Sometimes, when one says, “I belong to the churches of Christ,” another person will react: “So, you’re the folks who think you’re the only ones going to heaven, right?” What’s the best way to respond to this comment? Here are several suggestions.
Response One
“I’m glad you asked! How would you answer that question? Who do you think will be in heaven?”
After the other person answers …
“Tell me why you answered that
way. How did you come to that conclusion? Would you like to see what the Bible says about it?”
Response Two
“I’m glad you asked! Well, one
thing is for sure. God knows exactly who will be in heaven, wouldn’t you agree?
The Bible says, “The Lord knows those who are His” (2 Tim 2:19). It really does
not matter in the long run what you or I say about it. The fact is, most
religious people believe that the way they are following is the best. Otherwise
they would change. So doesn’t it seem right and safe to say, “It’s the Lord who
knows who’s going to heaven?”
Assuming that the other person
agrees …
“Since God is the one who knows,
how would we learn from Him? Do you believe that the Bible is God’s Word, and
that only the Bible tells us how to follow Jesus and get to heaven? There’s not
any other sure way to know, is there? We cannot take anyone else’s word on it,
whether a preacher, priest, specific religious group, or anyone else, can we?
Would you agree?”
Assuming that the other person
agrees …
“If the Bible were to contradict
clearly some religious belief, tradition, or practice, wouldn’t the Bible be
right? Obviously these differing religious groups cannot all be right. Does it
make sense to you that we should follow the Bible and give up any teachings or
ideas that the Bible does not teach?”
Assuming that the other person
agrees …
“Would you like to study the
Bible with me and compare it with your thoughts and beliefs? You can ask
anything you like, and together we will seek God’s answers. I won’t ask you to
believe anything just because I believe it, but you and I can both ask each
other to believe and do what we clearly see in the Bible. What do you say?”
Response Three
“There is a lot of confusion
today about who’s going to heaven. I’m glad you want to make sure that you
yourself will be there. Let me ask you something. If you died tonight, are you
sure – nothing doubting – that you would go to live with God? If yes, would you
tell me what makes you so sure? If no, would you like to learn about the
instructions that God has given in the Bible?”
Cory Collins
2 comments:
Cory... I wish all could attend, your current, Wednesday night Bible class regarding Evangelism! The question: "Do You think you are the only people going to heaven" is a question we must all be ready to answer, in leading family and friends unto Christ. Evangelism really isn't evangelism until we say something and share it with others. Your post on this subject is excellent. Hope all read, and will then share with Brothers, Sisters, Friends, and Neighbors!
Well said! With these tools in hand (mind), one who is asked that question can lead the inquirer to a study of scriptures, rather than engaging in useless arguments or shutting a door of opportunity.
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