The scriptures admonish us to prove ourselves – because life is a test.
2Cor. 13:5 “Examine yourselves, whether ye be in the faith; prove your own selves. Know ye not your own selves, how that Jesus Christ is in you, except ye be reprobates?”
Regarding the word “prove” Mr. Barnes comments: “This word, prove, refers to assaying or trying metals by the powerful action of heat; and the idea here is, that they should make the most thorough trial of their religion, to see whether it would stand the test.”
Gal. 6:4 “But let every man prove his own work, and then shall he have rejoicing in himself alone, and not in another.”
Every man must compare his life – his thoughts, actions and behaviors – with the Gospel of Jesus Christ. Each must seriously inquire, “Is my life in harmony and compliance with the Gospel?”
This is our barometer on whether we’re passing or failing the test – that is, “Are we pleasing God?” Only obedience to the Gospel of Christ pleases God.
2Th. 1:8 “In flaming fire taking vengeance on them that know not God, and that obey not the gospel of our Lord Jesus Christ:”
Life here isn’t designed for any purpose other than our willingness to serve God and glorify Him. It’s a testing ground, a proving ground. Most will not stand the test. Most will fail.
Matt. 7:13, 14 “Enter ye in at the strait gate: for wide is the gate, and broad is the way, that leadeth to destruction, and many there be which go in thereat: Because strait is the gate, and narrow is the way, which leadeth unto life, and few there be that find it.”
Each of us bear the responsibility to make sure we’re standing the test. Duty demands that we surrender obedience to the Gospel so we can show God we’re prepared for eternity. Only prepared people will enter heaven. It’s up to us to insure we’re standing the test, and ready to go.
Matt. 24:42 “Watch therefore: for ye know not what hour your Lord doth come.”
