Expert: Brian Thompson - 8/28/2008

Question
Hi Brain

I would like to know according to scripture of course. What happens to a believer when they die?

Do they have to wait till the Rapture or do they go right away to the Beamer Seat in front of JESUS ?

Thank You
GOD BLESS
Ray

Answer
Hi Ray

There are many views on this; some believe based on what Jesus said to the thief on the cross that there is an immediate transition others on the basis of this Scripture
Behold, I show you a mystery; we shall not all sleep, but we shall all be changed, In a moment, in the twinkling of an eye, at the last trump: for the trumpet shall sound, and the dead shall be raised incorruptible, and we shall be changed. For this corruptible must put on incorruption, and this mortal must put on immortality. So when this corruptible shall have put on incorruption, and this mortal shall have put on immortality, then shall be brought to pass the saying that is written, Death is swallowed up in victory. O death, where is thy sting? O grave, where is thy victory? (1 Corinthians 15:51-55)
believe that we wait until the return of the Lord before joining him.

So personally I don't think a difinitive answer is actually given in Scripture. I personally prefer to believe that there is an immediate transition afterall God is consistent in what he does

Whatever happens we all have to face judgment and receive our just reward and in the expanse of eternity any waiting we do is as nothing