What does it take for a person to go to heaven?

Sooner or later this is a question that most people ask. You have probably asked it yourself on more than one occasion.  We would like to share with you how the Bible answers this question.  There is a word that can be used to answer this question: Faith.

F is for forgiveness. We cannot have eternal life without forgiveness.  The Bible says that "In Him (that is Jesus) we have redemption through His blood, the forgiveness of sins" Ephesians 1:7.

A is for available.  Forgiveness is available for everyone.  John 3:16 says "For God so loved the world that He gave His only begotten Son, that whoever believes in Him should not perish but have everlasting life."  Although forgiveness is available it is not automatic.  Jesus said "Not everyone who says to me, 'Lord, Lord," shall enter the kingdom of heaven" Matthew 7:21.

I is for impossible.  The reason forgiveness is not automatic is because It is impossible for God to allow sin into heaven.  We know from John 3:16 that God is love, but He is also just, and the Bible makes it clear that "Judgment is without mercy" James 2:13.  We also know that man is sinful.  "All have sinned and fall short of the glory of God." Romans 3:23.

Which brings up an important question:  How can a sinful person enter heaven, where God allows no sin?

T is for turn.  Turn means repent.  If you were driving down the road and someone asked you to turn, what would they be wanting you to do? They would be wanting you change direction.  This is repentance.  We must turn from something-sin and self.  Jesus said, "But unless you repent you will all likewise perish." Luke 13:3.  And we must also turn to Someone; Jesus Christ alone.  The Bible says that "if you confess with your mouth the Lord Jesus and believe in your heart that God has raised Him from the dead, you will be saved." Romans 10:9.

H is for heaven.  Heaven is eternal life.  We can have heaven both here and hereafter.  Jesus said that He came to give abundant life.  He also said that He has gone to prepare a place for us.  The question becomes HOW?  How can a person have God's forgiveness, heaven and eternal life, and Jesus as personal Savior and Lord?  It is all a matter of asking Jesus, by faith to be your Lord and Savior.

If all of this makes sense to you, then you can pray a prayer like this to receive God's forgiveness:

    Dear Lord, I know that I am a sinner, but still You have loved me.  You sent your Son to die in my place for my sins.  I turn from my sins and accept Christ as my savior.  Thank You for saving me.  Help me to live for You from this day forward.  In Jesus' Name, Amen.

Please let us know if we can help you...if you have repented which we love to hear from you and rejoice with you and the Lord.  Thank You for reading this wonderful message!  

In Him, Rev. Ricky