That has always been a curious question, though. Is there a cutoff for when the opportunity for salvation can be lost? Is there a way to determine the chances of someone to achieve salvation based on the numerous scenarios on offer? Is it possible to improve your odds by dying young, or unexpectedly?
The ambiguity keeps true believers from wanting to stray. But the alternatives make a common mistake- assuming that god is so bound by rules that we can find loopholes to salvation. While there is some merit to the discussion of certain actions --if a parent murders their children to guarantee their salvation at the cost of their own, is that a selfless act?-- it's a very slippery slope to dance upon if we assume that god, who sits outside of the rules, can be coerced into following them. Remember... there are no lawyers in heaven.