Nearly 45 years ago, I was privileged to visit Germany representing the Virginia Association of Future Farmers of America. I and some others visited International Green Week Agricultural Exhibition in Berlin and did some touring as well. At that time, the country was still divided and we slipped behind the Iron Curtain through Checkpoint Charlie to visit East Berlin. It was a very sobering experience with heavily armed guards, watchtowers, landmines and other measures deployed by the Communists to ensure none of their own escaped. What a thrill it was to see that wall crumble in 1989 bringing freedom to millions!
When we went into East Germany, however, we had to exchange some of our US dollars for East German marks. Since we visited a few stores on the other side, we needed the proper money to buy our items and I still have some unspent Ostmarks.
Most tourists are familiar with exchanging currency when entering a country outside the United States. Although many nations will accept our dollars, it’s a show of respect to use Roman coins when in Rome. So what is the currency of heaven? If we are to enter that beautiful city, what type of money is required, and since the Kingdom of God already exists wherever Jesus is recognized as King, what medium of exchange is used?
Many mistakenly believe that good works will purchase their entrance into this grand paradise, but the Bible is clear that these are not legal tender. Isaiah 64:6 tells us that all our good deeds are like filthy rags in God’s sight because even our best acts are contaminated by sinful motives and thoughts. Several New Testament passages also clearly state that our salvation is not acquired through our works or even by perfectly keeping a moral code.
Sadly, some believe they can buy their way into God’s favor with material wealth. This too falls woefully short for God already owns everything and needs nothing. All our bitcoins, real estate, stocks, and cash are not exchangeable in heaven as God expects us to use them here to glorify Him and to help others. Still others falsely think that being baptized and/or joining a church will buy them a ticket to eternal life. While these are important steps of obedience for every believer, none of them gain automatic entry into heaven.
Thankfully, the Bible is not silent nor unclear on this issue. Ephesians 2:8-9 tells us that, “It is by grace you have been saved, through faith — and this not from yourselves, it is the gift of God—not by works, so that no one can boast.” The currency of our redemption is our faith which God exchanges for His saving grace. Romans 4:3 echoes this same truth where it says, “Abraham believed God, and it was credited to him as righteousness.” It was not Abraham’s good works nor his perfect life, for he was far from perfect. It was his faith and trust in believing that God would do what He had promised.
Since God’s Kingdom has never been overthrown, nor shall it ever be, the currency of His Kingdom has not and will not change. Just as faith was required for Abraham 3900 years ago, it is still what God accepts from us today. It’s not in keeping ancient traditions or even being nice to everyone. It’s by His extravagant grace through our meager faith. Hebrews 11:6 assures us that, “Without faith it is impossible to please God, because anyone who comes to Him must believe that He exists and that He rewards those who earnestly seek Him.”
So while our love for Jesus should result in our obedience after we are saved, it is our faith and trust in His death for our sins that purchases our eternal salvation beforehand. If you have never received this free gift from God, use the currency of your faith to do so today. Blessings, George