A lot of people live life just following the crowd. We don't always know where it's going, but that doesn't seem to matter. If everyone else is going this direction it must be okay. Sometimes it is and sometimes it's not. Just because a crowd is going a certain direction, doesn't make it the right direction. Following the crowd can get you into trouble.
The question was asked of Jesus in Luke 13 if only a few would make into heaven. Jesus response may not be what we expected. His answer was, only those who enter by the narrow gate. He went on to say that a lot of people are going to be surprised. The master is going to close the gate and there will be a crowd that's standing on the outside perplexed. He'll tell them to get lost and they'll say, "Hang on a minute. We hung out with you in the past. We heard you teach. Let us in." But the master will be firm and tell them he doesn't know them so just go away.
If Jesus is really loving, isn't He going to save all people? Apparently not. That seems awfully narrow. Surely a loving God isn't going to let people perish? Are you telling me that there is only one way to get to heaven? That unless you do it the way Jesus says we can't get into heaven when we die? I'm not saying that. Jesus did.
Just hanging out at church, listening to the messages on a regular basis, doesn't get you into heaven. You have to become a true follower of Christ. True followers don't just show up on Sundays when they feel like it. They are consumed by Jesus. Followers pursue Christ daily in all aspects of their life. They are willing to live in total obedience to Him. Jesus is implying that many who just show up to do the church thing are going to be surprise. Many who think that since they walked the isle as a kid or went to Sunday School, that they're in, are in for a rude awakening when Christ returns.
The point is that we can't choose to live however we want and expect Jesus to usher us into the Kingdom of Heaven. Doesn't work that way. If you're not for Him all the way, you're against Him. Can't be halfway with Jesus.
God, keep me on your narrow path. I want to pursue you with all my life, heart, mind and strength. Teach me. Direct me. Guide me in all your truths. I long for your presence daily and for eternity.
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