Keeping It Real

Scripture: Many will say to me that day, “Lord, Lord, did we not prophesy in your name and in your name drive out demons and in your name perform many miracles?” Then I will tell them plainly, “I never knew you, away from me, you evildoers!”; (Matt. 7:22-23 NIV).

In the above passage, Jesus says that it is not enough for believers to acknowledge Him as Master only with words; we must believe in Him and repent of our sins.

To repent means to have a change of mind. Repentance means to turn away from sin. Accurate repentance results in a change of mind with the appropriate actions following. We must live our lives holy and show love for one another, for this is God’s will for His children. Let us take notice of resting in outward privileges lest we deceive ourselves and perish eternally. Let everyone who confesses the name of Jesus depart from their sins.

The lesson teaches us to listen and act according to what we’ve heard. Jesus has laid the foundation, and though many build their hopes on worldly possessions, the foundation stands sure and is sealed. So let us be earnest and not rest in confusion.

Our Lord knows those who are workers of iniquity. He knows those under the guise of religion; he knows all of their actions. Nothing is hidden from his sight. Workers of iniquity have their own agenda; they don’t seek the ways of God. They claimed intimacy with God through Jesus, but He repudiated them, saying, “Our acquaintance was not broken off; there never was any.” Jesus plainly said, “I never knew you, away from me, you evildoers!” His judgment is banishment from heaven, which makes them acceptable for hell.

Let everyone who confesses the name of Jesus depart from iniquity. He will not admit anyone he does not know his presence or glory. Nevertheless, the foundation of God stands sure and is sealed. The Day of Judgment is fixed by God; neither angels nor men know this day. This day will be terrible to some but joyful to others. This day is when priests and ministers of the Gospel shall be owned by Christ and received into the kingdom of heaven. Repent! Now is the time of salvation.