������������������������ ��Which Would You Choose�Luke 12:7?
And the very hairs on your head are all numbered. So don’t be afraid; you are more valuable to God than a whole flock of sparrows. Luke 12:7
Which Would You Choose? 01/04/26
Simple Explanation (Even for Kids)
Calling Jesus Lord
Just calling Jesus “Lord” (like saying “I believe in You!” or going to church) isn’t enough to get into heaven. Jesus says the people who actually get in are the ones who do what God wants—they obey Him with their lives, not just their words. It’s like saying, “I love you, Mom!” but never listening to her or helping around the house.
Real love shows in actions. In the same way, real faith in Jesus is shown by living the way God asks.
Deeper Meaning“Lord, Lord” – This is an enthusiastic, repeated confession of Jesus as Master. Many people on judgment day will claim they knew Jesus, pointing to their words, religious activities, or even miracles they did in His name (see verses 22–23).“Will enter the kingdom of heaven” – This is about final salvation—being welcomed into eternal life with God.
“But only the one who does the will of my Father” – True disciples are marked by obedience to God’s will. Jesus isn’t teaching salvation by works alone; genuine faith always produces obedience. A person who truly knows and loves Jesus will live differently.
This connects directly to other New Testament teachings:
James 2:17 – “Faith by itself, if it is not accompanied by action, is dead.”
John 14:15 – Jesus says, “If you love me, keep my commands.”
Matthew 7:22-23 - Jesus continues: “Many will say to me on that day, ‘Lord, Lord, did we not prophesy in your name and in your name drive out demons and in your name perform many miracles?’ Then I will tell them plainly, ‘I never knew you. Away from me, you evildoers!’”
Even impressive religious acts don’t guarantee entry if the person’s heart isn’t truly surrendered to Jesus. The scariest part is Jesus saying “I never knew you”—meaning there was never a real, personal relationship.
Key Takeaway
Matthew 7:21 is a loving warning from Jesus: Don’t rely on outward religion, words, or even spiritual experiences. Make sure your life shows real obedience to God because you truly know and follow Jesus from the heart. True faith acts—it does the Father’s will
Matthews St. church of Christ; 1915 Matthews St., Bay City, TX 77414 www.matthewsstreetchurchofchrist.com