What does the Bible say about “out-of-body” life-after-death experiences?

Although it is understandable that these experiences are considered amazing, the traditional “life after death” concept is contradictory to the Bible’s teachings concerning death. The interpretation of such experiences is based on the premise that the individuals actually died.

Although the medical professionals involved in these cases reported the individuals as clinically dead, medical science has not come to a general consensus as to what constitutes actual death in a person. According to the Bible, real death is a state of unconsciousness that is total and complete, in which a person has no more awareness, feeling, knowledge, or memory (Ecc. 9:5, 10; Psa. 6:5). It therefore becomes obvious that people who, upon being revived, related strange experiences, had not actually died, but rather had simply been in an unconscious condition.

It has been discovered by science that it is electrical signals and impulses that activate the brain and central nervous system. In order to properly operate, the brain depends on a constant supply of blood and oxygen. When there is interference in blood circulation and respiratory functions, even for only a few minutes, the brain starts to malfunction, and will eventually shut down.

Some researchers theorize that the bizarre perceptions and sensations commonly associated with the experience of “coming back to life” can be attributed to the brain and nervous system’s electrical malfunctions caused by the traumatic impact of nearly dying.

If you are interested in learning more about the Bible teaching on life after death, you may request our free booklets Is There Life After Death? and What Is Your Reward in the Next Life?