Of course God wants us to strive for integrity.. And the scriptures makes it clear that in eternity there will be some called greater and some called least in the Kingdom of God.. Also in a number of the parables of Jesus it shows that some will receive greater reward and some lesser, So if you have been taught that all in heaven will have equal merit, then i believe you have been mislead by a false doctrine..

Also no one Redeems themselves.... It is the LORD Jesus that Redeems those who believe Him and Trust in the Way He Redeems them..

The greater and the lesser in the eternal kingdom of God is determined ( as far as scripture has indicated ) on the amount of Works each individual follower of the LORD Jesus has done during their times on earth..

As for as sin is concerned if one believes Jesus and Trusts in Him all their sins will be wiped and forgotten by God.. No matter if they where a Chief sinner or a minor sinner.. Both will end up being equal in that regard before the LORD..

The difference will be the treasures people have built up in heaven.. That being instances of Love, caring, Charity, prayers and sharing the Message of God to other human beings during their times on earth..