Bible Study — Matthew 7:21-29
In Matthew 7:21-29, I read one of Jesus’ most sobering declarations: “I never knew you.” This passage comes from the Sermon on the Mount and constitutes a wake-up call for us. It emphasizes the distinction between a verbal profession and true obedience to God’s will. Jesus warns that not everyone who calls Him ‘Lord’ will enter the kingdom of heaven, but only those who do the will of the Father. As we read these verses, we will explore the implications of genuine discipleship. And, we’ll learn the importance of aligning our actions with our faith.
So, what did Jesus say about those entering the Kingdom of Heaven in Matthew? What did He mean? Who is Jesus talking about when he says those fateful words: “I never knew you.”? Is he talking about us?
Keep reading to find out how you can avoid hearing these dreadful words.
About Entering Heaven – “I Never Knew You”
“Not everyone who says to Me, ‘Lord, Lord,’ will enter the kingdom of heaven, but he who does the will of My Father who is in heaven will enter.
Many will say to Me on that day, ‘Lord, Lord, did we not prophesy in Your name, and in Your name cast out demons, and in Your name perform many miracles?’
And then I will declare to them, ‘I never knew you; depart from Me, you who practice lawlessness.’” – Matthew 7:21-23 NASB
Learn how to accept Christ here..
Are We Talking or Walking? – “He’s Just Talking”
Some self-professed athletes can ‘talk‘ a great game, but that tells you nothing about their athletic skills. In athletics, actions speak louder than words. While someone may boast about their skills and talk a big game, it is their actual performance on the field or court that truly reveals their athletic abilities. Talking alone can never replace the hard work, dedication, and talent required to excel in sports.
So, no matter how hard you try, you cannot “talk” a touchdown or a basketball goal even though it seems so easy – especially when we watch someone else!
What Does Sports Have to Do with God?
Just as a person who talks constantly about sports is not necessarily an athlete, not everyone who talks about heaven belongs to God’s kingdom. Ultimately, it is our outward actions and behavior that shows whether we truly belong to God’s kingdom.
Walking the Walk with Christ
Christ is more concerned about our walk than our talk. He wants us to do right, not just say the right words. Your house & mine (which represents life, 7:24) will withstand the storms of life only if we do what is right instead of just talking about it. What we do cannot be separated from what we believe.
People are Watching – And Jesus is Watching!
In fact, there is an old saying;
“What you do speaks so loudly that I can’t hear a word you are saying.”
This is as true in a Christian lifestyle as it is in other walks of life.
Jesus exposed those people who sounded religious but had no personal relationship with Him. He made it clear that being religious was not enough, and that a relationship with God was the only way to receive true salvation. He warned people to beware of those who pretended to be Christians but were not truly connected to Him.
When We Stand before God
On ‘that day’ (the day of judgment), only our relationship with Christ, our acceptance of Him as Savior, and our obedience to Him will matter. Our words alone will not be enough to determine our fate when standing before God on the day of judgment.
It is our relationship with Christ, our acceptance of Him as Savior, and our obedience to Him that will ultimately determine our destiny. Our actions and behavior in this life will speak louder than any words we may have spoken.
“One Who Speaks with Authority”
Jesus speaks with authority because He is God in flesh (John 1:14).
I only hope that when my judgment comes I can hear the words “good and faithful servant” and not “I never knew you.“
The Difficulty of Faith
If this is new to you, don’t worry. I have been in the same position you are in now. And, I still struggle with faith just as you do. Faith is sometimes difficult because you can’t see, touch or hear it.
Helen Keller said:
“The best and most beautiful things in the world cannot be seen or even touched – they must be felt with the heart.”
We are taught to believe what our senses tell us is true so faith seems unreal at times. Our Pastor Randy has said many times to “Be in the Word“. And, I believe this rings true when doubt shows its hand. Through reading Scripture, and through prayer we strengthen our faith.
One thought in closing, if it bothers you that your faith is not always strong, you are on the right track. d:-)
Love in Christ
– Bob
If you would like to know more about how to receive the love and life-changing experience of Jesus Christ, please take a moment to look at John 3:16