In 1970 a young woman, a teenager, named Joni dove into shallow water and came out a quadriplegic. This past October 15th she celebrated her 70th birthday. She is also a two-time breast cancer survivor. I once read a book she wrote where she was asked and answered a question: “Would you do anything to change your life if you had to do it all over again?” Her answer astounded me. “No,” she said, “I wouldn’t change a thing.”
I have to admit I am amazed by her attitude because, frankly, I’m not sure I could or would say the same thing. Getting hit by a hit-n-run driver in November of ’17 and then doing an endo coming down a hill in February of ’18 convinced me of the sanctity of life and how much I valued my ability to get around.
But one thing I do know is this: if either of those accidents had ended my life, I KNOW EXACTLY WHERE I WOULD BE SPENDING ETERNITY. There are only two places possible: Heaven or Hell. One good; one bad. No in between place. And despite popular opinion of some very liberal “churches” not all people will be in heaven. The Bible says, “It is appointed unto man once to die and after that the judgment.” I know what Universalism teaches-that all will be saved. But that is a lie from the pit of Hell and smells like smoke. (Rob Bell take note).
I conclude this version of a “Truth” series this week before I start a new one on the book of Colossians next week. I could think of no better way to do that than to talk about our eternal destiny. I look at this sermon two ways: One, like D.L.Moody once said, “No preacher should ever preach about hell without tears in his eyes.” And two, talking about the joy of heaven.
I’d appreciate your prayers this Sunday. The last thing I want is to come off as though I’m glad people are lost and going to Hell. On the contrary, I want to show how Heaven is such a great place why would you not want to go there? Thanks for praying.
Yes, Bill, you will definitely be in my prayers!
Blessings!
I’ll pray you give a good sermon, Bill. Not often do we hear about hell and the devil from the pulpit. It is as if preachers these days are afraid of “frightening the horses” and losing their congregations. Sermons are mealy-mouthed nonsense that put me to sleep. Then I get a sharp elbow in the ribs. It’s not fair.
God bless.
I remember listening to Joni on Christian radio. I heard in her voice such a joy, despite her disability. I was also reading a book on Universalism a while back, although I didn’t know it at the time, and it was making some sense. I was so hoping that it was true, but then I put it down and read what the Bible had to say…Nope, we are going to hell if we don’t repent.
I miss the fire and brimstone preachers… not enough of them around. Everything is lovely dovey. 🙁
It’s amazing how people think they have the authority to will themselves to heaven. If they can’t walk on water they should reconsider their doctrine.
Praying for you.