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What Happens to Us After Death?

What Happens to Us After Death?

Last updated on: October 29, 2023 at 4:26 pm by Mishael Austin Witty

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What Happens to Us After Death? 2023-10-29T16:26:07-04:00 Mishael Austin Witty

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after death

What happens to us after we die? A new movie coming to theaters on October 27, 2023, explores possible answers to that question. / Photo provided by Angel Studios.

Is There Life After Death?

What really happens after we take our last breath? Humans have pondered the answers to this question for centuries. The new movie After Death takes a compelling and thought-provoking look at this mysterious topic.

Based on the true accounts of New York Times Bestselling authors, this movie gives us a peek into life’s biggest question of what happens when we die.

About After Death

After Death is a gripping feature film that explores answers to this question based on real near-death experiences (NDE), as conveyed by scientists, authors, and survivors. Through a combination of striking imagery and insightful interviews, this film presents a unique perspective on the afterlife. It will make you question everything you thought you knew about death, and leave you with a newfound understanding and appreciation for the continuing journey that awaits us all.

This film is brought to you by Angel Studios, who gave us both The Chosen and Sound of Freedom. It features interviews with New York Times bestselling authors, doctors, scientists, and near-death
survivors, including Don Piper (90 Minutes in Heaven*), Dr. Mary Neal (To Heaven and
Back), Dr. Jeffrey Long (Evidence of the Afterlife), Dr. Raymond Moody (Life After Life), and John Burke (Imagine Heaven).

*These are affiliate links. I may make a small commission if you purchase something after visiting this site.

A Word About Near-Death Experiences (NDEs)

John Burke was a skeptic before he first read about near-death experiences. After researching near-death experiences for over 30 years and interviewing countless people who have gone beyond the veil and back, John became a pastor and an international speaker who inspires people to reconsider what they think they know about life and death.

Near-death experiences (NDEs) are profound and transformative experiences that occur when an individual is on the brink of death or has been clinically dead and then revived. NDEs often involve a range of extraordinary sensations and perceptions. While the exact causes of NDEs remain a subject of debate, these experiences have been reported across different cultures and belief systems.

Common Characteristics of NDEs

Although NDEs can vary from person to person, there are several common characteristics that have been consistently reported. Many individuals describe a feeling of detachment from their physical body and the sensation of hovering above it, observing the scene below. They often report a tunnel-like passage of light, leading to a realm of indescribable beauty and serenity. Some individuals also recall encountering deceased loved ones or spiritual beings who emit an overwhelming sense of love and acceptance. Additionally, time distortion, enhanced perception, and a life review are frequently reported aspects of NDEs.

Scientific Explanations for NDEs

Scientists have proposed several theories to explain the occurrence of NDEs. One prominent theory suggests that NDEs are a result of the brain’s response to extreme stress or trauma. According to this theory, the brain releases a flood of chemicals and neurotransmitters, which can create hallucinatory experiences and altered states of consciousness. Another theory posits that NDEs may be a product of oxygen deprivation to the brain, leading to hallucinations and vivid imagery. However, these explanations fail to account for the consistency and transcendent nature of NDEs, thus leaving the true nature of these experiences open to interpretation.

Theories on the Nature of NDEs

Various theories have emerged to explain the profound nature of NDEs. One theory suggests these experiences provide a glimpse into an afterlife or spiritual realm beyond our physical existence. According to this perspective, NDEs offer evidence of the continuity of consciousness beyond death, suggesting the existence of a soul or spirit that transcends the physical body. Another theory proposes that NDEs are a manifestation of the mind’s attempt to make sense of the dying process, providing comfort and reassurance to the individual. These theories highlight the profound implications of NDEs and their potential to transform our understanding of life and death.

Personal Accounts of NDEs

Countless individuals have shared their personal accounts of NDEs, providing valuable insights into the nature of these experiences. You will hear many of these accounts shared in After Death. These narratives often describe a profound sense of peace, love, and interconnectedness.

Many individuals report encountering deceased loved ones who offer guidance and reassurance. The life review, a common aspect of NDEs, involves a comprehensive review of one’s life. It is often accompanied by feelings of empathy and understanding. These personal accounts highlight the transformative power of NDEs.

I had my own transformative experience when my mother shared the story of her near-death experience. She was pregnant with me at the time. So, it was my near-death experience too, even though I don’t remember it at all. I wrote about the day she told me her story here. I’m a believer in NDEs, mainly because I have no reason not be. And I have had my own out-of-body experience (OBE) before, although I don’t think it was connected to an NDE.

Out-of-body Experiences (OBEs) During NDEs

One of the most intriguing aspects of NDEs is the occurrence of out-of-body experiences (OBEs). During an OBE, individuals report a separation of consciousness from their physical body, often accompanied by a sense of floating or flying. This is what happened to me once during an operation I had when I was 16 years old, when my infantile VP shunt malfunctioned, and they had to replace it. I remember feeling like I was floating outside my body. I saw my body on the operating table. The doctors and nurses surrounded me. I saw them clearly, and I heard the whir of the saw as it opened my skull. That’s the last thing I was conscious of until I woke up in the recovery room.

I don’t remember any tunnels or bright lights. No one talked to me or approached me. Because of this, I don’t think my OBE was connected to an NDE. But I can definitely see how the two experiences could be related, and how NDE survivors also experience an out-of-body sensation.

These stated experiences provide further evidence of the dissociation between consciousness and the physical body, suggesting the possibility of consciousness existing independently of the brain. OBEs experienced during NDEs offer a unique perspective on the nature of consciousness and its potential to transcend the limitations of the physical world. It’s a fascinating topic, and After Death handles it in a uniquely informative way.

How You (And Others) Can See the Movie

After Death is a must-watch for anyone curious about the great unknown, especially as it relates to NDEs. This cinematic peek beyond the veil examines the spiritual and scientific dimensions of mortality, inviting us to wonder: Is there life after death?

Get your tickets to see this movie in theaters starting today, 10/27/23. You can also Pay it Forward to cover the cost of a movie ticket for someone who wouldn’t otherwise be able to see it. Visit this page to find out how you can do either one of those things.

Disclosure: Many thanks to Angel Studios for providing a sample of the product for this review. Opinions are 100% my own.

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About Mishael Austin Witty

Mishael Austin Witty is a lover of Jesus, cats, coffee, and books. She is a wife to one man and mother of two girls. She serves as a discipleship coach, Sunday School teacher, children's church helper, and food pantry organizer. You can read more about the author here.

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