1. “Thou art not far from the kingdom of god” Mark 12:28-34

2. Those who are far from the kingdom of god Drug dealers Homosexuals Violent criminals, terrorists Drunks, fornicators, murderers, etc.

3. Those who are not far from the kingdom of god Morally good people Honest, decent, giving people Law-abiding, helpful people People you would enjoy having as neighbors

4. Those in Jesus' day who were not far from the kingdom of god Rich young ruler (Matt. 19; Mark 10; Luke 18) Nicodemus (John 3:1-5) Felix (Acts 24:24, 25) Agrippa (Acts 26:27, 28) O.T. examples (1 Cor. 10:11): -Rebellious Israel (Heb. 3:11) -Moses (Deut. 34:1-6)

5. Those in Jesus' day who were far from the kingdom of god Pharisees (Matt. 23:5, 6, 13, 28, 33) Sadducees (Mark 12:13; Matt. 22:29) Publicans and sinners (Luke 3:12, 13; 19:8; Matt. 21:31)

6. Some had good qualities Scribes had knowledge Pharisees were religious Many people today have good qualities …but they are still separated from God!

7. Some are separated by… Procrastination Good intentions Bad advice Love of the world Pride

8. How To Become A Christian Hear the gospel (Rom. 10:10) Believe Jesus is the Christ (John 8:24) Repent of sins (Luke 13:3) Confess Christ (Matt. 10:32-33) Be baptized for remission of sins (Acts 2:38) Live a committed life (Rev. 2:10) How To Be Restored Back To God Confess sin (James 5:16) Repent and pray (Acts 8:22) Renew your commitment (Rev. 2:4-5) What Must I Do to become a Christian?