Romans 3:23 For all have sinned, and come short of the glory of God;

Here is an interesting Gospel magic trick you can use.

Which Way? A Sermon In Science

Effect: An arrow that is clearly pointing one way is seen to instantly, and visibly change direction.

Props: A sign depicting HEAVEN, a sign
depicting HELL, a picture of a large arrow, a clear
water glass, pitcher of water.

Note: The glass should be made of glass, and not plastic.

Performance: As Christians, we believe that there is an ultimate goal, or direction for our lives. It is an eternity spent in Heaven, with our Lord. However, as you will see by looking at our display, there is a built-in problem with our being able to reach that goal. You see, we all have sin in our lives (Rom 3:23), and that sin prevents us from heading in a direction toward
Heaven, and actually steers us toward Hell!

Let me demonstrate what happens to a person's life, the moment he or she
believes on Jesus for the forgiveness of sin.

Place the glass in front of the arrow, and you can still clearly see that the arrow points toward the sign marked HELL.

Our lives are to be as vessels, willing and able to hold whatever we put into them. Looking at our example, it would appear that no matter how "clean and clear" our lives appear to be, without the Lord Jesus, we are not only empty inside, but we are headed for an eternity in Hell, apart from Christ.

Let's suggest, just for a moment, however, that the water in this glass (hold up glass of water) represents the Word of God. We know from John 1:1 ”In the beginning was the Word, and the Word was with God, and the Word was God.”

In other words, when we refer to the Word, we are also referencing Jesus Christ Himself.

And let's take a look at what happens when we allow the Word, (or Jesus) to come into our lives by believing on Him to forgive our sins, and change our eternal destination.

(Pour the glass of water into the first glass and watch as before your very eyes, the direction of the arrow appears to change, to point toward HEAVEN!

What this little illusion is showing us is a truth that can change our very lives for an eternity! If we would only believe on the Lord to forgive us of our sins, He is faithful and just to do just that!

And the change in our eternal destination is an instant thing! When
Christ is in us, and we are in Him, we are on our way to Heaven. and that is a truth worth shouting about!

Additional Note: This little illusion is an illusion for the eyes, but it is also a scientific principle in action - that of "refraction". Refraction is what happens when light is "bent" through a lens of some sort. and just
such a lens is created when we add the water to the clear glass. Have fun with this not only can you show the audience a nifty little science lesson, but you can share the truth that is capable of changing their lives for an eternity!

The author, Dennis Regling, is available to perform children and youth programs at your church or event.