If you ask someone what one must do to go to heaven, the common response is 'be a good person'.
Most (if not all) world religions teach that a man's destination after death is based on his obedience to specific rules of conduct in this life. Whether it’s Islam, Judaism, Hinduism, or Buddhism ... views on a rewarding afterlife have to do with a man's worthiness.
Christianity stands alone. It does not accept altruistic acts of kindness or obedience to church doctrine as keys to heaven.
No one can save themselves from the consequences of iniquity ... for all have sinned and fallen short of the glory of God. (Romans 3:23)
Since salvation is based on 'perfection' and not 'goodness', the Lord put His divine plan into action. He sent His Son to fulfill the demands of the Law on your behalf and be the Unblemished ... Perfect ... Sacrificial Lamb of God.
God demonstrates His love toward us, in that while we were still sinners, Christ died for us. Romans 5:8
This is the profound truth that separates Christianity from every other religion.
For He made Him who knew no sin to be sin for us, that we might become the righteousness of God in Him. 2 Corinthians 5:21
'Good' is simply not 'good enough'. According to Scripture, there is not enough 'good' in you to outweigh the damage caused by even one sin. Life isn't judged by a morality scale ... i.e. good vs bad. You are completely undone in God's eyes and must be rescued by receiving His offer of forgiveness by grace through faith ...
The wages of sin is death, but the gift of God is eternal life in Christ Jesus our Lord. Romans 6:23
So the question is not 'Am I a good person'?, but ... 'Am I perfect'? If answered honestly, your need for the Savior is obvious.
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