“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.”
Does this verse concern you at all? If not for your own life, for the multitude of people out there who believe that they are going to heaven but may not be? People who assume that because they attend church, believe in God, and have been baptized, they are going to heaven? It may even be you who believes this way – many people do. The uncomfortable truth is that the bible speaks the exact opposite. In fact, Jesus Himself told parables directed at this important question.
Both are found in Matthew chapter 25….
The Ten Virgins
In the parable of the 10 virgins the 5 unwise are left behind because they were not prepared. They knew the bridegroom but were not ready for his return…
“But while they were on their way to buy the oil, the bridegroom arrived. The virgins who were ready went in with him to the wedding banquet. And the door was shut. Later the others also came. ‘Lord, Lord,’ they said, ‘open the door for us! But he replied, Truly I tell you, I don’t know you.”
The Goats and the Sheep
To the ones separated as goats from the sheep, He said…
“Then he will say to those on his left, ‘Depart from me, you who are cursed, into the eternal fire prepared for the devil and his angels. For I was hungry and you gave me nothing to eat, I was thirsty and you gave me nothing to drink, I was a stranger and you did not invite me in, I needed clothes and you did not clothe me, I was sick and in prison and you did not look after me.”
Wow, this is some strong stuff! What does it mean? It’s not about who we say we are, it’s about who He says we are. It’s not just knowing who Jesus is, but being known by the Savior. It’s about living for Him, loving Him, and doing His will.
It is absolutely imperative that we know the condition of our relationship with Christ. Have we really given all to follow Him? Is there anything in our heart that will separate us from Him? Ask God to perform a thorough inspection – it’s worth it – this is eternity we’re talking about, after all. When we are sure of our relationship with God, it doesn’t stop there. We need to share the truth with others.
It may not be popular or comfortable, but it is still the truth.
Are you willing to live by it? Are you willing to share it?
The uncomfortable truth… about eternity?
MENTENTIONAL 
We can’t share it like selling products door to door either. We have to get into relationship with people, earn the right to speak into their lives.
Good post.
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People can sense sincerity. They can tell if your sharing with them out of obligation or out of passion for truth.
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Very well said @ricklittreal. I agree with @Ken Hagerman(The Barba) that we can’t share the Gospel as if we are selling a product, but I do think that we have an obligation to share the Truth with family members, friends, acquaintances, or stangers alike. If our first priority is to build a relationship with people before witnessing to them, we run a real risk of seeing someone perish before we ever speak to them about Jesus. With sincerity of heart and intention, I believe that our first priority should always be the Gospel.
Thank you for all that you do for your family, your church, and your community. May the Lord bless you for your obedience.
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Thanks for your thoughts, Scott. You are right on the money. I agree that through our sincerity and genuine compassion even strangers can know where our heart is, even if they choose not to respond. If we bring it like an infomercial, however, they’ll turn the channel quick. God bless you and your family. You guys are a blessing to us.
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