Bible: "I Never Knew You"
What Does "I Never Knew You" Mean?
In the Gospel of Matthew, Jesus Christ uses the phrase "I never knew you" to refer to those who claim to believe in Him but do not live according to His teachings (Matthew 7:21-23). This phrase has become a solemn warning for all who profess faith in Christ but fail to demonstrate it through their actions.
Why Does Jesus Say "I Never Knew You"?
Jesus' statement "I never knew you" highlights the importance of not only acknowledging Him as Savior but also obeying His commands. True discipleship involves not just verbal assent but also a lifestyle that reflects Christ's character and values. Those who merely claim to believe in Jesus but live in unrighteousness will be rejected by Him on the day of judgment.
How to Avoid Hearing "I Never Knew You"
To avoid hearing "I never knew you" from Jesus, it is crucial to:
- Believe in Jesus as Lord and Savior: Acknowledge Jesus as the only way to God and trust in Him for salvation.
- Submit to His authority: Obey His commandments and strive to live according to His teachings.
- Bear fruit in your life: Demonstrate the reality of your faith through good works, love for others, and a transformed character.
- Remain steadfast: Endure trials and temptations, and continue to follow Jesus faithfully throughout your life.
Consequences of Hearing "I Never Knew You"
Those who hear "I never knew you" from Jesus will face eternal consequences. They will be separated from God and condemned to eternal punishment. This is a sobering reminder of the importance of living a life that is pleasing to God.
Jesus' words "I never knew you" serve as a warning and a call to self-examination. It is not enough to claim faith in Christ; we must also live in a way that demonstrates the reality of our belief. By obeying His commandments, bearing fruit in our lives, and remaining steadfast, we can avoid hearing these devastating words and instead inherit eternal life with God.