I NEVER KNEW YOU / MATTHEW 7:23

START YOUR DAY RIGHT DAILY DEVOTION

(KJV) Matthew 7:22

And then will I profess unto them, I never knew you: depart from me, ye that work iniquity.

Guarded by Truth: The Deception of “I Never Knew You”

Matthew 7:23 contains some of the most sobering words in the entire Bible: “And then I will declare to them, ‘I never knew you; depart from Me, you who practice lawlessness!’”

Christ makes it unmistakably clear that people may speak about Him and even be involved in powerful, supernatural activity—such as driving out demons and performing miracles—though in their hearts they have no genuine personal relationship with Him. It is a powerful reminder that outward religious activity can never substitute for inward spiritual reality.

The Reality of Spiritual Masquerades

Scripture teaches that what seems to be great preaching, strong belief, enthusiasm for God, and the working of miracles can be performed even under the influence and power of Satan. Unlike us, Satan obviously has supernatural abilities and will use them to deceive people both inside and outside the church.

The Apostle Paul directly warns us about this deceptive strategy:

“Satan himself masquerades as an angel of light. It is not surprising, then, that many of his servants masquerade as servants of righteousness.” — 2 Corinthians 11:14-15

Paul further explains that what might appear to be a powerful gift of ministry can actually be “the work of Satan” (2 Thessalonians 2:9-10). Miraculous signs alone are not proof of God’s endorsement.

God Honors His Word, Not the Deceiver

If false workers can mimic spiritual power, how can the church survive? The beauty of God’s sovereignty is that He often overrides Satan’s activity in false preachers in order to bring genuine spiritual salvation or healing to those who truly respond to God’s Word (Philippians 1:15-18).

This means that if the message is true—even when the minister is not—it can still have the proper godly effect on people’s lives. Consider these vital distinctions:

God’s Standard: It is always God’s desire that those who proclaim His message are in a right relationship with Him (1 Timothy 3:1-7).
God’s Grace: When an evil or immoral person preaches God’s Word, God can still work in the hearts of those who receive the Word and trust Christ.
God’s Justice: God does not give His approval on any unrighteous minister or teacher, but He does honor the truth of His message and will save all who accept it in faith.

We must look past the flashy displays of power and look directly at the fruit of intimacy with Christ. True faith is not found in public performance, but in being deeply, intimately known by the Savior.

A Closing Prayer for Discernment and Intimacy

Heavenly Father,

We come before You with humbled hearts, recognizing the weight of Your Word. Lord, protect us from the subtle spirit of deception. Keep our eyes fixed on truth rather than signs, wonders, or empty religious performance. We ask for the gift of spiritual discernment to see past the masquerades of this world.

Search our hearts today, Lord. We do not want to simply use Your name; we want to truly know You and be known by You. Guard us against a lifestyle of superficial religion and draw us into a deep, genuine, and transforming relationship with Jesus Christ. May our lives bear the fruit of righteousness that honors Your holy name.

In Jesus’ name we pray, Amen.

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Blessings, Margarita & Stace