Scripture Reference: Romans 3:21-31

Please read the verses I have listed above. Paul’s writing in these verses is the heart of the gospel, the good news about Jesus Christ. The apostle Paul makes two basic points in this passage with multiple illustrations drawn from his rich Hebrew heritage.

In a past edition of USA Weekend, the findings of a poll conducted across America were published. The question raised was, “What are your chances of going to heaven?” Seventy-two percent of the U.S. citizens interviewed rated their chances of making it to heaven as good to excellent. One man from central United States rated his chances of going to heaven at fifty-fifty. “The older I get, the more I think my chances will improve,” the man said.

Another responded, “I don’t think the entrance exam will be all that tough!”

And, one woman from about the same area said, “You have to be more than a nice person. But, I’m still in the running.”

Before explaining the question scripturally, a few observations are in order. To begin with, many of the respondents expressed the belief that going to heaven is a matter of chance. Are they right? Is it just a gamble like going to the races and hoping you’ve wagered on the right horse? Or, is going to heaven something more than a matter of chance? These are questions I want my readers to think about.

In addition to this, many of those responding indicated an understanding of salvation based on human effort. For example, with regard to the matter of going to heaven, one person said, “You just have to be a good person.” Is that all it takes? Just being a good person? Trying to live right and not breaking the Ten Commandments?

A third observation however did regard the Bible itself. What does the Bible say about one’s chances of going to heaven was the question? None of the respondents seemed remotely aware of the scriptural requirements of going to heaven. Since it is from the Scriptures that we learn what little we know about heaven, it would seem there should be a desire on the part of people to know what the Bible says about the subject. But, interestingly, many neither know the Scriptures nor display much curiosity in settling the question once and for all from the standpoint of the Bible.

What are your chances of going to heaven? I believe the question itself raises an existential anxiety in all of us. We want to know even though we may treat the subject somewhat flippantly. I am convinced that, until the question is settled in our own hearts and minds, our anxiety and some doubts will remain. Conversely, when we have answered the question scripturally, we will be free to celebrate life and face death and eternity with fearless assurance.

In the event you haven’t guessed it already, I’m convinced what the Bible says about getting into heaven is right and more than that is truthful. Scripture is and for the longest time has always been my authority. If you do not share my conviction, or if you still have some reservations as to the Bibles authenticity, read the next chapter. If you do, it is my hope that the paragraphs which follow will help you settle the question in your own mind and set you free to live life in all its fullness.

To Be Continued

Unless otherwise noted, Scripture taken from The Holy Bible, English Standard Version®, ESV © 2016 by Crossway Bibles.
Used by permission. All rights reserved.