Introduction
Ever catch yourself wondering if your faith is more of a checklist than a genuine journey? That’s what hit me when I read Matthew 7:21-23:
“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. 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?’ Then I will tell them plainly, ‘I never knew you. Away from me, you evildoers!’” — Matthew 7:21-23
That passage is a reality check. Jesus isn’t talking to atheists or skeptics here—He’s addressing people who thought they were on the right track! They had the right words, the right works, and probably a solid church attendance record… but it wasn’t enough. Why? Because following Jesus isn’t about a spiritual résumé—it’s about truly knowing Him.
1. Beyond the Spiritual Résumé
Let’s be honest: we sometimes love to highlight our “spiritual credentials.” Maybe it’s all the church events we’ve attended, the service projects we’ve done, or the times we’ve volunteered (and let’s not forget the occasional humblebrag about our prayer life). But Jesus makes it clear that none of that matters if it’s not backed by obedience and love.
“If you love me, keep my commands.” — John 14:15
This isn’t a “try your best” suggestion; it’s a simple but powerful statement. Love for Jesus is demonstrated through obedience, not just lip service. Think of it like signing up for a gym membership but never actually exercising. Having the membership card in your wallet doesn’t make you fit—putting in the effort does. In the same way, calling Jesus “Lord” means nothing if our lives don’t reflect a commitment to following His commands.
2. Staying Authentic in a Culture of Comfort
We live in a world where everything is about convenience—fast food, same-day delivery, and yes, even an “easy” version of Christianity. Many people want a faith that’s light on commitment and heavy on personal comfort. But that’s not how Jesus calls us to live.
“Do not conform to the pattern of this world, but be transformed by the renewing of your mind. Then you will be able to test and approve what God’s will is—his good, pleasing and perfect will.” — Romans 12:2
Real faith isn’t about blending in or picking and choosing the easiest parts of Scripture to follow. It’s about standing firm in truth, even when it’s unpopular. Imagine you’re cooking a steak, but instead of seasoning it, you soak it in sugar so more people will like it. Sure, it might be sweet, but it won’t be a steak anymore—it’ll be a mess. The same thing happens when we water down the truth to make it more “palatable.” The Gospel isn’t meant to be edited to fit modern preferences; it’s meant to transform lives.
3. Investing in the Next Generation
If you’ve ever tried explaining the Bible to a teenager, you know it can be an adventure (and sometimes feel like a hostage negotiation). But Scripture makes it clear—teaching the next generation is our responsibility:
“These commandments that I give you today are to be on your hearts. Impress them on your children. Talk about them when you sit at home and when you walk along the road, when you lie down and when you get up.” — Deuteronomy 6:6-7
The world isn’t going to slow down its messages, and kids today are absorbing everything at lightning speed. If we don’t teach them what the Bible says, they’ll learn their worldview from YouTube, TikTok, and whatever their peers believe that day. That’s like trying to build a sturdy house but letting social media be the blueprint—it won’t last. We have to be intentional about equipping the next generation with a faith that isn’t just a Sunday morning routine but a daily, real, life-giving relationship with Christ.
Conclusion
At the end of the day, Jesus isn’t impressed with a long list of religious activities. He’s looking for hearts that actually know Him. A faith that’s real, not just routine. That’s why we should strive to be faithful, even in the small things, knowing that one day we want to hear these words:
“Well done, good and faithful servant! You have been faithful with a few things; I will put you in charge of many things. Come and share your master’s happiness!” — Matthew 25:21
Let’s commit to an authentic walk with Jesus—one that isn’t about looking the part but living it out every single day.
A Prayer
Dear Lord, help us to move beyond a checklist faith and into a real, deep relationship with You. Give us the wisdom to obey, the courage to stand firm in truth, and the love to guide others in Your ways. Help us to invest in the next generation and live in a way that glorifies You. Amen.
Call to Action
If this message spoke to you, don’t just keep it to yourself—share it! Live it out daily, encourage someone in their faith, and keep pressing forward. Jesus wants a real relationship with you—let’s make sure we’re truly walking with Him!
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