Proposal
Proponents of afterlife apologetics argue that the best research into near-death (NDEs) and deathbed experiences (DBEs) provide evidence for the existence of a personal God, the afterlife, and other historic Christian doctrines. Some argue, however, that NDEs/DBEs contradict biblical teachings and are best explained as lies, hallucinations, or demonic deceptions.
Thesis
This paper examines, biblically and theologically, some of the main biblical objections to the authenticity of some NDEs/DBEs and finds them wanting.
Main Points
Introduction: The frequency and apologetic value of biblical visions.
Definitions: “near-death experiences,” “deathbed experiences,” and “visions.”
Two NDE/DBE cases to examine.
Biblical Objections Considered
1) Some NDErs report or promote false doctrine.
2) NDEs typically lead people away from historic Christianity to embrace New Age teachings.
3) The Bible teaches that people cannot see heaven until after final death.
4) The wicked and non-believers should experience judgment—not love and ecstasy—in an NDE.
5) NDEs are more consistent with New Age and other religions than Christianity.
6) Visions are no longer needed after the New Testament was written.
7) Experiencers typically see their own gods.
8) The Bible teaches soul-sleep during the interim period.
False assumptions that often confuse issues.
Conclusion: Why this discussion matters.
Rationale
While respected Christian thinkers such as J. P. Moreland, Gary Habermas, and Lee Strobel have argued that NDEs can support substance dualism and the continued existence of the human soul after death, other respected believers have argued that such experiences conflict with biblical teachings and thus should be shunned as either lies, hallucinations, or demonically inspired. Since the last 50 years of near-death research has captured the public’s imagination with best-selling books, documentaries, feature films, and social media, it behooves theologians to begin, in professional conferences and peer-reviewed journals, weighing in on relevant biblical and theological issues. And since at least four percent of Americans report NDEs and over 80% of the dying in a hospice unit reported deathbed visions, Christian thinkers must provide informed, biblical answers to their questions.
Connections with Established Theological Themes
Gary Habermas included a 45-page appendix on “Evidential Near-Death Experiences” in the first volume of his magnum opus on the resurrection, because of their relevance to his argument. Afterlife apologetics also connects with and adds to ongoing scholarship regarding general apologetics, substance dualism, a personal afterlife, visions, miracles, religious experience, the deity of Christ, the resurrection of Christ, divine hiddenness, the existence of a personal God, angels, and demons. Thus, it’s imperative that theologians and biblical scholars begin interacting with these claims. Yet, the paucity of contributions by such scholars to the field leaves a hole in an important field of study. This paper seeks to begin the discussion by giving preliminary responses to common biblical objections.
J. Steve Miller, PhD
Assistant Professor of Philosophy
Kennesaw State University
jstevemiller@gmail.com