Matthew 7:23
“Then I will tell them, ‘I never knew you. Depart from me, you who work iniquity.’”
What does Matthew 7:23 mean?
Jesus speaks these words to people who will stand before him claiming they did great things in his name, yet he says he never knew them. "Knew" here means something deeper than mere acquaintance, it points to relationship, intimacy, and genuine connection. The real issue isn't whether they performed miracles or prophesied, but whether they ever actually turned from sin and trusted him with their whole lives. This is sobering, especially for those of us who grew up in faith communities or performed religious acts. Jesus is saying that going through the motions, doing impressive things, or even believing correct doctrine isn't enough without a real relationship with him. He wants to know us, and he wants us to know him, which means living honestly toward him and turning away from what we know is wrong. If you're carrying guilt about past failings or wondering whether your faith is real, the good news is that he invites genuine repentance and relationship, not perfection.