In 1912, over 2,000 people set sail on the maiden voyage of the Titanic from Cork to New York. No doubt they felt safe, and confident of arriving safely, in such a wonderful vessel. But, most of them did not make it! Many perished, because the Titanic sank after it struck an iceberg.
Do you know what would be better to have than a wonderful and attractive vessel? If only you could have a vessel that would guarantee safe arrival on the other side!
Today we hear about a guaranteed journey; but you will also hear how it is possible for you to have the guarantee of getting to Heaven.
Paul was travelling in a sailing ship with 275 other people through a terrible storm. It had kept howling for over two weeks. At last, they came in sight of land. The sailors did not recognise the coast, “but they saw a bay with a sandy beach where they decided to run the ship aground if they could.” (verse 39.) They had lost all confidence in the ship being able to deliver them safely to their destination.
Perhaps in your journey through life you are often wondering will you arrive at the final destination you hope for. According to the teachings of Jesus, and His apostles, there are only two possible places you can arrive at; either Heaven or Hell. (2ndTimothy 4:18. Matthew 25:41.)
Most people are thinking their religion is the “vessel” for getting them to Heaven - but there are MANY religions, and no two of them agree, yet they all say that they are right! You see, there IS something more important than to be in a wonderful and attractive religion!
God had told Paul that they would “run aground on some island." (Acts 27:26.) So, the sailors "hoisted the foresail to the wind and made for the beach.” (verse 40.)
Even sooner than they expected, their ship “struck a sand-bar and ran aground” and soon “was broken to pieces by the pounding of the surf." (verse 41.)
The centurion “ordered those who could swim to jump overboard first, and get to land … the rest were to get there on planks or on pieces of the ship. In this way everyone reached land in safety.” (verses 43-44.)
You see, having a promise of God, and believing it, had given them hope and assurance, when all other hope had failed.
But what about you and me, on the journey of life? God has promised that only those who will put their hope and trust in Jesus Christ, God’s Son, as their Saviour, will be sure of Heaven. (John 14:1-6. Acts 26:18.) So, don't think your safety and certainty depends on some wonderful “vessel”, such as a popular or attractive religion, or your own abilities and achievement. These are all doomed to fail, and let you down. ONLY JESUS CHRIST CAN BRING YOU TO GOD. (1stPeter 3:18. 1stTimothy 2:5-6.)
Read Acts chapter 27, verses 39-44.
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