Biblical explanation
The Bible's first warning concerning death involved the claim that humans would not die. In Genesis 3:4, the serpent told Eve, "Ye shall not surely die." Scripture consistently teaches that immortality belongs uniquely to God in Himself. First Timothy 6:16 describes God as the One "who only hath immortality." Paul says that mortal human beings must "put on immortality" at the resurrection (1 Corinthians 15:53-54). This means immortality is not an automatic possession of every human being. Ezekiel 18:4 says, "the soul that sinneth, it shall die." Jesus likewise said that God can "destroy both soul and body in hell" (Matthew 10:28). The biblical hope is therefore not that an immortal soul naturally survives death. It is that God will resurrect His people and give them immortality. The Bible uses the word "immortal" in a very specific way. It does not describe every human soul as inherently immortal. It promises immortality to those who receive eternal life from God.
Key takeaway
Discipleship applies the gospel to the whole life: body, mind, relationships, work, finances, and worship. Healthy choices and faithful habits do not earn salvation; they are grateful stewardship of the life God has entrusted to us and practical ways to serve others.