If God Himself were to ask you, “Why should I let you into My heaven?” how would you answer? I have used that question for many years to determine someone’s understanding of salvation.
Some people would say, “Well, that’s a pointless question, because there is no God.” Others would say, “I’m not sure that will ever take place, so your question is irrelevant to me.” Still others would say, “I think God will let me into heaven. Although I’m not perfect, I’m better than a lot of people. I’ve done more good than bad.” And a few say, “I’ve got no chance to get into heaven, except by God’s grace and the shed blood of Jesus Christ. I’ve placed my faith in Him, and I’m counting on Him to get me in.”
When folks beg the question, and say “I’m not sure,” I press a little further. “Do you think it’s an important question?” I might ask. “Oh, without a doubt,” they’ll usually say. “But I just don’t have any idea how to answer it.”
It’s a big question, isn’t it? Where will you spend eternity? Can you think of anything bigger? In comparison with eternity, this life is short. And death, although it is certain, catches all of us by surprise.
The Bible clearly teaches that when man dies, he either goes to Heaven to live forever in the presence of God, or he goes to Hell, separated from God forever. With that in mind, shouldn’t assurance about our eternal destiny be given a high, high priority?
I heard Billy Graham say once, “If you are not ready to die, you are not ready to live.” I’ve never forgotten that; it is absolutely true. If you have placed your faith in Jesus Christ, you are ready. His is the only Name that will gain you admittance to Heaven.
