A Few Thoughts To Ponder

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Originally Posted by Aquila

Again, some Pentecostals prove INCAPABLE of categorical thinking.

There are three distinct aspects to man's being:

Body - The physical aspect of a man, the body.
Soul - The mind, the seat of reason, will, and emotions.
Spirit - The very breath of life or living essence.

When a man dies, his body is placed in the grave and is unconscious or aware of anything. Therefore, as it relates to a man's body he may be said to be "sleeping". Upon death, the soul leaves the body and enters into the presence of the Lord. Therefore, as it relates to a man's soul he may be said to be in Heaven with the Lord. Upon death, the spirit also leaves the body with the soul and returns to God who gave it.

Therefore, one can be both sleeping in the grave knowing nothing and yet consciously present in Heaven with the Lord. The "Sleepers" incapability to think in categorical terms causes them to always assert false dichotomies that leave them debating among other Christians and using Scripture to assumedly cancel Scripture. In this, they cause the Bible to oppose itself.

Trust me, when Moses and Elijah appeared on the mount with the Lord, they weren't wiping their eyes wondering what had happened the during all the time they had been dead. In Revelation, the souls of the martyrs seek consolation in Heaven and they are assured that their deaths will be avenged when their brethren had finally endured as they had. Then they are given white robes to signify their righteousness and faithfulness rewarded.

Remember, the Old Testament is INCOMPLETE. It is fulfilled, defined by, and additional information is revealed in the New Testament.

Exactly.