The Importance of Knowing Jesus: A Reflection on Life After Death

Summary of Jonathan Roumie's Vision: A Call to Know Jesus

Jonathan Roumie’s vision portrays people meeting Jesus moments after death and being asked, “Do you know me?” This challenges those who rely solely on religious activity without a true relationship with Christ. Eternal life requires knowing Jesus and being transformed by Him. His presence should influence our behavior, priorities, and character, leaving a noticeable “fragrance” of Christ. Genuine discipleship is proven by a changed life that reflects Jesus.

What Happens After Death?

What happens after death? Jonathan Roumie, who plays Jesus on The Chosen, shared a video concerning a vision he had about what happens after death. Death is not the end. This question has puzzled many. It evokes curiosity and fear alike. Understanding what lies beyond can be comforting and challenging.

The Vision: Meeting Jesus

According to Jonathan’s vision, the spirits of the deceased immediately encounter Jesus within seconds of their passing. Jesus asks everyone the same four-word question: “Do you know me?” This question is profound. It cuts to the heart of our faith.

Some individuals had been active in their churches. They confidently believed they were saved by grace through faith in Him. Yet, some were leaders in their churches, but Jesus insisted that they didn’t really know Him. This revelation is unsettling. It forces us to examine our own lives and beliefs.

What the Bible Says About Knowing Jesus

Make no mistake, there is a clear biblical connection between eternal life and knowing Jesus. “And this is the way to have eternal life—to know you, the only true God, and Jesus Christ, the one you sent to earth” (John 17:3 NLT). This knowing is mutual. He also knows us.

“On judgment day many will say to me, ‘Lord! Lord! We prophesied in your name and cast out demons in your name and performed many miracles in your name.’ But I will reply, ‘I never knew you. Get away from me, you who break God’s laws” (Matthew 7:22-23 NLT). These verses remind us that knowledge of Jesus is more than intellectual acknowledgment; it is relational.

Disturbing but Important Questions

Jonathan’s vision disturbed me. It revealed the possibility of experiencing assurance of salvation without knowing its author or really possessing it. What is the difference between a “Christianity” built only on facts about Jesus and one that truly demonstrates knowing Him? This distinction is crucial. It leads us to ponder our own faith journey.

How Do We Know We Know Jesus?

How can I know that I know Jesus? How can you know that you do? Here is a key question: How has Jesus influenced your life? The closer we are relationally to someone, the more they influence us. We carry some of their “scent” with us. Do others know you spent time with Jesus because of His lingering fragrance?

The Aroma of Christ

I once attended a men’s breakfast. When I returned home, my daughter complained that she smelled onions. I ate nothing containing onions at breakfast, but their odor permeated my clothes and the entire room where they were cooked, and the breakfast was held.

If we know Jesus, His aroma permeates our lives. “Our lives are a Christ-like fragrance rising up to God. But this fragrance is perceived differently by those who are being saved and by those who are perishing” (2 Corinthians 2:15 NLT). This metaphor illustrates how our relationship with Christ should be evident to others.

How Others Shape Us

My father, aunt, and wife have left their scent on me more than any other humans. My mother influenced me less than my father because she died when I was seven. My never-married aunt stepped in to help raise my brothers and me when she was 64.

For more than twenty years, she demonstrated self-sacrificial service to our family. She put our needs ahead of hers. That was obvious even to me, a selfish child, teenager, and young adult.

By words and actions, my father taught me about life. I wouldn’t be the same person at all if I had a different father figure. A huge amount of it was unconscious, the fruit of imitating him.

Fifty years of marriage to my wife has shaped me into a different person than I was when we were first married. The guy who thought doing dishes was for women regularly does them!

The list of modifications to the original husband is long. I know what pleases and irritates her, and she knows the same about me. We try to maximize the pleasing and minimize the irritating. Is that how you relate to Jesus? How has imitating Him changed you?

Evidence of Transformation

Here is another key question: How is life different because of your relationship with Jesus than it was before you received Him as your Savior and Lord? How are you more like Him now because of His influence? Specifically, how has He changed your priorities, values, habits, relationships, and purpose?

Are you living for Him who died and was raised for you (2 Corinthians 5:15)? Are you turning your brag sheet into a testimony? That is the evidence that you know Him.

The Ultimate Question

So, are you ready for what happens after death? Do you know Him? This question is vital. It is not just about knowing facts but about knowing Him personally.

Conclusion: Embracing a Relationship with Jesus

In conclusion, the essence of our faith lies not in mere knowledge or church attendance but in a deep, personal relationship with Jesus. This relationship transforms us, shapes our character, and influences our actions.

As we reflect on Jonathan Roumie's vision and the biblical truths surrounding knowing Jesus, let us strive to cultivate this relationship daily. By doing so, we not only prepare ourselves for what lies beyond this life but also enrich our journey here on earth. Let His fragrance be evident in our lives, guiding us to reflect His love and grace in all we do.

The Journey of Knowing Jesus

Knowing Jesus is a journey, not a destination. It requires commitment and effort. We must actively seek Him in our daily lives. Prayer, reading scripture, and engaging in community are essential.

The Importance of Community

Being part of a community can enhance our relationship with Jesus. Sharing experiences and insights with others can deepen our understanding. It can also provide encouragement and accountability.

The Role of Prayer

Prayer is a powerful tool in developing our relationship with Jesus. It allows us to communicate openly with Him. Through prayer, we express our thoughts, feelings, and desires.

The Impact of Scripture

Reading and meditating on scripture is vital. The Bible is God’s word and reveals His character and will. It helps us understand who Jesus is and what He desires for our lives.

Living Out Our Faith

Finally, living out our faith is crucial. Our actions should reflect our relationship with Jesus. We are called to be His hands and feet in the world.

In summary, knowing Jesus is transformative. It shapes our lives and influences those around us. Let us embrace this relationship wholeheartedly.