In what ways can you ensure your eternal destination aligns with God's will? Luke 16:26—A Sobering Reminder of Permanence “And besides all this, a great chasm has been fixed between us and you, so that those who wish to pass from here to you cannot, nor can anyone cross from there to us.” The fixed chasm in Jesus’ story of the rich man and Lazarus makes one truth unmistakable: once earthly life ends, our eternal destination is settled. Below are clear, scriptural steps to be sure that destination aligns with God’s will. Recognize the Urgency and Reality of Eternity • The chasm is real and unbridgeable after death—act now (Luke 16:26). • “For it is appointed for men to die once, and after that comes judgment.” (Hebrews 9:27) Receive Salvation through Repentance and Faith in Christ • Jesus is the exclusive way: “I am the way and the truth and the life. No one comes to the Father except through Me.” (John 14:6) • Respond personally: – Confess Jesus as Lord. – Believe God raised Him from the dead. – “You will be saved.” (Romans 10:9-10) • Salvation is by grace alone: “For it is by grace you have been saved through faith… it is the gift of God.” (Ephesians 2:8-9) Live a Life that Bears the Fruit of True Faith • Genuine faith produces action (James 2:17). • The Spirit’s fruit becomes visible: love, joy, peace, patience, kindness, goodness, faithfulness, gentleness, self-control (Galatians 5:22-23). • Good works are prepared by God as our new “way of life” (Ephesians 2:10). Practice Ongoing Obedience and Spiritual Disciplines • Daily Scripture intake (Psalm 119:105). • Consistent prayer (1 Thessalonians 5:17). • Regular fellowship and worship (Hebrews 10:25). • Self-examination and confession (1 John 1:9). These habits keep the heart soft and responsive to God’s will. Walk in Love Toward Others • Eternal life is evidenced by love: “We know that we have passed from death to life, because we love the brothers.” (1 John 3:14) • Serve the needy now, avoiding the rich man’s indifference (Luke 16:19-21). • Forgive as you have been forgiven (Ephesians 4:32). Remain Anchored to Sound Doctrine and the Church • Guard against deception (2 Timothy 4:3-4). • Submit to biblical teaching and accountability (Acts 2:42). • Use your gifts to build up the body (1 Peter 4:10-11). Pursue Assurance without Presumption • “Strive to make your calling and election sure.” (2 Peter 1:10-11) • Examine whether you are in the faith (2 Corinthians 13:5). • Hold confidence: “I have written these things… so that you may know that you have eternal life.” (1 John 5:13) Conclusion—Choose While the Door Is Open The rich man discovered the truth too late. Today, the door of grace stands open. Repent, believe, and follow Christ wholeheartedly; the chasm will never close on those whose lives are safely hidden in Him. |
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