CAN I GO TO HEAVEN?
This is an often asked question. And, there are many different answers from many different people. But, for the serious inquirers, here is what the Jesus said (and continues to say to this day), as He was hanging on the Cross with two condemned thieves, one hanging on a cross, on each side of him:
Luke 23: 39 “One of the criminals who were hanged there was hurling abuse at Him, saying, “Are You not the Christ? Save Yourself and us!” 40 But the other answered, and rebuking him said, “Do you not even fear God, since you are under the same sentence of condemnation? 41 “And we indeed are suffering justly, for we are receiving what we deserve for our deeds; but this man has done nothing wrong.” 42And he was saying, “Jesus, remember me when You come in Your kingdom!” 43 And He said to him, “Truly I say to you, today you shall be with Me in Paradise.”
Many would say this is just too simple. These men did not repent or do any of the things we expect of new converts.
Others would say this is an exception and that today’s version is just ‘cheap grace’.
This is what Billy Graham said:
“In the New Testament, “paradise” is simply another word for heaven, the dwelling place of God. Just as Jesus is now in heaven, so we too will be with Him in heaven someday if we have trusted Him for our salvation.
In English, we often use the word “paradise” to describe any place of beauty and happiness and security; we even have “paradise” motels and “paradise” cafes! But only heaven perfectly matches this description of paradise, for it alone is a place of perfect and lasting beauty and happiness and security. Only in heaven, the Bible says, will there be “no more death or mourning or crying or pain, for the old order of things has passed away” (Revelation 21:4).
Why did Jesus promise this criminal, “Today you will be with me in paradise” (Luke 23:43)? The reason is because this man (unlike his fellow robber) knew he needed to have his sins forgiven, and he believed only Christ could forgive and save him: “Jesus, remember me when you come into your kingdom” (Luke 23:42). He could not depend on his good works–for he had none. He could only depend on Christ–and that was all he needed.
The same is true with us. Only one thing will keep us out of heaven, and that is our sin. But Jesus Christ came to take away our sins by His death on the cross. Are you trusting Him alone for your salvation? If not, open your heart to Him today.”
More importantly
Here is what JESUS says:
John 5:24“Truly, truly, I say to you, he who hears My word, and believes Him who sent Me, has eternal life, and does not come into judgment, but has passed out of death into life.
25 “Truly, truly, I say to you, an hour is coming and now is, when the dead will hear the voice of the Son of God, and those who hear will live. 26 “For just as the Father has life in Himself, even so He gave to the Son also to have life in Himself; 27 and He gave Him authority to execute judgment, because He is the Son of Man. 28 “Do not marvel at this; for an hour is coming, in which all who are in the tombs will hear His voice, 29 and will come forth; those who did the good deeds to a resurrection of life, those who committed the evil deeds to a resurrection of judgment.”
Now is the perfect time. Just, do it! You will never regret following Jesus. (Drop me a note and tell me about your decision. I will welcome you as a friend, a brother and I will walk with you)
Your Friend in Christ
Mike Young
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