Near To The Kingdom But Lost

NEAR TO THE KINGDOM BUT LOST

By Rev. Samuel Arimoro

Main Text: 1 Corinthians 1:1-12

Supporting Texts: Mark 12:28-34, Matthew 7:21-23, Luke 13:24-27, John 3:3-5, Acts 26:27-28

INTRODUCTION

There is a great tragedy in being close to salvation but still missing it. Many people attend church, listen to sermons, and even profess faith in God, yet they are not truly saved. Being near to the kingdom of God does not guarantee entry. Jesus spoke of people who acknowledged Him but were ultimately rejected because they lacked a genuine relationship with Him.

Mark 12:28-34 records an instance where a scribe recognised Jesus' wisdom and agreed with His teachings. Jesus told him, "You are not far from the kingdom of God." This statement suggests that though the man had knowledge, he was still outside the kingdom.

In this sermon, we will examine the dangers of being close to salvation but not fully embracing it and how to ensure we enter the kingdom of God.

1. RELIGION WITHOUT TRUE SALVATION

Many people are religious but have not truly surrendered to Christ.

a) Mere Religious Practices Do Not Save

Going to church, praying, or giving to charity does not guarantee salvation (Matthew 7:21-23).

b) Having Knowledge Without Transformation

It is possible to know the scriptures but lack a personal relationship with Christ (John 5:39-40).

c) Holding a Form of Godliness

Some people appear righteous outwardly but lack the power of true godliness (2 Timothy 3:5).

d) Emotional Responses Without Commitment

Many are touched by sermons or Christian music but do not surrender their hearts to God (Acts 24:25).

e) Biblical Example: King Agrippa listened to Paul’s message but said, "Almost thou persuadest me to be a Christian" (Acts 26:27-28).

2. LIVING A MORAL LIFE WITHOUT CHRIST

Good deeds alone cannot save a person; only faith in Jesus Christ leads to salvation.

a) Salvation Is by Grace, Not Works

No one can earn salvation through good deeds alone (Ephesians 2:8-9).

b) Self-Righteousness Is Insufficient

Many believe they are good enough, but God's standard is holiness (Isaiah 64:6).

c) Moral People Still Need Salvation

Nicodemus was a respected Jewish leader, yet Jesus told him he must be born again (John 3:3).

d) External Righteousness Without Inner Change

Jesus condemned the Pharisees for appearing holy but being corrupt inside (Matthew 23:27-28).

e) Biblical Example: The rich young ruler obeyed the commandments but was unwilling to fully surrender to Christ (Mark 10:17-22).

3. DELAYING SALVATION UNTIL IT’S TOO LATE

Many intend to surrender to God but keep postponing their decision.

a) Procrastination Is Dangerous

Delaying salvation can lead to eternal regret (2 Corinthians 6:2).

b) No One Knows Tomorrow

Life is uncertain, and delaying can result in missing the opportunity (James 4:13-14).

c) A Hardened Heart Can Result in Rejection

Repeatedly ignoring God’s call can lead to spiritual blindness (Hebrews 3:7-8).

d) Some Will Seek Salvation When It’s Too Late

Jesus warned of people who will cry out but will be rejected (Luke 13:24-27).

e) Biblical Example: The five foolish virgins were left outside because they were unprepared when the bridegroom arrived (Matthew 25:1-13).

4. BEING A CHURCH MEMBER BUT NOT A DISCIPLE

Many people associate with Christianity but have not truly surrendered their lives to Jesus.

a) Church Attendance Does Not Guarantee Salvation

Being part of a congregation does not mean one is saved (Matthew 13:24-30).

b) Knowing About Christ Without Knowing Him Personally

Judas walked with Jesus but never had true faith (John 12:4-6).

c) Calling Jesus ‘Lord’ Without True Obedience

Jesus warned that not everyone who calls Him Lord will enter heaven (Matthew 7:21).

d) Serving God Without Genuine Commitment

Some people are active in church but lack a real relationship with Jesus (Luke 10:38-42).

e) Biblical Example: Demas followed Paul for a time but later abandoned the faith for worldly pleasures (2 Timothy 4:10).

5. HOW TO ENSURE YOU ENTER THE KINGDOM OF GOD

It is not enough to be close to salvation; one must fully surrender to Christ.

a) Repent and Believe in Jesus Christ

Salvation begins with genuine repentance and faith in Jesus (Acts 3:19).

b) Be Born Again

Only those who are born of the Spirit will enter God’s kingdom (John 3:5).

c) Seek a Personal Relationship with Christ

Knowing Christ personally is more important than religious rituals (Philippians 3:10).

d) Live in Obedience to God’s Word

True faith is reflected in a transformed life (James 1:22-25).

e) Biblical Example: Zacchaeus was near to Jesus but did not experience true salvation until he repented and followed Him completely (Luke 19:1-10).

CONCLUSION

Being near to the kingdom of God is not enough; one must enter through genuine faith in Jesus Christ. Many people are close but will still be lost because they refuse to fully surrender. Do not be content with being religious or moral—ensure you are truly saved by accepting Jesus as Lord and Saviour.