The Bible's Message of Hope: Resurrection and Life in the Kingdom

"Hope"—a small word with immense power. For Christadelphians and Bible believers, this hope is rooted in two profound promises: the resurrection of the dead and the establishment of God’s Kingdom on Earth. These are not abstract theological notions but deeply personal, life-altering realities that shape our worldview, our prayers, and our daily walk in faith.

The Resurrection: A Glorious Transformation

When we speak of resurrection, we’re not referring to the temporary resuscitations seen in scripture—such as Lazarus or the widow’s son—who were raised only to die again. No, the resurrection we eagerly await is a permanent transformation into a spiritual body that is immortal, imperishable, and filled with the glory of God (1 Corinthians 15:42-44).

This future body is not subject to the frailties of age or the decay of disease. It is raised in power, reflecting divine majesty, just as Jesus was—the "firstfruits of them that slept." This promise is especially comforting for those who have lost loved ones in Christ, knowing they will be raised whole and youthful, no longer marred by illness or weakness.

Sheol, Not Heaven or Hell

A crucial aspect of this hope is understanding the nature of death. The Bible teaches that when we die, we go to the grave (Hebrew: Sheol)—not to heaven or an eternal hell. There is no consciousness, no thought, no feeling (Ecclesiastes 9:5). The resurrection is the only way to life again, making it the cornerstone of Biblical hope.

As Hosea 13:14 declares: "I will ransom them from the power of the grave; I will redeem them from death." This triumphant promise mocks death itself—"O death, where is thy sting?"—revealing God's ultimate power over mortality.

The Kingdom of God: Peace on Earth

Following resurrection comes the reward: life in God’s Kingdom on Earth, not in a celestial heaven. This Kingdom unfolds in two parts:

The Thousand-Year Reign (Millennium) – Christ will reign from Jerusalem, bringing justice, righteousness, and peace. The world will be restored, much like Eden (Isaiah 35), and nations will no longer learn war (Micah 4:1-4). The saints—those resurrected and made immortal—will assist Christ in this divine administration.
The New Heavens and New Earth – After the Millennium, sin and death are completely destroyed. God becomes "all in all" (1 Corinthians 15:28). A dazzling, spiritual reality unfolds with a New Jerusalem—a perfect union of God and His people in eternal peace and glory.

A Hope for All

One of the most touching aspects of this message is that this hope is available to everyone—regardless of past mistakes. Like the parable of the prodigal son (Luke 15), God is a loving Father waiting to welcome all who return to Him in faith and humility.

As Jesus said in John 6:40 (NIV): "For my Father’s will is that everyone who looks to the Son and believes in him shall have eternal life, and I will raise them up at the last day."

The Pearl of Great Price

This Kingdom, this resurrection, this eternal life—it’s the pearl of great price (Matthew 13:45-46). It’s worth everything. And just like the man who sold all he had to obtain that one pearl, we are called to cling to this hope with all our strength, forsaking fleeting pleasures for eternal joy.

In Summary:

Death is not the end—it's a sleep awaiting resurrection.
Resurrection means transformation into a spiritual, immortal body.
God’s Kingdom will be established on Earth, bringing peace and justice.
All are invited to partake in this hope through faith and obedience.

Hold fast. The Kingdom is near.