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A man can not enter the kingdom of heaven simply by "being good", with lukewarm notions of eternal life, and little regard for Christ. The Savior now sits in glory at the right hand of God. One day soon, "men's secrets" will be judged by God through Christ - who has been appointed to "judge the living and the dead"(Romans 2:16, 2 Timothy 4:1).

In addition to the absolute necessity of being "born again", as Jesus instructed Nicodemus in John 3:3. Scripture defines the character of men who stand with the "remnant chosen by grace", referred to in Romans 11:5. In contrast, the Bible also illustrates the character of those who are not chosen.

"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 perform many miracles?' Then I will tell them plainly, 'I never knew you. Away from me, you evildoers!' " (Matthew 7:22-23 NIV)

Jesus values manifestations of charity and love above spiritual gifts. Yet these "evildoers" held up to Christ their performances of "many miracles" and prophesies. But did they truly love God in their hearts? For example, did they demonstrate love by feeding an orphan who was hungry, or providing clothes for a beggar. Ironically, such unassuming works proved to be very special and significant. Because, as these particular actions were relevant to love, they sincerely captured the moment, and helped allow those who were favored of God an inheritance in the kingdom of heaven, we learn from Matthew 25:34-36.

In the parable of The Sheep and the Goats, found in Matthew 25, Jesus provided examples of what it was to be truly good. Men were to satisfy the hunger of the needy, quench their thirst, and clothe them. Christ ensured the people in John 12:8 that they "will always have the poor among" them. So, there would always be opportunities for men to perform good works - the demonstration of their faith. The Apostle wrote in James 2:18, "I will show you my faith by what I do." The sincere love and faith of James for God was demonstrated through the good works that he performed.

The plight of the "evildoers" in Matthew 25 should raise concern for many believers, considering how men who were casting out devils, and working other miracles, were rejected by Christ. Not only are there many atheists on the "road that leads to destruction"(Matthew 7:13), but there are many "good people" as well.

Learn more about this author, Nikolaus Federmann.
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