Expert: Elder Greg Madden - 11/30/2006

Question
Why will the unbelieving dead be judged by their works?  Is there still a chance for them to get to heaven at this point?

Answer
Melinda,

Thank you for your questions. I will answer them in order.

1."Why will the unbelieving dead be judged by their works?"

Those who die and do not accept Jesus Christ as Lord and Savior will not be judged as to wether they will go to heaven, but they will be punished according to the knowledge they received in life about Christ and salvation. In other words, those who die and have had few opportunity to be saved will receive less punishment in hell, wear as those who have had more opportunities will receive more punishments.

Luke 12:48
But he that knew not, and did commit things worthy of stripes, shall be beaten with few stripes. For unto whomsoever much is given, of him shall be much required: and to whom men have committed much, of him they will ask the more.  

2."Is there still a chance for them to get to heaven at this point?"
No they will not. After death there is no more opportunity to receive salvation.

Heb. 9:27
And as it is appointed unto men once to die, but after this the judgment:

Ecc. 11:3
...and if the tree fall toward the south, or toward the north, in the place where the tree falleth, there it shall be.

Luke 16:22
And it came to pass, that the beggar died, and was carried by the angels into Abraham's bosom: the rich man also died, and was buried;  
16:23
And in hell he lift up his eyes, being in torments, and seeth Abraham afar off, and Lazarus in his bosom.

Please let me know if this helps, or if you have any more questions.
Elder Greg Madden