Sermon Central
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No Shortcut To Heaven
Contributed by Rev. Samuel Arimoro on Jul 17, 2025 (message contributor)
Summary: The shortcut many seek often ends in destruction. Therefore, every believer must understand that eternal life is accessed through the prescribed path of holiness, truth, and unwavering faith in Christ.
NO SHORTCUT TO HEAVEN
By Rev. Samuel Arimoro
Main Text: Matthew 7:13-14
Supporting Texts: John 14:6, Hebrews 12:14, 2 Timothy 2:19, Revelation 21:27, Romans 2:6-8
INTRODUCTION:
In a world driven by shortcuts, rapid results, and instant gratification, many are tempted to carry this same mindset into their spiritual journey. The desire to reach the glorious end of heaven without enduring the cross of discipleship, sanctification, and obedience has led many astray. But God has not designed multiple routes to eternal life. There is no express lane or alternative path to glory. Jesus Christ, through His teachings and sacrifice, has clearly shown that heaven is a prepared place for a prepared people.
The path to heaven is not paved with ease but with righteousness, endurance, and faithfulness. In Matthew 7:13-14, Jesus speaks of the narrow gate and the difficult way which leads to life. This reveals that the journey to heaven demands discipline, devotion, and total surrender to God’s will. The shortcut many seek often ends in destruction. Therefore, every believer must understand that eternal life is accessed through the prescribed path of holiness, truth, and unwavering faith in Christ.
Let us examine the reasons why there can be no shortcut to heaven and what God expects of us as pilgrims on this narrow road.
1. HEAVEN IS A PLACE OF HOLINESS AND RIGHTEOUSNESS
a) God’s Standard Cannot Be Lowered
Heaven is the throne of a holy God, and He cannot allow sin or compromise into His presence (Habakkuk 1:13).
b) Sin Separates, Holiness Connects
No one can approach God without holiness. It is the bridge that links humanity to divinity (Hebrews 12:14).
c) Grace Empowers, Not Excuses
Grace is not a licence to sin, but the divine help to live above sin and walk righteously (Titus 2:11-12).
d) Heaven is Reserved for Overcomers
The crown of life is promised only to those who overcome sin, self, and Satan (Revelation 2:10).
Biblical Example: The rich young ruler in Matthew 19:16-22 sought eternal life but was unwilling to pay the price of total surrender. His love for possessions hindered his journey.
2. JESUS IS THE ONLY WAY TO THE FATHER
a) No Alternative Route Exists
Jesus did not say He is a way, but the way (John 14:6). No religious works, human ideologies, or spiritual shortcuts can bypass Him.
b) The Cross is Non-Negotiable
To follow Jesus, we must carry our cross—sacrificing worldly pleasures and embracing divine values (Luke 9:23).
c) Salvation Demands a New Birth
Being born again is not optional but a prerequisite for entering heaven (John 3:3-5).
d) Confession Without Conversion is Futile
Calling Jesus “Lord” without obeying Him is a false foundation (Matthew 7:21-23).
Biblical Example: In John 10:1, Jesus warns about thieves who try to enter the sheepfold by another way—they are rejected.
3. GOD REWARDS ACCORDING TO OUR DEEDS
a) Every Step Counts in Eternity
God records our works and will judge every man according to what he has done (Revelation 22:12).
b) Faithfulness Till the End is Required
It is not how you start but how you finish that determines your place in eternity (Matthew 24:13).
c) There is No Reward for Shortcut Christianity
The Christian journey is a marathon, not a sprint. Perseverance is key (2 Timothy 4:7-8).
d) Partial Obedience is Disobedience
Saul lost his throne because he obeyed God partially (1 Samuel 15:22-23).
Biblical Example: The five foolish virgins in Matthew 25:1-13 missed heaven because they were not prepared—even though they waited.
4. THE BROAD WAY LEADS TO DESTRUCTION
a) The Crowd is Not Always Right
Many people are walking the wrong path because it is popular and convenient (Proverbs 14:12).
b) Entertainment Over Edification is Dangerous
Many prefer churches that tickle their ears, not ones that teach truth (2 Timothy 4:3-4).
c) The Devil Markets Shortcuts
He offered Jesus a shortcut to glory (Matthew 4:8-10) but was rejected.
d) Ease Today May Cost Eternity Tomorrow
Comfort-driven Christianity is often cross-less and Christ-less.
Biblical Example: Demas, who once followed Paul, forsook the faith for the pleasures of the world (2 Timothy 4:10).
5. ONLY THE PREPARED WILL ENTER HEAVEN
a) Heaven is a Prepared Place
Jesus said, “I go to prepare a place...” (John 14:2), but it is for prepared people.
b) Spiritual Readiness is Required
Like the Israelites had to be sanctified before meeting God (Exodus 19:10-11), so must we.
c) Lukewarmness is Rejected
God detests half-heartedness and will spew the lukewarm out (Revelation 3:15-16).
d) Our Lamps Must Be Burning
Constant fellowship with the Holy Spirit keeps our spiritual lamps lit (Luke 12:35-36).
Biblical Example: Enoch walked with God consistently and was taken—because he pleased God (Genesis 5:24, Hebrews 11:5).
CONCLUSION:
There is no shortcut to heaven. It is a narrow way that demands focus, discipline, consecration, and a daily walk with the Lord. Anything that promises heaven without transformation, submission to Christ, and a holy life is a deception. Eternal life is a reward for those who embrace the cross, run the race with patience, and finish strong in Christ.
