Matthew 7:21-23
Summary: Not everyone who uses the name of Jesus Christ, calling Him, Lord will enter the Kingdom of Heaven. Only those who do the will of God will enter the place where Christ reigns. Many will say in that day of judgment, Lord, didn’t we do many wonderful, mighty works in your name? Then Jesus will declare to them, “I never knew you;’ depart from me, you workers of lawlessness.”
Reflection: What came to mind when I read this scripture is how I have witnessed what I call religious persons using the name of Jesus to do what would bring themselves glory. They go out on their own proclaiming they know Him, but have never repented of their sins and accepted Him as Lord and Savior of their life. At the same time, you can hear them perhaps “Lord” it over others and out of their mouths come cursing and swearing and even putting others down for their faith. It’s like “name dropping”, you know, how you will use someone’s name that is famous or revered, to bring a powerful association to oneself. But Jesus is clearly saying here, while some may use His Name for gain, they were never truly sorry for their sins, and never got to know the “One” who offered to them salvation through faith. Notice the other characteristic, here, meaning, they give themselves the glory by saying “Didn’t We Do”, this or that. Jesus clearly states in John 15: 5 that apart from Him we can do nothing. The Word says, that the deceit will be so great in the last days that even the “elect” could be deceived if it were possible. But though some in Jesus Christ may go astray, because they know Christ, the ones in faith, will return to Him, because they are sealed with the Holy Spirit. This also reminds me of how Pharaoh’s magicians counterfeited some of the signs of God through Moses, but in the end, their works were swallowed up and their counterfeits failed. ( Exodus 7-8)
( Acts 19: 14-16, Matthew 24: 24-25, Ephesians 1:13, Matthew 7: 15-20)
Application: There are many going out today proclaiming the name of Jesus Christ. But as the Word says, you will know them by the fruit of their character and whether their actions bring about salvation, deliverance and faith in Jesus Christ. Usually, the sin issue is avoided in their speech as they proclaim prosperity and gain in knowing Christ, rather than repentance.
( Matthew 24: 48-50)
Prayer: Lord, there were times I used your name to gain attention. But because you indwell those through your Holy Spirit, who have come to you in faith, you are also faithful to bring them to repentance. Thank you for revealing to me when I have done this, and how love identifies the one who belongs to you- for when we have love for one another our fruit remains, and we truly are your disciples. Thank you that you keep the ones who come to you in faith and repentance, and in no way will turn those who have a contrite spirit, away. Lord, move me to do your Will and not my own, today.
(Psalm 51: 17, John 13: 34-35)
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