What We Believe

What you believe determines the quality of your life in a very practical way. Everything you believe manifest itself in one way or another in everything you do - How you feel about yourself, how you treat others, and how you feel others treat you. What you believe also determines your future and even your eternity: Jesus said: "Everyone who lives and believes in Me will never die, ever." Then, He asked this simple question: "Do you believe this? " So not only is it important to know what you believe, but it's obvious that God takes an interest in what you believe.

If you've never thought about it, take a minute and write down what you believe - about yourself, about the world, and about God... and see if they add up.

How would you answer this question:  In your personal opinion, what does it take for a person to go to Heaven? The answer is as simple as F-A-I-T-H, faith!

F is for FORGIVENESS

We cannot have eternal life and heaven without God's forgiveness.

  • In Him [meaning Jesus] we have redemption through His blood, the forgiveness of sins. - Ephesians 1:7a, NKJV.

A is for AVAILABLE

Forgiveness is available. It is available for All:

  • For God so loved the world that He gave His only begotten Son, that whoever believes in Him should not perish but have everlasting life. - John 3:16, NKJV.
But Not Automatic:
  • Not everyone who says to Me, "Lord, Lord," shall enter the kingdom of heaven - Matthew 7:21a, NKJV.

I is for IMPOSSIBLE

It is impossible for God to allow sin into heaven.
God is love:

  • For God so loved the world that He gave His only begotten Son, that whoever believes in Him should not perish but have everlasting life. - John 3:16, NKJV.
God is just:
  • For the wages of sin is death... - Romans 6:23a, NKJV.
Man is sinful:
  • For all have sinned and fall short of the glory of God - Romans 3:23, NKJV.


But how can a sinful person enter heaven, where God allows no sin?

T is for TURN

Turn means repent. Turn from something: sin and self.

  • But unless you repent you will all likewise perish - Luke 13:3b, NKJV.
Turn to Someone: trust Christ only. The Bible tells us that:
  • Christ died for our sins, according to the Scriptures; and that He was buried, and that He rose again the third day according to the Scriptures - 1 Corinthians 15:3b-4, NKJV.
and that:
  • If you confess with your mouth the Lord Jesus and believe in your heart that God has raised Him from the dead, you will be saved, - Romans 10:9, NKJV.

H is for HEAVEN

Heaven is eternal life. Heaven is here:

  • I have come that they may have life, and that they may have it more abundantly - John 10:10b, NKJV.
Heaven is hereafter:
  • And 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 - John 14:3, NKJV.



So, how can a person have God's forgiveness, heaven and eternal life, and Jesus as personal Savior and Lord? By trusting in Christ and asking Him for forgiveness. When you compare what you believe with these scriptures and these truths, how do they compare? Do you need to let God take control of your life, before it spins completely out of control?

Pray something like this prayer:
"Lord Jesus, I know I am a real sinner, and have displeased You in many ways. I believe You died for my sin, and only through faith in Your death and resurrection can I be forgiven. I want to turn from my sin and ask You to come into my life as my Savior and Lord. From this day on, I will follow You by living a life that pleases You.  Thank You, Lord Jesus, for saving me. Amen."

That’s it! That’s all you have to do to have eternal life.

Now, after you have received Jesus Christ into your life, obedience to Him means to be baptised and to join a church, too. Grow in faith and enjoy new friends in Christ by becoming a part of His church and attending Life Group. You'll find others who will love and support you. We hope it’s at Glen Meadows - but no matter where, we’re just glad you took this step!

If you prayed to receive Christ just now, tell a Christian friend about your decision today! Also, contact us at overcome@gmbc.org and let us rejoice with you in this decision.

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At Glen Meadows, we unashamedly hold firmly to the beliefs as expressed in the Baptist Faith and Message 2000. Click here to read our foundational beliefs.