Do you find the words of Jesus somewhat frighting concerning eternity?    Jesus’ words make it clear; it’s not just what you say.  Not everyone who calls Him Lord will enter into the kingdom.  In a panic on that day people will exclaim, “Look what we did by your name……… casting out demons, preaching, and many  wonderful things.”   Then Jesus will tell them, ” I don’t even know you, leave me, you’ve not practiced  my word”. ( verses 22-23 paraphrased)  Jesus goes on to explain, ” It’s the one who does the will of the Father that will enter into the kingdom”.

    1. When we hear the words of Christ and live by them, we are doing the will of God.  But be doers of the word, and not hearers only, deceiving yourselves. James1:22 ESV ….  If anyone thinks he is religious and does not bridle his tongue but deceives his heart, this person’s religion is worthless.  Religion that is pure and undefiled before God , the Father, is this: to visit orphans and widows in their affliction, and to keep oneself unstained from the world. James 1: 26-27   It’s not what words you use; it’s the life you live.  Living in truth is reflecting the walk we have with Christ and not just talking about it.    You  may be able to repeat what  you’ve heard, but do you live what you’ve learned?

     2. Living in God’s will is living in obedience to His word.  Has the Lord as great a delight in burnt offerings and sacrifices, as in obeying the voice of the Lord?  Behold, to obey is better than sacrifice, and to listen than the fat of rams.  1 Samuel 15:22 ESV ….  I appeal to you therefore, brothers, by the mercies of God, to present your bodies as living sacrifices, holy and acceptable to God, which is your spiritual worship. Romans 12:1 ESV

      3. When you live a life based on the word you will have kingdom purpose.  But he said to them,“I must preach the good news of the kingdom of God to the other towns as well; for I was sent for this purpose.” Luke 4:43 ESV …… Go therefore and make disciples of all nations, baptizing them in the name of the Father and of the Son and of the Holy Spirit. Matthew 28:19 ESV   

      4. This is purpose that supersedes your own desires leading you deeper into the word building upon a solid foundation that will stand the test of time. Jesus said explained it like this.  Why do you call me’Lord,Lord,’ and not do what I tell you? Everyone who comes to me and hears my words and does them, I will show you what he is like: he is like a man building a house, who dug deep and laid the foundation on the rock.  And when a flood arose, the stream broke against that house and could not shake it, because it had been well built. Luke 6:46-48 ESV  Life that is lived in this fashion will have both kingdom purpose and eternal value.  This life will be living out the will of God.

Because of His Grace~Pastor David