Then one said to Him, “Lord, are there few who are saved?” And He said to them, “Strive to enter through the narrow gate, for many, I say to you, will seek to enter and will not be able.” (Luke 13:23-24)
Nearly everyone who believes in heaven also believes they are going there. But, Jesus said the truth of the matter is very different. He said access to salvation is “narrow” and entrance into it requires one to “strive” (to strenuously endeavor). Salvation is not an accident; it is the result of faith’s deliberate submission to the will of God. Nor is salvation a whim; you must want to be saved to such an extent that you will strive for it. Put away every sin and live upright before God and men. Do the will of the Father who is in heaven and you will enter the kingdom of heaven (Matthew 7:21). Do otherwise, and you “will not be able” to enter.
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