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Does Jesus Refer to an Immortal Soul in Matthew 10:28?
Bible Questions & AnswersIn Matthew 10:28, Jesus instructs not to fear those who can kill the body but cannot kill the soul, but to fear Him who can destroy both soul and body in hell. The English word soul translates the Greek word psuche (G5590) and the Hebrew word nephesh, both meaning a living, breathing creature, whether man or animal. Soul refers to the physical life of a being and never implies something immortal within. Jesus gave His life, translated from the same Greek word as soul, as a ransom by pouring out His soul, His life's blood, in payment for sin. God has the power to destroy both the physical body and the soul, which is the life, while man can only destroy the body. In Luke 12:4-5, Jesus reiterates to fear Him who, after killing, has the power to cast into hell, the Lake of Fire, signifying the second or final death.
Is Your Soul Immortal?
Sermon/Bible Study by Richard T. RitenbaughThe Greek term *psuche* (G5590), often translated as soul, fundamentally means breath or the breath of life. It refers to a person's life, emphasizing their existence as a living, breathing being. In biblical usage, *psuche* denotes the life-force or vital principle that animates a person, distinct from the biochemical reactions of the body. This life is not inherent but is an immaterial gift from God, underscoring that a soul is one's life or being, not an immortal essence. In contrast to worldly views that confuse *psuche* with the human spirit (*pneuma*), the Bible maintains a clear distinction. *Psuche* represents life itself, while *pneuma* relates to the mind, encompassing thought, reason, and emotion. The body (*soma*) is the physical component. These three—mind, life, and body—define a human being, with *psuche* specifically tied to the concept of living existence. Regarding immortality, the soul as *psuche* is not inherently eternal. Scriptures affirm that the soul that sins shall die, indicating that life can cease. Eternal life is not an automatic possession of the soul but a gift from God, to be received through His grace. Immortality must be put on, as it is not intrinsic to *psuche*. Only God possesses inherent immortality, and He offers it to humanity as a promise to be fulfilled in the resurrection, not as a current state of the soul.
The Fifth Seal (Part One)
'Prophecy Watch' by Richard T. RitenbaughThe Greek term *psuche* (G5590), often translated as "soul" or "life," carries profound significance in the context of sacrifice and devotion. It represents the essence of a person's being, the very life that one might be called to lay down for the sake of faith. In the spirit of the martyrs and heroes of faith, the willingness to surrender one's *psuche*—one's life—for God's Word and beliefs is a powerful testimony. This ultimate act of sacrifice, as exemplified by those who faced persecution and death, underscores the depth of commitment required to follow the path of righteousness, valuing God's revelation above all earthly attachments.
Back to Life (Part Five)
Sermon by Martin G. CollinsAll of us who are called by God are so precious in His sight that Jesus Christ, before we were even born, died for us, saving us from oblivion.
Lazarus and the Rich Man
Sermon/Bible Study by Richard T. RitenbaughThe Parable of Lazarus and the Rich Man is often held up as proof of the torments of an ever-burning hell. However, the rest of Scripture gives a clearer picture.
Image and Likeness of God (Part Three)
Sermon by John W. RitenbaughThe numerous scriptural references to angelic beings indicate that the spiritual entities have tangible substance. God is not a universal nothingness.
Elements of Motivation (Part Seven)
Sermon by John W. RitenbaughEternal life, emphasizing a special intimate relationship with God the Father and Christ, is vastly different from immortality, connoting only endless existence.
The Elements of Motivation (Part Six): Eternal Life
'Personal' from John W. RitenbaughIf you knew you would live forever, how would you live? Biblically, eternal life is much more than living forever: It is living as God lives!