THE most unsettling statement made by Jesus might be this: “Not everyone who says to Me, ‘Lord, Lord,’ will enter the kingdom of heaven, but only he who does the will of My Father in heaven.” (Matthew 7:21) The clear teaching here is that many will call Jesus “Lord” but not all will find themselves with him for an eternity in heaven. This should give every believer pause to consider who will be “in” and who will miss out.

OUR verse today focuses on one of the most significant evidences of doing the will of the Father and that is love for all. One might “claim” to be in the light, but hate disqualifies the deceived disciple who is walking in darkness, and counteracts any assurance of blessing from the Father. The heavy truth is that a sincere person can believe she is walking in the light, but be far from the heart of God. Church membership and mere profession of belief do not meet the standard set by Jesus himself. He desires an active faith, as James later reinforces with his emphasis on faith without works being lifeless.

APPLICATION of this teaching is desperately needed in the American church during this time of political polarization, the stirring up of animosities toward those who look different, and verbal assaults on anyone who dares to have a unique opinion. The presence of true believers standing in unity with one another to promote love over hate is the hope of our nation, and even of the world.

DR. KING said, “Hatred paralyzes life; love releases it. Hatred confuses life; love harmonizes it. Hatred darkens life; love illuminates it.” If Christians are to exert any influence, we must become known as bringers of light into the dark places. The Church’s calling is to live counter-culturally by loving all who are created by, and made in the image of, the Father, Son and Holy Spirit.

Creator God, may our words and actions bless others and glorify you. Amen.

– Dan Garrett

Director of Church Relations, Christian City

ChristianCity.org

Recent weekly Words of Wisdom can be accessed on Christian City’s Website