Understanding Eternal Destination: The Critical Choice Between Heaven and Hell in Christian Faith

Life is a journey not a destination. Once we are dead, we will go to either one of two everlasting destinations – heaven or hell – depending on the choice we have made while living (Phil 3:18-21; Heb 9:27).

The Two Eternal Destinations

There is no second chance offered or means available to swap destinations after we die. While any sane person desires to end up in heaven, many are not making the necessary step of repenting of sin and receiving Jesus and so will not reach that destination, because Satan has blinded their minds to the reality of the facts (2 Cor 4:4). In the natural realm if we want to reach a particular place it is imperative to consistently follow the route that leads to it, not just setting off in any direction without any plan and hope we get there or deviating partway. How much more important in the spiritual realm to be motivated and conscientiously focused on the goal besides adhering to the prescribed route.

Jesus stated, "Whoever believes in Him is not condemned, but whoever does not believe is condemned already..." (Jn 3:18). Because of our inherited sin and the sins we commit we are by default headed for hell; we don't need to choose to go there but we do need to make the active decision to turn to Christ if we don't want to go there and instead go to heaven.

Spiritual Blindness and the Need for Salvation

The unsaved don't understand the serious consequence of not knowing Jesus as Saviour – if they did they would immediately cry out for salvation. As Christians we don't comprehend the plight of those who die not knowing Jesus as Saviour – if we did we would be much more proactive in sharing the gospel.

This fundamental question requires honest self-examination and commitment to following God's prescribed path. The journey toward heaven demands intentional focus and unwavering dedication to spiritual truths, recognizing that the choices we make in this life have eternal consequences.

Will heaven be my ultimate destination?

Staying on the Right Path

"There is a way that seems right to a man but in the end it leads to death" so it is essential to have the Lord's input and include Him in all our decision-making (Prov 3:5-6, 16:25). The counsel of the Bible is, "Consider the path of your feet and only take ways that are firm. Do not swerve…" (Prov 4:26-27). We are exhorted to have the same attitude and resolve as Jesus whose eye was steadfastly focused on the goal, not falling for Satan's temptations or allowing the horrendous suffering He encountered to divert from His call and prevent Him accomplishing God's will (Mt 4:3-13; Lk 9:51; Phil 2:5:11; Heb 12:2).

Reflection and Application:

Examine your current spiritual trajectory and honestly assess whether you are on the path that leads to heaven or hell.
Consider if there are areas where Satan has blinded your mind to spiritual truths, and pray for God's revelation and clarity.
Evaluate your commitment to sharing the gospel with others who may not understand the eternal consequences of their choices.
Reflect on whether your daily decisions align with God's will and contribute to your eternal destination.