In Matthew 5-7, Jesus taught the people of His day in a lengthy discourse often referred to as “The Sermon On The Mount.” In it, He described a people who would please God not only by what they do, but by what they are in their hearts. It is immediately obvious to the reader that no man can, of himself, attain unto such a life as described in the sermon—It would require help, constant help from God. Jesus’ first advent was to afford such a help. He came to purchase man’s pardon for sin, to translate him into the kingdom of God, to give life in exchange for the spiritual death that had been wrought by our sin. These treasures, and so much more, belong to those who, by faith, surrender and commit themselves to Him as both Lord and Savior.
In His sermon, Jesus spoke of those who describe themselves as being “All Set,” when it comes to their relationship with God—men and women who will be shocked to hear Him say, “I never knew you; depart from me, ye that work iniquity. (Matthew 7:23)” These are sincere people, but sincerely wrong. They will argue, “…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? (Matthew 7:22)” They will have lived their lives with a false sense of security pertaining to their eternal future. Their security will be based upon what they have done to please God, rather than what He has done to rescue them from their sin. Salvation for fallen man, cost God His Son, and only by faith in the work of His Son will anyone live in His presence.
The Bible is clear, if you and I are saved, it is, “Not by works of righteousness which we have done, but according to his mercy he saved us, by the washing of regeneration, and renewing of the Holy Ghost; (Titus 3:5)” Here is the simple truth: He is our holy and just, Creator God. You have offended Him with your sin. You can do nothing to save yourself. He sent Jesus to purchase your pardon with His own blood. His forgiveness can only be received as a gift. To be saved you must repent of your sins, place your faith and trust in Him to do for you what you cannot possibly do for yourself. Those who are truly saved, know God personally and are known of God!