"YES, FAITHFULNESS IS REQUIRED"

By Dr. Hoyt W. Allen, Jr.

The question is often asked - Will a baptized person, who seldom reads the Bible, prays, or attends church services go to Heaven? Mark 16:16 says "whoever believes and is baptized will be saved, but whoever does not believe will be condemned", so it appears one who is baptized will end up in Heaven.

First, let each of us as Bible students understand that God will determine who is going to Heaven and not any preacher, elder, deacon or teacher. However, John 12:48 says that Jesus' Words will condemn one. Thus, if we learn God's Word, it does tell us who will be saved and who will be lost. But God still has the final say.

Following one's baptism, if it was accompanied with repentance as commanded (Acts 2:38), one will want to:
a) Read the Bible regularly (Acts 17:11; II Timothy 2:15)
b) Pray constantly (I Thessalonians 5:17)
c) Attend church willingly (Lk. 4:16; Heb.10:25)
d) Bear spiritual fruit (John 15:1-8)

Shame on the supposedly saved person who has to be scolded into doing the above. Jesus said, "If you love me, keep my commandments" (John 14:15). If one is "in love" with Jesus, the results will be: Evangelizing (Acts 8:4); sharing tithes an offerings (II Corinthians 9:6,7); using talents in various Christian ministries (Matthew 25:14-23), etc.

The way back to God if one discovers he or she is a backslider is to pray for forgiveness and repent of any known sin which is taking place in one’s life at the present (Acts 8:22).

KYOWVA Evangelistic Association
Is Worthy And Needs Our Support
Free Bible Courses are available for those interested
(Ages 8 to 80)
1541 S. 7th Street * Ironton, OH 45638-2175
Web Page:www.kyowva.com