It is easy and popular to talk about the reality of heaven. As we learned during the weekend service, a Gallop poll revealed that 78% of Americans believe in heaven and that their chance of going to heaven is great, while 60% of Americans believe in hell, but only 4% believe that they have a strong chance of going there. The truth is that just like heaven is a reality, hell also exists. If we believe what Scripture says about heaven and hell, we must take it seriously. We must share our faith and tell others about God’s gift of salvation that He offers every person.
One of the greatest examples we have in Scripture of someone who took the reality of heaven and hell seriously was the apostle Paul. He dedicated his entire life to proclaiming the word of God. In His letter, he encouraged Timothy, and future readers, including us, to share the message of God. “Preach the word,” he wrote (2 Timothy 4:2). Be prepared, whether the time is favorable or not. Patiently correct, rebuke, and encourage your people with good teaching (verse 2). He wanted Timothy, and us, to always be ready to talk about God and His word to the people in our sphere of influence. He continued, instructing Timothy and other readers, “work at telling others the Good News and fully carry out the ministry God has given you” (verse 5). If God is coming soon, and eternity is at stake, it stands to reason that we would do everything we can to share the good news of salvation in Jesus Christ with them.
As 2 Timothy 4:2 reminds us, we must always be prepared to share about the good news of salvation with others around us. This is not a call to take lightly. Life is short. Eternity is at stake. Who can you share the good news of Jesus Christ with today?
We are called to share the good news of salvation in Jesus Christ with everyone around us. If we truly believe that there really is a heaven and a hell, we understand that there is no time to waste. Who can you reach out to today to share about salvation in Christ? Take a step today to share with them and commit to praying for them each day.
I solemnly urge you in the presence of God and Christ Jesus, who will someday judge the living and the dead when he comes to set up his Kingdom: Preach the word of God. Be prepared, whether the time is favorable or not. Patiently correct, rebuke, and encourage your people with good teaching.
For a time is coming when people will no longer listen to sound and wholesome teaching. They will follow their own desires and will look for teachers who will tell them whatever their itching ears want to hear. They will reject the truth and chase after myths.
But you should keep a clear mind in every situation. Don’t be afraid of suffering for the Lord. Work at telling others the Good News, and fully carry out the ministry God has given you.
As for me, my life has already been poured out as an offering to God. The time of my death is near. I have fought the good fight, I have finished the race, and I have remained faithful. And now the prize awaits me—the crown of righteousness, which the Lord, the righteous Judge, will give me on the day of his return. And the prize is not just for me but for all who eagerly look forward to his appearing.
