A simple confession of faith is necessary, but is not sufficient to have a spirit resurrection. The saints, also called the body of Christ or the Little Flock, have covenanted with God through the blood of Jesus to sacrifice their wills to obey God’s will. Psalm 50:5, 14 (NKJV), 5 “Gather My saints together to Me, Those who have made a covenant with Me by sacrifice. … 14 Offer to God thanksgiving, And pay your vows to the Most High.” 

Jesus taught, “If anyone desires to come after Me, let him deny himself, and take up his cross daily, and follow Me.” Luke 9:23 (NKJV)   In the Garden of Gethsemane, Jesus prayed, “O My Father, if it is possible, let this cup pass from Me; nevertheless, not as I will, but as You will.” Matthew 26:39 (NKJV).

Many believe that once they believe in Jesus, they are guaranteed God’s blessings in this life and in heaven – no matter how they live. However, a heavenly resurrection is a reward for faithful obedience. “Be thou faithful unto death and I will give thee a crown of life.” Revelation 2:10.  

“But he who endures to the end shall be saved.” Matthew 24:13 (NKJV)

“Blessed is the man who endures temptation; for when he has been approved, he will receive the crown of life which the Lord has promised to those who love Him.” James 1:12 (NKJV)

Does this mean a person who loves Jesus and tries to live righteously as a natural man is lost? No. Jesus’ death ransomed all mankind. 1 Timothy 2:6 (NKJV), “who gave Himself a ransom for all, to be testified in due time…” 

Everyone will be resurrected (either in heaven or on earth). During Christ’s reign on earth, the willing of mankind will be restored to perfect health, and learn righteousness. All that was lost when Adam sinned will be restored to those who will obey God’s righteous law of love. Acts 3:20-21, 24 (NKJV), “and that He may send Jesus Christ, who was preached to you before, whom heaven must receive until the times of restoration of all things, which God has spoken by the mouth of all His holy prophets since the world began … Yes, and all the prophets, from Samuel and those who follow, as many as have spoken, have also foretold these days.”

Isaiah 35:10 (NKJV), “And the ransomed (all mankind) of the LORD shall return, And come to Zion with singing, With everlasting joy on their heads. They shall obtain joy and gladness, And sorrow and sighing shall flee away.”