If we believe in God, does that mean that he will send us into heaven or hell?
If we believe in God, does that mean that he will send us into heaven or hell? I am worried about my dad. He is not sure if God is real. What should I get him to do to believe?
The first thing we need to know about God is that he is kind and loving and does not want to send anybody to hell. In fact he wants all people to be saved and come to a true knowledge of him (1 Timothy 2:4).
God has promised to save all those who believe in Jesus (John 3:16). And God always keeps his promises (Joshua 21:45). It is important to remember that we are only saved because of Jesus’ death and resurrection (John 14:6). We must trust in Jesus to save us, and not in the things that we do (Ephesians 2:8). When we are saved then we will be in relationship with God. And like all relationships, being in a relationship with God means that there are boundaries (1 John 5:3). Being good will not save us, we are only ever saved because of Jesus. I hope this answers the first part of your question.
Sean can I suggest that you see a Christian teacher you know or a Christian friend and ask them about some Christian groups that probably meet at the school! They would give you a far more complete answer. A good book that would also help you answer your question about God saving us, is a book called A Sneaking Suspicion written by John Dickson. This book has been written for teenagers. You can get this book from Koorong, you will find them on the web.
About your Father, I have some appreciation for what you’re feeling. I have a brother who does not believe in God and it makes me worry. When we worry God says that we should pray to him (Philippians 4:6-8). God changes people, so that they will believe in him and trust in Jesus. God promises to answer all our prayers. But that does not mean he will do what we want. We have to learn to trust in him and the decisions he makes. But at the same time we should never stop praying that people we know and love do come to trust in Jesus.
Answers are kindly provided by our friends at Christianity.net.au
Share this article