The Pearly Gates

I have occasionally heard this at a funeral (or viewing) about the deceased. “He (or she) was such a good person. I know they’ll make it past the pearly gates straight into Heaven.” Is this belief actually true of anyone who has made that trip over to the other side?

The above statement (given in a time of sadness) is based on a false assumption. Let me summarize the message behind the verses Romans 3:10, 23, 7:18-19 Galatians 5:17, Mark 10:17-22, and I John 1:18 say that no one is completely “just right” in the eyes of the Almighty. (This does not change His “undying” love for you.) The truth hurts at times, but that doesn’t change what it is.

The good version of each of us is constantly in battle with our darker side. Our Heavenly Father is the only entity with absolute sinless perfection. Would you agree?

A second false assumption is that Heaven can be acquired by one’s goodness. We all know that every person whether they are an innocent child, a selfless volunteer, a wonderful parent, or a saintly senior are all born into sin (and stay sinners) during their residence here on planet Earth. (I Peter 1:15-16, Matthew 5:48, James 2:10-11, Romans 6:23) Eternal life with God is available as a free gift from Him and not based on one’s own self-worth. (See Salvation by the Book)

Besides being an action of divine love and protection (by the Almighty) to an undeserving individual, GRACE can also be an acronym that stands for “God’s riches at Christ’s expense.” (Ephesians 2:8-9, Romans 4:16, John 6:29)

I’ve said this many times before, but God cherishes you, and is intently pursuing you for His kingdom. Why make Him wait any longer. This is the opportunity of a lifetime.

Revelations 3:20 (MSG) states it this way: “Look at me. I stand, I knock. If you hear me call and open the door, I’ll come right in and sit down to supper with you.”   

*Inspired by the sermon “The Mythbuster Series, Installment Two: The Eternity Myth,” Pastor Dave Jansen, May 29, 2016, CenterPoint Church Gahanna, Gahanna, OH