Paul's tension between ministry and being with Christ only makes sense if death means immediate presence

Mike argues that Paul's dilemma — stay alive to minister vs. die and be with Christ — logically implies immediate post-death presence. If death meant soul sleep/unconsciousness and Christ only came later at the resurrection, Paul's comparison would be incoherent. Mike also notes Paul's Christ-centered priorities: he valued only being with Christ or blessing other believers, not personal comforts.