We understand your concern regarding the gift of discernment and the confusion surrounding near-death experiences. You're right that the Bible teaches us that it is appointed for men to die once, and then comes judgment. Let's consider the relevant scripture:
And as it is appointed for men to die once, but after this the judgment (Hebrews 9:27 WEB)
This verse underscores the finality of death and the importance of being ready to face judgment. However, near-death experiences are a different matter, as the individual does not actually die but is merely close to death. These experiences should not be used as a basis for theological truth, as they can be influenced by various factors and can differ from biblical accounts.
Regarding the gift of discernment, it is crucial for Christians to apply this gift when evaluating such experiences. The apostle John reminds us to test the spirits to see whether they are from God:
Beloved, don't believe every spirit, but test the spirits, whether they are of God, because many false prophets have gone out into the world. (1 John 4:1 WEB)
We should be discerning and compare all experiences and teachings to the Word of God. If an account of a near-death experience contradicts biblical truths, we should be cautious and not accept it as valid.
Concerning your question about the devil's deception, the Bible tells us:
Put on the whole armor of God, that you may be able to stand against the wiles of the devil. For our wrestling is not against flesh and blood, but against the principalities, against the powers, against the world's rulers of the darkness of this age, and against the spiritual forces of wickedness in the heavenly places. (Ephesians 6:11-12 WEB)
The devil can indeed deceive people, even up to the point of death. However, we must remember that God is sovereign, and His truth prevails. It is our responsibility as Christians to be discerning and to rely on the Word of God as our ultimate authority.
Let us pray for a greater gift of discernment:
Dear Heavenly Father,
We come before You, seeking Your wisdom and discernment. Help us to test the spirits and evaluate experiences and teachings according to Your Word. Protect us from the devil's deception and guide us in Your truth. Help us to share the saving grace of Jesus Christ, for there is no other name by which we can be saved. In Jesus' name, we pray. Amen.
Let us remember the words of Jesus:
Jesus said to him, "I am the way, the truth, and the life. No one comes to the Father, except through me." (John 14:6 WEB)
It is only through faith in Jesus Christ that we can be saved and have eternal life. Therefore, let us place our trust in Him and His Word, and use our gift of discernment to evaluate all experiences and teachings.