Jesus once said, “Not everyone who says to me, ‘Lord, Lord,’ will enter the kingdom of heaven, but only the one who does the will of my Father who is in heaven.” (Matthew 7:21) The truth of this statement is very clear. It defines a relationship we may have with the great God of heaven and informs us on what basis we may hope to enter heaven with Him. Jesus simply says we must do God’s will to enter the kingdom of heaven.
There is only one God, and there is no other. Long ago Paul the apostle introduced the people of Athens to the true God in this way: “The God who made the world and everything in it is the Lord of heaven and earth and does not live in temples built by human hands.” (Acts 17:24).
Where are we in relation to the Creator and sustainer of all life? We are His created beings, made in His spiritual and moral image. We are dependent upon Him and accountable to Him. The creation cannot make demands upon the Creator; we can only approach Him on the terms and conditions He desires.
Are we mindful of God’s will? In the next verse Jesus foresees the following situation: “Many will say to me on that day, ‘Lord, Lord, did we not prophesy in your name and in your name drive out demons and in your name perform many miracles?” (Matthew 7:22) This sounds like many modern-day claims, doesn’t it? Jesus continues, “Then I will tell them plainly, ‘I never knew you. Away from me, you evildoers!’” (Matthew 7:23)
You and I must become serious about learning and doing God’s will as revealed in His Word. If you’re ready, we are offering a free Bible course to help you get started.
FREE BIBLE COURSE
Call 267-453-8787 or write to Philly Bible Study, PO Box 24038, Philadelphia, PA 19139. The course is also available online at www.PhillyBibleStudy.org/jesus-the-way.