The answer is: They will be raised to life again

1 Thessalonians 4:13-14 - Believers can find comfort in the promise of resurrection for those who have died in Christ. This assurance, rooted in Christ's own resurrection, emphasizes hope over despair and connects to the wider biblical theme of eternal life (John 11:25-26), reinforcing faith across generations.

In 1 Thessalonians 4:13-14, we find a powerful message about loss and hope that speaks to the heart of many believers throughout the ages. The early Christians in Thessalonica were facing the heart-wrenching reality of losing loved ones, yet Paul provided them solace by pointing to the assurance of resurrection. This idea of being raised to life is not only centered on the personal promise made by Christ but reflects a broader biblical narrative where new life bursts forth, echoing the story of Lazarus in John 11, just highlights Jesus’ command over death.

What's truly fascinating is that the belief in a life beyond earthly existence features in various cultures and religions throughout history, thanks to God's universal yearning for connection and hope. Ancient Jews held traditions about the afterlife (such as resurrection references in Daniel 12:2) yet Paul’s writings articulate it in essence, showcasing how the followers of Jesus shaped these notions with personal testimony.

And let's not forget, the resurrection isn’t just an end; it's very much about transformation and renewal, reverberating themes seen in nature—seasons change, seeds die, yet they produce new growth after winter. In an age where grief often isolates, embracing the promise ties individuals together across time, comforting them with the understanding that love endures beyond the grave. Recognizing this interconnectedness invites generous living today, sustaining faith and hope that lights the path through our darkest hours.