For centuries theologians have battled over questions of the afterlife and eternal life. Jesus Christ, who is God who took on flesh, is very clear. Yes, there is an eternal afterlife, but not everyone will go to Heaven. John 3:3 states: “Jesus answered and said unto him, Verily, verily, I say unto thee, except a man be born again, he cannot see the kingdom of God.”
You may say to yourself, “I’m a pretty good person; I attend church most Sundays; I tithe; I even help people out from time to time. Certainly, I’ll get in.” “As it is written, there is none righteous. No, not one.” Romans 3:10.
So, if Heaven cannot be earned, where does one begin? With faith and admitting we are all sinners and have fallen short of God’s glory. Romans 10:9-10…”That if thou shalt confess with thy mouth the Lord Jesus, and shalt believe in thine heart that God Hath raised him from the dead, thou shalt be saved. For with the mouth confession is made unto salvation,”
Since we are all sinners and cannot measure up to God, we will need a Savior. Praise Jesus, we have the perfect sacrifice who atones for our sins, taking the punishment we deserve in order that he can extend to us Grace as a gift, reconciling us to God, Ephesians 2; 8-9: “For by grace are ye saved through faith; and that not of yourselves, it is the gift of God. Not of works, lest any man should boast.”
When speaking of salvation and turning to Christ, we must always bring up repentance. The New Testament mentions repentance 75 times. Of course, coming to Jesus, a sinless man, would include turning from our own sins. “Repent ye therefore, and be converted, that your sins may be blotted out , when the times of refreshing shall come from the presence of the Lord.” Acts 3:19
In conclusion, salvation and grace is a gift from God. It cannot be earned, but it is granted. We must have faith that Jesus Christ is Lord and accept him as Lord and Savior. Confess him as Lord. Then turn and repent of our sins. “Wherefore come out from among them, and be ye separate, saith the Lord, and touch not the unclean thing; and I will receive you.” 2 Corinthians 6:17
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