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I. DESCRIPTION OF THE CHARACTER of those who make an external profession of religion, but walk unworthy of its precepts, connected with the impossibility of their entering in such a state into the kingdom of heaven.

1. It is evident that a person may have much which bears the semblance of piety, while he is far from feeling its genuine influence.

2. The text may refer to the lukewarm and indifferent.

II. THE CONNECTION between the character of those who not only profess Christianity, but adorn it by a suitable conversation, with the reward which is held out for their encouragement.

1. The will of God is a term of vast extent.

2. It is easy to see the connection between the character of those who do the will of their Father who is in heaven, and the prospects of future bliss.Learn:

1. That active obedience to the precepts of Christianity is the surest mark of a genuine Christian believer.

2. The necessity of unremitting endeavours, relying on the strength of Divine grace to qualify us for admission into heaven.

(D. Kelly, M. A.)

I. A great TRUTH proclaimed. The religion of Christ is to be practised,

1. For the teachings of Jesus are only understood as they are put into practice.

2. They are only honoured as they are put into practice.

II. A great ERROR perpetrated — mere profession.

1. This error is common.

2. It is displeasing to Christ.

3. It injures the individual who practises it.

4. It is a misrepresentation of Christianity.

III. A great DUTY.

(U. R. Thomas.)

I. THE TRUE QUALIFICATION FOR ADMISSION INTO THE KINGDOM OF HEAVEN. "He that doeth the will," etc.

II. THE DELUSIVE HOPES WHICH MANY WILL CHERISH as to admission into Christ's kingdom by means of other qualifications.

1. The first having made a strong and ambitious profession of His name.

2. Arising from a life of practical usefulness to others.

III. THESE HOPES WILT, DESTROYED.

(G. T. Noel.)

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KJV: Not every one that saith unto me, Lord, Lord, shall enter into the kingdom of heaven; but he that doeth the will of my Father which is in heaven.

WEB: Not everyone who says to me, 'Lord, Lord,' will enter into the Kingdom of Heaven; but he who does the will of my Father who is in heaven.