Introduction
We have all had the experience of missing something. When we miss something, we may feel frustrated or mad, but usually we handle it pretty well. If we miss the bus, we catch another one. If we miss an appointment, we make another one. If we miss a visitor, we go see him or her. If we miss a phone call, the person will probably call back. If we miss a meal, we can always eat later.
All misses, however, are not as easy to correct. If you miss the deadline for filing your income taxes, you will probably have to pay a penalty. If you miss a business deadline or a payment deadline, you have to pay a penalty then too. Sometimes a sick person who misses taking his medicine will suffer as a result.
There are spiritual implications in these thoughts. What if you miss heaven? Think about that for a minute. It is a terrible thought, isn't it! What if you miss heaven?
Discussion
The Bible states that some will miss heaven. According to Jesus, not everyone will be saved (Matt. 7:21-23). According to this text there are going to be some surprises in the Day of Judgment. There will be many who thought they were right but who will be sorrowfully surprised on the Day of Judgment (2 Cor. 13:5)
Why are sinners separated from God (Isa. 59:1, 2; Hab. 1:13)? The Scriptures tell us that few will go to heaven (Matt. 7:13, 14). Most people choose to do exactly what they want. They do not care about Cod's wishes or requirements. "The whole world lieth in wickedness" (1 John 5:19).
Here we have another reference to the great number of people who will miss heaven. Why? Because they do not obey Cod (Heb. 5:8, 9). There will be no salvation without obedience.
Jesus was obedient, and we must be also. Obedience is a prerequisite to salvation (Rev. 22:14). Many will miss heaven because they refuse to obey God.
Many are filled with pride. In Obadiah 3 and 4, we see that Edom was filled with pride. Pride is a major barrier for many in the world today. Many are too proud to admit they are wrong. Many are caught up in themselves.
Destruction came to Judah because of her pride (Zeph. 2:10-15). She said, "I am, and there is none beside me." Pride will cause many to miss heaven (James 4:6).
What if you miss heaven?
Give this careful thought. What if you have no more opportunities to obey the Gospel (2 Cor. 6:2; Acts 24:25; 26:28)?
Think about losing the opportunity to live forever with God's family. Think about losing the opportunity to live forever in heaven, a place without suffering and death. Think about the fact that once you miss out on heaven, there will be nothing you can do to change your fate. It's all over! It's too late. If you miss heaven, there is not anything you can do to get there. You will have no more opportunity, no more hope!!!
Conclusion
But there is good news! You do not have to miss heaven! You have the opportunity now to obey the Gospel. You have an opportunity now to turn over a new leaf! The Bible tells us if we do not want to miss heaven we must:
a. Accept Jesus Christ by faith (John 8:24).
b. Repent of our sins (Luke 13:3).
c. Confess publicly the name of Christ (Matthew 10:32-33).
d. Be baptized (Mark 16:16).
e. Remain faithful (Revelation 2:10).
Will you miss heaven?
Ellen G. White quotations about heaven:
"God will not accept one of us who is belittling His powers in lustful, earthly debasement, by thought, or word, or action. Heaven is a pure and holy place, where none can enter unless they are refined, spiritualized, cleansed, and purified. There is a work for us to do for ourselves, and we shall be capable of doing it only by drawing strength from Jesus" (Christian Education, p. 109).
"In heaven there is perfect order, perfect obedience, perfect peace and harmony. Those who have had no respect for order or discipline in this life, would have no respect for the order which is observed in heaven. They can never be admitted into heaven, for all worthy of an entrance there will love order and respect discipline" {Christian Education, p. 237)
SERMON NOTES:
General Conference Ministerial Association
