2 Births – 2 Deaths

Text:

‘I saw the dead, great and small, standing before God; and The Books were opened, including the Book of Life. And the dead were judged according to the things written in The Books, each according to the deeds he had done. The oceans surrendered the bodies buried in them; and the earth and the underworld gave up the dead in them. Each was judged according to his deeds.And Death and Hell were thrown into the Lake of Fire. This is the Second Death—the Lake of Fire. And if anyone’s name was not found recorded in the Book of Life, he was thrown into the Lake of Fire’ – Revelation 20:12-15

Thought:

They say that death is the only certainty in life. We prepare for it by taking out life insurance and writing a will. However the uncertainty is that we do not know when that day will be. The goal of most people is to reach old age, relying on the medical health service to keep their bodies going, and the financial world, taking out pensions and saving plans to ensure they have enough money to make life enjoyable throughout their retirement. Also, wishing to leave something worthwhile for their surviving relatives.

All sorts of events can end our life prematurely such as accidents, disease, natural disasters, war and suicide. As too, damaging habits that destroy our bodies’ immune system, hastening the day we die. For many, having no understanding or belief in any sort of existence after the grave, means little concern or preparation is made for such an event.

The Bible reveals teaching about two births and two deaths a person can experience. It makes it very clear that if someone is born twice (born again), they will only die once. If they are born once, they will certainly face the second death and the Bible offers no comfort whatsoever for those who do. ¹

Concerning being born twice or born again as the Bible puts it, is a mystery to many people. Jesus discovered this when speaking to a religious leader called Nicodemus. When Jesus told him he had to born again, Nicodemus questioned whether this meant becoming a baby again as in a natural birth. ² But Jesus was referring to a spiritual birth, brought about by the Holy Spirit when a person repents of their sins and puts their faith and trust in a personal Saviour. If church leaders know little or nothing about this spiritual experience of being born again, it’s no wonder their congregations remain in the dark about it too.

Yet, it’s a matter of life and death, heaven and hell, salvation or damnation. God has commanded all men, everywhere to repent, and so be saved from this Day of Judgment because their names are written in the Book of Life. ³ Not because of the good works they have done in trying to live a good life. No, but because they recognise they are a sinner and need a Saviour, and God because of His grace and mercy, has saved them.

The Archangel Gabriel instructed Joseph and Mary to call their baby, Jesus, for He would save people from their sins. ⁴ It isn’t a hard thing to realise one’s faults, failings and imperfections. Most are only too aware of how often they miss the mark and get things wrong, and those around them can be quick to remind them of the error of their ways! What is hard is to humble oneself before God and ask Him personally to save you!

This Christmas, when surrounded by decorations, presents, cards and good food, take a moment to ask yourself, “Have I said thank you to God for the gift of His Son Jesus? Have I put my trust in Him for the forgiveness of sins and the gift of eternal life? Do I know without any doubt that I have been born again and will not face the second death?” If the answer is “Yes” to all three questions, then rejoice and have a wonderful Christmas. If the answer is “No” or you are not sure, then it’s time to seek the Lord before it’s too late!

 

¹ – Revelation 20:15

² – John 3:3-8

³ – Acts 17:30-31

⁴– Matthew 1:21