Reformed Baptists affirm the immortality of the human soul and the conscious intermediate state between death and resurrection, as taught in the 1689 London Baptist Confession, Chapter 31-32. At death, the souls of believers depart the body and immediately enter the presence of Christ, where they enjoy rest and fellowship pending the resurrection of the body. The souls of the wicked enter a state of torment awaiting final judgment.

The 1689 Confession holds that the body remains in the grave in an unconscious state until the resurrection, at which time the soul and body are reunited. At Christ's return, all bodies shall be raised — some to glory and honor, others to shame and condemnation. The believer's resurrected body will be transformed to be like Christ's glorified body, incorruptible and immortal, suitable for eternal communion with God.

Reformed Baptists reject the doctrine of soul sleep (the unconsciousness of the soul before resurrection) and annihilationism (the cessation of existence for the lost). The intermediate state is real and conscious, establishing continuity of personal identity and preparation for the final resurrection. This doctrine grounds the believer's confidence in future resurrection and glory.