“An overwhelming majority of Americans continue to believe there is life after death and that heaven and hell exist, according to a new study. What’s more, most think they are heavenbound.” So begins a recent article in the Nashville Tennessean.
What is heaven? Where is it that so many people believe they are bound? “46% described it as a ‘state of eternal existence in God’s presence,’ and… 30% said heaven is ‘an actual place of rest and reward where souls go after death.’” The understanding that most people have of heaven seems to be fairly much in line with what the Bible tells us is true. What a great place it will be!
How do we get there? What must we do to be heavenbound? The poll says that “born-again Christians… believe entry into heaven is solely based on confession of sins and faith in Jesus Christ.” While the Bible speaks of being born again (John 3:3-7; 1 Peter 1:23), it also speaks of more that must be done than confession and faith. For us to “walk in newness of life” (undergo a new birth), we must also be “buried with Him through baptism” (Romans 6:4); and Scripture makes it clear that baptism is immersion in water (Acts 8:36-39). But this does not mean that our ticket has been punched and is irrevocable. We also must “be faithful until death” to receive “the crown of life” (Revelation 2:10).
Are you heaven-bound? Are you on the path that leads to eternal rest with God? Many who think they are heaven-bound are in for a rude awakening. Many who confess the Lord’s name will be told to depart from Him because they have not done the Father’s will (Matthew 7:21-23).
But those who are faithful will hear the Lord say, “Come, you blessed of My Father, inherit the kingdom prepared for you” (Matt. 25:34). That’s what I want to hear!
– by Troy Nicholson
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