One Final Warning

"Not everyone who says to me, 'Lord, Lord,' will enter into the kingdom of heaven — only the one who does the will of my Father in heaven. On that day, many will say to me, 'Lord, Lord, didn't we prophesy in your name, and in your name cast out demons and do many powerful deeds?' Then I will declare to them, 'I never knew you. Go away from me, you lawbreakers!'"

— Matthew 7:21–23 (NET)

"Many" will stand before Jesus expecting to enter heaven.

They'll point to their religious activity: "Lord, we prophesied! We cast out demons! We did mighty works!"

Jesus will say: "I never knew you."

Not: "I knew you, but you failed." (There's grace for failure.)

But: "I NEVER knew you." (There was never a relationship.)

Don't be one of them.

Don't assume you're fine because you:

• Go to church
• Believe the right doctrines
• Pray before meals
• Give to charity
• Have Christian friends

Examine yourself. Test yourself. Make your calling and election sure (2 Peter 1:10).

Have you been born again?

If not, today is the day. Don't wait. You're not guaranteed tomorrow.

If yes, rejoice. And press on toward the goal (Philippians 3:14).

Now that you understand who Jesus is (Part 1) and how to enter relationship with Him, you're ready for Part 2: What Jesus Commands.

These commands are for disciples — those who've been born again.

If you're born again, these commands are life to you.

If you're not born again, these commands will crush you (as they should — the Law reveals your need for grace).

Either way, proceed. Read Part 2. Let God's Word search your heart.

And may the Spirit give you ears to hear.