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What Happens After You Die: A Biblical Guide to Paradise, Hell, and Life After Death
Popular pastor Randy Frazee answers perennial questions about life after death with an accessible exploration of what the Bible has to say on the subject. In both Christian and pop culture, there is a certain fascination with the afterlife. What happens after you die? What happens if you die with Christ or without Christ? What happens when Jesus returns if you have or haven’t accepted Christ? What exactly comes next? Randy Frazee, popular pastor of Oak Hills Church and general editor of the wildly successful Believe and The Story programs, answers these questions and more. Born out of a deeply personal search for truth after the death of his mother, What Happens After You Die is a straightforward exploration of what the Bible says about life after death. From heaven and hell to the Lake of Fire and the actual presence of God, Frazee uncovers what is simply cultural tradition and what is truly biblical. He shows readers not only the death Jesus came to save us from but the life he came to save us for . Based on a teaching series that has had more online views than any other series Frazee has done to date, What Happens After You Die is a guide to the perennial questions about life and death, what comes next, and how we should live until then.
224 pages, Paperback
Published May 2, 2017
166 people are currently reading
129 people want to read
About the author
Randy Frazee
112 books79 followersRandy Frazee is the lead teaching pastor at Westside Family Church in Kansas City. He is a graduate of Dallas Theological Seminary, and a leader and innovator in Bible engagement, spiritual formation and biblical community. Randy is the architect of The Story and BELIEVE church engagement campaigns as well as the author of His Mighty Strength; Think, Act, Be Like Jesus; What Happens After You Die; The Connecting Church; Making Room for Life; and the coauthor of Real Simplicity with his wife of 40 years, Rozanne.
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July 22, 2017
Summary: An exploration of the Bible’s teaching on what happens to us after death, if we know Christ or if we don’t, both before he returns, and after.
Randy Frazee is a pastor, seminary trained, and a teacher of the Bible. Yet when his mother died of pancreatic cancer, and even though she was a believer, Frazee was confronted with a profound challenge to his faith. In the beginning of this book he writes:
“The more I thought about it, the more I struggled to believe that at the moment my mother breathed her last breath, her spirit exited her body and went to be anywhere, let alone with the Lord. I just didn’t have a mental model for this concept, and yet we Christians, base our entire hope on this reality. I know some say they have, but I have never personally met a spirit being. Did such beings really exist?
My mind continued to wander without permission. Even if life after death was true, and a person’s spirit did exit the body, the idea of a naked spirit entering into heaven, floating on clouds forever, and continually singing worship songs–maybe with earned wings, like Clarence in It’s a Wonderful Life–just didn’t seem all that compelling to me. It was certainly better than the scriptural alternative, but it was still not something I craved.
‘I don’t believe in heaven.’ I whispered” (p. xv).
This led to an intense time of searching the Bible for answers, and this book is the product of his search. He begins with the question his mother asked him on her deathbed, “Is Jesus enough?” He explores the questions of works and faith concluding that faith in Christ’s saving work is indeed enough.
Then he moves on to the questions of the afterlife, breaking his exploration into two parts–life in between (before the return of Christ) and life forever (after the return of Christ, the resurrection and final judgment). In each case, he considers the destiny of those who have put faith in Christ, and those who do not know Christ. He does not go where scripture does not, with regard to life in between, or the intermediate state, about which scripture says little. He says that our spirits either go on to be with God in Christ if we have believed, or to Hades, the place where those who do not know Jesus await judgment.
Following the return of Christ, he teaches that the unrighteous will face the judgment where the books recording all of what they have done in their lives are opened. By their refusal of Christ and their deeds, they are destined for “the lake of fire.” Frazee leaves it an open question as to whether this is everlasting punishing (eternal conscious punishment) or everlasting punishment (annihilation), indicating that there are thoughtful biblical scholars who affirm each of these possibilities, neither of which are particularly desirable!
For the believer, the destiny is written in another book, the book of life. It means new bodies, life not “up there” but “down here” in a new creation, and the new city God will establish and make his home. Rather than ethereal spirits floating on clouds, we will be embodied creatures in God’s new heaven and earth with work to do. Frazee then concludes the book with a short chapter on “life now”–how we live as people of faith and witnesses to hope until that time.
Each of the major sections concludes with a question and answer section addressing questions ranging from “are there such things as ghosts?” and “Is there such a thing as purgatory or Limbo?” (he would argue there are not) to questions about rewards, pets, marriage, resurrection bodies, and food in the new creation. One of the most interesting was a question of whether we would retain memories, particularly of regrets or griefs, in the new creation. He suggests that the wiping away of tears involves a wiping of memories. I am not so sure, because of how significant our memories are to who we are. I wonder, rather if the thought is the healing of memories, where they remain, but no longer grieve us. After “life now” he includes questions on guardian angels (yes, we do have them), cremation, predictions about Christ’s return, and life after death or near death experiences.
The book not only references the scriptures Frazee studied throughout but includes a section at the back of just the texts, organized by his chapter headings. There is also a discussion guide for small groups.
Frazee gives us a readable, very personal discussion of these matters. It is ideal for anyone from young believer to someone really coming to terms with the question of the afterlife and our eternal destiny. It is straightforward rather than nuanced. Apart from the discussion of eternal punishment versus punishing, he doesn’t discuss differing scholarly views. He is pastoral and honest at the same time. While he thinks pastors should not either assure people that a loved one who as far as anyone knows did not know Christ is with the Lord (or not), he takes the approach that we must trust the Lord with this, and “this is what your loved one would want you to know.” Indeed, this book explores life’s ultimate questions, offering the fruit of Frazee’s own search on these vitally important matters.
____________________________
Disclosure of Material Connection: I received this book free from the publisher. I was not required to write a positive review. The opinions I have expressed are my own.
Randy Frazee is a pastor, seminary trained, and a teacher of the Bible. Yet when his mother died of pancreatic cancer, and even though she was a believer, Frazee was confronted with a profound challenge to his faith. In the beginning of this book he writes:
“The more I thought about it, the more I struggled to believe that at the moment my mother breathed her last breath, her spirit exited her body and went to be anywhere, let alone with the Lord. I just didn’t have a mental model for this concept, and yet we Christians, base our entire hope on this reality. I know some say they have, but I have never personally met a spirit being. Did such beings really exist?
My mind continued to wander without permission. Even if life after death was true, and a person’s spirit did exit the body, the idea of a naked spirit entering into heaven, floating on clouds forever, and continually singing worship songs–maybe with earned wings, like Clarence in It’s a Wonderful Life–just didn’t seem all that compelling to me. It was certainly better than the scriptural alternative, but it was still not something I craved.
‘I don’t believe in heaven.’ I whispered” (p. xv).
This led to an intense time of searching the Bible for answers, and this book is the product of his search. He begins with the question his mother asked him on her deathbed, “Is Jesus enough?” He explores the questions of works and faith concluding that faith in Christ’s saving work is indeed enough.
Then he moves on to the questions of the afterlife, breaking his exploration into two parts–life in between (before the return of Christ) and life forever (after the return of Christ, the resurrection and final judgment). In each case, he considers the destiny of those who have put faith in Christ, and those who do not know Christ. He does not go where scripture does not, with regard to life in between, or the intermediate state, about which scripture says little. He says that our spirits either go on to be with God in Christ if we have believed, or to Hades, the place where those who do not know Jesus await judgment.
Following the return of Christ, he teaches that the unrighteous will face the judgment where the books recording all of what they have done in their lives are opened. By their refusal of Christ and their deeds, they are destined for “the lake of fire.” Frazee leaves it an open question as to whether this is everlasting punishing (eternal conscious punishment) or everlasting punishment (annihilation), indicating that there are thoughtful biblical scholars who affirm each of these possibilities, neither of which are particularly desirable!
For the believer, the destiny is written in another book, the book of life. It means new bodies, life not “up there” but “down here” in a new creation, and the new city God will establish and make his home. Rather than ethereal spirits floating on clouds, we will be embodied creatures in God’s new heaven and earth with work to do. Frazee then concludes the book with a short chapter on “life now”–how we live as people of faith and witnesses to hope until that time.
Each of the major sections concludes with a question and answer section addressing questions ranging from “are there such things as ghosts?” and “Is there such a thing as purgatory or Limbo?” (he would argue there are not) to questions about rewards, pets, marriage, resurrection bodies, and food in the new creation. One of the most interesting was a question of whether we would retain memories, particularly of regrets or griefs, in the new creation. He suggests that the wiping away of tears involves a wiping of memories. I am not so sure, because of how significant our memories are to who we are. I wonder, rather if the thought is the healing of memories, where they remain, but no longer grieve us. After “life now” he includes questions on guardian angels (yes, we do have them), cremation, predictions about Christ’s return, and life after death or near death experiences.
The book not only references the scriptures Frazee studied throughout but includes a section at the back of just the texts, organized by his chapter headings. There is also a discussion guide for small groups.
Frazee gives us a readable, very personal discussion of these matters. It is ideal for anyone from young believer to someone really coming to terms with the question of the afterlife and our eternal destiny. It is straightforward rather than nuanced. Apart from the discussion of eternal punishment versus punishing, he doesn’t discuss differing scholarly views. He is pastoral and honest at the same time. While he thinks pastors should not either assure people that a loved one who as far as anyone knows did not know Christ is with the Lord (or not), he takes the approach that we must trust the Lord with this, and “this is what your loved one would want you to know.” Indeed, this book explores life’s ultimate questions, offering the fruit of Frazee’s own search on these vitally important matters.
____________________________
Disclosure of Material Connection: I received this book free from the publisher. I was not required to write a positive review. The opinions I have expressed are my own.
May 24, 2021
This is a solid, Christ-centered study on what the author believes about life after death. The presentation is gracious, allowing for honest differences of opinion, and shared with a cheerful, even humorous tone. We are stoutly assured, for example, that while “no death in Paradise” mandates vegetarianism as our eternal diet, cappuccinos will be readily available.
In my own reading of this honest study, the least compelling of Frazee’s propositions has to do with the so-called intermediate state. While rejecting the concept of purgatory as unscriptural, he still allows for the idea of even God’s saints experiencing eons in limbo while waiting for the Second Coming. While having a sense of Christ’s presence, it is still not fully heaven, and he goes so far as to suggest that such immaterial spirits can lead an existence as, well, “ghosts.”
This gives credence to the Old Testament theory, based on I Samuel 28, that an evil medium – condemned by the Lord – was still at liberty to call up the disembodied soul of Samuel. Even the NIV scholars suggest, in sharp contradiction, that Satan used this weird séance to impersonate the departed prophet of Israel.
On the other hand, I heartily approve Pastor Frazee’s support for the doctrine of annihilation, which he strongly prefers to the idea of God inflicting endless torment upon sinners for a brief lifetime of rebellion.
There is much on the subject of the afterlife that must, of necessity, remain as humble conjecture until the Lord returns. But this writer makes a solid case for the common hope we share in the resurrected Christ.
I enjoyed this as an audiobook, and appreciated the fine, often twinkly performance of Mark Smedy.
In my own reading of this honest study, the least compelling of Frazee’s propositions has to do with the so-called intermediate state. While rejecting the concept of purgatory as unscriptural, he still allows for the idea of even God’s saints experiencing eons in limbo while waiting for the Second Coming. While having a sense of Christ’s presence, it is still not fully heaven, and he goes so far as to suggest that such immaterial spirits can lead an existence as, well, “ghosts.”
This gives credence to the Old Testament theory, based on I Samuel 28, that an evil medium – condemned by the Lord – was still at liberty to call up the disembodied soul of Samuel. Even the NIV scholars suggest, in sharp contradiction, that Satan used this weird séance to impersonate the departed prophet of Israel.
On the other hand, I heartily approve Pastor Frazee’s support for the doctrine of annihilation, which he strongly prefers to the idea of God inflicting endless torment upon sinners for a brief lifetime of rebellion.
There is much on the subject of the afterlife that must, of necessity, remain as humble conjecture until the Lord returns. But this writer makes a solid case for the common hope we share in the resurrected Christ.
I enjoyed this as an audiobook, and appreciated the fine, often twinkly performance of Mark Smedy.
December 31, 2021
WHAT HAPPENS AFTER YOU DIE, by Randy Frazee, the popular pastor of Oak Hills Church, is a personal and informative look at some of the hardest questions Christians have regarding the afterlife. In this book, the author explores such questions as: What happens after you die? What happens if you die with Christ or without Christ? What happens when Jesus returns if you have or haven’t accepted Christ? In general, the book asks: What exactly comes next? The author was compelled to explore these difficult topics after the death of his mother. He takes a straightforward look at what the Bible says about life after death, taking simple tradition and comparing it to what the Bible actually said. He explores everything, from heaven and hell, to the Lake of Fire, and the actual presence of God. In all, he shows us the death Jesus came to save us from, as well as the life he came to save us for. We would recommend this insightful guide to life, death, what comes after we die, and how we ought to live until then, to those who question what life after death has in store for us. The author expertly answers these questions using Scripture as his primary source of knowledge.
May 23, 2017
A Book Everyone Should Read!
Randy Frazee tells it just the way he sees it straight from The Bible. He is real in sharing his own personal stories and challenges from his own life. I read this book every moment I could since I got it.
He goes to Scripture to explain why and breaks down many passages of Scripture in a way I could understand. There is a Scripture list as well as some questions for use in small group discussion at the end of the book.
I really liked this book and would be one I think everyone should read! None of us get out of this life alive, the question is where do we live for eternity? That choice is up to us!
Randy Frazee tells it just the way he sees it straight from The Bible. He is real in sharing his own personal stories and challenges from his own life. I read this book every moment I could since I got it.
He goes to Scripture to explain why and breaks down many passages of Scripture in a way I could understand. There is a Scripture list as well as some questions for use in small group discussion at the end of the book.
I really liked this book and would be one I think everyone should read! None of us get out of this life alive, the question is where do we live for eternity? That choice is up to us!
May 27, 2017
I received a complimentary copy.
Based on the author's thoughts and the Bible to back it up, this extremely faith centered book offers the readers a glimpse of what may happen after death, The book will be powerful if you believe in the topic and can follow the passages etc, provided by the author.
Based on the author's thoughts and the Bible to back it up, this extremely faith centered book offers the readers a glimpse of what may happen after death, The book will be powerful if you believe in the topic and can follow the passages etc, provided by the author.
March 24, 2019
Very well written book. Mr. Frazee does a great job of explaining what happens to us spiritually in death and choices we have before that event. I have actually re-read this book several times to gain more insight.
April 19, 2022
Amazing. Thought provoking, on-point, great discussions with friends and family. It gives a biblical perspective of what Heaven is going to be like and how we can get there.
A must read for everyone.
A must read for everyone.
May 28, 2023
Still to this day it is one of my favourite books. Read 3 years ago and have given to others to read. I am thinking of reading it again this month for a refresh. Highly recommend to Christian’s and non-Christians!!
October 4, 2017
Read the full review here: http://cookscrapcraft.blogspot.com/20...
October 6, 2017
Wonderful and concise! So many questions answered in practical ways grounded in Bible truth! I highly recommend this book to those saved and those who continue to wonder...
October 28, 2017
What happens after you die
I really enjoyed the book based on scriptures so one can be sure it is the truth. Loved the humour the author interjected.
I really enjoyed the book based on scriptures so one can be sure it is the truth. Loved the humour the author interjected.
July 4, 2018
Excelente
Excelente: Motivador, claro, preciso y conciso. ! Hace un resumen magistral de muchas de las dudas que como humanos tenemos. Lo recomiendo.
Excelente: Motivador, claro, preciso y conciso. ! Hace un resumen magistral de muchas de las dudas que como humanos tenemos. Lo recomiendo.
February 17, 2019
It was okay
I am really interested in this topic, I think that the author needs to do more research. What about the millennial kingdom?
I am really interested in this topic, I think that the author needs to do more research. What about the millennial kingdom?
March 8, 2019
Good(ish)
I enjoyed Randy’s book. I do not agree with all of his conclusions. But it asks good questions and gives great encouragement to Christians who fear death.
I enjoyed Randy’s book. I do not agree with all of his conclusions. But it asks good questions and gives great encouragement to Christians who fear death.
April 6, 2019
A good sense of relieve to know about
This offers a good look into. What you receive after this life. I hope to see my wife again also all my pets. So rejoice, you will
This offers a good look into. What you receive after this life. I hope to see my wife again also all my pets. So rejoice, you will
October 31, 2019
I LOVED this book!! Taught me so much.
September 1, 2020
Read this with my church home group. An interesting read, it answered some questions I've long had and was good food for thought. Made for good discussion with our group.
March 8, 2022
I wish I could give this book ten stars!!!
January 21, 2025
Easy read, well put together. Thorough and concise, while answering tough questions. I recommend.
April 20, 2017
If a friend on their death bed asked, “Is belief in Jesus enough to get me into heaven?” how would you respond? That question was posed to pastor and author Randy Frazee by his mother. While he answered his mother with a confident, “Yes,” the question bothered him enough to do a thorough study of the Scriptures. The results of his study are explained in his latest book, What Happens After You Die: A Biblical Guide to Paradise, Hell, and Life After Death.
Pastor Frazee deals with the five most important questions about life after death.
Is Jesus enough to get me into heaven?
What happens if I die without Christ?
What happens if I die with Christ?
What happens if I don’t know Christ when he returns?
What happens if I do know Christ when he returns?
In addition, he also answers questions such as:
Are there such things as ghosts?
Are our loved one in heaven watching over us?
Is there such a thing as purgatory or Limbo?
Are there different degrees of hell?
Can we earn wings?
Will rewards be given out?
Will there be pets in heaven?
Will we keep our memories or regrets from life now?
Will there be marriages and family in God’s new kingdom?
What will our resurrected bodies be like?
What will we eat?
What will a day in the life on the new earth be like?
Do we have guardian angels?
Is it okay to be cremated?
What about people making predictions about the return of Christ?
What about life-after-death and near-death experiences?
As Frazee explains in the opening chapter, the book was born out of a deeply personal search for truth after his mother’s death. Throughout the book, he attempts to separate what is simply cultural tradition from what is truly biblical. He explains not only the death Jesus came to save us from but also the life he came to save us for.
The book is very helpful and encouraging. It clearly explains what Scripture says about what happens after we die.
Disclosure of Material Connection: I received this book free from the publisher through the BookLook Bloggers book review bloggers program. I was not required to write a positive review. The opinions I have expressed are my own.
Pastor Frazee deals with the five most important questions about life after death.
Is Jesus enough to get me into heaven?
What happens if I die without Christ?
What happens if I die with Christ?
What happens if I don’t know Christ when he returns?
What happens if I do know Christ when he returns?
In addition, he also answers questions such as:
Are there such things as ghosts?
Are our loved one in heaven watching over us?
Is there such a thing as purgatory or Limbo?
Are there different degrees of hell?
Can we earn wings?
Will rewards be given out?
Will there be pets in heaven?
Will we keep our memories or regrets from life now?
Will there be marriages and family in God’s new kingdom?
What will our resurrected bodies be like?
What will we eat?
What will a day in the life on the new earth be like?
Do we have guardian angels?
Is it okay to be cremated?
What about people making predictions about the return of Christ?
What about life-after-death and near-death experiences?
As Frazee explains in the opening chapter, the book was born out of a deeply personal search for truth after his mother’s death. Throughout the book, he attempts to separate what is simply cultural tradition from what is truly biblical. He explains not only the death Jesus came to save us from but also the life he came to save us for.
The book is very helpful and encouraging. It clearly explains what Scripture says about what happens after we die.
Disclosure of Material Connection: I received this book free from the publisher through the BookLook Bloggers book review bloggers program. I was not required to write a positive review. The opinions I have expressed are my own.
Displaying 1 - 20 of 20 reviews