What's Next.....

is there an afterlife?

Death is a depressing subject and the bible explains why we intuitively worry about death and the afterlife. God has placed eternity in every human heart (Ec 3:11) so it's difficult to avoid  thinking about eternal life since every soul will live forever. 

Is there a heaven? Does hell exist and if so, who is in danger? Why would a loving God send someone to hell? Before getting into the subject of heaven and hell, it is important to briefly outline what the bible reveals about God.

There is much misunderstanding, especially in western nations, as to the overall attributes of God. While it's true God is good, he is also severe (Romans 11:22). God is a personal God, and the ONLY true God (Isaiah 44:6-8). We also know:

  • God is holy and pure (1Samuel 2:2)
  • God is righteous and just (Deuteronomy 32:4 & Psalm 89:14)
  • God is omnipotent (all powerful) Jeremiah 32:17
  • God is omnipresent (is everywhere) Psalms 139:1-10
  • God is omniscient (knows all) Psalms 147:5
  • God is love (1John 4:8-10)

Yes, God is love.  But, he is also perfectly just and therefore must punish any action or attitude that violates his law ( ten commandments). Exodus 20:1-7

Think of it this way:  If God is infinitely good and just, he must punish violations of his law. Even earthly judges will not take a bribe and let someone go without applying the appropriate punishment outlined by the law. If a bribe was taken, a human judge would be corrupt and not good. Likewise many of us think we can "bribe" the Judge of the universe by doing good deeds, going to church, etc. That strategy will not work since God is infinitely good and MUST apply justice because of the crimes we commit.

Wait a minute, I'm a pretty good person.   Why should I worry?

There is no one who does good (Romans 3:10-12). God, who defines true goodness, set a perfect standard and we do not measure up.   Have you ever used God's name carelessly or in vain, talked back to or disobeyed your parents, stolen something seemingly insignificant like candy or a pen, looked at someone in lust, wished for something that is not yours, or told a lie? If you have done these things, or have violated any of God's law you are guilty of sin.

In the bible, we read:,  "All have sinned and fall short of the glory of God" (Romans 3:23) and, "the wages (penalty) of sin is death" (Romans 6:23).  Further, referring to the law,  "Whoever stumbles at just one point is guilty of breaking all of it" (James 2:10-11).

Yes, the penalty of committing just one sin in your lifetime is death. This spiritual death penalty is served (without parole) in a place called hell. Jesus himself testifies to the truth of hell and warns it to be a place of everlasting fire and torment (Matthew 18:8-9). We will all leave this world and face God on Judgment Day (Hebrews 9:27).

So, the answer to life's most important question is (1) Yes there is a hell, and (2) you may be in danger!

God's Plan of Salvation

Jesus Christ said, "I am the way, the truth, and the life. No one comes to the Father but through me (John 14:6).   Furthermore, "...there is salvation in no one else; for there is no other name under heaven that has been given among men, by which we must be saved". (Acts 4:12)

To be rescued from the consequences of your sin, you must:

  • Sincerely and sorrowfully admit you have sinned (broken God's law) 1John 1:9.
  • Renounce, turn from your sin, and agree to change (repent) Mark 1:15.
  • Trust Jesus died and rose from the dead for your sin debt and make Him Lord of your life (Romans 10:9-10).

Although we deserve judgment, God offers mercy. Jesus paid the penalty for us making it possible for you to leave God's courtroom with a full pardon. Even an earthly judge can let you go and rightly declare justice is served if someone pays the fine for you. So it is with God the Father since his Son Jesus lived His life on earth without sin. He died on the cross allowing your punishment to be poured out on Jesus. Consequently God's standard of Justice is perfectly met, the eternal "fine" for our sin is paid. And so forgiveness (and the crediting of Christ's perfect righteousness to your eternal account (2 Cor 5:21)) is offered as a free gift if you truly repent and believe (trust) in the Savior.

So repent, trust the savior, and live!  The alternative is heartbreaking.(2Thessalonians 1:7-8)