I have read and heard people speak about near death experiences and it is usually recounted as a joyful feeling. I am wondering if the bible says anything about when judgement comes? Do non-believers get to experience this joyful time before being cast out? Or is judgement first and people who experience this joyful reunion with family are entering their eternal reward in heaven to stay?
A number of the NDE accounts have turned out to be untrue, so be sure to check every account you read with what Scripture says. Personally, I don’t trust any that I’ve read.
When unbelievers die, their spirits go to Hades where they begin a time of torment while awaiting their final judgment at the Great White Throne (Rev. 20:11-15). Believers will attend a judgment to determine what rewards they will have earned during their Christian life on Earth (1 Cor. 3:10-15). This judgment will take place just after the rapture/resurrection. Only believers will experience the joyful reunion you spoke of.