IntroductionBeloved, it is sobering to consider the words of Jesus in Matthew 7:21, “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.” These words challenge us to look beyond outward religiosity and focus on the core of our faith: doing God’s will.
Let us explore this truth together, not as a critique of going to church but as a call to live lives that truly please God.
Discussion Questions
1. What does it mean to do the will of the Father?
Jesus summarized God’s will in Mark 12:30-31: “Love the Lord your God with all your heart and with all your soul and with all your mind and with all your strength. The second is this: Love your neighbor as yourself.” It is not about rituals or appearances but about living in love and obedience to God’s commandments.
2. Does going to church guarantee entry into the Kingdom?
While attending church is good for fellowship and spiritual growth (Hebrews 10:25), Jesus makes it clear that it is not the ultimate qualification for heaven. The Pharisees were devout in their religious practices, yet Jesus said, “Woe to you...you shut the door of the kingdom of heaven in people’s faces” (Matthew 23:13). True faith goes beyond rituals; it requires a heart surrendered to God.
3. Can someone who never goes to church enter heaven?
Consider the parable of the two sons in Matthew 21:28-32. One son initially refused to obey his father but later repented and did his will. Jesus concluded, “The tax collectors and prostitutes are entering the kingdom of God ahead of you.” It is not about where you are but whether you respond to God’s call with a willing heart.
Key Points to Reflect On
1. God Desires Obedience, Not Pride
1 Samuel 15:22: “To obey is better than sacrifice.” Pride in religious affiliation or personal works does not impress God. A humble and obedient heart does.
2. Faith Without Action is Dead
James 2:26: “As the body without the spirit is dead, so faith without deeds is dead.” Pleasing God requires us to live out our faith in how we treat others and honor Him.
3. The Kingdom is for All Who Believe and Obey
Whether someone finds God in a church, on the streets, or in their personal struggles, what matters is their response to Him. Jesus said, “I am the way and the truth and the life. No one comes to the Father except through me” (John 14:6).
Interactive Reflection
How can you do God’s will in your daily life?
Are there areas where you are relying on appearances rather than true obedience to God?
How can you share God’s love with someone who may never step into a church?
Conclusion
Beloved, let us not be deceived by religion or church-pride. Jesus is calling us to a deeper walk—one rooted in obedience and love for God and others. Remember, the Kingdom of Heaven is for those who do the will of the Father. Whether you are in a church pew or out in the world, let your life reflect His glory.
“Blessed are those who hear the word of God and obey it” (Luke 11:28). Let us strive to be among them.
May God help us to live lives pleasing to Him. Amen!
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