Q 057

Question: “I believe in Jesus Christ and I accept Him, but my heart is not at a place where I desire to change my lifestyle (turning from sin). I frankly want to continue to live my life the way I want to and maybe in the future I will change, but that isn’t the case now. I simply don’t desire to live a Christ like life because I think the life I want to have is a lot more fun than living a Christ like life. In regards to this, the verses in Galatians 5:19-21 as well as in Ephesians 5:5 seem to me that a person must also love their lives a certain way or they won’t get into heaven. That’s my interpretation of it at least. Is this the correct interpretation, or does it mean something else? I used to believe that simply believing in Jesus was enough to save you regardless of how u live your life, but after reading these verses I’m struggling to see it that way. I’m scared of going to hell based on the way I live my life even though I believe and accept Christ. Some clarification on this matter would truly help me. I’m stuck in a position where I fear of going to hell because of my lifestyle and at the same time I’m not ready to turn from my sin. I look forward to hearing back from you, and may God bless you.”

Answer: 

Thank you for your question.

I would like to speak bluntly regarding your statement, “I frankly want to continue to live my life the way I want to and maybe in the future I will change, but that isn’t the case now.”
 
There isn’t much I can say or do that can help a mindset so plainly focused on yourself. What do I need to say that would convince you of what God has already said in His Word?
 
Galatians 5:19-21 and Ephesians 5:5 are references to the fact that the flesh (our bodies which are affected by our sinful natures) will not enter into Heaven. We will receive new bodies, thanks to the promise of Jesus Christ, which is modeled for us in His resurrection.
 
However, it’s clear you would rather live your life the way you want to live it, in spite of Jesus’ instructions for the Christian life. I appreciate your boldness, but what else can I do for a man who is set on himself over his Savior?
 
I think it would be good to address yourself with some questions.
 
  • Have I made my happiness, my way of life, and my will and idol?
  • Am I comfortable with the fact that I am looking at Jesus, Who has given me eternal life, and telling Him that I want to do things my way over His way?
  • What is my goal in this life?
  • Does the Bible mean anything to me if I already want to do what I want to do?
 I know these are tough questions, but they need to be asked. If you have believed on Jesus Christ as the Son of God, Who died on the cross, shed His blood, was buried and rose again to pay for all your sins, then God says you have eternal life.
 
Why would you want to live a life of sin in the light of the fact you’re saved?
 
I am praying for you, brother.