Eternity
Salvation in Light of Eternity
Life is short. Eternity is long. The choices we make during our short time on this earth will determine where we will spend all of eternity.
My wife and I took our four boys and their spouses (only two were married at the time) to Maui for our 25th wedding anniversary. Halfway through our stay, we loaded everyone up for a day trip to Hana.
The Road to Hana is a famous scenic drive that stretches 64.4 miles and is renowned for its stunning views of the ocean, waterfalls, and lush tropical forests. The road winds through the rugged terrain of the island, with over 600 turns and 59 bridges. The journey begins in the small town of Paia and ends in the quaint village of Hana. The road is famous for its many scenic stops, including Waikani Falls (also known as Three Bears Falls), Wai'anapanapa State Park, and the Pools of 'Ohe'o (also known as the Seven Sacred Pools). Each stop offers unique views and experiences, such as hiking to hidden waterfalls, swimming in freshwater pools, and admiring black sand beaches.
I had done plenty of research to determine the best time of day to leave, and the best stops to make on the way up the mountain and on the way back, to avoid the most traffic. The road is only one lane in several places making traffic jams an expected occurrence. And then I discovered a hack. One blog suggested the strategy of going around the back side of the mountain, making the trip to Hana much simpler and faster. There was much less beautiful scenery and natural wonders to appreciate on this alternative route, but the benefit was that you would beat all the traffic that was following the typical route and could then spend extended time enjoying all the sites on the way back to Paia without hitting all of the traffic headed back later in the day.
There was only one small snag. It was definitely smooth sailing with very little traffic going around the back side of the mountain—until we got a few miles from the town of Hana to discover the road was closed due to construction. We finally got the attention of a construction worker and asked what alternative route he would suggest. He said that there was only one route that would get us to Hana—and that was to backtrack to where we started and to take the road we were supposed to take initially. By the time we got back to our condo, it was too late to continue the journey.
So, what did we gain by taking the wrong path? A boring drive around the back side of the mountain, the disappointing news that we wouldn’t be making it to Hana, and a boring drive back to the condo. A few of us chose to make the trip again, taking the right way this time, and enjoyed all the beauty promised, making it all the way to Hana this time. Several in the group didn’t want to spend our last day in Hawaii in the car and chose to stay back at the condo, missing a truly beautiful and unforgettable experience.
I chose, in a brief moment of time, to take the wrong path. That brief moment caused us to waste most of a day and for some of our group to never experience a few of the best natural wonders anywhere in the world. If I knew the road was going to be closed, would I still have taken that route? How foolish if I would have still said: “I don’t care if this road doesn’t take me to paradise, it’s easier and faster and I’m going to take it anyway.”
There are two paths to eternal life—one beautiful and rewarding that leads to eternal life in Heaven and one disappointing and devastating that leads to eternal life in hell.
I am warning you today that there is a road that truly does lead to destruction, and many are those that are on it (Matthew 7:14). This path of sin may seem easier or more appealing in the moment, but ultimately it leads to spiritual death and separation from God.
There is also a road that leads to life but there are only a few on it (Matthew 7:13). This path requires discipline, sacrifice, and a commitment to following Jesus.
Jesus tells us plainly in John 14:6: "I am the way, and the truth, and the life; no one comes to the Father except through Me." This powerful statement of Jesus declares that He is not merely one road among many, but the only road that leads to God.
“Today is the day of salvation!” 2 Corinthians 6:2b. Jesus says in Matthew 25:46: "These will go away into eternal punishment, but the righteous into eternal life." Our choices in this life will determine where we will spend eternity—either in eternal punishment with Satan, his demons, and all who practice lawlessness, or in eternal life. "Do not be deceived, God is not mocked; for whatever a person sows, this he will also reap. For the one who sows to his own flesh will from the flesh reap corruption, but the one who sows to the Spirit will from the Spirit reap eternal life" (Galatians 6:7-8).
Eternal Rewards for the Believer
As believers in Jesus Christ, we have a glorious future to look forward to in heaven. The Bible provides us with glimpses of the eternal rewards that await us. While our finite minds may struggle to fully comprehend the magnificence of these rewards, they serve as a source of hope and inspiration as we journey through this life.
Eternal Life with God: One of the greatest rewards for believers is the gift of eternal life in the presence of God. Jesus promises in John 3:16, "For God so loved the world, that He gave His only Son, so that everyone who believes in Him will not perish, but have eternal life." This eternal life is characterized by unbroken fellowship with our loving Creator, experiencing His glory and goodness forever.
The Crown of Righteousness: In 2 Timothy 4:8, the apostle Paul speaks of the crown of righteousness that awaits him, which the Lord, the righteous Judge, will award to him on that day. This crown represents the reward for faithfully running the race, finishing strong, and remaining steadfast in the faith.
The Crown of Life: James 1:12 declares, "Blessed is a man who perseveres under trial; for once he has been approved, he will receive the crown of life which the Lord has promised to those who love Him." This crown is given to those who endure trials and remain faithful to God. It symbolizes the eternal life and victory over sin and death that Christ has secured for us.
The Incorruptible Crown: In 1 Corinthians 9:25, the apostle Paul speaks of the incorruptible crown: "Everyone who competes in the games exercises self-control in all things. They then do it to receive a perishable wreath, but we an imperishable." This crown is given to those who exhibit self-control and discipline in their spiritual walk. It symbolizes the imperishable reward and eternal honor that awaits faithful believers.
The Crown of Rejoicing: In 1 Thessalonians 2:19, Paul refers to the crown of rejoicing: "For who is our hope or joy or crown of exultation? Is it not even you, in the presence of our Lord Jesus at His coming?" This crown represents the joy and delight that comes from leading others to Christ. It is given to those who faithfully engage in evangelism and disciple-making, bringing people into the Kingdom of God.
The Crown of Glory: In 1 Peter 5:4, the apostle Peter mentions the crown of glory: "And when the Chief Shepherd appears, you will receive the unfading crown of glory." This crown is given to those who faithfully shepherd and care for God's people, fulfilling leadership roles with humility and serving as examples to others. It represents the honor and glory bestowed upon faithful shepherds and leaders in the Kingdom of God.
Heavenly Treasures: In Matthew 6:19-20, Jesus encourages us not to store up treasures on earth but to store up treasures in heaven, where they are secure and enduring. While the specific nature of these treasures is not explicitly defined, they represent the eternal rewards, blessings, and joys that God has prepared for His faithful children.
Reigning with Christ: Revelation 5:10 speaks of believers being made "a kingdom and priests to our God, and they will reign upon the earth." As joint heirs with Christ, we will share in His authority and reign alongside Him. This privilege and responsibility reflect the honor bestowed upon us as children of God.
Joy and Delight in God's Presence: Psalm 16:11 beautifully expresses the promise of eternal joy in God's presence: "You will make known to me the path of life; in Your presence is fullness of joy; in Your right hand, there are pleasures forever." In heaven, we will experience unhindered joy, deep satisfaction, and eternal delight as we dwell in the presence of our loving Savior.
These are just a few glimpses of the eternal rewards that believers in Jesus Christ can look forward to in heaven. They remind us that the trials and challenges of this life are temporary, and our ultimate home is in the glorious presence of God. Let these promises inspire and motivate us to persevere in faith, live with an eternal perspective, and eagerly anticipate the day when we will receive our heavenly rewards. While they are not to be pursued for selfish ambition, they serve as a motivation to live wholeheartedly for Christ and to invest our lives in His purposes. Ultimately, our greatest joy and reward will be found in the presence of our Lord and Savior, Jesus Christ.
The Hope of Heaven
The book of Revelation provides a captivating and awe-inspiring glimpse into the description of heaven. It offers a vision of the glorious and eternal dwelling place of God and His redeemed people. The vivid imagery and symbolism in Revelation should give hope and encouragement to all Believers, reminding us of the ultimate fulfillment of God's promises and the joy that awaits us in His presence.
The Throne of God: Revelation 4 portrays a scene of the heavenly throne room, where God is seated on His majestic throne. The descriptions highlight God's glory, power, and sovereignty. The image of the throne symbolizes His authority and kingship over all creation. Believers can find hope in knowing that God is the eternal ruler of heaven and earth, and His reign brings stability, justice, and perfect order.
Worship and Praise: Throughout Revelation, heavenly beings and the redeemed engage in ceaseless worship and praise of God. Revelation 5:11-14 describes a vast multitude singing praises to the Lamb (Jesus Christ), acknowledging His worthiness and redemption. The heavenly worship reminds believers that one day we will join in the unending chorus of adoration, praising God for His greatness and salvation.
The River of Life: Revelation 22:1-2 portrays a beautiful picture of the river of life, flowing from the throne of God, with the tree of life on its banks. This imagery symbolizes the eternal sustenance and spiritual vitality that believers will experience in heaven. It represents the complete satisfaction, abundant life, and eternal refreshment found in God's presence.
The New Jerusalem: Revelation 21 describes the New Jerusalem, a magnificent city coming down from heaven, prepared as a dwelling place for God and His people. The description includes walls of precious stones, gates of pearl, and streets of gold. This imagery symbolizes the beauty, splendor, and perfection of the eternal home that God has prepared for His redeemed ones. The New Jerusalem signifies the complete restoration, unity, and fellowship with God and one another.
No More Pain or Sorrow: Revelation 21:4 assures believers that in heaven, God will wipe away every tear, and there will be no more death, sorrow, crying, or pain. This promise brings hope and comfort, assuring us that all the struggles, suffering, and brokenness of this present world will be completely eradicated in the presence of God. It is a reminder that we will experience perfect peace, joy, and wholeness in eternity.
The description of heaven in the book of Revelation should give hope to all Believers. It assures us that God is in control, worthy of our worship, and faithful to fulfill His promises. It reminds us that our current trials and difficulties are temporary, and there is a glorious future awaiting us. The heavenly description invites us to fix our eyes on eternity, to persevere in faith, and to live with a sense of purpose and anticipation for the heavenly home that God has prepared for us. It offers hope that our ultimate destiny is not the troubles of this world but the eternal joy and glory of dwelling in God's presence forever.
Verses for Study:
Life is short
Psalm 144:4:" Man is like a mere breath; His days are like a passing shadow."
Proverbs 27:1: "Do not boast about tomorrow, for you do not know what a day may bring."
James 4:13-14: “Come now, you who say, “Today or tomorrow we will go to such and such a city, and spend a year there and engage in business and make a profit.” Yet you do not know what your life will be like tomorrow. You are just a vapor that appears for a little while and then vanishes away."
Psalm 90:12: "So teach us to number our days, that we may present to You a heart of wisdom."
Job 7:6-7: "My days are swifter than a weaver’s shuttle and come to an end without hope. Remember that my life is but breath; my eye will not again see good."
Psalm 39:4-5: "LORD, make me to know my end and what is the extent of my days; let me know how transient I am. Behold, You have made my days as handbreadths, and my lifetime as nothing in Your sight; surely every person at his best is a mere breath."
Heaven: the dwelling place of God
Psalm 11:4a: "The LORD is in His holy temple; the LORD'S throne is in heaven.”
Psalm 103:19: "The LORD has established His throne in the heavens, and His sovereignty rules over all."
Deuteronomy 10:14: "Behold, to the LORD your God belong heaven and the highest heavens, the earth and all that is in it."
Psalm 20:6: "Now I know that the LORD saves His anointed; He will answer him from His holy heaven with the saving strength of His right hand."
Psalm 33:13-14: "The LORD looks from heaven; He sees all the sons of men; from His dwelling place He looks out on all the inhabitants of the earth."
Isaiah 66:1: "Thus says the LORD, 'Heaven is My throne and the earth is My footstool.
Heaven: the final destination of all Believers
John 14:2-3: "In My Father's house are many dwelling places; if it were not so, I would have told you; for I go to prepare a place for you. If I go and prepare a place for you, I will come again and receive you to Myself, that where I am, there you may be also."
1 Corinthians 15:51-52: "Behold, I tell you a mystery; we will not all sleep, but we will all be changed, in a moment, in the twinkling of an eye, at the last trumpet; for the trumpet will sound, and the dead will be raised imperishable, and we will be changed."
Philippians 3:20-21: "For our citizenship is in heaven, from which also we eagerly wait for a Savior, the Lord Jesus Christ; who will transform the body of our humble state into conformity with the body of His glory, by the exertion of the power that He has even to subject all things to Himself."
1 Thessalonians 4:16-17: "For the Lord Himself will descend from heaven with a shout, with the voice of the archangel and with the trumpet of God, and the dead in Christ will rise first. Then we who are alive and remain will be caught up together with them in the clouds to meet the Lord in the air, and so we shall always be with the Lord."
Revelation 21:4: "and He will wipe away every tear from their eyes; and there will no longer be any death; there will no longer be any mourning, or crying, or pain; the first things have passed away."
Psalm 73:24: "With Your counsel You will guide me, and afterward receive me to glory."
Romans 8:18: "For I consider that the sufferings of this present time are not worthy to be compared with the glory that is to be revealed to us."
2 Corinthians 5:1: "For we know that if the earthly tent which is our house is torn down, we have a building from God, a house not made with hands, eternal in the heavens."
Colossians 1:5: "because of the hope laid up for you in heaven, of which you previously heard in the word of truth, the gospel."
Hebrews 11:16: "But as it is, they desire a better country, that is, a heavenly one. Therefore God is not ashamed to be called their God; for He has prepared a city for them."
1 Peter 1:3-4: "Blessed be the God and Father of our Lord Jesus Christ, who according to His great mercy has caused us to be born again to a living hope through the resurrection of Jesus Christ from the dead, to obtain an inheritance which is imperishable and undefiled and will not fade away, reserved in heaven for you."
Hell: a place of eternal punishment, torment, and separation from God for those who reject Him
Isaiah 14:9: "Sheol below is excited about you, to meet you when you come; it stirs up the spirits of the dead for you, all the leaders of the earth; it raises all the kings of the nations from their thrones."
Matthew 10:28 (Luke 12:5): "Do not fear those who kill the body but are unable to kill the soul; but rather fear Him who is able to destroy both soul and body in hell."
Matthew 13:41-42: "The Son of Man will send forth His angels, and they will gather out of His kingdom all stumbling blocks, and those who commit lawlessness, and will throw them into the furnace of fire; in that place there will be weeping and gnashing of teeth."
Matthew 25:41: "Then He will also say to those on His left, ‘Depart from Me, accursed ones, into the eternal fire which has been prepared for the devil and his angels.’"
2 Peter 2:4-22: "For if God did not spare angels when they sinned but cast them into hell and committed them to pits of darkness, reserved for judgment"—He did not and will not spare the wicked of this earth.
Psalm 9:17: "The wicked will return to Sheol, all the nations who forget God."
Psalm 55:15: "Let death come deceitfully upon them; let them go down alive to Sheol, for evil is in their dwelling, in their midst."
Proverbs 15:24: "The path of life leads upward for the wise, that he may keep away from Sheol below."
Isaiah 5:14: "Therefore Sheol has enlarged its throat and opened its mouth without measure; and Jerusalem's splendor, her multitude, her uproar, and the jubilant within her, descend into it."
Isaiah 66:24: "Then they will go forth and look on the corpses of the people who have transgressed against Me. For their worm will not die, and their fire will not be extinguished; and they will be an abhorrence to all mankind."
Matthew 5:22: "But I say to you that everyone who is angry with his brother shall be guilty before the court; and whoever says to his brother, 'You good-for-nothing,' shall be guilty before the supreme court; and whoever says, 'You fool,' shall be guilty enough to go into the fiery hell."
Matthew 5:29-30 (Matthew 18:8-9, Mark 9:43-48): If your right eye makes you stumble, tear it out and throw it from you; for it is better for you to lose one of the parts of your body, than for your whole body to be thrown into hell—the eternal fire. If your right hand makes you stumble, cut it off and throw it from you; for it is better for you to lose one of the parts of your body, than for your whole body to go into hell, where the worm does not die and the fire is not quenched.
Matthew 11:23: "And you, Capernaum, will not be exalted to heaven, will you? You will descend to Hades; for if the miracles had occurred in Sodom which occurred in you, it would have remained to this day."
Matthew 22:13: "Then the king said to the servants, ‘Bind him hand and foot, and throw him into the outer darkness; in that place there will be weeping and gnashing of teeth.’"
Matthew 23:15: "Woe to you, scribes and Pharisees, hypocrites, because you travel around on sea and land to make one proselyte; and when he becomes one, you make him twice as much a son of hell as yourselves."
Luke 10:15: "And you, Capernaum, will not be exalted to heaven, will you? You will be brought down to Hades!"
Luke 16:19-31 - This passage tells the story of a rich man and Lazarus, a beggar who lay at his gate, and how after their deaths, the rich man found himself in torment in Hades while Lazarus was comforted in Abraham's bosom. While this story is often interpreted as a parable, it provides a vivid description of the consequences of a life lived in selfishness and neglect of the poor.
Acts 2:27: "Because You will not abandon my soul to Hades, nor will You allow Your Holy One to undergo decay."
James 3:6: "And the tongue is a fire, the very world of iniquity; the tongue is set among our members as that which defiles the entire body, and sets on fire the course of our life, and is set on fire by hell."
Our eternal rewards in Heaven for how well we serve on this earth
Matthew 6:19-20: "Do not lay up for yourselves treasures on earth, where moth and rust destroy and where thieves break in and steal, but lay up for yourselves treasures in heaven, where neither moth nor rust destroys and where thieves do not break in and steal."
Revelation 22:12 - "Behold, I am coming soon, bringing my recompense with me, to repay each one for what he has done."
Matthew 5:12: "Rejoice and be glad, for your reward is great in heaven, for so they persecuted the prophets who were before you."
Matthew 25:21,23: "Well done, good and faithful servant. You have been faithful over a little; I will set you over much. Enter into the joy of your master."
1 Corinthians 3:14 - "If the work that anyone has built on the foundation survives, he will receive a reward."
Colossians 3:23-24 - "Whatever you do, work heartily, as for the Lord and not for men, knowing that from the Lord you will receive the inheritance as your reward. You are serving the Lord Christ."
Resources:
“A Theology of Biblical Counseling, The Doctrinal Foundations of Counseling Ministry” by Heath Lambert
“The Bible, from Genesis to Revelation” by Heath Lambert
