Hypothetical Situations

The word “hypothetical” is an adjective from the word “hypothesis”. A hypothesis is an idea that you test by imagining the consequences if your hypothesis were true. Hypothetical questions often start with “What if . . .” If your hypothesis or idea is true, what could happen next?

Think about these hypothetical situations. They all deal with having a short time left in life. What would you do, say, feel, experience? Would you move or stay? Marry or not marry? Choose or change a religion? What plans would you make? Explain your reasoning.

Situation 1 - Your doctor says that you have a heart problem and will die within the next 2 months. But your body won’t feel any different and you won’t need to go to a hospital.

Situation 2 - Your doctor says that you have lung cancer and will die within the next 2 months. You will get sicker and sicker and spend your last days in a hospital.

Situation 3 - Astronomists (scientists of the stars) say that there is a comet that will strike earth in 3 years and kill everyone on the planet.

Have you ever been in a situated when you feared that you would soon die? Please share about this experience if you feel comfortable. How did that situation affect your later life, your current life?

The writer below has faced death and thinks about what he prefers: life or death. What do you think of his reasoning?

“For me, life finds all of its meaning in Christ. Death also has its benefits. Suppose I go on living in my body. Then I will be able to carry on my work. It will bear a lot of fruit. But what should I choose? I don’t know. I can’t decide between the two. I long to leave this world and be with Christ. That is better by far.

“But it is more important for you that I stay alive. I’m sure of that. So I know I will remain with you. And I will continue with all of you to help you grow and be joyful in what you have been taught.” Philippians 1:21-25