Close Isn't Enough: Why Jesus' Question Still Confronts Us

Most people assume that being close to Jesus is enough.

Close enough to know His teachings.
Close enough to admire His character.
Close enough to speak respectfully about Him.
Close enough to call Him “Lord.”

But in Luke 6, Jesus shatters that assumption with a question that still unsettles religious people today: “Why do you call me ‘Lord, Lord,’ and don’t do the things I say?”

He wasn’t speaking to atheists.
He wasn’t confronting skeptics.
He was addressing disciples—learners who followed Him, listened to Him, and were fascinated by Him.

They were as close to the truth as anyone could be.

And Jesus tells them it isn’t enough.

Sunday’s sermon will take us to the closing moments of Jesus’ sermon in Luke 6, where He draws a sharp line between admiration and obedience, between hearing and acting, between a faith that looks solid and a faith that actually lasts.

To make His point, Jesus gives an unforgettable picture: two houses, one storm, and only one that stands. The difference isn’t appearance, activity, or sincerity. The difference is the foundation.

One life is built on obedience to His words. The other hears—but never acts.

And when the storm comes, the collapse is sudden and devastating.

That’s uncomfortable language—but it’s loving language. Jesus isn’t trying to frighten people away; He’s warning people before it’s too late. He refuses to let religious people settle for shallow faith, borrowed confidence, or verbal allegiance that never reaches the heart.

That’s why this message matters so much—especially in a church culture where it’s easy to confuse activity with obedience and closeness with conversion.

This month we are focusing on Equipped for Service. But before God equips us to serve Him publicly, He calls us to submit to Him personally. A life that is not anchored in obedience cannot endure pressure, and it cannot faithfully represent Christ.

This Sunday is not about trying harder or doing more. It’s about digging deeper—into repentance, humility, and a faith that rests fully on Christ.

Those Serving
CALL TO WORSHIP/PRAYER
Matthew Ringle
SONG LEADER
Russ Robins
LEAD LORD'S SUPPER
Patrick Newbill
 ASSIST LORD’S SUPPER
Daniel Spargo
Paul Braden
Colby Grushon
Andrew Cain
SCRIPTURE READING
Dylan Schofield
Luke 6:46-49
PREACHING
Matthew Allen
CLOSING PRAYER
Bob Hoopes
CLOSING COMMENTS
Russ Robins
WELCOME CENTER
Emily McDonald
USHERS
Rich Walker // Mike Rosato
COMMUNION PREP
Vicki Mullins
CLOSING THE BUILDING
Benjamin Baker