• Eschatology – the study of death, judgment, and the end times
• Build your eschatology on Scripture instead of stories or speculation.

#1. Death Is Not the End (4:13-14)

• The Bible describing death as sleep reveals how temporal a reality it is.
• It is appropriate to grieve when life is lost, but it is necessary to grieve well.
• The gospel ensures that we will see those asleep in Christ awakened again.

#2. Jesus Is Coming Back (4:15-16)

• Our hope for the future comes from reliable promises in God’s Word.
• “Rapture” – comes from the Latin translation (rapturo) of the Greek word (harpazo) that Paul uses to describe being “caught up” or “taken.”
• Those who are asleep will not be at any disadvantage when Christ comes back.
• Jesus has promised He will abruptly return; we should require no other warning.

#3. Restoration Is Fully Guaranteed (4:17-18)

• We will be assembled one day with all believers for all time.
• Relational reunions are rightly anticipated, but dwelling with Jesus forever is the unrivaled treasure of eternity.
• We need regular encouragement that this life isn’t it.