Christians believe that Jesus died for the sins of man. This topic is worth discussing since some people have come up with theories that Jesus died more than once. What many people want to know is, how did Jesus die the second time?
The Bible suggests that Jesus died only once, as explained in Hebrews 9:27-28. However, some believe that Jesus died twice because he underwent pain, and the second death is characterized by pain. Others believe that Jesus died twice because he experienced the anguish of being separated from his Father. They argue that the second death separates one from God.
Did Jesus die a second time? When did Jesus die the second time? Why do people believe Jesus died the second time? These are some of the questions that this article will cover. By the end of it, one can also discover whether there is evidence indicating that Jesus died twice. Read on to find out more!
Did Jesus die a second time?
According to the Bible, Jesus died only once. Hebrews 9:27-28 says, Just as people are destined to die once and after that to face judgment, so Christ was sacrificed once to take away the sins of many, and he will appear a second time, not to bear sin but to bring salvation to those who are waiting for him.
Hebrews 7:27 also suggests that Jesus died only once and not twice. This verse says, unlike the other high priests, he does not need to offer sacrifices day after day, first for his own sins, then for the people’s sins. He sacrificed for their sins once and for all when he offered himself.
The Gospels also imply that Jesus died once when he was crucified. On the third day, he rose from the dead. He remained on earth for 40 days and then ascended to heaven. Mark 16:19 says, And the Lord Jesus, after he had spoken to them, was taken into heaven and sitteth on the right hand of God.
When did Jesus die the second time?
No verse in the Bible states that Jesus died a second time. The second death of Jesus is a theory that some people came up with. Those who believe that Jesus died the second time argue that the first death is death which involves resurrection, while the second death is death, which does not involve resurrection.
However, most Biblical scholars believe that Jesus died only once and quote different verses to support this. They further state that if Jesus was not raised from the dead, then our faith is useless. 1st Corinthians 15: 13 says, if there is no resurrection of the dead, then neither has Christ been raised. And if Christ has not been raised, then empty is our preaching; empty too is your faith.
Why do people believe Jesus died the second time?
Some people believe that Jesus died the second time due to what is written in the book of Revelation. Revelation 2:11 says, He who has an ear, let him hear what the Spirit says to the churches. The one who conquers will not be hurt by the second death.
According to such people, Jesus died the second time since this verse suggests that the second death is characterized by pain. They argue that Jesus went through both emotional and physical pain as he approached the cross. However, those who disagree with this theory argue that this was Jesus’ first and only death.
Others also believe that Jesus died the second time since he experienced the anguish of being separated from his Father. On the cross, he asked, why have you forsaken me as explained in Matthew 27:46. Those who believe this argue that the second death is the ultimate form of separation from God, and therefore Jesus died the second time.
Is there any evidence indicating that Jesus died twice?
Though some people believe that Jesus died twice and even give reasons for this assumption, no evidence in the Bible shows that Jesus died twice. Different Bible verses suggest that Jesus died only once at the cross. For instance, 1st Peter 3: 18 says, For Christ also suffered for sins once, the righteous for the sake of the unrighteous, that he may lead you to God.
Those who believe that Jesus died twice misinterpret the book of Revelation. The second death is mentioned in Revelation 21:8, which says, the cowardly, the unbelieving, the vile, the murderers, the sexually immoral, those who practice magic arts, the idolaters and all liars, their portion will be the lake that burns with fire and sulfur which is the second death. This verse does not refer to Jesus dying a second time. It suggests that the second death is exclusively for people who have rejected Christ.
Revelation 20:6 also talks about the second death concerning a period called the Millennium. This verse says, Blessed and holy is the one who shares in the first resurrection. As such, the second death has no power, but they will be priests of God and Christ and will reign with him for a thousand years.
In this verse, the first resurrection refers to Jesus rising from the dead, but the second death refers to the lake of fire, as explained further in Revelation 20:14-15. The Bible suggests that the lake of fire is the final judgment, and it is when the second death occurs.
So, when the book of Revelation mentions the second death, it does not mean that Jesus died twice. These verses warn those who don’t believe in the salvation that Jesus brought when he died on the cross once and for all. They suggest that the unbelievers be thrown into the lake of fire during judgment day.
References
- Don Stewart: What is the second death or eternal death?
- Ascension
- The Cross and Resurrection
- What is the Ascension day/Ascension Thursday?
- What is the second death?
As a devout Christian, I have always been passionate about the Christian faith. This inspired me to pursue a degree in Religious studies and a Masters in Theology in college. I have also been privileged to teach 4 Christian courses in a college and university. Since I am dedicated to spreading the word of God, I am actively involved in the Church. Additionally, I share his word online and cover diverse topics on the Christian faith through my platform. You can read more about me on the about us page.
