New Testament
Luke 13:27
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And he'll reply, 'I'm telling you, I don't know where you come from. Get away from me, all of you who practice evil.'
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But he shall say, I tell you, I know you not whence ye are; depart from me, all ye workers of iniquity.
What Luke 13:27 means
Plain-English insight for readers
In this verse, Jesus speaks about a time when people will seek to enter the kingdom of God but will be turned away. He emphasizes that he does not recognize them, indicating a lack of relationship or true connection with him. The phrase 'workers of iniquity' refers to those who engage in sinful actions without repentance. This serves as a warning that merely claiming to know Jesus is not enough; one must also live in accordance with his teachings and values. The rejection signifies the importance of genuine faith and obedience over superficial appearances. It highlights the necessity of a true relationship with Christ, which is characterized by righteousness and a commitment to following his ways. This verse encourages self-examination of one's faith and actions, urging believers to ensure they are not just outwardly religious but truly aligned with God's will.
How to apply Luke 13:27 to your life
This verse challenges us to reflect on our relationship with Jesus. It reminds us that true faith is demonstrated through our actions and choices. We should strive to live righteously and ensure our lives align with Christ's teachings, avoiding hypocrisy and iniquity.
Curated for this public verse page. Luke Summary
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At a Glance — the Book of Luke
- Author
- Luke the physician
- Written
- Around AD 60-62
- Genre
- Gospel and history
- Original Audience
- Gentile Christians (addressed to Theophilus)
Frequently Asked Questions
Quick, clear answers about this verse
What does Luke 13:27 mean about being turned away from the kingdom?
In Luke 13:27, Jesus warns that there will be a time when some will seek to enter the kingdom of God but will be rejected. This rejection signifies that merely claiming to know Jesus is insufficient; a true relationship with Him is essential. It highlights the importance of living according to His teachings and values, rather than just outwardly appearing religious.
Who are the 'workers of iniquity' mentioned in this verse?
The term 'workers of iniquity' refers to individuals who engage in sinful behaviors without repentance. In the context of Luke 13:27, it emphasizes that those who live in disobedience to God's commands and do not seek a genuine relationship with Christ will be turned away. This serves as a reminder that faith must be accompanied by righteous actions.
How can I ensure I am not among those turned away in Luke 13:27?
To avoid being turned away as mentioned in Luke 13:27, focus on developing a genuine relationship with Jesus. This involves not only believing in Him but also living according to His teachings. Regular self-examination of your faith, seeking repentance for sins, and striving to align your actions with Christ's values are crucial steps to ensure you are truly following Him.
What is the significance of Jesus saying 'I do not know you'?
When Jesus says 'I do not know you' in Luke 13:27, it signifies a lack of personal relationship and recognition. This indicates that those being turned away may have been superficially religious but did not have a true connection with Him. It underscores the necessity of a heartfelt faith and obedience to His teachings, rather than mere outward appearances.
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