Expert: Sal - 3/24/2008

Question
Dear Sal,

In your 4/2/2004 response to April, you say that you could provide Biblical references to the approved use of images.  Would you provide those references for me?

How does the Bible explain the afterlife? Do different Christian faiths explain this differently?

Thank you in advance,
Praise be to God,
Gina


Answer
Dear Gina:

Here are some references to show that images do have a place in the right worship of God. Firstly, let us realize that the Bible shows us that images were never completely forbidden. In fact we read in Exodus 25:18 that God commanded their creation. “Make two cherubim of beaten gold” (see also Exodus 37:7). Secondly, the Bible contains many references to the proper use of statues and other images in worship. For example, in the center of God’s holy temple stood two 15-foot statues!  “In the sanctuary were two cherubim, each ten cubits high, made of olive wood” (1 Kings 6:23). This holy place of God was further decorated with images of angels, palm trees, flowers, and lions (1 Kings 6 & 7). The wise Solomon had no problem with the use of images in worship. “He (Solomon) made a veil of violet, purple, crimson and fine linen, and had cherubim embroidered upon it” (2 Chronicles 3:14). Thus the Bible is clear that the Catholic position is correct—Statues and images do have a proper place in the worship of God.

One final point: No early Christian ever condemned the proper use of statues, other images, and relics. Don’t forget that it was these same early Christians who collected the bones, ashes, and clothing of the departed saints. They did these things as an acceptable way to honor them.

Yes, different Christian faiths explain the afterlife differently. The reason for this is that the Bible is not crystal clear on the subject, thus many different views have arisen.

I believe that the Bible teaches that we have immortal souls that continue to exist after we die. The immortal soul is conscious after the body dies. We are judged immediately after death and receive our reward in heaven or damnation in hell. We are conscious of what is happening on earth. When Jesus returns to earth we will be reunited with our resurrected body. There will follow a revealing of our judgment to all people so that all will know the justice of God.

God Bless You,
Sal