A few Sundays ago, my oldest son and I were having a conversation about how mean and evil some people can be, yet they think they are untouchable. Hence, he gave the above title
to me for a sermonette, and as you can see, I did not hesitate
to use it! There are some people who think that because they are
‘up’ in this world, they must automatically be headed ‘up’
in the next one. Because they have money, influence, a certain
last name, a big title, or a reserved seat in the church, they assume Heaven has already cleared a place for them. However, earthly status is not the same as spiritual standing. Just because you’re ‘up’ down here does not mean you’re going ‘up’ there!
Some people believe they can buy respect, influence, and even buy their way into God’s favor. They give “big money” in the church, want their names on everything, and expect special treatment. Yet, at the same time, they remain mean, arrogant, dishonest, divisive, and downright diabolical in their ways. They mistreat people Monday
through Saturday, and then walk into church on Sunday
as if they own a front-row seat in Glory, but God is not
impressed by what impresses people!
The Bible says in 1 Samuel 16:7, ESV: “For the Lord sees not as man sees: man looks on the outward appearance, but the Lord looks on the heart.” People may be dazzled by outward success, but God examines the heart. He sees pride hidden behind a smile, hatred hidden behind a handshake, and wickedness hidden behind a large
offering envelope. That is why Proverbs 24:19–20, ESV warns us: “Fret not yourself because of evildoers, and be not envious of the wicked, for the evil man has no future; the lamp of the wicked will be put out.” In other words, do not be fooled by the temporary rise of wicked people. They may be ‘up’ now, but if they do not repent, they are not going ‘up.’ Their social ladder may be tall, but it does not reach Heaven!
Jesus made it plain in John 3:3, ESV: “Truly, truly, I say to you, unless one is born again he cannot see the kingdom of God.” Notice Jesus did not say unless one is rich, famous, connected, or generous with money. He said, ‘born again.’ Getting to Heaven requires repentance, faith in Christ, obedience to God, and a heart that has truly been
changed.
Galatians 6:7, ESV reminds us: “Do not be deceived: God is not mocked, for whatever one sows, that will he also reap.” You cannot sow cruelty and reap eternal joy. You cannot sow pride and reap peace. You cannot live like the devil and expect angels to escort you ‘Up’! What really takes a person to Heaven is not social status, but salvation; not big money, but a born-again life; not appearance, but
obedience; not church recognition, but a relationship with Jesus Christ. Everyone, please hear this truth loud and clear: “Just because you’re ‘up’ doesn’t mean you’re going ‘up’! Always abound in the faith, and never leave home without Him!
