What Happens When You Die?

We are just starting a new series as you can tell from the title. I'm am trying to discover what the Bible says about life after death, not necessarily what others have experienced. But, since there is so much written and so many have differing ideas, there is bound to be some major differences of opinion. So if you have a different opinion feel free to share it. Or if you have a particular question ask and maybe we'll try to answer it.

First some basic misconceptions.
1. You won't die - actually some folks really think this. OK, this is an observation, but there are a lot of cemeteries. Most people will die. Those who are still here when Jesus comes won't die at least not in the same way, but they will be changed. (1 Cor 15:52)

On the other hand, the Bible does seem to teach that life goes on after we leave the body behind. So, in that sense you don't die. (Luke 16 etc)

2. We work off our sins in purgatory.
OK, so I'm not catholic. But the Bible doesn't teach this anywhere that I have found. It is sort of hinted at in 2 Maccabbees (not in my Bible) and some might see some support for it in Paul's speaking about praying for the dead in 1 Cor. 15:29, but it is a stretch I think.

3. We become angels when we die.
Actually angels are another created race. Although scripture sometimes says we will be like angels (for example we will not marry in the next life, like the angels) it also makes a real distinction between them and us, cp. Heb 2.

I'm sure there are other misconceptions, but those are enough to start.