The Bible says it's a matter of F.A.I.T.H.
We cannot have eternal life and heaven without God's forgiveness.
F is for FORGIVENESS
A is for AVAILABLE
Forgiveness is available.
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It is— Available for 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, NKJV.
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But Not Automatic—Not everyone who says to Me, "Lord, Lord," shall enter the kingdom of heaven—Matthew 7:21a, NKJV.
I is for IMPOSSIBLE
It is impossible for God to allow sin into heaven.
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Because of who He is: God is loving and just. His judgment is against sin.—For judgment is without mercy to the one who has shown no mercy - James 2:13a, NKJV.
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Because of who we are: Every person is a sinner.—For all have sinned and fall short of the glory of God. - Romans 3:23, NKJV. But how can a sinful person enter heaven, when God allows no sin?
T is for TURN
Turn means repent.
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Turn from something-sin and self.—But unless you repent you will all likewise perish - Luke 13:3b, NKJV.
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Turn to Someone: trust Christ only.—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, NKJV.
H is for HEAVEN
Heaven is eternal life.
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Here—I have come that they may have life, and that they may have it more abundantly - John 10:10b, NKJV.
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Hereafter—And if I go and prepare a place for you, I will come again and receive you to Myself; that where I am, there you may be also - John 14:3, NKJV.
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How? How can a person have God's forgiveness, heaven and eternal life, and Jesus as personal Savior and Lord?
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By trusting in Christ and asking Him for forgiveness. Take the step of faith described by another meaning of FAITH:
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Forsaking All I Trust Him.
Prayer:
Lord Jesus, I know I am a sinner and have displeased You in many ways. I believe You died for my sin and only through faith in Your death and resurrection can I be forgiven. I want to turn from my sin and ask You to come into my life as my Savior and Lord. From this day on, I will follow You by living a life that pleases You. Thank You, Lord Jesus, for saving me. Amen.
What do I do now?
After you have received Jesus Christ into your life, tell a Christian friend about the important decision you have made. Follow Christ in believer's baptism and church membership. Grow in faith and enjoy new friends in Christ by becoming a part of His church and becoming a part of a small group bible study. You'll find others who will love and support you.