ETERNAL DESTINATION: HEAVEN OR HELL? By: Major Frank Materu
Key Scripture:
"Enter through the narrow gate. For wide is the gate and broad is the road that leads to destruction, and many enter through it. But small is the gate and narrow the road that leads to life, and only a few find it." – Matthew 7:13-14 (NIV)
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Introduction
Many people live their lives without considering their eternal destination. While multitudes end up in hell because they neglect to think about eternity, the devil delights in deceiving them, making them live only for the present moment. This deception causes people to immerse themselves in sin without concern for the consequences. Hell, however, is not a myth or a mere religious warning—it is a real place of eternal separation from God.
God desires that every person take their eternal destination seriously. The choices we make on earth determine whether we will spend eternity in heaven with God or in the torment of hell. It is crucial to reject the devil’s deceptions and embrace the truth that is found in Jesus Christ.
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The Reality of Hell
"Then they will go away to eternal punishment, but the righteous to eternal life." – Matthew 25:46 (NIV)
Hell is not a temporary place where sinners are purified; it is an eternal prison where those who reject Christ will be tormented forever. Those who continue in sin without repentance will face the judgment of God, and there will be no escape from their sentence. Many live in spiritual blindness, convinced that they can enjoy the pleasures of sin without consequence. However, the Word of God warns us that sin leads to destruction.
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The Deception of the Devil
"The thief comes only to steal and kill and destroy; I have come that they may have life, and have it to the full." – John 10:10
(NIV)
Satan deceives people into thinking that they have all the time in the world to repent, but this is a dangerous lie. The devil has been a murderer from the beginning, seeking to corrupt and destroy as many souls as possible. There is no good in him or his demons—only wickedness, destruction, and eternal doom. Those who follow his ways will share in his judgment.
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Choosing Life Over Death
"This day I call the heavens and the earth as witnesses against you that I have set before you life and death, blessings and curses. Now choose life, so that you and your children may live." – Deuteronomy 30:19 (NIV)
Each day, people make choices that determine their eternal destiny. Some choose sin and spiritual blindness, while others choose righteousness and salvation. The way of life is found in Jesus Christ, who calls all to repentance and a life of holiness. We must choose wisely and walk in obedience to God's commands.
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Freedom in Christ
"So if the Son sets you free, you will be free indeed." – John 8:36 (NIV)
Many are trapped in sin and believe they cannot escape. However, Jesus Christ offers true freedom. Through Him, we have the power to overcome every temptation and walk in the victory of righteousness. God never intended for His people to live in bondage to sin, fear, or despair. His Spirit leads us into truth and gives us strength to stand against the enemy.
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The Assurance of Salvation
"And this is the testimony: God has given us eternal life, and this life is in his Son. Whoever has the Son has life; whoever does not have the Son of God does not have life." – 1 John 5:11-12 (NIV)
The assurance of salvation is found in Christ alone. Those who trust in Him and live according to His will can be confident in their eternal destination. There is no need to live in fear or uncertainty; God's promises are true and eternal.
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Summary
Eternal life is a serious matter, and every person must choose their destination—heaven or hell. Hell is a place of torment for those who reject Christ, while heaven is the glorious home for those who follow Him. The devil seeks to deceive, but God offers life through Jesus Christ. We must make the right choice today.
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Conclusion
We are called to walk in righteousness, rejecting the deception of the devil. God has provided the way of salvation through Jesus Christ, and it is up to us to choose eternal life. Do not delay in making the decision to follow Christ.
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Call to Action
If you have not yet surrendered your life to Jesus Christ, do so today. Repent of your sins and accept Him as your Lord and Savior. If you are already a believer, remain steadfast in your faith and share the Gospel with others.
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Final Word of Encouragement
God has given us the gift of salvation through Jesus Christ. Walk boldly in His truth and do not be swayed by the deceptions of the world. Keep your eyes fixed on eternity and live a life that glorifies Him.
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Salvation Prayer
If you want to accept Jesus Christ as your Lord and Savior, pray this prayer:
Heavenly Father, I come before You today, acknowledging that I am a sinner. I repent of my sins and ask for Your forgiveness. I believe that Jesus Christ died for my sins and rose again to give me eternal life. I accept Him as my Lord and Savior and surrender my life to You. Fill me with Your Holy Spirit and help me to live according to Your will. Thank You for saving me. In Jesus’ Name, I pray. Amen.
