How can we ensure we are not among those who "call on Me"?

The Sober Question from Jesus

“Why do you call Me ‘Lord, Lord,’ but not do what I say?” (Luke 6:46)

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Where Empty Words Come From

• Lips that honor God while hearts stay distant (Isaiah 29:13)

• Excitement without root or repentance (Luke 8:13)

• A self-ruled life disguised by religious jargon (Romans 8:7)

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Marks of Those Who Truly Call on the Lord

• Repentance—turning from sin and self (Acts 3:19)

• Faith—resting in Christ’s finished work (Romans 10:9-13)

• Obedience—“If you love Me, you will keep My commandments” (John 14:15)

• Perseverance—holding fast when it costs (Hebrews 10:36)

• Love—action, not talk (1 John 3:18-19)

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Practical Steps to Stay Off the Wrong List

• Daily Scripture intake (Hebrews 4:12)

• Honest self-examination (2 Corinthians 13:5)

• Quick, humble confession (Psalm 32:5)

• Dependence on the Spirit (Philippians 2:13)

• Covenant community for mutual sharpening (Hebrews 10:24-25)

• Active service that meets needs (Ephesians 2:10)

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Fruit That Confirms We Mean What We Say

• Christlike character growing (Galatians 5:22-23)

• Prayers increasingly aligned and answered (John 15:7)

• Hunger for holiness, not mere rule-keeping (1 Peter 1:15-16)

• Courageous witness (Acts 4:20)

• Joyful endurance in trials (James 1:2-4)

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Encouraging Promises for Genuine Callers

“Everyone who calls on the name of the Lord will be saved.” (Romans 10:13)

“Whoever keeps His word, truly the love of God is perfected in him.” (1 John 2:5)

“He who began a good work in you will carry it on to completion.” (Philippians 1:6)