Tuesday, April 15, 2014

April 16, 2014

"But Stephen, full of the Holy Spirit, looked up to heaven and saw the glory of God, and Jesus standing at the right hand of God. “Look,” he said, “I see heaven open and the Son of Man standing at the right hand of God.” Acts 7:55-56


The much anticipated movie "Heaven Is for Real" opens in theaters today. I plan to see it and urge you to go as well. 

10 million books sold since 2010 testify to the popularity of the topic and the story! After all, who isn't interested in heaven and who doesn't love an inspiring story? Those of us who are Wesleyans have another point of interest - the family represented in this movie are Wesleyans! Colton Burpo who had the near-death experience is the son of Todd Burpo, a Wesleyan pastor in Nebraska.

Enjoy the movie! Recommend the movie to those who are struggling with faith issues or who are investigating the faith. Use it as an occasion to start spiritual conversations and witnessing opportunities. Take encouragement from the level of interest being expressed in this movie around the nation!

With my endorsement of this movie, I also add a word of caution. Followers of Christ don't build their faith on movies, or testimonies or the mystical spiritual experiences of others. We base our faith and our doctrine squarely and solely on the Word of God! The Bible refers to Heaven over 600 times and it was one of Jesus' main topics in His preaching and teaching. So, we have plenty of Biblical truths upon which to build a solid doctrine of Heaven.

Heaven is for real! I have no doubt about that! I have built my entire life around that belief! By the mercy of God and the grace of Jesus, I plan to spend my eternity in Heaven! While I am in this earthly part of my life, I want to dedicate myself to helping many others secure the assurance of heaven, too!

Do you know for sure if you would be in heaven if your life should end today?