First, don't trust in religion. That sounds strange in a religious service, I know. But it's exactly the warning Jesus gives us today: "Not everyone who says to me, 'Lord, Lord,' will enter the kingdom of heaven" (v. 21).

These are the right words; "Jesus is Lord" is the first and central affirmation of the Christian faith. We find it written in Greek on catacomb walls in ancient Rome. Those who are baptized in our church say first, "Jesus is my Lord."

Many will say the right words, calling Jesus their "Lord." They will have the right urgency, repeating their affirmation of faith.

And they will have the right works: They will "prophesy" or preach "in your name," representing Jesus, claiming to speak his words and carry his message. They will "drive out demons and perform many miracles." Religious works of the highest magnitude and worth.

We can say the right words and do the right works, and still hear the most terrible statement in all of eternity: "I never knew you. Away from me, you evildoers!" (v. 23).

"Knew" means personal, intimate knowledge, a personal relationship, not just a performed religion. As we will see shortly, this is the only basis for admittance to heaven, for assurance of eternal life. God must know us.

It's not enough that we know about God. If Cowboys coach Bill Parcells were to walk into the sanctuary this morning, you'd know him. But would he know you?

Jesus makes clear the fact that performance is not the basis for assurance. Saying the right words and doing the right works are the essence of religion. And yet they are not enough to know that you will be in heaven, to be sure of your faith and eternity.

I once read of a 90-year-old preacher who became a Christian.

A new pastor drove by his church one evening to see a crowd assembling. He stopped and asked someone what was happening. The man said, "They're meeting to pray for the conversion of their new pastor." The man went to the meeting, and came to saving faith in Jesus.

No seminary degree can give assurance of salvation. No words preached or works performed are enough. Don't trust in religion—it will fail your soul.