A Step of FAITH

What do you understand it takes for a person to go to heaven? Consider how the Bible answers this question. It is a matter of FAITH.

v       F is for FORGIVENESS

v       We cannot have eternal life and heaven without God’s forgiveness.

Ø        "In him [meaning Jesus] we have redemption through his blood, the forgiveness of sins." (Ephesians 1:7).

v       A is for AVAILABLE. It is –

v       Available for All.

Ø        "For God so loved the world that he gave his one and only Son, that whoever believes in him shall not perish but have eternal life." (John 3:16).

Ø        But Not Automatic

Ø        "Not everyone who says to me, ‘Lord, Lord,’ will enter the kingdom of heaven." (Matthew 7:21.)

v       I is for IMPOSSIBLE

v       It is impossible for God to allow sin into heaven.

v       Because of who He is: God is loving and just. His judgment is against sin.

Ø        "Judgment without mercy will be shown." (James 2:13).

Ø        Because of who we are: Every person is a sinner.

Ø        "For all have sinned and fall short of the glory of God." (Romans 3:23).

v       But how can a sinful person enter heaven, when God allows no sin?

v       T is for TURN

v       Turn means repent.

Ø        Turn from something – sin and self.

Ø        "But unless you repent, you too will all perish." (Luke 13:3).

Ø        Turn to Someone; trust Christ only.

§          "If you confess with your mouth, ‘Jesus is Lord,’ and believe in your heart that God raised Him from the dead, you will be saved." (Romans 10:9).

v       H is for HEAVEN

v       Heaven is eternal life.

Ø        Here…

Ø        "I have come that they may have life, and have it to the full." (John 10:10).

Ø        Hereafter…

§          "And if I go and prepare a place for you, I will come back and take you to be with me that you also may be where I am." (John 14:3).

Ø        How….

§          How can a person have God’s forgiveness, heaven and eternal life, and Jesus as personal Savior and Lord? By trusting in Christ and asking Him for forgiveness. Take the step of faith described by another meaning of FAITH: Forsaking All I Trust Him. Then tell someone about the important decision you have made. Grow in your faith and enjoy new friends in Christ by becoming part of His church.