Boo-lieve It or Not: Afterlife Insights
“I believe that God is at work outside of the church, and the church joins in with God’s mission, not the other way around.” - Matthew Arnold
Exploring the Paranormal and the Afterlife: Insights from Matt Arnold
In a recent episode, I had the pleasure of engaging in a captivating discussion with two other Unrefined hosts and our guest Matt Arnold, editor of the Christian Parapsychologist Journal and author of The Invisible Dimension: Spirit Beings, Ghosts, and the Afterlife. The conversation delved into the complexities of spiritual beliefs, the afterlife, and the need for a deeper understanding within the church. This blog post will break down the key themes and insights from the episode, offering a thorough explanation for those interested in exploring these profound topics.
Understanding the Afterlife: A Biblical Perspective
Matt Arnold's journey into the study of the paranormal began in childhood and evolved through his experiences in ministry and academic research. One of the key themes he explores is the biblical understanding of the afterlife, which has evolved over time.
Old Testament Views: Early Hebrew beliefs depicted the afterlife as a shadowy existence in Sheol, where God was not present. This is evident in verses like Ecclesiastes 9:5, which states, "For the living know that they will die, but the dead know nothing."
New Testament Insights: The New Testament presents a more active afterlife. For instance, in Revelation, martyrs seek justice, and parables like Lazarus and the rich man illustrate the consequences of our actions in this life. Psalm 139 also suggests that even in Sheol, God is present, indicating a shift in belief.
The Concept of Soul Sleep and Theological Debates
The episode also touched on historical theological debates, particularly between Martin Luther and John Calvin, regarding the concept of soul sleep.
Martin Luther's View: Luther promoted the idea of soul sleep, suggesting that the soul is unconscious after death until the resurrection. This perspective was partly a reaction against the practice of indulgences.
John Calvin's Critique: Calvin argued against soul sleep in his work "Psycho Panacea," asserting that the afterlife is an active existence. He supported his argument with various biblical texts that depict an ongoing consciousness after death.
Personal Experiences and the Afterlife
Matt shared several personal experiences that shaped his understanding of the afterlife. One notable incident involved feeling an overwhelming presence in a room where a Ouija board had been found. This experience confirmed for him that there is more to the spiritual realm than we often acknowledge.
The Importance of Embodiment and Relational Understanding
Matt emphasized the importance of understanding the afterlife as a functional and relational experience rather than a mere cessation of existence. He argued that humans were created to be embodied beings, and the division of body and soul is a misunderstanding.
Engaging with Cultural Conversations
Matt and I discussed the spiritual thirst that exists among believers and the need for the church to address these questions and needs. If the church fails to do so, individuals may turn to alternative spiritual sources.
Conclusion
This episode offers a rich exploration of the afterlife, drawing on biblical texts, historical perspectives, and personal experiences. By studying scripture contextually, examining theological debates, acknowledging personal experiences, embracing a relational perspective, and engaging with cultural conversations, I can develop a deeper and more nuanced understanding of the afterlife.
For those interested in delving further into these topics, Matt Arnold's book, The Invisible Dimension: Spirit Beings, Ghosts, and the Afterlife, is a highly recommended read. It provides valuable insights and encourages readers to explore the mysteries of faith and the afterlife with open minds and hearts.
