So, there is no unilateral confirmation, as if miraculously or automatically we immediately become children of God. Not so. Scripture says we must work out our salvation until we bear the marks of God’s children. How sad are Christians who feel unquestionably validated as God’s children merely because they are Christians. Yet we can see their behavior is often worse than that of non-Christians. Let alone entering the Father’s House or becoming members of the Kingdom family, being members of society can even be dangerous.
Hebrews 12:5–8 says: “And have you forgotten the exhortation that addresses you as sons? ‘My son, do not despise the Lord’s discipline or be weary of his reproof, for the Lord reproves him whom he loves, and disciplines him every son whom he receives.’ For what son is there whom his father does not discipline? If you are left without discipline, as all have experienced, then you are illegitimate children and not sons.”
Some people are open to learning, while others resist it. The previous verse instructs us not to lose heart under the Lord’s discipline. Those who reject God’s training cannot be transformed. To become worthy members of God’s Kingdom, we must be willing to undergo training and strive for perfection like the Father. Life’s experiences serve as our training ground, and through them, God shapes us. If we remain focused on worldly values, we hinder this process. Therefore, we should seek a heavenly perspective, remain attentive, and embrace life’s lessons to experience meaningful growth in God.
Hebrews 12:9–10 says: “Besides this, we have had earthly fathers who disciplined us and we respected them. Shall we not be much more subject to the Father of spirits and live? For they disciplined us for a short time as it seemed best to them, but he disciplines us for our good, that we may share his holiness.”
Just as our earthly parents train us, so does our Father in heaven. Good character is not developed instantly; it requires guidance and discipline. Similarly, becoming God’s children is a process, not an automatic change. To “share in His holiness” means we are empowered to partake in the divine nature and strive for perfection. There are no shortcuts or instant solutions in Christianity, though such ideas are sometimes mistakenly promoted. God’s methods are gradual, natural, and logical. It is especially harmful when leaders encourage beliefs in instant transformation, such as praying for immediate academic success without effort.
The pursuit of perfection also requires a process. Prayers such as “Lord, make me holy, make me like Jesus, change my heart” reflect a desire for transformation, but true change does not occur instantly. When Jesus said, “You shall be perfect like the Father,” he called us to ongoing growth and transformation. Perfection is attainable, but only through consistent effort and the right heart attitude. Jesus expects believers to live in a way that surpasses ordinary standards, demonstrating extraordinary conduct.
As Jesus stated in Matthew 5:20, “For I tell you, unless your righteousness exceeds that of the scribes and Pharisees, you will never enter the kingdom of heaven.” This teaching calls us to live with exceptional integrity. High moral standards are not achieved solely through adherence to laws, but by allowing God to guide our lives directly.