Nov. 17, 2025
Ep. 30: What Happens After You Die? Biblical Afterlife — Sheol, Hades, Resurrection & Paradise
What really happens after you die? In this episode of Deformed Theology, we take a deep, Scripture-centered dive into one of humanity’s oldest and most mysterious questions: the afterlife. From Sheol and Hades to Abraham’s Bosom, Paradise, soul sleep, the resurrection, and the intermediate state, this conversation explores the biblical data without sensationalism—just honest theology, humor, and curiosity.
We start in the Old Testament with the earliest appearances of Sheol, examining how ancient Hebrews understood death, the grave, mourning, and the realm of the departed. From Jacob to Job to David, the Bible paints a layered picture of the unseen realm that often gets overlooked. We discuss whether Sheol is a neutral place, a divided realm, or simply a poetic reference to the grave—and how these early concepts set the foundation for later revelation.
Then we explore the dramatic story of Saul and the Witch of Endor, Samuel’s statement “Why have you disturbed me?”, and what that might imply about consciousness after death. Does this support soul sleep? Was Samuel aware, at rest, or something else? We wrestle with every angle.
Moving into the New Testament, we break down Jesus’ teaching about Lazarus and the Rich Man, the imagery of Abraham’s Bosom, torment in Hades, and the great chasm between the righteous and unrighteous. Is this literal, parabolic, or a window into the afterlife? We unpack the theological implications through both historic and modern lenses.
We also explore the mind-bending moment in Matthew 27, when saints rise from their tombs at the crucifixion of Christ. Where did they go afterward? What happened to the righteous dead before Jesus ascended? This leads into the controversial and fascinating passages about Christ “preaching to the spirits in prison” and “leading captivity captive.”
Finally, we wrestle with the big practical question: When a Christian dies today, what happens?
Are we immediately in the presence of the Lord, as Paul says?
Is there an intermediate state?
Is “soul sleep” a biblical idea?
What about near-death experiences?
We compare possibilities with Scripture at every step.
This episode blends serious biblical study, theology, humor, and real questions about eternity. Whether you're a pastor, student, skeptic, or just curious about what the Bible really says, this conversation will challenge your assumptions and deepen your hope in Christ.
Be faithful. Be watchful. Be ready. And remember—Jesus is preparing a place for you.
We start in the Old Testament with the earliest appearances of Sheol, examining how ancient Hebrews understood death, the grave, mourning, and the realm of the departed. From Jacob to Job to David, the Bible paints a layered picture of the unseen realm that often gets overlooked. We discuss whether Sheol is a neutral place, a divided realm, or simply a poetic reference to the grave—and how these early concepts set the foundation for later revelation.
Then we explore the dramatic story of Saul and the Witch of Endor, Samuel’s statement “Why have you disturbed me?”, and what that might imply about consciousness after death. Does this support soul sleep? Was Samuel aware, at rest, or something else? We wrestle with every angle.
Moving into the New Testament, we break down Jesus’ teaching about Lazarus and the Rich Man, the imagery of Abraham’s Bosom, torment in Hades, and the great chasm between the righteous and unrighteous. Is this literal, parabolic, or a window into the afterlife? We unpack the theological implications through both historic and modern lenses.
We also explore the mind-bending moment in Matthew 27, when saints rise from their tombs at the crucifixion of Christ. Where did they go afterward? What happened to the righteous dead before Jesus ascended? This leads into the controversial and fascinating passages about Christ “preaching to the spirits in prison” and “leading captivity captive.”
Finally, we wrestle with the big practical question: When a Christian dies today, what happens?
Are we immediately in the presence of the Lord, as Paul says?
Is there an intermediate state?
Is “soul sleep” a biblical idea?
What about near-death experiences?
We compare possibilities with Scripture at every step.
This episode blends serious biblical study, theology, humor, and real questions about eternity. Whether you're a pastor, student, skeptic, or just curious about what the Bible really says, this conversation will challenge your assumptions and deepen your hope in Christ.
Be faithful. Be watchful. Be ready. And remember—Jesus is preparing a place for you.
