Hello,
I am taking a class on world religions and need to ask a few questions for an essay and I am looking for some help.
Do you just want mainstream Christian beliefs, or minority views too? As a member of a minority faith, I have vastly different views to mainstream believers.
1. What is your idea of Heaven and Hell?
My belief is that heaven and hell do not exist as opposite destinations. In the beginning God gave humans a choice between life and death, not heaven or hell. (Deut 30:19)
Death is death and nothing survives it. Souls live on earth, they are not designed for heaven. Souls are mortal and they die. (Ezek 18:4)
Hell is the simply the grave. We all "go to hell". It isn't hot and there is no torment.(Eccl 9:5, 10)
2. How do you ensure your path to Heaven?
No one can ensure their path to heaven because it is God who chooses the ones he wants to rule with his son. We can't even volunteer although we must qualify. (2 Pet 1:10)
3. What do you think is a misconception of your religion?
That we must be wrong because we don't accept the teachings of mainstream churches. Opposition was to be expected because of this. (John 15:18-21)
4. What does being Christian mean to you?
Following the teachings of Jesus Christ...all of them, not just the convenient ones. (John 15:11-14)
5. Does attending church and prayer effect your path to Heaven or Hell?
No, I believe that it is our beliefs and conduct that affect our eternal destiny.
God allows us free choice to believe whatever we wish, but he has provided instructions for those who care to follow them
Those who fail to follow them will not qualify for the reward he offers for faithful obedience. (Ex 20:5, 6)
Thank you for your help!
Thank you for the questions.