1...2...3...4... You’re So Close

Mark 12:34
And when Jesus saw that he answered discreetly, he said unto him, Thou art not far from the kingdom of God. And no man after that durst ask him any question.

What a morning to see something great from God's Word! Years ago I came across this scripture while studying for the very first revival that I was asked to preach. Seeking God day and night about what to share with the people in this revival, I believe that God had led me here to Mark 12:34. There is something so simple about this scripture. It talks of a man in the previous verses who wanted to know what was the greatest of all commandments. Jesus answered him and then the man proceeds to tell Jesus that he was right. He then added with great wisdom himself. To the point where Jesus sees that this scribe answers discreetly or intelligently.

But look at what Jesus finishes with..."thou art not far from the kingdom of God." This man was so close, but yet so far away. He knew all of the laws, commandments and precepts. He wrote them over and over most of his life being a scribe. He not only knew them but because of his answer we can see that he had an understanding of them. Well why then did Jesus not say something like..."today you will be with me in paradise"? Did you notice that no one else asked him a question after the last statement? I wonder if they were thinking..."If this man is not fully prepared for the kingdom, then what about me?"

You see salvation is not knowing it, it is believing it. It is a surrender of your life to Jesus Christ as your Savior. Then He will teach your empty heart and fill you with His knowledge. So many people know the 1...2...3...4's of salvation but only with their minds and never their hearts. Call on Jesus today and ask Him to be your Savior. It is by His Grace that you can be saved right now.

Lastly, did you notice that our scripture was Mark 12:34? 1...2...3...4. My prayer is that you will remember this forever and share it with others. Tell them that Good Ol' Boys miss the mark and will die and go to Hell unless they receive Jesus by faith in their hearts and not their heads.