You say there is a god and I say he does not exist.  Prove to me that God really exists. For some people, all the proof in the world would not be enough evidence to point them to God.  However, God has revealed himself in creation through mankind, the stars, planets and the very order of our universe.  The morality of people also directs us to a Creator in whose image we were made.  Happenstance is not an option in a created order.  To state that God does not exist would mean you have all the evidence in created space and time and came to that conclusion based an unlimited storehouse of knowledge.  The heavens tell of the glory of God. The skies display his marvelous craftsmanship (Psalm 19:1-2).  We do not see God’s hand or foot but we do observe his fingerprint in the lives of people and in creation.

 I pray but never in the name of Jesus.  Does it really make a difference?  Why is it necessary to pray in the name of Jesus?  The death, burial and resurrection of Jesus Christ was all accomplished so all people could be in right relationship with God.  By default, for all those who have everlasting life Jesus is our bridge.  Therefore, the words of Jesus become extremely important to all His believers.  Jesus told his disciples that if you ask anything his my name, I will do it (John 14:14).  It only makes sense that if you pray to God with an expectation of receiving anything from him, you must do it using the authority that was granted all believers.  That authority says we must use Jesus’ name and the result is that God will receive the glory (John 14:13; Philippians 2:11).  If we deny the name of the one who gives us access to God, we deny Him.

Isn’t God simply concerned with the way we treat people in life?  I heard that this is the standard for getting into heaven.  Treating people right is a necessary part of who we are as people and as believers.  When a man asked Jesus what was the greatest commandment he responded by giving two responses.  One was to love the Lord God and the second is to love your neighbor as yourself. So, treating people right is important to God.  However, the standard to which God has given for entering heaven deals with the acceptance of Jesus Christ.  Everlasting life is the result of believing in Christ and but condemnation awaits people who reject God’s gift of salvation.  Jesus is the standard for entering heaven.