There’s a saying that goes, “In Western countries, they ask what skills you bring, but in Africa, they ask who you know.” Makes you wonder if heaven operates the same way, right? Let’s find out from the bible if that is true.
Jude 1:9 caught my attention: Michael the archangel didn’t argue with Satan about Moses’ body; he simply said, “The Lord rebuke thee.” This shows that our salvation isn’t about our works or connections, but about our attachment to Jesus. Here is the full verse.
“Yet Michael the archangel, when contending with the devil, he disputed about the body of Moses, durst not bring against him a railing accusation, but said, The Lord rebuke thee.” kjv
When Satan presented Moses’ sins to block his entry into heaven, it didn’t stick. Why? Moses’ attachment to God outweighed his shortcomings. This flipside shows that for those without a genuine connection to God, even a single sin can be damning.
It’s not about the length of the sin list; it’s about the depth of devotion. Moses’ heart was anchored in God, making his sins irrelevant in the grand scheme of things. Contrast this with those whose hearts aren’t rooted in God – even minor transgressions can become insurmountable barriers. It’s not the absence of flaws that gets us into heaven, but the presence of a genuine, heartfelt connection with God.
Matthew 7:20-23 says even those who prophesy, cast out demons, and do mighty works might hear “I never knew you” if they’re not doing God’s will. It’s not about membership, position, or influence but a personal connection with Jesus.
Matt 7:21-23
21 “Not everyone who says to me, ‘Lord, Lord,’ will enter the kingdom of heaven, but only he who does the will of my Father who is in heaven. 22 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 perform many miracles?’ 23 Then I will tell them plainly, ‘I never knew you. Away from me, you evildoers!’ NIV
It’s easy to claim, “I know Christ,” but the real question is: Does He know you? It’s not about our profession, but His recognition. The critical question isn’t whether we know Christ, but whether Christ acknowledges us. Are we truly connected to Him, or just talking about it?
Three groups to reflect on:
1. Those judging others’ spirituality.
2. Those waiting for leaders to change first.
3. Those comfortable with their mistakes because they have seen no perfect human.
The big question: Does Jesus acknowledge you? Acts 19:12-16 shows even demons recognize Jesus and Paul, but not those lacking connection. Don’t be unknown to God and the devil; seek a genuine relationship.
Acts 19:11-16
11 God did extraordinary miracles through Paul, 12 so that even handkerchiefs and aprons that had touched him were taken to the sick, and their illnesses were cured, and the evil spirits left them.
13 Some Jews who went around driving out evil spirits tried to invoke the name of the Lord Jesus over those who were demon-possessed. They would say, “In the name of Jesus, whom Paul preaches, I command you to come out.” 14 Seven sons of Sceva, a Jewish chief priest, were doing this. 15 [One day] the evil spirit answered them, “Jesus, I know, and I know about Paul, but who are you?” 16 Then the man who had the evil spirit jumped on them and overpowered them all. He gave them such a beating that they ran out of the house naked and bleeding. NIV
The good news is God clearly communicates His love:
– To John, He said, “Beloved.”
– To Daniel, “Highly esteemed.”
– To Moses and Abraham, “My servant.”
Rom 8:16-17
16 The Spirit himself testifies with our spirit that we are God’s children. NIV
If you’ve heard that voice, praise God! If not, take a moment to reflect and turn to Him wholeheartedly – He’s eager to welcome you.
God bless you and see you in the next article.