New Testament
Matthew 7:23
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Then I will tell them plainly, 'I never knew you. Get away from me, you who practice evil.'
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And then will I profess unto them, I never knew you: depart from me, ye that work iniquity.
What Matthew 7:23 means
Plain-English insight for readers
In this verse, Jesus speaks to those who claim to follow Him but do not truly have a relationship with Him. He emphasizes that mere outward actions or professions of faith are not enough; what matters is a genuine connection with Him. The phrase 'I never knew you' indicates a lack of personal relationship and intimacy. Jesus calls out those who practice evil, highlighting that their actions do not align with His teachings. This serves as a warning that not everyone who appears to be a follower of Christ will enter the Kingdom of Heaven. True faith is demonstrated through a life transformed by knowing Jesus, not just through religious activities or declarations. This verse challenges believers to examine their hearts and ensure they are living in accordance with God's will, rather than relying on superficial faith.
How to apply Matthew 7:23 to your life
This verse encourages us to reflect on our relationship with Jesus. It’s essential to ensure that our faith is genuine and not just a facade. We should strive to live in a way that aligns with Christ's teachings, avoiding actions that contradict our professed beliefs.
Curated for this public verse page. Matthew Summary
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Illustrated scene from Jesus's story: The Sermon on the Mount (Matthew 5:1–7:29)
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Photo: Gary Todd (Gary Lee Todd, Ph.D.), via Wikimedia Commons. License: CC0 1.0 Universal Public Domain Dedication. Source. Location: Southern end of the Temple Mount, Jerusalem Old City. Resized for the web.
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Key themes
At a Glance — the Book of Matthew
- Author
- Matthew the apostle
- Written
- Around AD 60-70
- Genre
- Gospel
- Original Audience
- Jewish Christians
Frequently Asked Questions
Quick, clear answers about this verse
What does Jesus mean by 'I never knew you'?
In Matthew 7:23, when Jesus says 'I never knew you,' He is emphasizing the importance of a personal relationship with Him. This statement indicates that despite outward appearances or claims of faith, some individuals lack a true connection with Christ. It serves as a reminder that genuine faith is not just about religious activities but involves a heartfelt relationship with Jesus.
How can I ensure my faith is genuine?
To ensure your faith is genuine, regularly examine your relationship with Jesus. Engage in prayer, study the Bible, and seek to understand His teachings. Reflect on your actions and motivations, ensuring they align with Christ's values. Authentic faith is demonstrated through love, obedience, and a desire to grow closer to God, rather than merely performing religious duties.
Why is personal accountability important in faith?
Personal accountability is crucial in faith because it encourages believers to take responsibility for their actions and relationship with God. Matthew 7:23 serves as a reminder that outward appearances are not enough; true faith requires introspection and alignment with Christ's teachings. Being accountable helps believers grow spiritually and avoid complacency in their faith journey.
What warning does Matthew 7:23 give to believers?
Matthew 7:23 warns believers that not everyone who claims to follow Christ will enter the Kingdom of Heaven. It emphasizes the necessity of a genuine relationship with Jesus rather than relying solely on religious practices or declarations. This verse challenges believers to examine their hearts and ensure their faith is authentic and transformative.
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