I have often read the dropzone forums, and this discussion has caused me to participate. All of you have opinions. Why wouldn't you? We have a life to live and a death to figure out. One thing we all should keep in mind is that nobody else in this forum or on this present earth is going to lay in our grave for us. Death is our appointment. Seek the truth, and if you believe in God, pray that He will soften your heart to His Word and lead you to the truth. If you've never read the Bible and want to check it out, start by reading John in the New Testament. The Gospels were written, by God's grace from four perspectives. Matthew was a Jew and directed his message to his people. Mark was a Roman. Luke was a physician and focused on the physical suffering he saw Christ go through. John wrote to a broader group. 2 Timothy 3:16 says that "All scripture is given by inspiration of God". Answer to the 3rd question from funjumper101. All those before Christ looked for and believed in His 1st coming by faith, which is addressed in Hebrews 11 and much of the Bible. The entire book of Hebrews talks about the clear distinction of how God works with New Testament believers verses Old. We're all saved by faith. Just as we who are living after Christ look back and believe in what what He did for us on the cross, those who lived before Him looked ahead and believed in His coming and what He would do. The other question I will partially answer now is #17. All of us have or will experience the passing of loved ones. It's hard. But the one person who we can count on to be our best friend and Savior is Jesus Christ, who understands our grief and thoughts. There are many words that can be said here, but as far as heaven goes, it says in Revelation 21:4 - And God shall wipe away all tears from their eyes; and there shall be no more death, neither sorrow, nor crying, neither shall there be any more pain: for the former things are passed away. 2 Peter 3:9 - The Lord is not slack concerning his promise, as some men count slackness; but is longsuffering to us-ward, not willing that any should perish, but that all should come to repentance. What will Heaven be like? 1 Corinthians 2:9 - But as it is written, Eye hath not seen, nor ear heard, neither have entered into the heart of man, the things which God hath prepared for them that love him. For those of you who would like to listen to the "John" online or look up answers to all the above questions from funjumper101, check out http://www.bible.com. Open your hearts! I have answers for all the other questions already formed in my head ... it's just a matter of time. I will clarify any questions soon. Best wishes to you all. Natalie
