In Matthew 16:26, Jesus asked, “For would it profit a man if he gains the whole world and forfeits his soul?” The obvious answer is that he will profit nothing. Why? Because the most important possession we have is our souls. The soul is eternal. We all will spend eternity in heaven (a place of eternal joy) or hell (a place of weeping and gnashing of teeth). The salvation of our souls should, therefore, be our highest personal priority.
The problem we all face is the ongoing attacks of the devil. He is walking about seeking whom he can devour (1 Peter 5:8). This has ultimately resulted in many people being deceived about the condition of their souls—thinking that they are right with God, when, in reality, they are not. Sadly, when it comes to salvation, things aren’t always what they seem to be. Solomon warns us about this.
Proverbs 14:12 (ESV)
12 There is a way that seems right to a man, but its end is the way to death.
Why is this something that occurs so often? To begin with, it is because most people turn to the wrong source for their spiritual information. Too much trust is put in denominational creeds and the opinions of men. What is taught seems right but is, in truth, contrary to the Word of God. Things such as “faith only,” “infant baptism,” and “the sinner’s prayer” seem like the right course to follow, but the end of those ways is death.
How can you be sure that the way you think is right, is really the way that leads to life? The answer is simple—turn to the right source. Put away all man-made books and church manuals and turn to the Word of God.
The Bible is the only source that will never lead you astray. It is always right and leads to the salvation of the soul.
James 1:21 (ESV)
21 Therefore put away all filthiness and rampant wickedness and receive with meekness the implanted word, which is able to save your souls.
Make sure that you have book, chapter, and verse for everything that you believe and teach. Faithful Christians believe and teach that one must repent and be baptized for the forgiveness of sin. Why? Because when people asked what they had to do to be saved, Peter told them, “Repent and be baptized every one of you in the name of Jesus Christ for the forgiveness of sins…” (Acts 2:38). We can put our fingers on the passage.
Whether we are talking about God’s plan of salvation, the work of the church, the organization of the church, or how to worship God in spirit and in truth, the only way of avoiding doing what just seems to be right, and actually doing what is right is by turning to the Bible. Never take anyone’s word for it when it comes to the salvation of your soul. The Word of God is always a sure guide and will keep you on the right track that leads to heaven, but you must be willing to follow it. It will not always be the popular road to travel, but it will get you to the destination that you desire.
Psalm 119:105 (ESV)
105 Your word is a lamp to my feet and a light to my path.
As you wind down for the night, think about these things