In the twinkling of an eye

1 Corinthians 15:51-53 (NIV)

Listen, I tell you a mystery: We will not all sleep, but we will all be changed--in a flash, in the twinkling of an eye, at the last trumpet. For the trumpet will sound, the dead will be raised imperishable, and we will be changed. For the perishable must clothe itself with the imperishable, and the mortal with immortality.

We all love a good mystery story. Here is a good one. I have heard my pastor say that those who are once born will die twice and those who are twice born will only die once. The second death refers to eternal hell. The second birth of course, refers to being born again of the spirit of God. Here is the exception to that rule. There are some who are twice born who will not die.

Chapter 15 of First Corinthians is the most detailed treatise we have on the resurrection. He speaks of the resurrection as being changed. We are talking about new, perfect, imperishable bodies. Paul says it is going to happen in an instant of time. I always look forward to getting my computer upgraded. Folks, we are headed for an upgrade! I have to admit it, I'm looking forward to it. This old body is wearing down a bit, doesn't work as well as it used to and some things have quit altogether (like the hair on top!)

What do we know about this new body? Well, Jesus had one. He could walk through walls, appear and disappear, float away in the air. Lest you think it is just a spirit body, Jesus could eat too. Almost every time when he appeared after his resurrection, he ate.

By the way, the unsaved will be resurrected too. You are eternal whether you like it or not. You will spend eternity either separated from God in hell or with God in heaven. It's your choice. I suggest you choose heaven, I hear you'll get very thirsty in the other place.