“Not everyone who says to me, ‘Lord, Lord,’ will enter the kingdom of heaven, but the one who does the will of my Father who is in heaven. 22 On that day many will say to me, ‘Lord, Lord, did we not prophesy in your name, and cast out demons in your name, and do many mighty works in your name?’ 23 And then will I declare to them, ‘I never knew you; depart from me, you workers of lawlessness.’
Matthew 7:21-23 ESV
Delusions about your faith can lead to dangerous consequences. During Jesus’ Sermon on the Mount, he shares this powerful lesson about true and false disciples. Jesus teaches that acknowledging him as Lord is not enough to enter heaven. Prophesying, casting out demons, and doing works in Jesus’ name do not automatically make you a follower of Christ.
God requires us to do His will.
Today, I want to encourage you to examine your faith! Saying Jesus is your Lord and Savior means nothing if your actions do not demonstrate obedience to God’s will. Belief informs action. If you believe that Jesus Christ died for your sins and you consider him your Lord and Savior, then you should live your life in such a way that is clear for others to see. It’s more than just doing things in His name; Obedience separates true disciples from false disciples.
Reflect – Do the words you profess with your mouth match your actions? Are you operating in obedience to God’s will?
