It’s Not About Going to Hell, But Christ Living in You and Being Connected to God
As believers in Christ, our faith journey is not solely about the fear of hell or the hope of salvation; it’s about the profound connection we can have with God through the indwelling of Christ. This connection goes beyond mere religious rituals and rules, and it’s beautifully illustrated in the Bible.
**1. Galatians 2:20** – “I am crucified with Christ: nevertheless I live; yet not I, but Christ liveth in me: and the life which I now live in the flesh I live by the faith of the Son of God, who loved me, and gave himself for me.”
This verse from Galatians reminds us that through Christ’s presence in our lives, we are connected to God in a deeply intimate way. It’s not just about avoiding hell but living in the realization of Christ’s love.
**2. John 15:4-5** – “Abide in me, and I in you. As the branch cannot bear fruit of itself, except it abide in the vine; no more can ye, except ye abide in me. I am the vine, ye are the branches: He that abideth in me, and I in him, the same bringeth forth much fruit: for without me ye can do nothing.”
In this passage, Jesus emphasizes the concept of abiding in Him. This is the essence of being connected to God. Our lives are not just about escaping hell but about bearing fruit through our connection with Christ.
**3. John 17:21** – “That they all may be one; as thou, Father, art in me, and I in thee, that they also may be one in us: that the world may believe that thou hast sent me.”
In His prayer, Jesus expresses His desire for believers to be one with Him and the Father. This unity is the ultimate goal of our faith, far surpassing the fear of hell.
**4. Colossians 3:1-2** – “If ye then be risen with Christ, seek those things which are above, where Christ sitteth on the right hand of God. Set your affection on things above, not on things on the earth.”
These verses in Colossians remind us that our focus should be on the heavenly things, not just avoiding hell on earth. It’s about setting our hearts on Christ and being connected to God’s heavenly perspective.
**5. Romans 8:9-10** – “But ye are not in the flesh, but in the Spirit if so be that the Spirit of God dwell in you. Now if any man have not the Spirit of Christ, he is none of his. And if Christ be in you, the body is dead because of sin, but the Spirit is life because of righteousness.”
This passage from Romans reinforces the idea that our true identity is in the Spirit of Christ dwelling in us. It’s a reminder that our primary focus is the transformation of our lives through this divine connection.
**6. 1 Corinthians 6:17** – “But he that is joined unto the Lord is one spirit.”
This verse highlights the unity between believers and the Lord. It’s about being connected to God in such a way that we become one in spirit, transcending the fear of hell and focusing on this divine union.
**7. 2 Corinthians 13:5** – “Examine yourselves, whether ye be in the faith; prove your own selves. Know ye not your own selves, how that Jesus Christ is in you, except ye be reprobates?”
Paul encourages believers to examine their faith. The presence of Christ within us is the proof of our faith, a deeper and more meaningful assurance than merely avoiding hell.
**8. Colossians 1:27** – “To whom God would make known what is the riches of the glory of this mystery among the Gentiles; which is Christ in you, the hope of glory.”
This verse beautifully underscores the mystery of Christ living in us, offering us the hope of glory. It’s about being connected to God in a way that fills us with His glory and purpose.
In sum, our faith journey is more than a fear of hell or an aspiration for salvation. It’s a journey of profound connection with God through the presence of Christ in our lives. These scriptures remind us that this connection transforms us, unites us with the divine, and offers a hope and glory that surpass earthly concerns. It’s not just about avoiding hell; it’s about living a life fully connected to God through Christ.