The Kingdom of God, Student Workbook, SW02

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T H E K I N G D O M O F G O D

III. What Is the Nature of the “Intermediate State,” and How Does it Relate to Our Understanding of the Kingdom’s Consummation?

A. To what does the term “intermediate state” refer?

1. Intermediate state - the condition or state of human beings between their physical death and the resurrection

2. It is important because it enables us to more effectively minister to those who have lost family and friends in the city.

3. Difficult subject to resolve: few texts and much heated debate

B. The intermediate state as “soul sleep”

1. Soul sleep is the view that the soul is asleep during the period between death and resurrection, in a state of repose and unconsciousness.

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2. What is the biblical evidence for this view?

a. Stephen’s martyrdom is described as sleep, Acts 7.60.

b. Paul refers to David having fallen asleep (or died) after he served God in his generation, Acts 13.36.

c. The image of sleep is used four times in 1 Corinthians 15, vv. 6, 18, 20, 51.