Matthew 7:21-23 WARNING
Channel: Green Thumbs Collective
Date: 2023-10-28

The frequently asked questions regarding Matthew 7:21-23 arise due to apparent contradictions with two deeply held beliefs: the assurance of eternal salvation and the association of miracles with divine origin. However, it is important to note that one of these beliefs aligns with scriptural truth, while the other does not. While it is true that a genuine believer cannot lose their salvation, it is also true that not all miracles are performed by true believers.

Jesus delivers this message towards the end of His Sermon on the Mount (chapters 5—7). Starting from verse 13, Jesus extensively discusses the distinction between true faith and false professions, utilizing the technique of contrast and comparison. Verses 13-14 depict two paths that individuals tread in life: the broad road leading to eternal destruction and the narrow path leading to eternal life. In these verses, Jesus introduces the concept of the "many" and the "few," which He later revisits in verses 21-23.

In Matthew 7:15–18, Jesus further emphasizes the contrast between these two types of individuals by employing imagery familiar to those in an agrarian society, such as sheep/wolves, grapes/figs, thorn bushes/thistles, good trees/bad trees, and good fruit/bad fruit. By establishing this dichotomy in the minds of His listeners, Jesus proceeds to apply these truths to the spiritual condition of all those present. He presents two categories of people who will approach Him on the final day, referring to the day of judgment, a significant day predetermined by God and unknown to both angels and humans. This day will bring terror to some and joy to others. All will seek entry into the kingdom of heaven, but some will be rejected and respond with utter confusion and disappointment, as what they believed to be their "ticket" to heaven proves to be worthless. These individuals are those who prophesied in the name of Jesus, either foretelling future events or preaching the Word in His name. They may have even performed extraordinary acts such as casting out demons and perhaps healing and other miracles. However, their efforts were in vain, as their works were driven by self-glory rather than genuine faith.