Matthew·Chapter 7

Chapter Context

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.

Key Biblical Words (Word Study)

• and - The original language uses a word that carries the meaning of "a deep biblical concept".
• then - The original language uses a word that carries the meaning of "a deep biblical concept".
• declare - The original language uses a word that carries the meaning of "a deep biblical concept".
• them - The original language uses a word that carries the meaning of "a deep biblical concept".
• never - The original language uses a word that carries the meaning of "a deep biblical concept".
• knew - The original language uses a word that carries the meaning of "a deep biblical concept".
• you - The original language uses a word that carries the meaning of "a deep biblical concept".
• depart - The original language uses a word that carries the meaning of "a deep biblical concept".
• from - The original language uses a word that carries the meaning of "a deep biblical concept".
• me - The original language uses a word that carries the meaning of "a deep biblical concept".

Reflection Question

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?

Related Verses

• John 10:14 - Jesus says, 'I am the good shepherd; I know my sheep and my sheep know me,' highlighting the connection He desires with us.
• Luke 6:46 - Jesus asks, 'Why do you call me, Lord, Lord, and do not do what I say?' which connects to the idea that knowing Him means following His guidance.
• Isaiah 29:13 - Written 700 years before this verse, it talks about people honoring God with their lips while their hearts are far from Him, showing a similar theme of authenticity.

Personal Prayer

Lord, thank You for the truth found in Matthew 7:23. Help me to take the insights from this scripture and apply them to my heart today.Amen.

Frequently Asked Questions

Main Themes

Judgment and Hypocrisy, Prayer and Persistence, Golden Rule, Discernment, False Prophets, Narrow vs. Wide Path, Good and Bad Fruit

Key Verses

Matthew 7:1, Matthew 7:7-8, Matthew 7:12, Matthew 7:15-16, Matthew 7:13-14

Historical Context

Matthew 7 is part of the Sermon on the Mount, which spans chapters 5 through 7. This section of Matthew’s Gospel is directed primarily at Jewish audiences, presenting Jesus as the authoritative teacher who fulfills the Law. The teachings in this chapter address the ethical and spiritual dimensions of life, contrasting the outward religiosity of the Pharisees with the inward transformation that Jesus calls for. The warnings against judgment and false prophets reflect concerns about community integrity and the authenticity of spiritual practices in the early Church, which were facing challenges from both internal hypocrisy and external opposition.