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The Catechism in Questions & Answers
- Introduction
- Contents
- 531. Is there a life after death?
- 532. What is death?
- 533. How else does the Bible understand “death”?
- 534. Who has power over death?
- 535. What is the significance of the resurrection of Jesus Christ?
- 536. Are there any references to life after death in Holy Scripture?
- 537. Where do human beings find themselves after physical death?
- 538. What do we mean when we talk about “the beyond”?
- 539. Is there a reincarnation of the dead?
- 540. Can we connect with the departed?
- 541. What is the condition of the souls in the beyond?
- 542. Who are the “dead in Christ”?
- 543. Can the condition of the souls in the beyond be changed?
- 544. How is it possible for souls in the beyond to change?
- 545. What statements does Holy Scripture make concerning help for the dead?
- 546. Can we help the departed attain salvation?
- 547. In what way do the departed receive salvation?
- 548. How and through whom is salvation imparted to the dead?
541. What is the condition of the souls in the beyond?
The condition of the souls in the beyond is an expression of their proximity to, or remoteness from, God. A person’s soul has not undergone any change as a result of physical death. A person is not only defined by belief or unbelief, reconciliation or irreconcilability, love or hatred on this earth, but also in the beyond.
This condition is also addressed in the parable of Jesus of the rich man and poor Lazarus (cf. Luke 16: 19-31), when He speaks of a place of security and a place of torment. The departed can become aware of their condition. Those who suffer torment can hope for help.