Perhaps some became false because of the false prophets. Their cry of “Lord, Lord” reflects fervency. In Jesus’ day, it is doubtful whether “Lord” when used to address him meant more than “teacher” or “sir.” The determinative factor regarding who enters the kingdom is obedience to the Father’s will. Jesus decides who enters the kingdom on the last day and who will be banished from his presence. How Do We Enter The Kingdom Of God? Matthew 7:21  1. Kingdom Access Is Not As Easy As We Think Jesus emphatically taught that carrying out God’s purposes and desires was a condition for entering the kingdom of heaven. This certainly does not mean we can earn spiritual salvation through our efforts or works. This is true for the following reasons:  God’s forgiveness comes to us through faith and repentance. The obedience to God’s will demanded by Christ is an ongoing condition for salvation; it does not save us but is a response and a result of true salvation.  Because of the gift of God’s power and grace, we can do God’s will and live right as we follow Christ with all of our hearts. God always gives us the strength and ability to obey him and overcome sin. We think we are good if we walk the aisle or raise our hands. But what Jesus is looking for in us is transformation. If living for Jesus does not cost you something, it can cost you everything. Matthew 7:22  2. Kingdom Work Does Not Guarantee Kingdom Access Jesus clearly states that “ many “ will believe they are serving him and who appear to do great works for him, yet they never had a true personal relationship with Christ. To escape the temptation and deceit that will be very common in the end times, church leaders must be committed to the truth revealed in God’s Word.  We must never consider outward “success” or results from ministry as the standard to determine our relationship with Christ. We must strive to know him deeply and live by the instructions and guidelines in God’s Word. We must be careful not to do the work for God for our own notoriety and our own acclaim. God is only interested in us doing work for His glory. If you work in a ministry for your glory, it is time to get out! Matthew 7:23  3. The Words We Do Not Want To Hear? I never knew you. Christ makes it unmistakably clear that people may speak about him and even be involved in powerful, supernatural activities, such as driving out demons and performing miracles. However, in their hearts, they have no genuine personal relationship with Christ.  Scripture teaches that what seems to be great preaching, strong belief, enthusiasm for God, and the working of miracles can be performed even under the influence and power of Satan. Many times, God overrides Satan’s activity in false preachers to bring genuine spiritual salvation or healing to those who honestly respond to God’s Word. This means that if the message is valid—even when the minister is not—it can still have a godly effect on people’s lives. If we want to hear “Well done, my good and faithful servant,” we had better do the work it takes to get that affirmation. We do not serve a participation trophy, God. What are our transformational moments? Have you been living your life thinking that kingdom access is easy? Are you living a kingdom-focused life? Are you ready for transformation today?