Fake Faith and Real Consequences: Understanding Matthew 7:21-23

Good morning, church! Today, we’re diving into a passage that can shake us up a bit—Matthew 7:21-23. If you’ve ever read these verses and thought, “Wait a minute, does this mean I could lose my salvation?” you’re not alone. Let’s unpack this together in plain language.

The Passage

Jesus says, “Not everyone who says to me, 'Lord, Lord,' will enter the kingdom of heaven, but only the one who does the will of my Father who is in heaven. Many will say to me on that day, 'Lord, Lord, did we not prophesy in your name and in your name drive out demons and perform many miracles?' Then I will tell them plainly, 'I never knew you. Away from me, you evildoers!'”

Yikes, right? Here are people who seem to have their spiritual resumes stacked high with miracles, exorcisms, and preaching. But Jesus says He doesn’t know them. What gives?

Let’s Clear Something Up

The big question is: can someone lose their salvation? The short answer is no. The Bible is clear that salvation is a gift from God, not something we earn (Ephesians 2:8-9). Once you’re truly saved, you’re secure. Jesus said, “No one can snatch them out of my hand” (John 10:28). Phew!

So, if salvation can’t be lost, who are these people Jesus is talking about?

They Were Never Saved to Begin With

These folks weren’t believers who lost salvation—they were never truly believers. They might have looked the part, spoken the lingo, and even done flashy things in Jesus’ name. But their hearts weren’t changed. They didn’t have that personal, saving relationship with Jesus. He says, “I never knew you.” Not, “I knew you for a while, but you blew it.” They were strangers to Him from the start.

Miracles Don’t Equal Salvation

One of the tricky parts here is that these people did miracles. How? Well, miracles can come from two sources.

1. God can use anyone for His purposes. Remember Judas? He was one of the 12 disciples, preaching and healing right alongside Peter and John. But Judas never truly followed Jesus from the heart. God allowed him to do those works for the bigger picture.

   
   

2. Satan can fake it. Yep. The devil can stage miracles to deceive people. Paul says Satan can appear as an angel of light (2 Corinthians 11:14). Just because someone can pull off a miracle doesn’t mean they’re on Team Jesus.

   
   

So What Does This Mean for Us?

Here’s the takeaway: Christianity isn’t about checking boxes or dazzling crowds. It’s about truly knowing Jesus and being known by Him. It’s about a heart that’s surrendered to God, not just hands busy with good deeds.

The Will of the Father

What does Jesus mean by “doing the will of my Father”? In John 6:29, Jesus says, “The work of God is this: to believe in the one he has sent.” Simple. The foundation of salvation is trusting in Jesus—believing He is who He says He is and resting in His grace.

How Do I Know I’m Truly Saved?

Good question. Here are a few ways to know if you’re on the right path:

1. Do you trust in Jesus alone for salvation? Not your works, but His work on the cross.

   
   

2. Is there evidence of a changed heart? Do you love God and desire to follow Him, even when you stumble?

   
   

3. Is the Holy Spirit at work in you? Do you feel convicted of sin and drawn to righteousness?

   
   

Wrapping Up

Matthew 7:21-23 isn’t here to scare true believers but to warn those who might be relying on appearances. It’s a call to authenticity. Jesus isn’t looking for perfect people; He’s looking for people who genuinely know and trust Him.

Let’s rest in the assurance that if we’re walking with Jesus, He knows us—and that’s what matters most. Amen!

Closing Prayer

Heavenly Father, we come before You with humble hearts, grateful for the gift of salvation through Your Son, Jesus Christ. Thank You for the assurance that we are secure in Your hands. Help us to know You more deeply and to live lives that reflect that relationship. Lord, guard our hearts against deception and keep us on the narrow path that leads to life. May our trust be in You alone, and may we walk in obedience to Your will. In Jesus' name, we pray. Amen.