The Key To Heaven | Object Lesson

Note:
A magic change bag is a classic prop used in magic tricks to make objects appear, disappear, or transform. It looks like an ordinary bag, often with a handle, but it has a hidden mechanism that allows the magician to control its contents.

Here’s how it works: The bag typically has two compartments separated by a hidden flap or divider. By manipulating the handle or turning the bag a certain way, the magician can switch between the compartments without the audience noticing. This makes it possible to “magically” make items vanish, appear, or change into something else.

Setup:
Place all the keys that do not work into one side of the magic change bag and put the working good key on the other side of the bag.

Lesson:
Begin the lesson by holding up the padlock and the change bag with the keys. Tell the class that today’s lesson is about exploring ways people try to “unlock” heaven. Each key in the bag represents a common way people believe they can get to heaven.

Invite the students to take turns drawing a key from the side of the change bag that has the WRONG KEYS. For each key, share an example of a way people think they can earn a place in heaven. Then, attempt to use the key to unlock the padlock. Use the following examples to guide your explanations:

Good Works: Some people believe that being kind and doing good deeds is enough to earn heaven. While good works are important (faith without works is dead, James 2:17), they cannot save us by themselves. Test the key—it doesn’t work.

Going to Church Occasionally: Others think attending church on special occasions, like Christmas or Easter, is all it takes. Attending church is good, but it’s not the key to salvation. Test the key—it doesn’t work.

Wealth or Generosity: Many assume giving money to the church or to charities will secure a place in heaven. Generosity is wonderful, but salvation cannot be bought. Test the key—it doesn’t work.

Belief Without Action: Simply believing in God, without obedience or transformation, isn’t enough. Even demons believe in God and tremble (James 2:19). Test the key—it doesn’t work.

Popularity or Influence: Fame or popularity might open doors here on Earth, but it has no value in heaven. Test the key—it doesn’t work.

Being a “Good Person”: Many believe that living morally or avoiding major sins is sufficient. However, salvation isn’t about being “good enough.” Test the key—it doesn’t work.

The CORRECT Key: Finally, switch the change bag to the other side and have someone pull the correct key and explain its meaning. Share Acts 2:38: “Repent, and be baptized every one of you in the name of Jesus Christ for the remission of sins, and ye shall receive the gift of the Holy Ghost.”

Explain that this is God’s plan of salvation! Use the correct key to unlock the padlock, showing how only God’s plan can open the “door” to heaven.

End by reminding the class that while good works, attending church, and living morally are important, they are not the key to salvation. True salvation comes through obedience to God’s Word.