5 Day Sermon Devotional: Association Does Not Equal Salvation

March 24, 2025

Association Doesn’t Equal Salvation

• Luke 6:12-16

• Matthew 7:21-23

Devotional Thought:

Judas Iscariot was part of Jesus’ inner circle. He walked with Him, listened to His teachings, and even performed ministry alongside the other disciples. Yet, his heart was never truly transformed. This reminds us that simply being around Christians or involved in church activities does not mean we are saved. True salvation comes from a personal relationship with Jesus, not just association with His followers.

Reflection Question: 

Am I merely near Jesus, or am I truly following Him with my whole heart?

March 25, 2025

The Heart Revealed by Actions

• John 12:1-6

• Proverbs 4:23

Devotional Thought:

Judas appeared to care for the poor, but his actions revealed his true motives—greed and selfishness. We may say all the right things, but our hearts are ultimately revealed by what we do. God calls us to examine our motivations and ensure that our actions align with a sincere love for Him.

Reflection Question: 

Is my faith genuine, or am I just putting on a religious front?

March 26, 2025

The Danger of Divided Loyalties

• Matthew 6:24

• Colossians 3:1-2

Devotional Thought:

Judas loved money more than he loved Jesus. His desire for wealth and power led him to betray the Son of God. We, too, must guard our hearts against anything that competes for our love and devotion to Christ. When our hearts are divided, we can easily be led astray.

Reflection Question: 

What is competing for my love and devotion more than Jesus?

March 27, 2025

Guilt vs. Repentance

• Matthew 27:3-5

• 2 Corinthians 7:10

Devotional Thought:

Judas felt guilt for betraying Jesus, but guilt alone does not lead to salvation. True repentance means turning away from sin and running to Jesus for forgiveness. While Peter also failed Jesus, he repented and was restored. Judas, on the other hand, let his guilt consume him without turning to Christ for mercy.

Reflection Question: 

When I sin, do I truly repent, or do I just feel guilty without changing?

March 28, 2025

True Salvation in Christ Alone

• Acts 1:24-25

• Ephesians 2:8-9

Devotional Thought:

Judas’ position as a disciple did not save him—only faith in Jesus could. Many people today rely on their church attendance, good deeds, or religious knowledge to justify themselves before God. But salvation is a gift, not something we earn. We must put our faith fully in Christ, knowing that He alone is our hope for eternal life.

Reflection Question: 

Am I trusting in my position (church membership, ministry, knowledge), or am I trusting in Christ alone for salvation?