There are many people who have had near-death experiences and report seeing a bright light when leaving their bodies. This has been stated by both unbelievers and Christians. Does that mean all people will go to heaven? Does “seeing a light” always represent a heavenly experience?
Since the Bible says God is light and the Spirit returns to God, it is scriptural for people to have seen a bright light, but that doesn’t mean they were all going to heaven. There are several accounts of people having near-death experiences, and many were terrified of what lay ahead. These people were not Christians.
Another possibility for some seeing this light might be explained by 2 Corinthians 11:14b (KJV), which says, “For Satan himself is transformed into an angel of light.” Could these people have actually seen Satan as an angel of light deceiving them into thinking all is well when they die? Are they being misled into thinking that no matter what their belief, they were headed to heaven? The Bible describes Satan as the great deceiver who deceives the whole world. Are they being deceived?
Many people on their deathbed also describe hearing loud screams, smelling burning sulfur and other foul odors, and seeing hideous demons and raging flames. Among those who have had a near death experience, many atheists and agnostics explain that they were terrified as they were slipping out of their bodies and knew they were headed to hell. They were so thankful to hear that there is a way to avoid that dark and horrid place.
Of course, not everyone will be on their deathbed and have that opportunity to repent. Jesus said in Luke 13:3b (MEV), “But unless you repent, you shall all likewise perish.” He is the only way to heaven, and we must choose which direction we are going before it’s too late.
For more information about Bill Wiese and Soul Choice Ministries, please visit soulchoiceministries.org.
You can find more of Bill’s teachings at his YouTube Channel.
Stephen Strang 
Charisma Media Staff 
CBN News