Awake is a publication made by the Jehovah Witnesses. Like Mormons and Scientologists, other Christians consider them a cult (except when they share the same political views, bigoted anti-homosexual agenda and anti-science stand).

The bible, being the great book of multiple choice where depending on what texts you decide to read you can support any desired conclusion, also supports the existence of heaven and hell after death (see Luke 16:19-31 for example). The fact of the matter is that the bible contradicts itself more often times than not.

The mainline christian doctrine on hell and heaven goes somewhat like this:
1) You die.
2) Believe in Jesus?
Go to heaven. Chill there until Jesus’ second coming where you will be (for some reason) resurrected to be with Jesus (although you were previously with him in heaven but whatever).
3) Don’t believe in Jesus?
Go directly to hell. Do not pass go, do not collect $200. Be tortured eternally for a temporal crime.

The funny thing is that if you ask 10 Christians what they think heaven and hell is you will get at least 15 different answers. And don’t ask them about angels. The inanity only gets worse.

The texts you read in the magazine are used by Jehovah Witnesses to support their idea that after death there is nothing unless one is resurrected by god. There is an afterlife but not in spirit form (unless you are part of the 144,000 chosen but that is another more wacky story).

In reality no one knows what happens after death. Personally I think it should be very similar to what happened before one was born.

Take care.
In reason:

-FA

I love when Jehovah Witnesses knock at my door. I respectfully listen to them but also challenge their religious assumptions. To do this effectively, one has to devote time studying these subjects before trying to engage them.

Remember that these folks take the effort to knock on your door because they actually believe the superstition they are peddling is true. Plainly telling them they are wrong will only serve to produce an “I am persecuted because of the truth” self-reinforcing mindset.

My approach is one of questioning. Of trying to get across the need for doubt and skepticism in all aspects of life, including religion. A well placed question can be way more powerful than the most thought out argument one could give.

I believe there is a pressing need for all atheists, rationalists and evidentialists to speak up in favor of truth and reality. I am glad you realize the same.

Take care.
In reason:
-FA