In your personal opinion, what do you understand it takes for a person to go to Heaven?
There’s a simple way to remember it — the word FAITH:
We cannot have eternal life and Heaven without God’s forgiveness.
“In Him we have redemption through His blood, the forgiveness of sins.” (Ephesians 1:7)
God’s forgiveness is available to all.
“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.” (John 3:16)
But forgiveness is not automatic.
“Not everyone who says to Me, ‘Lord, Lord,’ shall enter the kingdom of heaven.” (Matthew 7:21)
It is impossible for God to allow sin into Heaven.
God is love.
“For God so loved the world that He gave His only begotten Son...” (John 3:16)
God is just.
“For judgment is without mercy...” (James 2:13)
Man is sinful.
“For all have sinned and fall short of the glory of God.” (Romans 3:23)
Question: How can a sinful person enter Heaven, where God allows no sin?
To turn means to repent — to change direction.
Turn from sin and self.
“But unless you repent, you will all likewise perish.” (Luke 13:3)
Turn to Jesus Christ alone.
“Christ died for our sins according to the Scriptures, and that He was buried, and that He rose again the third day according to the Scriptures.” (1 Corinthians 15:3–4)
“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)
Heaven means eternal life — now and forever.
Here and now:
“I have come that they may have life, and that they may have it more abundantly.” (John 10:10)
Hereafter:
“I will come again and receive you to Myself; that where I am, there you may be also.” (John 14:3)
You can receive God’s forgiveness, Heaven, eternal life, and Jesus as Savior and Lord by sincerely praying something like this:
“Dear God, I admit that I am a sinner and I need Your forgiveness. I believe that Jesus died on the cross for my sins and rose again. I repent of my sins and invite You to come into my life. Please be my Savior and Lord. Amen.”
If you prayed this prayer and meant it, welcome to the family of God! This is the most important decision you will ever make.
You need to identify with Christ and become part of a Bible-believing church family where you can grow. Heflin Baptist Church would love to rejoice with you, receive you, and help you take your next steps.
“These things I have written to you who believe in the name of the Son of God, that you may know that you have eternal life...” (1 John 5:13)