Two Kingdoms - Part 4Sample

This is a short passage but is a tough section to digest. Remember the scripture from yesterday about the good and bad fruit? This section comes immediately after it. In it, we read about how we can recognise followers of Jesus by their actions and by the life they live or the “fruit” they produce. Do you know anyone who talks about following Jesus, but his or her life doesn’t look like it from the outside?

GO DEEP

In verse 23, Jesus says, “And then on that day, I will declare to them publicly, “I never knew you.” What does it mean to “know” Jesus? From this scripture, we know Jesus isn’t talking about head knowledge. He acknowledges that many will say things like, ‘I went to church!’ ‘I served as a greeter!’ ‘I signed up for a missions trip!’ Those are all great things! But they just scratch the surface of “knowing” Jesus. Why do you go to church? Is it to learn and grow closer to Him? Why do you serve? Is it to walk beside Him and do as the Father is doing? Why did you sign up for that super fun trip? Is it to serve and love those who don’t know Jesus? Jesus seems to be more interested in our “heart” knowledge of Him than our “head” knowledge.

BE BOLD

Consider your own motivations for knowing Jesus. What can you do today that will draw you closer into a relationship where Jesus might say, “I know him! She served with me!” How will you love and serve others with Jesus at the centre of your motivation? Ask Him to show you, and then do it!

MEMORISE IT

"Not everyone who says to me, “Lord, Lord,” will enter the kingdom of heaven, but only he who does the will of My Father who is in heaven." - Matthew 7:21