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The Great Controversy
GC 531.1–GC 536.1 • Ecclesiastes 9:5; John 11:11; 2 Timothy 1:10

“The First Great Deception”

What the Bible teaches about death

The chapter traces the idea of the soul’s natural immortality back to the serpent’s words in Eden. Follow the Bible passages it uses on death as a sleep and on life as God’s gift in Christ.

pp. 531–536 · 14 paragraphs

Holy Scripture

KJV
Ecclesiastes 9:5
5

For the living know that they shall die: but the dead know not any thing, neither have they any more a reward; for the memory of them is forgotten.

John 11:11
11

These things said he: and after that he saith unto them, Our friend Lazarus sleepeth; but I go, that I may awake him out of sleep.

2 Timothy 1:10
10

But is now made manifest by the appearing of our Saviour Jesus Christ, who hath abolished death, and hath brought life and immortality to light through the gospel:

The Great Controversy

• Chapter 33
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GC 531.1
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GC 531.2
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GC 532.1
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GC 532.2
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GC 532.3
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GC 533.1
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GC 533.2
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GC 533.3
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GC 534.1
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GC 534.2
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GC 534.3
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GC 535.1
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GC 535.2
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GC 536.1
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End of Day 1(GC 531.1–GC 536.1)

Take a quiet moment to pause, pray, and meditate on these living truths.

You may engage with 3 gentle devotional review questions, record insights in your journal, or advance when ready.

Heart Reflection (Optional)

“What did Jesus call Lazarus’s death in John 11:11–14?”

Observation: Sleep
Prayer & Practice (Optional)
Prayer Focus

“Lord Jesus, You are the resurrection and the life. Thank You for the hope of seeing my loved ones again.”

Practical Action

Read John 11 and 1 Thessalonians 4:13–18 slowly.

Personal prayer intention

Study Portion Completion

Study completion will be available once the reading passage is confirmed.

Pause Study

How did this chapter speak to you?

Share your impressions, questions, or editorial suggestions directly with the stewards.

Open Private Journal