BROAD ROAD

BROAD ROAD

Jesus spoke of a broad road that leads to destruction and many are on it (Mt.7: 14). Recently our pastor braved tradition and listed five human efforts that can keep us out of heaven. These were good works, traditions, religion, nationality and heritage. These were troublesome then and still are today. I was puzzled by the inclusion of good works when even a cup of cold water to a thirsty person shall not go un-rewarded (Mt.10: 42). Jesus did expect something from his followers. Here are fourteen reasons that require a bit of doing that is if we want to spent eternity with him.

1. Lip service only (Mt.7: 21-23).
2. Neglect to repent (Lk.18: 9-14).
3. Refuse to forgive (Mt.6: 14-15; 18: 21-35).
4. Neglect the destitute (Lk.16: 19-31; Mt.25: 40).
5. Produce no fruit (Mt.7: 15-20; Jn.15: 2).
6. Excuses ((Lk.14: 15-24).
7. Judging others (Mt.7: 1-6; Jn.12: 47-50).
8. Discriminating against children (Mt.18: 6-9).
9. Do not trust the preacher (Jn.17: 20-26; Ro.10: 14-15).
10. Miss God's purpose (Eph.2: 10).
11. Rely on faith alone (Ja.2: 9; 2: 26).
12. Empty handed on judgment day (Rev.20: 12; Ro.2: 6).
13. Pleading ignorance (Jn.15: 22; Ro.2: 14-16).
14. Die outside the Christ (Rev.14: 13).

Unfortunately, many of these unpleasant reminders are being swept under the carpet of grace. We may fool ourselves but not the Lord. The Apostle of grace also wrote, "Do not be deceived: God cannot be mocked. A man reaps what he sows." "Let us not become weary in doing good, for at the proper time we will reap a harvest if we do not give up," (Gal.6: 7; 6: 9). Jesus promised to back Paul with these words, "Well done, good and faithful servant,"(Mt.25: 21-23).