The Most Troubling Passage in the New Testament

Not long ago, I read a newspaper article  about a man posing as a United States Marine. The man was found in an airport accepting kind words of thanks and affirmation from well-wishers when two active duty Marines noticed something amiss on his uniform. They questioned him about his service and became increasingly suspicious. The Marines turned him into authorities who later confirmed that the man had worn the uniform and was posing as a serviceman though he never served.

What would cause this man to pose as a Marine? My guess is he longed for the honor and respect that comes with being a serviceman but didn’t live the life that a commitment to the military demands.

In Matthew 7:21-13, we find Jesus addressing another group of posers. As far as I’m concerned, this is the most troubling passage in the New Testament.

“Not everyone who says to me, ‘Lord, Lord, will enter the kingdom of heaven, but the one who does the will of my Father who is in heaven. On that day many will say to me, ‘Lord, Lord, did we not prophesy in your name, and cast out demons in your name, and do many mighty works in your name?’ And then will I declare to them, I never knew you; depart from me, you workers of lawlessness.’”

What’s most sobering about this passage is that Jesus is addressing people who think they are saved, but they are not. Clearly, these are religious folks known for good works. These people no doubt “wore the Christian uniform.” But Jesus sees the motive behind our works and knows our hearts. In verse 21, He makes it clear that those who enter the kingdom of heaven will be the ones who do the will of the Father.

But aren’t we saved by grace through faith as Paul tells us in Ephesians 2:8? Yes, Scripture makes it clear that is the way of salvation. So why does Jesus say that only those who do the will of the Father will enter the kingdom of heaven? In his book, Jesus’ Sermon on the Mount And His Confrontation with the World theologian D.A. Carson says it best:

“It is true, of course, that no man enters the kingdom because of his obedience; but it is equally true that no man enters the kingdom who is not obedient. It is true that men are saved by God’s grace through faith in Christ; but it is equally true that God’s grace in a man’s life inevitably results in obedience.”

Christ’s words in Matthew 7:21-23 make it clear that we can’t hide behind a disguise of religious activity and good works. Jesus can see through an outward veneer of religiosity that has no saving power. He knows our hearts and if we are truly submitted to His Lordship. May He find us to be sold out servants for the kingdom of God.