It is a question asked throughout the ages. Everyone has an ingrained wonder about what happens when we die. Though some choose not to admit it, all have an innate sense that there is an afterlife, and indeed, short of denial, everyone of us knows instinctively there is a heaven and a hell. Every person will spend eternity in one of those two places.

People have a longing to know how to be saved from hell’s wrath and have eternal life in heaven. Sure, some will snicker and sneer, and will even vow to “live like the devil” while mocking the reality of hell. They have absolutely no idea how devastatingly “final” hell really is, or how long eternity is. Imagine burning in hell’s eternal fire and darkness…forever and ever, without relief.

Thus, “What must I do to be saved?” is perhaps the wisest question a person can ask, because it points us toward heaven. However, most who ask the question are looking for something to do that will get them there. Yet, it is not at all about what we do or how good we are. Let’s look at two Biblical examples of those who asked how to be saved:

First, in John 3, we find Nicodemus, a well-respected religious leader, coming to Jesus at night (so as not to be seen) to ask that very question. Jesus explained that he must be “born again,” yet Nicodemus couldn’t understand how a grown man could re-enter the womb. Patiently, Jesus explained, including this statement that has become known around the world:

 For God so loved the world that He gave His only begotten Son, that whoever believes in Him should not perish but have everlasting life.

~John 3:16

The entire passage (John 3:1-21) is an incredible conversation that should be read by every person asking, “What must I do to be saved?”

A second great example is found in Acts 16:25-34. On a missionary journey, the apostle Paul and his sidekick, Silas, find themselves imprisoned for boldly freeing a young girl possessed by an evil spirit. While in prison, they prayed and sang hymns to God. In the midst of their worship, an earthquake shook the prison, chains were broken and doors were knocked down. The jailer, knowing what trouble he faced if prisoners escaped, was about to fall on his sword. Yet Paul stopped him, assuring him all the prisoners were still there! Paul saved the jailer’s life!

Seeing the miracle, the jailer asked Paul, “What must I do to be saved?” Paul’s response:

“Believe on the Lord Jesus Christ, and you will be saved, you and your household.”

~Acts 16:31

Need a modern day answer to the question? Try this:

Just as the religious leader could not “do enough” to save himself, nor was the jailer worthy of salvation, neither are we! It is by God’s grace we are saved, and it happens when we believe on the Lord Jesus Christ, the One who gave His life for the entire world, that we should have everlasting life!

, If you are asking, “What must I do to be saved,” you are asking the most important question ever! Here is help: