Many of us wonder what happens after we die. We lived before we came to earth, and we will continue to live after we die. Knowing this plan can give us comfort and peace about death. As we grieve for the loved ones we have lost, there is hope—death is not the end.
What happens when we die?
When we die, our spirit and body are separated. Even though our body dies, our spirit, which is the essence of who we are, lives on. Our spirit goes to the spirit world. The spirit world is a waiting period until we receive the gift of resurrection, when our spirits will be reunited with our bodies. Our future resurrected body cannot die and will be perfect, free of pain, disease, and imperfection. It is because of the infinite love of Jesus Christ that we can all be resurrected.
What happens after the resurrection?
It is during the time of the resurrection that each of us will be judged individually by Jesus, our Savior. The final judgment will be based on our desires, actions, and decisions.
Only God and Jesus know our hearts and our circumstances in life perfectly, so only they will be able to judge perfectly. This judgment will be one of mercy, healing, and love. (Revelation 21:4)
God’s ultimate goal is to help all of His children return to live with Him in the heavenly kingdom. However, it is our decisions here and now that will decide where we will spend eternity. We must believe in Jesus Christ, repent of our sins, be baptized in His name, and receive the Holy Spirit. We also need to keep the commandments for the rest of our lives and repent when we make mistakes.
Salvation is possible thanks to Jesus Christ
Neither resurrection nor salvation from our sins would be possible without Jesus Christ. He suffered for our sins so that when we pray for forgiveness and seek to change, we can be cleansed. He also died on the cross and rose from the dead. Jesus’ power over death means that everyone will be resurrected, whether they believe in Him or not. Because of Jesus, death is not the end. The Book of Mormon gives additional information and teaches about Jesus Christ’s role in Heavenly Father’s plan for us. By reading the Book of Mormon and praying to God, you can learn about the reality of God’s plan.