What steps can we take to avoid being "outside" God's kingdom? Key Passage “Blessed are those who wash their robes, so that they may have the right to the tree of life and may enter the city by its gates. But outside are the dogs and sorcerers and the sexually immoral and the murderers and idolaters, and everyone who loves and practices falsehood.” (Revelation 22:14-15) Why “Outside” Matters • “Outside” represents eternal exclusion from the New Jerusalem—the ultimate loss (Luke 13:28). • The list in verse 15 highlights unrepentant, habitual sin—lifestyles that refuse Christ’s cleansing (1 Corinthians 6:9-10). • Verse 14 shows the antidote: washed robes grant entrance. This washing comes only through Christ’s blood (Revelation 7:14). Step 1: Receive the New Birth • Jesus said, “Truly, truly, I tell you, no one can see the kingdom of God unless he is born again.” (John 3:3) • Trust Christ’s atoning death and resurrection (Romans 10:9-10). • Repent—turn from sin and toward God (Acts 3:19). Step 2: Keep the Garments Clean • “Let us cleanse ourselves from every defilement of body and spirit, perfecting holiness in the fear of God.” (2 Corinthians 7:1) • Confess sin promptly (1 John 1:9). • Rely on the Spirit for daily sanctification (Galatians 5:16). Step 3: Walk in Truth, Reject Falsehood • Revelation 22:15 ends with “everyone who loves and practices falsehood.” • Embrace Scripture as absolute truth (John 17:17). • Speak the truth in love (Ephesians 4:25). • Avoid deceptive lifestyles—financial, sexual, relational, or spiritual. Step 4: Pursue Obedient Love • Jesus: “If you love Me, you will keep My commandments.” (John 14:15) • Active obedience shows genuine faith (James 2:17). • Serve others, forgive quickly, and practice generosity (1 John 3:18). Step 5: Maintain Persevering Faith • “The one who endures to the end will be saved.” (Matthew 24:13) • Regular worship, fellowship, and Scripture intake strengthen endurance (Hebrews 10:24-25). • Guard against drifting (Hebrews 2:1). Step 6: Cultivate Kingdom Character • Psalm 15 outlines who may dwell with the Lord: integrity, righteousness, truthful speech. • The Beatitudes describe kingdom citizens (Matthew 5:3-12). • Let the Fruit of the Spirit replace the works of the flesh (Galatians 5:22-24). Step 7: Live with Eternal Perspective • “Our citizenship is in heaven, and we eagerly await a Savior from there.” (Philippians 3:20) • Store treasures in heaven, not on earth (Matthew 6:19-21). • Anticipate Christ’s return and the city’s open gates (2 Peter 3:11-13). Wrapping It Up Entrance into God’s kingdom begins with washing—faith in Christ—and continues through a lifestyle of truth, holiness, and persevering love. By God’s grace, these steps keep us joyfully inside, never outside, when the gates of the New Jerusalem finally close. |
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