“You are not far from the Kingdom of God.”

St. Paul gives us a powerful and honest summary of the Christian journey: “This saying is trustworthy…” in other words, this is something we can stake our lives on. At the heart of it is a paradox: to live, we must first die. “If we have died with him, we shall also live with him.” The Christian life is not about preserving ourselves, our ego, or our comfort. It is about dying daily, with Christ, to pride, selfishness, sin, and fear. This “death” is not loss for its own sake; it is the doorway to true life. When we surrender to Christ, we begin to live in Him. Then Paul moves further: “If we persevere, we shall also reign with him.” The journey is not always easy. Faith requires endurance. There are moments of doubt, dryness, misunderstanding, and even suffering. But perseverance is the mark of authentic discipleship. To remain with Christ, especially when it is difficult, is already to share in His kingship. But Paul does not soften the truth: “If we deny him, he will deny us.” This is not a threat meant to frighten us, but a sober reminder that our choices matter. To deny Christ in our words, actions, or way of life is to distance ourselves from the very relationship that gives us life. And yet, the most consoling line follows: “If we are unfaithful, he remains faithful, for he cannot deny himself.” Even when we fall, even when we struggle, Christ does not stop being who He is, faithful, merciful, and constant. Our weakness does not cancel His love. This is the foundation of our hope. This connects beautifully with the Gospel, where Jesus Christ tells the scribe that loving God and neighbor is the greatest commandment. When the scribe understands this, Jesus says, “You are not far from the Kingdom of God.” Not far, but not yet fully in. What brings him close? Understanding. What will bring him fully in? Commitment. To love God totally and neighbor sincerely requires exactly what Paul describes: dying with Christ, persevering with Him, and trusting in His faithfulness. Finally, Paul warns against “disputing about words.” How often do we get caught in arguments, theological debates, or unnecessary conflicts that do not build faith? The Kingdom is not reached by winning arguments, but by living truthfully and lovingly.