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Life and death
“Be faithful unto death, and I will give you the crown of life. [...] The one who conquers will not be hurt by the second death.” (Revelation 2:10-11)
The words Jesus dictates here in a letter to the church at Ephesus seem contradictory. Those who are faithful unto death will receive life... Somewhat clearer is the next verse, which speaks of “the second death” that will not affect believers.
We are all familiar with the “first death.” The newspapers are full of reports of people who have died from all sorts of causes. Perhaps we ourselves have looked death in the eye through illness or accident. Perhaps we have lost loved ones. The Bible is crystal clear in this regard: even believers will die (unless Jesus returns to earth during their lifetime). But Jesus also promises, “Whoever believes in Me, though he dies, yet shall he live, and everyone who lives and believes in Me shall never die.” (John 11:25-26)
The “second death” cannot hurt believers. It is only for Satan and anyone who belongs to Satan instead of God. This second death is the ultimate horror; an eternity outside God's presence.
Jesus Christ has power over death, for He Himself died and came to life again. He has “the keys of Death and Hades.” (Revelation 1:17-18)
How do you imagine “eternal life”? How is that connected to living in God's presence?
About this Plan
In various parts of the Bible, Jesus Christ draws our attention toward the blessings He has in store for believers who endure to the end. These promises are meant to encourage us to “run with endurance the race that is set before us”. For if we do so, we will achieve victory with Jesus!
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