Questions about going to Heaven
There are two separate things that you need to know to be able to fully understand the Bible:
First, learn about (1) the gospel and, then later on, learn and strive to apply (2) the doctrines. All Christian denominations pretty much agree on, and interpret, the doctrines the same; however, they differ greatly in the interpretations of the gospel.
The gospel has to do with what a person must do to go to Heaven. Whereas the doctrines has to do with how to live a life that is pleasing to God. As you continue reading this article, you will see why these two things are completely different in a certain way.
Rather than give you our own interpretation, we prefer to show you the Bible verses and let you decide for yourself on which interpretation you side with. Afterwards, you will agree with us that these are very self-explanatory bible verses and, therefore, there is really no reason for conflict in their interpretations.
THE GOSPEL QUESTIONS
Is there such a thing as a really good person who is worthy of going to Heaven?
“As it is written, There is none righteous, no, not one: There is none that understandeth, there is none that seeketh after God. They are all gone out of the way, they are together become unprofitable; there is none that doeth good, no, not one.” Romans 3:10-12
Why is that?
“Wherefore, as by one man [Adam] sin entered into the world, and death by sin; and so death passed upon all men, for that all have sinned:” Romans 5:12
What happens now?
“And as it is appointed unto men once to die, but after this the judgment:” Hebrews 9:27
What happens on judgment day?
“And whosoever was not found written in the book of life was cast into the lake of fire.” Revelation 20:15
How can I get my name in the Book of Life?
“That if thou shalt confess with thy mouth the Lord Jesus, and shalt believe in thine heart that God hath raised him from the dead, thou shalt be saved. For with the heart, man believeth unto righteousness; and with the mouth, confession is made unto salvation.” Romans 10:9-10
Is SALVATION earned with good deeds or is it really free?
“For by grace are ye saved through faith; and that not of yourselves: it is the gift of God: Not of works, lest any man should boast.” Ephesians 2:8-9
Why is God giving us this FREE gift?
“For God so loved the world, that he gave His only begotten Son, that whosoever believeth in him should not perish, but have everlasting life.” John 3:16
Can I lose my salvation?
Definitely not. The Bible says that our salvation is eternally guaranteed: “In whom ye also trusted, after that ye heard the word of truth, the gospel of your salvation: in whom also after that ye believed, ye were sealed with that holy Spirit of promise, Which is the earnest of our inheritance until the redemption of the purchased possession, unto the praise of his glory.” Ephesians 1:13–14
Can salvation be earned by following the laws of the Bible?
No. Otherwise, Christ died in vain. The Bible says: “I do not frustrate the grace of God: for if righteousness comes by the law, then Christ is dead in vain.” Galatians 2:21
Why can’t I earn salvation by good deeds?
If you can earn salvation, then it is no longer a gift [grace] but a debt that God will have towards you. It is therefore written: “Now to him that worketh is the reward not reckoned of grace, but of debt. But to him that worketh not, but believeth on him that justifieth the ungodly, his faith is counted for righteousness.” Romans 4:4-5
I understand now. I want to Accept God’s gift. What should I do now?
Accept Jesus into your heart. Click here for more details. Then come back to this page after you have received Jesus into your heart (at which time your name then gets written in the Book of Life).
BIBLE DOCTRINE QUESTIONS
How was the Bible created?
“All scripture is given by inspiration of God, and is profitable for doctrine, for reproof, for correction, for instruction in righteousness: That the man of God may be perfect, thoroughly furnished unto all good works.” 2 Timothy 3:16-17
What should I do with it?
“This book of the law [the Bible] shall not depart out of thy mouth; but thou shalt meditate therein day and night, that thou mayest observe to do according to all that is written therein: for then thou shalt make thy way prosperous, and then thou shalt have good success.” Joshua 1:8
Bible basics I should know?
The Bible is a collection of 66 books bound together as one book. It is divided into two sections. The first section is called the OLD TESTAMENT and it covers the creation of everything that is seen and not seen, the history of the Jewish nation, and a promise by God to forgive sins and reconcile mankind to Himself through faith in his Holy Son. The second section is called the NEW TESTAMENT and it covers the birth, life, and death of Jesus Christ. And it details God’s gift of eternal life to anyone who believes in his Holy Son. The Bible has a “Table of Content” which lists the two sections along with a list of all the books within each of those two sections.
How are Bible verses referenced?
For example, Matthew 6:33 means the book of Matthew, Chapter 6, verse 33. When you browse the pages of the Bible, you will see large-sized numbers (those are the chapters) and also many smaller-sized numbers (those are the verses).
Where should I start reading?
We recommend that you start reading the entire Book of Matthew, starting from chapter 2 (the larger-sized number). Then jump forward to read the entire Book of John, which is right after the Book of Luke. Afterward, just keep reading til the last page of the Book of Revelations.
Should I attend a local church?
Definitely, yes. Google “Baptist church near me” to find the three or four closest ones to you, and verify on their websites what time they meet on Sundays. Then visit them to see which one you feel more at home with. At the end of the service, try to introduce yourself to the Pastor and let him know that it is your first time there. And see what happens. Some groups in some churches meet after service to go to a nearby restaurant and fellowship.
How does God want me to donate?
“Every man according as he purposeth in his heart, so let him give; not grudgingly, or of necessity: for God loveth a cheerful giver.” 2 Corinthians 9:7
Did Jesus encourage tithing?
Yes, he did. He warned that we should not neglect to tithe. You can read all about it in Matthew 23:23 — Tithing is giving God 10% of your income. Check out the video on our “Donate” page. Tithing is what helps our ministry to purchase the Bibles, Christian books, and other outreach tools to minister in the community. Tithing is what allows us to help the poor. Tithing is what helps local churches pay their mortgages, pay their utilities, and pay for all their operational expenses. You should do it.
How can I talk to God?