
J. PATERSON-SMYTH, B.D., LL.D., LITT. D., D.C.L,
PART I - THE NEAR HEREAFTER - I. "I" II. THE THREE STAGES OF EXISTENCE III. WHAT THE BIBLE SAYS ABOUT THE NEAR HEREAFTER IV. WHAT THE BIBLE AND THE CHURCH SAY ABOUT THE NEAR HEREAFTER V. THE CRISIS OF DEATH VI. "I" "MYSELF" AFTER DEATH VII. RECOGNITION VIII. THE COMMUNION OF SAINTS IX. GROWTH AND PURIFICATION X. PROBATION IN THIS LIFE XI. MINISTRY IN THE UNSEEN LIFE XII. CONCLUSION - PART II - THE FAR HEREAFTER - I. THE JUDGMENT II. HELL III. HEAVEN
E-text prepared by Al Haines
PART I
CHAPTER II - THE THREE STAGES OF EXISTENCE
CHAPTER III - WHAT THE BIBLE SAYS ABOUT THE NEAR HEREAFTER
CHAPTER IV - WHAT THE BIBLE AND THE CHURCH SAY ABOUT THE NEAR HEREAFTER
CHAPTER V - THE CRISIS OF DEATH
CHAPTER VI - "I," "MYSELF" AFTER DEATH
CHAPTER VII - RECOGNITION
The book opens with a spirited call to see life as a grand adventure that stretches beyond the grave. Its author argues that modern believers have lost the sense of wonder that early Christians felt when contemplating eternity. By weaving biblical references with vivid natural metaphors, the work invites listeners to rediscover the excitement of the unseen.
Divided into two sections, the first explores the “near hereafter”—the stages of existence, what Scripture says about death, and the personal crisis that follows loss. It examines concepts such as recognition, communion of saints, and the purpose of probation in this life. The second part turns to the “far hereafter,” offering a clear‑eyed discussion of judgment, the nature of heaven, and the reality of hell. Throughout, the author balances scholarly insight with heartfelt exhortation, making complex doctrine feel approachable.
Written in the early twentieth century, the prose retains a lyrical quality that measures well on audio, drawing the listener into a reflective meditation. Those seeking a thoughtful, yet uplifting, perspective on what awaits beyond will find this a rewarding companion.
Language
en
Duration
~4 hours (233K characters)
Publisher of text edition
Project Gutenberg
Release date
2008-06-17
Rights
Public domain in the USA.
Subjects
1852–1932
An Irish-born Anglican priest and popular religious writer, he was known for making biblical history and Christian teaching accessible to ordinary readers. His books often aimed to be clear, practical, and welcoming rather than academic for its own sake.
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