Near-Death Experiences (NDEs)
Part 3
Conclusion
Individuals who report near-death experiences (NDEs) frequently describe intense sensations occurring in either a fully conscious or partially conscious state. They perceive these sensations as integral to the dying process and often feel as though they are approaching death due to the vivid nature of their experiences. Commonly reported sensations may include:
- Witnessing a bright light or dark tunnel
- Feelings of tranquility and love
- Encountering deceased relatives
- Witnessing important events in life
- Communicating with angels or encounters with demons
- Sensation of traveling to another realm
While near-death experiences (NDEs) may appear strikingly vivid and profoundly real, it is important to recognize that they are often reported by individuals under anesthesia, in comas, experiencing syncope, or taking powerful medications. Although these experiences can feel transformative or enlightening, they should not be mistaken for genuine death or the reality of an afterlife.
From a physiological standpoint, various theories suggest why someone might perceive an NDE. For instance, increased electrical activity in the brain and the release of specific hormones could be at play. Additionally, the innate fear of death might compel individuals to envision themselves in an afterlife as a form of mental reassurance. Understanding these factors can help demystify the intense sensations associated with NDEs and clarify that they are not evidence of life beyond death.
To truly understand the intersection of faith versus science, we turn our attention to God’s word, the Bible. Again, I sought guidance from my pastor, Rick Dobbins, to gain an understanding of distinguishing between reality and perception. This insight has been invaluable in navigating this complex subject.
It’s vital to consider the messages delivered by the prophets Elijah, Elisha, Ezekiel, Stephen, and the Apostle Paul. Their experiences and teachings can provide valuable insights as we navigate this complex dialogue of opposing the possibility of NDEs.
In 2 Kings 2:11 (KJV), it is recorded that Elijah and Elisha were walking together in anticipation of a significant prophetic event, during which the Lord would take Elijah up to heaven. At that moment, a chariot of fire accompanied by horses of fire appeared. The two men were separated as Elijah was caught up by a whirlwind and transported to heaven by angels. The scripture specifically notes that Eisha, “saw him no more” (verse 12b).
This event should not be classified as a near-death experience, as Elijah was taken to heaven without experiencing death. He is recognized as the second individual in the Bible to receive such an honor, with Enoch being the first, as detailed in Genesis 5:24 (KJV). It is plausible that the other prophets did not witness the moment when God took Elijah, or they may have encountered difficulty in accepting what they observed. Nevertheless, they expressed a desire to search for Elijah (2 Kings 2:16-18). The absence of any physical evidence of Elijah’s whereabouts would affirm the extraordinary nature of the event and reinforce their faith. The only other individual historically documented as being taken to heaven in bodily form is Jesus, who ascended following his resurrection (Acts 1:9).
To understand another spiritual occurrence, we must read the background of an event involving Elisha. The Biblical account in 2 Kings 5:20-27 (KJV) describes the prophet Elisha’s healing of Naaman, who suffered from leprosy. Although Naaman offered gifts as a gesture of gratitude, Elisha declined, thereby illustrating the principle that God’s blessings cannot be purchased. Gehazi, Elisha’s servant, perceived an opportunity for personal gain and, against God’s moral and ethical purpose, sought to claim the rewards that Elisha had rejected. He pursued Naaman’s chariot, stole the gifts, and subsequently engaged in deception regarding his actions. This course of action by Gehazi presented three critical problems with regard to his deception and greed:
1. Gehazi stole gifts and rewards that were initially offered to Elisha by Naaman.
2. Gehazi forcibly took compensation, the gifts and rewards of Naaman, with the knowledge that God’s unmerited gifts of healing and mercy cannot be bought.
3. Gehazi engaged in dishonesty by attempting to conceal his true motivations in stealing the gifts and rewards.
What does all of this have in common with the reports of NDEs? Allow me to explain further. Gehazi’s pursuit of personal gain was at odds with a commitment to serving God, much like claims of NDEs have nothing to do with God’s divine intervention. Also, seeking profit on behalf of God that is a false narrative and misleading others is absolutely opposite from what the Bible teaches. As articulated in Matthew 6:24b, “Ye cannot serve God and mammon.” This background underscores the significance of Gehazi’s deceit and its repercussions. The Lord disclosed the truth of Gehazi’s actions by allowing Elisha to travel in the Spirit and see what Gehazi was up to with regard to Naaman (he was not experiencing an NDE). Elisha’s witness account of the servant’s misconduct towards Naaman caused him to reprimand Gehazi, as written in 2 Kings 5:26 (KJV):
And he said unto him, Went not mine heart with thee, when the man turned again from his chariot to meet thee? Is it a time to receive money, and to receive garments, and oliveyards, and vineyards, and sheep, and oxen, and menservants, and maidservants?
In consequence, Gehazi was afflicted with the same leprosy that had diseased Naaman. This narrative serves as a caution against attempting to serve the Lord while seeking personal profit from divine service. Both greed and pride are closely associated with a trajectory toward deception and destruction (Proverbs 16:18). Thus, it is imperative to reflect on one’s pride and remain vigilant against the allure of false narratives and motives, including misconceptions surrounding near-death experiences.
The prophet Ezekiel, as written in Ezekiel 8:1-4, was transported by the Spirit from Babylon to the temple in Jerusalem, entering a space between earth and heaven. This prophetic journey enabled him to observe the significant wickedness being practiced in the temple (verse 3b). The inhabitants, along with their religious leaders, were deeply corrupt and engaged in idol worship. Ezekiel’s vision (chapters 1-3) illustrated that judgment was impending from God. It subsequently highlighted that their sins were the catalyst for that judgment. This vision should not be interpreted as a near-death experience; rather, it served as a method for God to convey a warning through Ezekiel regarding His people’s transgressions.
Stephen, regarded as a prophet, notably challenged the authority of Jewish religious leaders by asserting that their teachings were inconsistent with God’s laws. Consequently, he faced accusations of blasphemy. As written in Acts 7:55-60, Stephen was stoned for proclaiming the truth regarding God’s word and for opposing the doctrines of these leaders. Prior to being removed from the city, he was filled with the Holy Spirit and observed the glory of God, as well as Jesus standing at His right hand (verses 55-56). In verses 59-60, right before being stoned, Stephen invoked God to receive his spirit. As the citizens stoned him, he requested that no sin be attributed to those who were stoning him. Following this, he entered into a state of sleep.
It is essential to clarify that Stephen did not undergo a near-death experience. The biblical text explicitly states that he fell asleep, indicating that his death is characterized as a form of slumber rather than actually dying. His spirit ascended to heaven in this state of sleep, which does not imply any occurrence of a near-death experience.
In 2 Corinthians 12:2 (KJV), it is written that the Apostle Paul was in Tarsus when he was caught up to the third heaven. It is important to clarify that this occurrence should not be construed as a near-death experience. Instead, it may represent a mystical out-of-body experience. This was quite possible during biblical times. It was a way for God to communicate with various anointed people in order to transverse His message.
I knew a man in Christ above fourteen years ago, (whether in the body, I cannot tell; or whether out of the body, I cannot tell: God knoweth;) such an one caught up to the third heaven.
This concludes our discussion on near-death experiences. I hope you have had time to read parts one and two. While NDEs are a very complex subject, scientifically, I believe God’s word inhabits the ultimate, infallible answers we are seeking when researching this topic. I also feel like I have performed extensive research so I can provide the truth to you on a matter that is propaganda for creating a false narrative. A subject that is being promoted for profit with no plausible biblical truth supporting it.
With the help of my contributing advisor and pastor, Rick Dobbins, I believe this collaboration will help enlighten others on the truth about NDEs. They are not possible, and with all the notes and information we have provided, I hope your questions have been answered. I will leave you with the following Bible verses as further references to extinguish the idea of near-death experiences:
The rich man in hell
Luke 16:30-31 (KJV) – And he said, Nay, father Abraham: but if one went unto them from the dead, they will repent. And he said unto him, If they hear not Moses and the prophets, neither will they be persuaded, though one rose from the dead.
Regarding our Eternal Dwelling
2 Corinthians 5:8 (KJV) – We are confident, I say, and willing rather to be absent from the body, and to be present with the Lord.
Paul to Live as Christ
Philippians 1:23
For I am in a strait betwixt two, having a desire to depart, and to be with Christ; which is far better.
In His Love,
Annah
Contributing advisor: Pastor Rick Dobbins
All Bible verses are referenced from the King James Version
Photo credit: Jesus is the Gate to Heaven, blog by Troy Brewer, February 9, 2024https://troybrewer.com/2024/02/09/jesus-is-the-gate-to-heaven/
Sources: University of Virginia, School of Medicine
Doctor Robert Jeffress, Pathway to Victory
National Library of Medicine
Disclaimer: Please note that I am not a healthcare professional or affiliated with the healthcare industry.
Some words are capitalized to show one true deity
Some words are italicized to show emphasis