We live in a world where people think they can determine how they will inherit eternal life. They are delusional. Delusional comes from a Latin word meaning “deceiving.” Delusional thinking is deceiving oneself into believing outrageous things. This is where the majority of people live in reference to eternal life. They are in a state of delusion or deception. I say the majority because that’s what God’s word teaches.
Matthew 7:13 “Enter ye in at the strait gate: for wide is the gate, and broad is the way, that leadeth to destruction, and many there be which go in there at:”
For many years I have felt a burden for the lost. A burden that pushes me to pray, go on organized visitation or bring up spiritual things in conversation with those I don’t know. When you seek to talk to someone who is not right with God, get ready to hear some delusional answers!
When asking someone about their spiritual condition you will get an array of responses. Sometimes you are blessed to hear they are a true Christian, but most of the time you will hear their own version of how to get to heaven. This, in itself, is a delusional act. To think that I can usurp the authority of an almighty, all-knowing, all-powerful, eternal God, is truly outrageous! I say “usurp,” because they have decided that they can determine where they will spend eternity simply by their own desires. They have set themselves up as their own god.
Some common answers I’ve received to the question, “Why should God let you into His heaven,” include: I’m a good person; I’ve been baptized; I’m a member of a church; God is loving, and he wouldn’t send anyone to Hell, or I prayed a prayer years ago.
The first three are good in themselves, but they are not the requirement for eternal life. All of these are based on what man can do, not what God did. The first three are totally works-based salvation. The next two are a misunderstanding of who God is, and what he reveals in his word.
These people are deceived into believing the standard is set by man. It’s not! All laws that govern eternity are set by God. He is the alpha and omega, the beginning, and the end.
Those who do not come to God on His terms, will not inherit eternal life. Jesus spoke more about Hell than he ever did about Heaven. God is holy and his love can never override his holiness. If it could, there would be no reason for Calvary.
Luke 12:5 “But I will forewarn you whom ye shall fear: Fear him, which after he hath killed hath power to cast into hell; yea, I say unto you, Fear him.”
Do you know someone who is delusional? Pray for them that their eyes will be opened. Think of your own walk with Christ. Are you depending on a prayer you prayed years ago but now live your life doing as you please? Are you being obedient to God’s word by faithfully attending a biblical church, studying His word, spending time in prayer, and being a faithful witness to others? For your one sake, it is imperative that you make sure you are not depending on anything but the grace of God and your faith in Jesus. If you are it will be evident to all around you, no one will have to ask you if you are a follower of Jesus Christ.
Ephesians 2:8,9 “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.”
