I can find no more sobering
words in all of Holy Writ than these! If there is one great
unimpeachable truth from the Word of GOD, it is that we are
saved by grace alone, through faith alone, in CHRIST alone.
With that said, the relationship of true conversion and
obedience are equally incontrovertible. The latter is
intrinsic to the former and they find themselves inseparable in
print and
doctrine.
"... HE became the author of eternal
salvation unto all them that obey HIM;" In
spite of progressive tactics to the contrary, one cannot be
authored into the LAMB'S Book of Life, apart from obeying the
gospel. Talk is cheap, but there'll be no 'smack' when it
comes to salvation.
"And the times of this ignorance GOD winked at; but now
commandeth all men every where to repent:"
GOD, in HIS desire to
see all men saved, doesn't compel, suggest, invite, or beg ...
HE commands, and commandments can only be obeyed or disobeyed.
The teeth-out professions of faith so commonplace in today's
Church, are tantamount to the shallow conversion of a Judas kiss,
that sent him, and his empty religious verbiage to Hell.
"Many will say to ME in that day, LORD, LORD, have we not
prophesied in THY NAME? and in THY NAME have cast out devils?
and in THY NAME done many wonderful works?"
You say, but what an
impressive list of accomplishments! In thinking that, be reminded though,
that Balaam prophesied; the seven sons of Sceva made their
living casting out demons; and the Pharisees had established an
entire culture which ran solely on self-righteousness.
JESUS also made much ado as well over the proliferation of false
prophets who will take their place as the last days evolve.
"And then will I profess unto them, I never knew you: depart
from ME, ye that work iniquity."
It is not what is present in the asset column that is strange
here; but rather what is missing, namely the obedient act of
faith. Not one of the "many"
stated: 'LORD, LORD, we have believed on THY NAME'.
They, like the rich young ruler, slid into home, having not
obeyed
the first base rule of humble, penitent, saving faith.
"In
flaming fire taking vengeance on them that know not GOD, and
that obey not the gospel of our LORD JESUS CHRIST:"