Hades, Paradise, and Resurrection of OT Saints

Before the death and resurrection of Jesus, Old Testament saints went to a temporary place of blessing called Paradise, also referred to as “Abraham’s bosom” (Luke 16:22). This was a compartment of Sheol (Hebrew) or Hades (Greek), where the righteous waited in comfort for the Messiah to accomplish redemption. In contrast, unbelievers went to the torment side of Hades, separated by a great chasm (Luke 16:23-26).

After Jesus’ resurrection, Paradise was relocated. Having finished His atoning work, Christ ascended into heaven and brought the righteous dead with Him (Eph 4:8-10; Acts 2:27, 31). From that point on, all believers who die go immediately into the presence of the Lord in heaven (2 Cor 5:8; Phil 1:23).

At the Rapture of the Church, believers from the Church Age will be resurrected and caught up to meet the Lord in the air (1 Th 4:13-18; 1 Cor 15:51-53). This marks the resurrection of the body for Church saints. Old Testament saints and believers who die during the future Tribulation will be raised at the second coming of Christ, just before the inauguration of the millennial kingdom (Dan 12:2; Rev 20:4-6).

At that time, Jesus will bring to fulfillment all the covenants made with Israel—the Abrahamic, Davidic, Land, and New Covenants—reigning from Jerusalem in righteousness and peace (Luke 1:31-33; Acts 3:19-21; Rom 11:26-27; Jer 31:31-34; Ezek 37:21-28). The kingdom age will be the visible manifestation of God's faithfulness to His covenant promises.