IN THEORY:How faith can sustain life on Earth

If we strive toward a global approach of understanding and respecting one another ? if we work to convert our weapons of destruction into creative tools to benefit all mankind ? then humanity will not only survive on planet earth, but will thrive and achieve greatness.

RABBI SIMCHA BACKMAN

Chabad Jewish Center

God created the human race for His glory. It is He who will sustain us.

He alone is in control of history and of our destiny.

God has already revealed the ultimate fate of humanity. Those who have faith in His Son's death, burial and resurrection will enjoy eternity with Him.

Those who don't will be eternally separated from Him in what the Bible describes as "the lake of fire," "outer darkness" and "weeping and gnashing of teeth." Jesus Christ will return to usher in this eternal state. Mankind can do nothing to change this divinely predetermined set of events.

Yet God also tells us that our behavior affects our welfare.

Before He led Israel into Canaan, He told His people: "I have set before you life and death, the blessing and the curse. So choose life in order that you may live, you and your descendants" (Deuteronomy 30:19).

Jesus Christ said, "I am the life." So, according to what God has revealed, to choose life and blessing, both in this life and eternally, we must choose to follow Jesus Christ.

PASTOR JON BARTA

Valley Baptist Church

Burbank

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