Faith without religion.
Revelation’s Promise: Life, Death, and Eternity
In a recent teaching session, we delved into the profound meanings behind Revelation 1:17-18, where Jesus declares, “I am he that liveth, and was dead; and, behold, I am alive for evermore, Amen; and have the keys of hell and of death.” This passage is rich with implications that challenge traditional views and invite us to explore the nature of life, death, and eternity.
We began by acknowledging that Jesus, speaking as the resurrected man, emphasizes His victory over death. While God, in His fullness, cannot die, Jesus experienced death on the cross, symbolizing His humanity. Yet, He now lives eternally, offering believers the promise of eternal life through faith.
The discussion then turned to the concept of death in scripture. Paul states, “For as in Adam all die, even so in Christ shall all be made alive,” highlighting the physical death we all face due to Adam’s sin. However, Jesus promises that those who believe in Him “shall never die,” suggesting a different kind of death—spiritual death—is overcome through faith.
We explored the terms “hades” and “death,” noting that hades, often translated as “hell,” refers to a covered or unseen place, not necessarily a place of fire and torment. This understanding challenges the traditional view of hell and invites us to consider the absence of God as the true essence of darkness and death.
Finally, we examined the significance of Jesus holding the keys to hades and death. These keys symbolize His authority over life and death, both physical and spiritual. As we continue to explore these themes, we are reminded of the transformative power of Jesus’ resurrection and His promise of eternal life for all who believe.
