BoldBelief Devotional

One Life, One Chance

Add comment3 hours ago3 min readby Paul Natekin

#BoldBeliefDevotional by Paul Natekin

Key Bible Verse:

“And just as it is appointed for man to die once, and after that comes judgment…” — Hebrews 9:27 (ESV)

Have you ever heard about reincarnation and wondered if it’s fair or even true? It’s normal to have questions about what happens after we die, especially when faced with teachings that seem to promise second chances. But what does the Bible say about this, and how can we find peace in the truth?

Apologetic Insight:

(from Greek ἀπολογία, ‘speaking in defense’) Defending and explaining faith with reason and evidence.

Reincarnation raises several concerns that don’t align with the biblical narrative. As J. Warner Wallace points out, “Reincarnation is not only unbiblical but also problematic in its fairness and effectiveness.” Consider these points:

Fairness: Reincarnation suggests we’re punished for actions in past lives we can’t remember. This contradicts the justice of a loving God who, according to the Bible, judges us based on our actions in this life (Hebrews 9:27).
Effectiveness: If reincarnation were true and karma improved human nature over time, we should see a noticeable change in humanity. Yet, as Norman Geisler notes, “The world’s moral condition remains largely unchanged despite countless alleged reincarnations.”
Social Passivity: Reincarnation can lead to inaction, suggesting we shouldn’t interfere with others’ bad karma. This contrasts with Jesus’ command to love and help others (Matthew 22:39).
Fatalism: The idea of karma as an unchangeable force leaves no room for grace, which is central to Christianity. As Paul Copan explains, “Christianity offers grace and forgiveness, not an endless cycle of karmic debt.”
Biblical Clarity: The Bible is clear: we live once, die once, and then face judgment (Hebrews 9:27). Jesus taught that our eternal destiny is decided in this lifetime (Matthew 25:46), emphasizing the urgency of accepting His gift of salvation now (2 Corinthians 6:2).

Encouragement & Application:

Remember, doubts about reincarnation are opportunities to explore the truth of God’s Word. Embrace the peace that comes from knowing you have one life to live for Christ. Strengthen your faith by reading Scripture daily, asking questions, and connecting with a community that encourages your spiritual growth.

Reflection Questions:

How does knowing you have one life to live influence your relationship with Jesus?
What steps can you take to share the urgency of salvation with others?

Prayer:

Dear God, thank You for the clarity of Your Word and the gift of one life to live for You. Help us to embrace the truth that we have one chance to accept Your grace and live for Christ. Guide us to share this truth with others and to live each day with purpose and hope. In Jesus’ name, Amen.