Some words of Jesus comfort. However, there is also a stern warning in the Bible where Jesus warns, “I never knew you,” highlighting the importance of true faith.
Others confront.
But Matthew 7:21–23? These verses shake us. Jesus makes it abundantly clear that not every “Christian” is a citizen of heaven. It’s not about what we claim—it’s about what we live, and whether we truly know Him.
Who Is Jesus Speaking To?
Jesus is still teaching the crowds, but He is now addressing those who think they’re in, yet aren’t. This is not aimed at atheists or pagans—it’s a warning to the religious. The people who pray, preach, and prophesy… but never knew Him.
What Jesus Said: Matthew 7:21–23 (NASB)
21 “Not everyone who says to Me, ‘Lord, Lord,’ will enter the kingdom of heaven, but the one who does the will of My Father who is in heaven will enter. 22 Many will say to Me on that day, ‘Lord, Lord, did we not prophesy in Your name, and cast out demons in Your name, and perform many miracles in Your name?’ 23 And then I will declare to them, ‘I never knew you; leave Me, you who practice lawlessness.’”
Lip Service Isn’t Lordship
Jesus isn’t condemning spiritual gifts—He’s exposing spiritual fraud. These people:
- Preached
- Drove out demons
- Did miracles
Yet they were lawless, lacking obedience, and devoid of relationship.
They used Jesus’ name, but didn’t live under His authority.
Action Step: Don’t confuse activity for intimacy. Spend time with Jesus—not just doing things “for Him,” but walking with Him.
Obedience Reveals Relationship
Jesus says only those who do the will of the Father will enter.
Why? Because doing God’s will proves we’ve surrendered to His lordship.
We don’t obey to earn salvation—we obey because we’re saved.
Obedience is evidence that we know Him.
Action Step: Today, ask God: “Is there any area where I’m calling You ‘Lord’ but not living like You are?”
The Most Devastating Words
“I never knew you.”
These are perhaps the most terrifying words a human could hear from Christ.
Not: “You didn’t do enough.”
Not: “You weren’t smart or spiritual enough.”
But: “I never had a relationship with you.”
He’s not asking for perfection—He’s asking for authentic connection.
Action Step: Carve out time each day to be with Jesus. Know Him. Talk to Him. Learn His voice through His Word.
Mood of the Scene
Serious. Grieved. Loving.
Jesus isn’t angry here—He’s pleading with clarity. He’s making sure no one walks in deception. He wants us in the Kingdom, but not under false assumptions.
Response from the People
Many in the crowd likely felt shocked. This message hit close to home. Those who prided themselves in their public displays of spirituality had to ask, “Do I really know Him—or just know about Him?”
What This Means for Us in 2025
In today’s world:
- We can build platforms in His name
- Go viral preaching Scripture
- Get likes for quoting Jesus
…yet miss heaven because we never truly knew Him.
Jesus doesn’t want your performance—He wants your heart.
Application for Today:
- Examine your spiritual life. Is Jesus a relationship or a resume item?
- Stop “working for God” without walking with God.
- Repent from religious pride—draw close to Jesus in sincerity.
- Test your motives: are you obeying for applause, or out of love?
- Ask yourself often: Would Jesus recognize me as His?
🙏 Final Prayer
Lord Jesus, I don’t just want to say Your name—I want to truly know You. Strip away anything in me that pretends to be spiritual but resists surrender. Let my obedience flow from love. Make my life a reflection of Your intimacy. In Your name, Amen.
