TLDR;
This video explores the meaning behind Jesus's statement "I never knew you" in Matthew 7:23, emphasizing that it signifies a complete lack of a past or present relationship with Him. It highlights that outward actions alone, such as prophesying or casting out demons in Jesus's name, do not guarantee salvation. True salvation stems from a genuine love for God, which results in being known by Him. The video uses scripture to illustrate the characteristics of a believer and the importance of aligning one's actions with the teachings of Christ.
- Jesus's statement "I never knew you" signifies a complete lack of a past or present relationship with Him.
- Outward actions alone do not guarantee salvation.
- True salvation stems from a genuine love for God, which results in being known by Him.
Introduction: Understanding Jesus's Words "I Never Knew You" [0:00]
The video starts by addressing the potential heartbreak of being told that a perceived relationship was never real. It contrasts this with the profound statement made by Jesus in Matthew 7:23, "I never knew you," which carries a significantly deeper meaning. The speaker aims to explore the context and implications of this statement, particularly what Jesus is conveying when He says, "I never knew you."
Context: The Sermon on the Mount and Defining a Believer [0:47]
The passage in Matthew 7:23 is part of Jesus's Sermon on the Mount, where He describes how believers should behave. Jesus outlines the characteristics of a follower of Christ, emphasizing qualities such as being poor in spirit, mourning, gentleness, and hungering for righteousness. These descriptions serve as a benchmark for self-assessment, prompting individuals to examine whether their internal feelings and behaviors align with these spiritual ideals.
The Heart of a Believer: Inner Righteousness [2:36]
The discussion shifts to the importance of inner righteousness and the heart's condition. Jesus emphasizes that true righteousness is not merely an outward display to be noticed by others but an inward state of being. Examples include giving to the poor in secret and praying with a sincere heart, reflecting a genuine connection with God. The speaker underscores that the motivation behind actions reveals the true state of one's heart.
Judging Others and the Narrow Gate [4:30]
The video addresses the topic of judging others, clarifying that Jesus encourages righteous judgment, which begins with self-examination. Removing the "log" from one's own eye allows for a more forgiving and understanding perspective towards others. The passage transitions to the concept of the narrow gate, symbolizing the path to salvation, which is contrasted with the broad way leading to destruction. This path is tied to the condition of one's heart.
False Prophets and the Fruits of Their Labor [5:56]
The discussion covers the warning against false prophets who appear harmless but are inwardly destructive. These false prophets lead people away from the true word and salvation. They are known by their fruits, meaning their actions and teachings reveal their true nature. While good deeds don't automatically make someone a Christian, a pattern of bad fruit indicates a deeper issue.
Outward Actions vs. True Relationship with God [6:55]
The video emphasizes that merely calling Jesus "Lord" and performing acts in His name, such as prophesying, casting out demons, and performing miracles, does not guarantee entry into the kingdom of heaven. Jesus focuses on the phrase "in your name," implying that these actions were done for personal glory rather than out of genuine love and obedience to God. The critical factor is whether Jesus knows the individual, indicating a personal relationship.
Practicing Lawlessness and the Importance of the Heart [8:32]
The speaker contrasts the "practicing of lawlessness" with Paul's struggle in Romans 7, where he acknowledges his desire to do good but finds himself doing evil. The key difference lies in the heart's intention. While Paul struggles with sin, his heart desires to follow God, distinguishing him from those who deliberately practice lawlessness. The speaker reiterates that the heart's condition is paramount for salvation.
The Meaning of "I Never Knew You" in Greek [10:11]
The video analyzes the Greek words used in Matthew 7:23, specifically "I never knew you." The phrase "I never knew" is derived from "oude pote," which means "never, ever" and "egnon," an aorist active indicative form of "ginosko," signifying a complete lack of past relationship. This emphasizes that at no point in time did Jesus have a relationship with these individuals.
Biblical Examples of Knowing and Being Known by God [11:12]
The speaker uses Psalm 139, where David says, "O Lord, you have searched me and known me," to illustrate a deep, personal knowing. Similarly, 1 Corinthians 8:3 states, "If anyone loves God, he is known by him," highlighting that being known by God precedes and enables love for Him. This knowing is a completed action from the past, done to the believer.
The Good Shepherd and Knowing His Sheep [13:00]
The video references John 10:14, where Jesus says, "I am the good shepherd; I know my own, and my own know me." This reinforces the idea of a mutual, loving relationship between Jesus and His followers. The sheep are those whom Jesus knows and loves, and who, in turn, love Him. The speaker emphasizes that Jesus never says, "I used to know you" or "I sort of knew you," but rather, "I never knew you," indicating a complete absence of a relationship.
Conclusion: Building on the Rock and Loving God [15:16]
The video concludes by urging viewers not to be among those whom Jesus does not know. Salvation is attained through love for God, and the characteristics of a believer are outlined in Matthew 5-7. The speaker references Matthew 7:24-27, comparing those who hear and act on Jesus's words to a wise man who builds his house on the rock, while those who do not are like a foolish man who builds on sand. The only way to know that you are known by Him is if you love Him. If you love Him and are known by Him, then you also know Him.