and devastation and so forth. What I was taught in catechism can not possibly be accurate about a God that allows the incomprehensible to occur.

As a young teenager, I never reached the agnostic stage. I dove right into the atheist stage when I realized everything I was taught as a child was just not logical.

[coffeebean]

Isn't that part of the definition of "faith?" Faith is the belief in something without the requirement of evidence, right?

Yup. That's why I do not believe.

[Taltarzac725]

Paleontology proves differently. At least the theory of evolution has evidence one can SEE.

The theory of evolution has a lot of holes in it.

Holes in the Theory - How Evolution Works | HowStuffWorks (https://science.howstuffworks.com/life/evolution/evolution8.htm)

[JMintzer]

Correction.......BLIND faith.

Steve Winwood and Eric Clapton???

[Taltarzac725]

Steve Winwood and Eric Clapton???

When you hear Eric Clapton sing as well as many others it seems that is proof of God.

Saw him in concert in Mesa or Tempe, AZ in July of 1974. 18 July 1974 - Eric Clapton & His Band (https://www.whereseric.com/eric-clapton-tour/18/07/1974)

[coffeebean]

The theory of evolution has a lot of holes in it.

Holes in the Theory - How Evolution Works | HowStuffWorks (https://science.howstuffworks.com/life/evolution/evolution8.htm)

Fascinating and compelling reading. Thank you for posting.

I remember several years ago, paleontologists were over the moon when a "missing link" was discovered somewhere in the world. It was earth shattering for the paleontology community. The community finally had real hard evidence to support the theory of evolution. Hard evidence, not fairy tales that involves super natural beings.

[Taltarzac725]

Fascinating and compelling reading. Thank you for posting.

I remember several years ago, paleontologists were over the moon when a "missing link" was discovered somewhere in the world. It was earth shattering for the paleontology community. The community finally had real hard evidence to support the theory of evolution. Hard evidence, not fairy tales that involves super natural beings.

But chaos just continues as chaos unless some force pushed things together. Big Bang Theory and all that.