NOT FAR FROM THE KINGDOM OF GOD

                                                                              Mark 12:28-34 

  Introduction:

       A.  Jesus told this teacher of the law, “You are not far from the kingdom of God.”

       B.  To be not far from the kingdom of God means to be close to accepting God’ rule.  

             .

       C.   What is the difference between  those who are not far from the kingdom and those

              who are in the kingdom?

   I.  Those who are not far from the kingdom:

       A.  Those who have decided in favor of ________________________.

       B.  Those who espouse the ___________________ of Christianity.

       C.  Those who have decided in favor of the principles of _________________ church.

       D.  Those who are lost.  Matt. 12:30

  II.  Those who are in the kingdom:

       A.  Those who are ___________________ of Christ.  Acts 11:26

       B.  Those who are ___________________ of God/Christ’s church.  Matt. 16: 13-19, Matt.

             28:19-20, Acts 2:47.

       C.  Those who are born _____________________.  John 3:3-5

       D.  Those who are espoused to ________________.  Romans 7:1-4

       E.  Those who are ______________.  Acts 2:47, Eph. 5:23

Conclusion:

        Self-evaluation:  Am I “not far from the Kingdom of God” or am I in the Kingdom?  Insofar

        as salvation is concerned a person might just as well be miles  away from the kingdom.