About Dr. Jay Forrest Expertise I can answer any question dealing with mysticism, such as questions concerning the awakening call, the purgative way, the illuminative way, the unitive way, spiritual experiences, spiritual direction, spiritual disciplines, prayer, ecstasy, the rule of life, internal monasticism, asceticism, mystical theology, devotional helps, chanting, meditation, contemplation, hesychasm, kabbalah, sufi, tao, zen, theosophy, and more.
Experience
Dr. Jay Forrest is an ardent student of mysticism in all the major religions of the world (Taoism, Buddhism, Christianity, Judaism, Islam). Jay was a Pentecostal/Charismatic minister for over 20 years, pastoring churches in Wisconsin, Missouri, Tennessee, Arizona, and New Mexico. He is the author over over 150 articles and poems and several books. He holds a doctorate in ministry from Trinity Institute.
I was wondering if you could perhaps clarify this for me so I can settle a debate with my friend.
Could you please explain to me the Christian faith's stance on resurrection (that of "average" people, as opposed to Christ), and its stance on reincarnation?
In other words, what does the Christian church believe happens to a person when they die?
Many thanks in advance
Chris
Answer Hi Chris,
The common view is that our bodies will be raised from the grave and united to our spirit/soul. See 1 Corinthians 15.
Reincarnation is generally not accepted by the orthodox church. It was, however, believed by some of the Gnostic Christians in the early church. Almost every religion believes in some form of reincarnation.
The common view among most Christians is that when you die your spirit goes to heaven or hell. Then at the end of the age Christ will return and then believers will be reunited with their bodies. The bodies will be gloficfied so they don't die or get sick.
The above fairly represents the Protestant view. The Catholics would add purgatory for those who are not pure enough for heaven.
I hope this helps. You might ask the question in the theology categories if you want more information.
