I think it's okay for an atheist to not go to heaven, if it turned out he's wrong and there's indeed heaven. But I do believe he shouldn't be punished (cast down in hell) for it. That would be unfair.
You have a point again sir. However, kung hindi sa heaven saan siya pupunta?
I'm not sure kasi if there's such thing as a neutral place.
Alam ko, basically there's also a way for an atheist to be in heaven. I forgot the verse pero AFAIK, the atheist or non-believer will be judged according to his actions.
Ang problem lang dun, no human being is perfect. Meaning each one of us definitely have and always commits a sin at least everyday. So without forgiveness of said sins, paano na?
Actually that is the reason why Jesus was sent to us. To forgive our sins. God (as from the very word itself) is a perfect being. In order for us to be with Him in heaven, we should be sinless. Parang government, kapag may sala, may punishment. Let's exclude Philippines muna. Hehe! Hindi pwedeng walang punishment.
But, since God knows that hindi natin kayang maging sinless, God sent Jesus to atone for our sins. That's how God loves us. Sa court of law, when you are punished, kulong or death penalty. Now if you have a son who committed a crime, if asked by the court kung payag ka na palit kayo ng anak mo. Ikaw ang kulong ms death sentence, ang anak mo, laya na. Im sure payag ka because of your unconditional love for your son. Same applies with God and Jesus Christ.
Why do we need atonement? Payment for our sins. Meaning we need not suffer the punishment (call it hell or whatever) as long as we believe and trust that Jesus Christ died for our sins because Christ is perfect. Only a perfect Being can offer a perfect sacrifice (Himself) to a perfect God.
Kaya the resurrection is also very important. If Christ did not resurrect, that means He has no power over death, and over our sins. And everything will be in vain.
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