The Self-Deceived

Among those to whom bitter disappointment will come at the day of final reckoning will be some who have been outwardly religious, and who apparently have lived Christian lives. But self is woven into all they do. They pride themselves on their morality, their influence, their ability to stand in a higher position than others, [and] their knowledge of the truth, for they think that these will win for them the commendation of Christ. “Lord,” they plead, “we have eaten and drunk in Thy presence, and Thou hast taught in our streets.” “Have we not prophesied in Thy name? and in Thy name have cast out devils? and in Thy name done many wonderful works?”1NL 10.4

But Christ says, “I tell you, I know you not whence ye are; depart from Me.” “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.”1NL 10.5

There is no discussion; the time for that is past. The irrevocable sentence has been pronounced. They are shut out from heaven by their own unfitness for its companionship. (Read Matthew 7:24-27.)—Letter 91, 1904.1NL 10.6

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Through the plan of redemption, God has provided means for subduing every sinful trait, and resisting every temptation, however strong.—The Review and Herald, December 22, 1885.1NL 10.7

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