[Mark17]

I believe there will be MANY folks, like the thief on the cross, that have/will make a decision for Christ at the last moment of their life. And I suspect we will be pleasantly surprised when we get to Heaven by how many make it.

That may be true, but waiting till the end of one's life to get saved, can be hazardous to one's spiritual health. Since none of us are guaranteed our next breath, many might die suddenly, before they can get saved, so it's best not to wait till death's door.

[Zuriel]

**many might die suddenly**

Many DO die suddenly. My brother, a long time cop, has come upon many a traffic accident, where in some cases, the victim barely knew what hit him/her.

[Kandy Atz]

I agree. The point was God’s mercy. He wants everyone saved. When this subject comes up, its good to keep His Love in mind. He is not sitting in Heaven with a giant fly swatter waiting to slap the Holy heck out of someone who slips up.

Most works-based religions want you to always be in doubt as to your standing in Christ. That’s how they keep you trapped, and prevent you from maturing in Christ. Its also how they discourage unbelievers from approaching God, making Him seem too hard, too distant, and impossible to please.

I have known some really tough cases where people have resisted God for years. But through the faith and prayers of their family and friends, the Holy Spirit would reach them at the end, and they would finally believe. Its not the ideal, but so much better than eternity without God. On a personal note, long after my Mother died, I was still witnessing answers to her prayers along these same lines. God is so very GOOD.

[imardmd1]

That may be true, but waiting till the end of one's life to get saved, can be hazardous to one's spiritual health.

Yep,

Old geezer being examined by Deacon Board toward becoming a member of a local church:

Deacon 1: "We're looking here at your application, but we just need to check a couple of points on your faith. Are you saved?"

Old geezer: "Yep, I am!"

Deacon 2: "Sir, how long have you been saved?"

Old geezer:: "'Bout sixty-three years, come next month!"

Deacon 3: "Do you think you could ever have lost your salvation?"

Old geezer: "Nope! Never!"

Deacon 4: "How can you be so certain on that you still have your salvation?"

Old geezer: "'Cuz I done my part of it, and God's done His part."

Deacon 5: "What do you mean, that you've done your part?"

Old geezer: "Wal, I done all the sinnin', and God's done all the savin', that's what!"

(End of interview, unanimously recommended)