The Path to Heaven: Understanding Standards and Guidelines

Many seek to understand how to enter heaven, viewing it as a place of eternal peace and joy. However, the concept of heaven and the path to it varies widely among different beliefs and practices. This article explores the Christian perspective, focusing on the standards set forth by the Bible and further insights from spiritual teachings.

Do Heaven and Hell Exist?

Some believe that heaven does not exist, arguing that most positions have already been filled and questioning the desirability of an afterlife. Others, however, rely on Biblical teachings, which suggest that while heaven exists, it will be a new earth ruled by God’s kingdom. Such a place appeals to those who desire to continue enjoying life as they know it without the constraints of mortality.

Standards for Entering Heaven

A loving God is said to have set certain standards to be met for entry into heaven, ensuring that those who do not live up to these standards would not fit into an advanced society. The criteria for this include standing for what is good and shunning evil. While these standards can vary, they generally encompass recognizing and respecting a Supreme Being and adhering to ethical standards.

Shunning Evil: Characteristics such as cruelty, greed, arrogance, deceit, selfishness, and intemperance are considered forms of evil. Avoiding or eliminating these traits is key to aligning with divine standards.

Living by High Standards: People who live by high enough standards are believed to receive God’s real truths from celestial spirits upon their entry into heaven. This is not limited to belief but rather actions and daily lived values.

Personal Journeys to Heaven

Author and researcher Sharol Cannon, after years of guidance from spiritual beings, provides a detailed summary of the standards and guidance for entering Christ’s kingdom, which is synonymous with heaven.

The journey to heaven is divided into stages, each marked by a certain level of spiritual insight and action. Here’s a breakdown of the stages:

Stage 1 (1-9 points)

People at this stage have a basic desire for something better in life, with a beginning interest in spiritual matters and a belief in a Higher Power. Spiritual matters are still distant and not a focus of immediate interest.

Stage 2 (10-19 points)

At this stage, individuals have a general desire to avoid evil and seek harmony with what is perceived as 'good.' They adhere to ethical standards and begin to perceive a Higher Power more concretely, though it remains remote.

Stage 3 (20-29 points)

People explore spiritual matters more seriously, often involving self-improvement activities. There may be a start in prayer, meditation, or exploring spiritual practices.

Stage 4 (30-39 points)

Active interest in spiritual matters leads individuals to question and search for deeper meaning. They may begin to seek spiritual insight and guidance, even if they haven’t committed to a specific spiritual method.

Stage 5 (40-49 points)

People at this stage become spiritually committed, often to a particular orientation. They seek spiritual inspiration, and some may begin to develop spiritual gifts such as insight or healing. However, personal growth can become arrested here due to complacency or negative choices.

Stage 6 (50-59 points)

People at this stage expand their spiritual horizons, exploring various viewpoints and practices. They share their experiences and begin to discern between positive and negative spiritual manifestations.

Stage 7 (60-69 points)

Focus shifts to direct communication with God, Christ, and celestial spirits. Spiritual gifts may develop further, and individuals must discern between divine and earthly influences.

Stage 8 (70-79 points)

People learn to think independently and consistently apply spiritual lessons. Personal flaws are reduced, and they delve deeper into personal spiritual development.

Stage 9 (80-89 points)

The focus shifts from mundane matters to fostering a deeper connection with God and resisting earthly influences. Personal transformation continues, and the influence of low spirits is diminished.

Stage 10 (90-99 points)

This stage is for mystics and mediums, focusing on almost constant awareness of divine presence and daily battles against negative spiritual forces. It is challenging but highly rewarding.

Freedom Stage (100 points): Consistently living by Christ’s standards, individuals achieve almost complete protection from negative forces and freedom in the service of God.

Conclusion

The journey to heaven is intricate and requires a commitment to living ethically and spiritually. While the standards and stages vary, they all point towards a life of goodness and moral integrity. Trust in your Lord and Savior, Jesus Christ, and follow God’s path as detailed in the Bible and spiritual teachings. This is the path to a heavenly existence.