Nuggets from "An Urgent Call to a Serious Faith" by Dave Hunt

Death is not a pleasant topic, nor one that we will dwell upon, but it is an important starting point for serious reflection. Moses wrote, “So teach us to number our days [that is, to realize how quickly they come to an end], that we may apply our hearts unto wisdom” (Psalm:90:12So teach us to number our days, that we may apply our hearts unto wisdom.
See All...). The implication is clear that something lies beyond the grave for which we ought to make plans. In full agreement, King David wrote, “LORD, make me to know mine end…the measure of my days…that I may know how frail I am” (Psalm:39:4LORD, make me to know mine end, and the measure of my days, what it is; that I may know how frail I am.
See All...). That realization would only be depressing and much to be avoided unless there is something (good or bad) after death for which we should prepare. In the same vein, Solomon declared: “It is better to go to the house of mourning [that is, a funeral], than to go to the house of feasting: for that is the end of all men; and the living will lay it to his heart” (Ecclesiastes:7:2It is better to go to the house of mourning, than to go to the house of feasting: for that is the end of all men; and the living will lay it to his heart.
See All...).

The uncertainty of life and the inevitability of death are two of the most basic elements of human existence. Logically, then—even for those who think death ends it all—what may lie after death deserves at least some serious attention and planning before it may be forever too late. It is only reasonable that prior to that awesome moment of death, which overtakes all in its own time and without discrimination, one needs to be absolutely certain of what death will bring and exactly why.

Absolutely certain? Of course, because nothing less will do. Regardless of one’s religious belief or lack of it, death puts its terminating stamp upon every earthly passion, position, possession, and ambition. There is a finality to death that shouts, “Too late! Too late!”

Inasmuch as death could come knocking at any time, regardless of one’s age, health, or expectations, there is great urgency in knowing—with certainty beyond question—what lies beyond death’s door. No matter how young we may be or how healthy we may seem, that dread event draws steadily and inexorably closer for each one of us—and often comes as an unwelcome surprise.