Heidelberg Catechism

Question 42. Since Christ died for us, why must we die, too?

Answer: Our death is not a payment for our sins, (a) but it abolishes sin, and is a passage into eternal life. (b)

(Scriptural proofs after the fold.)

a. Mark 8:37

For what can a man give in return for his soul? 

      Psalm 49:7

Truly no man can ransom another, or give to God the price of his life … .

b. John 5:24

Truly, truly, I say to you, whoever hears my word and believes him who sent me has eternal life. He does not come into judgment, but has passed from death to life.

      Philippians 1:21-23

For to me to live is Christ, and to die is gain. If I am to live in the flesh, that means fruitful labor for me. Yet which I shall choose I cannot tell. I am hard pressed between the two. My desire is to depart and be with Christ, for that is far better.

      1 Thessalonians 5:9-10

For God has not destined us for wrath, but to obtain salvation through our Lord Jesus Christ, who died for us so that whether we are awake or asleep we might live with him.