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.
If you have not yet made that decision, today is the day of salvation. Do not delay or assume you have time. Take the step now and secure your place in God's kingdom.
PRAYER POINTS
1. Lord, open my eyes to see any area where I am near but not truly saved.
2. Father, give me the grace to fully surrender my life to Jesus Christ.
3. Lord, remove every spirit of procrastination that delays my salvation.
4. Father, let my relationship with You be genuine and not just religious.
5. Lord, help me to walk in true holiness and obedience to Your Word.
