False Disciples False Disciples Part 1Part 1

Mathew 7: 21 to 29Mathew 7: 21 to 29

I – INTRODUCTION to the topic and contextual background

Jesus is still giving the invitation of his sermon calling people from false religion to the true kingdom. After telling us how only a few enters the narrow gate and narrow way because of its demands and because of false prophets that are leading people astray he now gives us a final reason why so few enter into the narrow gate and that is self deception

Why are people self deceived ?

1.) Many people have been taught a false doctrine of assurance (2 Peter 1:10)

2.) Failure of Self Examination (2 Cor. 13:5, 1 Cor. 6:9-10)

3.) Concentration on religious activity

a.) The superficial person

b.) The seemingly knowledgeable

According to our Lord Jesus there are two basic manifestations of self deception. Those who say but not do and those who hear but do not do.

II – Those who say but do not do

“Not every one that saith unto me, Lord, Lord, shall enter into the kingdom of heaven; but he that doeth the will of my Father which is in heaven. Many will say to me in that day, Lord, Lord, have we not prophesied in thy name? and in thy name have cast out devils? and in thy name done many wonderful works? And then will I profess unto them, I never knew you: depart from me, ye that work” – Mathew 7:21 to 23

“Lord” - Was a common Jewish term for Yaweh. To address Jesus as Lord would be to consider Him as the one true God demonstrating intense zeal and devotion towards Him. Jesus is there talking here about those who made a profession of faith to Him. The fact that they have done many works in His name tells us they are fervent religious workers. (vs.22)

“On that day” – is frequently used to rfer to the era of divine judgement. Known in Scripture as “the day of the Lord.” – Revelations 20:11-15

“ . . . shall enter into the kingdom of heaven; but he that doeth the will of my Father which is in heaven . . .” – The test if you are true disciple is simple and that is obedience. Salvation and obedience to the will of God is inseparable. (John 8:31)

“ . . . And then will I profess unto them, I never knew you: depart from me, ye that work iniquity– Sadly, this will be the last words of Jesus to false disciples.

“To Know” is a Hebrew idiom that represented intimate relationship. The sad thing here is that Jesus tells the self deceived he has never known them or had been intimate with them ever.

“Workers of iniquity” – Is present participle in Greek, indicating a continuous, regular action and identifies and unrighteous pattern of living. You continually practice lawless is the idea here. (1 John 3:9)