It is important that we have a clear understanding about eternity. Living in the 21st century requires that we equip ourselves with correct information. Therefore, we will close this series on myths, lies, and misunderstandings discussing the deadliest of them all—MLMs pertaining to eternity.
The Danger of Eternity MLMs
MLMs hinder our ability to accept the reality of life and death. Since our belief systems influence our behaviors and the choices we make, a misstep or an error in belief can have “forever” ramifications. We get one chance to make the right choice. (Acts 4:12 )
Myths
Myths are often connected to spirituality or other religious beliefs versus Christian doctrine. They can result in a false sense of spiritual security. Many myths are often tied to what heaven or hell will be like.
Heaven will be a dreamy, floating existence in the clouds.
Heaven is the place where we will continue to serve the Lord (Revelation7:14-15 ). Just as Adam was given charge of the Garden of Eden (Genesis 2:15 ), we will fulfill the God-glorifying, personally fulfilling work that was part of God’s original plan for our life.
Hell is a place where there’s always a good time and party.
Hell was initially designed to house Satan and those fallen angels that participated in open rebellion against God in heaven (Isaiah 14:12-15 ). People who joke about wanting to go to hell is so much foolishness. There will be no partying in hell only darkness, weeping, and gnashing of teeth (Matthew 8:12 ; 13:42 ) .
Lies
Lies are the most dangerous MLMs. Why? Because our belief in them can result in our being in a place we don’t want to be for eternity. There will be no “do-overs. Following are the most frequently cited and the deadliest.
There is no heaven nor hell.
Jesus said He was going to prepare a place for us (John 14:2 ). We know that when “our tabernacle is dissolved we have a building of God, a house not made with hands, eternal in heaven.” (2 Corinthians 5:1 )
Hell is real (Matthew 25:41 , 46 ). It is a place of eternal punishment. There are those who propose that because God is good and loving, He would never condemn anyone to a place of eternal torment. God doesn’t send people to hell. People send themselves.
All roads lead to heaven.
While this may be a very popular view, the Bible teaches that the only way a person can go to heaven is on “God’s terms”. He has made His terms very clear in His Word and by Jesus Himself. “I am the way, and the truth, and the life; no one comes to the Father but through Me”. (John 14:6 ). Other reference scripture includes John 3:3, 16 , Acts 4:12 , and Galatians 1:6-9.
Misunderstandings
Misunderstandings are often the results of incomplete or incorrect information. While they are the most benign of the MLMs, it is still important to seek reliable and accurate information about eternity.
God is responsible for death.
Well-intentioned people console loved ones at the death of a family member with statements such as, “God wanted them with Him.” “They’re in a better place.” “God knows what He’s doing.”
The truth is death is the result of man’s sin in the Garden of Eden (Genesis 2). It is a sure fact that we all will die. The best way to be with family in eternity is to receive Jesus as Savior.
We will worship God in a tabernacle in heaven.
The tabernacle of the Old Testament and the church structure today provide a physical place to worship God.
However, there is need for neither in heaven because we will live in God’s presence. The object of our worship, God, will be with us throughout eternity. We will freely worship God continuously (Revelation 21:3 ,22 ).
The True Beauty of Eternity
Our understanding of eternity influences all that we do today. It becomes the filter by which we evaluate how we spend our time; what we focus on: where we place our priorities.
Eternity, most importantly, is where we will spend forever with Jesus. Our relationship will never be interrupted by our busy schedule, our unconfessed sin, or the enemies’ fiery darts aimed at our faith.