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Matthew 7:23 (BSB)
Then I will tell them plainly, ‘I never knew you; depart from Me, you workers of lawlessness!’
THE HOLY BIBLE
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Scripture quotations (main text) are from the Berean Study Bible (BSB), © 2016, 2018 by Bible Hub. Used by permission. All rights reserved worldwide. ESV® Bible (The Holy Bible, English Standard Version®), ©2001 by Crossway, is used for comparison and word study only.
Bible Copyright & Permissions“Then I will tell them plainly, ‘I never knew you; depart from Me, you workers of lawlessness!’” — Matthew 7:23
Imagine standing in front of someone who seems to know you well, but then they turn to you and say, 'I never knew you.' It's a gut punch, right? This moment is intense, filled with emotion and finality. It’s like being told that all your efforts and good deeds don’t mean anything because the relationship was never real. This verse highlights the importance of genuine connection over mere appearances. It's a wake-up call about what truly matters in life—knowing and being known.
This book was written by Matthew, one of Jesus' close followers who had a front-row seat to His life and teachings. Matthew wanted to share the truth about who Jesus is, emphasizing that it’s not just about following rules or doing good but about having a genuine relationship with Him. His perspective is shaped by his own transformation—from a tax collector often seen as a sinner to a disciple who experienced the incredible depth of Jesus' love and forgiveness.
Matthew wrote this during a time when Jesus was actively teaching in Israel, around 30 AD. The culture was buzzing with religious leaders, each claiming to know the way to God. People were trying hard to follow the rules, but many were missing the heart of the matter. Understanding this historical backdrop is crucial because it highlights the tension between religious practices and true faith—a struggle that continues today.
This verse is a serious reminder for you today! It challenges you to reflect on your own life and ask: Are you just going through the motions, or do you really know who Jesus is? It’s easy to get caught up in doing good things without nurturing that personal relationship. This verse pushes you to seek authenticity in your faith, emphasizing that it’s not just about what you do, but who you know. It can change everything by encouraging you to deepen your connection with Him.
This week, take a moment to reflect on your relationship with Jesus. Ask yourself: Do you truly know Him, or is it just surface-level? Start a conversation with Him—talk about your struggles, joys, and questions. Maybe spend some time reading about His life and teachings, and think about how you can build that relationship. Look for ways to connect with Him in your daily routine, whether through prayer, reading, or simply acknowledging Him in your thoughts.
To understand this verse, picture the scene: Jesus is wrapping up a powerful teaching about how to truly live a life that matters. He’s been talking about the difference between those who just talk the talk and those who walk the walk. This moment comes when He’s emphasizing that it’s not enough to just do good things; what counts is a real relationship with Him. After this verse, He goes on to share about building a solid foundation in life—implying that knowing Him is the key to everything. This moment is the climax of a lesson about authenticity and the dangers of surface-level faith.
What does it mean for you to have a genuine relationship with Jesus, and how can you ensure it’s not just about your actions, but about truly knowing Him?
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