Wholeness: From Death Life Comes

Humanity often has a strange relationship with death. Generally, we have a negative view of it, often associating it with darkness; even when we believe in life after death. Counter cultures that openly embrace the darkness and romanticize death, often help reinforce this negative perception. Yet, death is an ongoing theme in The New Testament, ironically enough. A concept we often fail to understand, let alone live by.

As disciples, we really need to probe deep into the scriptures to discern the actual truth by distinguishing the literal from the spiritual ramifications of death. Instead of letting our fears, and those who twist the truth to unholy extremes steer us off course. Understanding this distinction is vital for achieving wholeness.

Biblically speaking death is the means we let go of our old selves. We embrace death not to cling to darkness, but rather to leave it behind. So many of our failures and struggles all come back to clinging to things that hinder our path to eternal life, instead of letting them die. The basic truth of the cross is, through death life comes. Yet, somehow we gloss over this idea of "death of self" to make it more palatable. Yet, by doing so we diminish our ability to overcome the sinful nature and embrace eternal life. Baptism is also symbolic of this spiritual death. (Romans 6:3-4) Being submerged representing burial, and rising up out of the water is a symbolic resurrection or rebirth. Made whole via the new creation. (2nd Corinthians 5:16-17) Don’t let it remain merely a symbol.

What is your relationship with death? Is it based on solid Biblical truth, or just worldly fear, and desire?

The Visual PARABLEist

Some passages to meditate on to wrap our heart around this important concept.

John 3:1-21 & 12:23-26

Romans 6:5-14

2nd Corinthians 4:10-12

Philippians 3:10-11

Colossians 3:1-10

Galatians 2:20

1st Peter 2:24