I’m not totally sure of the validity of this statement, but there’s some truth that could be gleaned from it. So often we think if we’re almost hitting the mark we are OK. Other times we’re prone to say, “It’s close enough.” But in all honesty, neither of these phrases are remotely true when they are applied to salvation and eternity. In fact, there is a verse in the Bible that directly addresses this issue.

In Mark chapter 12, there’s an interesting story recorded, which finds the Lord Jesus being questioned by the Sadducces regarding one of the laws of Moses. After the Lord answers their questions, we are told one of the scribes came to him, “perceiving He had answered them well, asking: Which is the first commandment of all?” The Lord responded by telling him: “Thou shalt love the Lord thy God with all thy heart, and with all thy soul, and with all thy mind, and with all thy strength.”

The scribe answered and told the Lord: “Thou hast said the truth: for there is one God; and there is none other than he: And to love him with all the heart, and with all the understanding, and with all the soul, and with all the strength, and to love his neighbor as himself, is more than all whole burnt offerings and sacrifices.”

Upon hearing his answer, the Lord responds in verse 34 by saying: “And when Jesus saw he answered discreetly, he said unto him, Thou art not far from the kingdom of God. And no man after that durst ask him any question.”

From this verse, let’s consider the thought how he was close, but yet, not there. Or if you would, nearly is not enough.

Nearly just isn’t enough. If one is going to be a Christian, and if one is going to go to Heaven, you cannot just get close; you must go all the way. I feel the root of a lot of our problems today is that people are nearly Christians, but unfortunately, they are falling short of the commandment of God.

With this being said, let’s consider three thoughts.

First, let’s consider his Mission. When the Lord said “Thou art not far from the kingdom,” he implied that man had come a long way. Obviously, he had a desire to know more about the Lord and his commandments and had a respect for the Lord. This man did not come to him in contempt as the others had; rather he came with a humble heart. It was as if he was acknowledging that a relationship with the Lord is more than a ritual or habit performed. The Lord saw he also had a request. Not only did he want to know the first commandment, but he also wanted to understand it. He had determined to know more about this man, Jesus. He was serious in his request.

Secondly, let’s consider his Misfortune. This man had made many right steps, yet he was in great danger. Notice, he’s not far from the kingdom but he’s not to the kingdom. With a determined mission, he’d made great efforts and had come a long way but not far enough. He was in danger of not going the full distance or with being content with just getting close. He had made great strides and had received an abundance of knowledge, but if he did not go all the way it would all be in vain. How sad it would be to let his opportunity pass by.

Lastly, we consider his Mindset. To be not far meant he had to have the mindset to decide to get in. Too many people in our world are not far from the kingdom but at the same time they need to take the final steps. They’ve not entered the kingdom of God. In order to enter the kingdom of God and Heaven, you must receive the King. You cannot have a kingdom without a king and you cannot be a Christian without Christ. You must be born again. Jesus Christ is the only way. After you’ve repented of your sins and received him as your King, you will dedicate yourself to him.

Are you close? Are you near the kingdom? Are you nearly a Christian or, do you know the Lord Jesus Christ and have you asked him to forgive your sins?

If not, you may not be far from the kingdom. but you are still not there. Why would you want to be close when you can be there in the Lord's presence? There is no better final destination.