Ready for the next subject? It's Hades. In Luke 16:19-31 you can read about Lazarus and the rich man. Lazarus sat at the gate of the rich man begging for crumbs from his table, with no response. When Lazarus died, he went to Hades and was comforted in the bosom of Abraham. When the rich man died, he also went to Hades but was in torment. He asks Abraham to have Lazarus to dip his finger in water and touch the tip of his tongue but Abraham responds that there is a great chasm fixed between the two and cannot be done. Due to this story, my original opinion was that when we die, we all wait in Hades for judgement day to be released into heaven or hell. As we studied this subject, my eyes were opened to something that makes much more sense.

Jesus tell the story of Lazarus and the rich man before His death, burial and resurrection. Before Jesus, people had to make sacrifices to God to cover their sins. (Hebrews 9 & 10)It was a never ending process. Their sins were covered but not removed until Jesus took them for us all. After Jesus' resurrection, there is no longer a need for Hades for Christians. Just like the thief on the cross, we will immediately go to heaven when we die as Christians. Jesus released the part of Hades that contained His followers when He overcame death. (Ephesians 4:7-10 & Peter 3:18-19). The tormenting side of Hades will be thrown into the lake of fire on judgment day (Revelation 20:14)

Some very interesting stuff! I usually don't get wrapped up in theology, but I thought these topics could be helpful in your understanding of our Savior.

One more thing - a verse that blessed me greatly today. "Do not be afraid any longer, only believe" Mark 5:36

Have a blessed day
Christie