Depart from Me…
Matthew 7:21-23 is a passage often misunderstood and misapplied, leading many sincere believers to fear the judgment of God.
In this text, Jesus says:
Not everyone that saith unto me, Lord, Lord, shall enter into the kingdom of heaven; but he that doeth the will of my Father which is in heaven. Many will say to me in that day, Lord, Lord, have we not prophesied in thy name? and in thy name have cast out devils? and in thy name done many wonderful works? And then will I profess unto them, I never knew you: depart from me, ye that work iniquity.
At first glance, this passage seems terrifying. It appears to suggest that even those who profess Christ might ultimately be rejected. However, when we examine the context of Jesus’ teaching and the consistent message of Scripture, it becomes clear that this text is not a call to fear judgment but rather an invitation to rest solely in Christ.
The Danger of Misplaced Trust
The key to understanding Matthew 7:21-23 lies in recognizing to whom Jesus is speaking. The people described in this passage are those who stand before Christ on the last day pointing to their own works as the basis for their acceptance. They say, “Lord, Lord, have we not prophesied in thy name? and in thy name have cast out devils? and in thy name done many wonderful works?” Their confidence is misplaced. Instead of trusting in Christ and His finished work, they trust in their deeds done in His name.
This misunderstanding is common. Many people—even those sitting in church pews—believe their standing before God hinges on their performance. They live as though their righteousness, church attendance, or acts of service are what ultimately secure God’s favor. But Scripture teaches the opposite: our acceptance is rooted entirely in Christ’s work for us, not in anything we do.
Matthew 7:21-23 describes people who are self-deceived. They do not acknowledge their spiritual poverty. Instead, they approach Christ with a resume of religious accomplishments, expecting these to earn His favor. Jesus’ chilling response—“I never knew you”—reveals that their confidence was misplaced. They trusted their works, and their prayers instead of placing their faith in Him.
Resting in the Gospel
This passage is not meant to drive true believers to despair. It is a warning to those who refuse to trust and rest in Christ and instead rely on their own efforts. For the weary saint who knows they fall short and feel unworthy, this text is not a call to fear judgment but a reminder that salvation has never depended on their worthiness.
The person who approaches God saying, “I have nothing to offer—I need Christ,” will never be turned away. God delights to save those who trust in His Son.
Matthew 7:21-23 is a sobering passage, but it is not meant to lead believers to fear the judgment. Instead, it calls us to examine where we place our confidence. If we look to ourselves and our works, we will have reason to fear. But if we look to Christ—His perfect life, atoning death, and glorious resurrection—we can rest assured that He will never fail us.
The gospel is good news for the weary and the weak. It reminds us that our hope is not in what we bring to God but in what He has done for us in Christ. May this truth drive us away from self-reliance and into the arms of our faithful Savior, where we find true assurance and peace.