The Scripture to Keep You Awake at Night

“Not everyone who says to Me, ‘Lord, Lord,’ will enter the kingdom of heaven, but he who does the will of My Father who is in heaven will enter. Many will say to Me on that day, ‘Lord, Lord, did we not prophesy in Your name, and in Your name cast out demons, and in Your name perform many miracles?’ And then I will declare to them, ‘I never knew you; depart from ME, you who practice lawlessness.’” — Matthew 7:21-23

Friend, could that be said to you by Jesus on the Judgment day?

Matthew 7:21-23

Few passages in the Bible are as piercing as Matthew 7:21-23. Here, Jesus takes a direct turn from cautioning against false prophets to confronting false believers. It’s not just about what we claim but what we live. Many of us may confidently declare Jesus as “Lord” but miss the life-changing reality of that declaration. According to Jesus, simply saying His name is not enough to secure our place in heaven. We must actively do the will of the Father.

The Sobering Warning Against False Confidence

In this passage, Jesus addresses those who profess Him as “Lord” but lack true discipleship. This warning strikes at the heart of self-deception. False confidence can easily take root when faith is limited to words, outward appearances, or religious routines. Jesus is telling us that calling Him “Lord” with our lips, while our hearts remain unyielding, is not only insufficient but dangerous.

In essence, He’s calling out anyone who gives a “mouthy declaration” of faith without genuine submission. A vocal allegiance to Jesus—without evidence of obedience and transformation—may offer comfort now but leads to a rude awakening later. According to Jesus, words without actions are simply empty. Jesus was clear in Matthew 15:8-9 saying “This people honors ME with their lips, But their heart is far away from ME. ‘But in vain do they worship ME, Teaching as doctrines the precepts of men.’  Is this what you are doing? Is your eternal life built on man-made ideas rather than God’s truth?

Can We Fool God?

Consider this: on earth, it’s possible to convince others, or even ourselves, that we are aligned with God’s will through outward expressions. But Jesus warns that it’s possible to deceive ourselves into believing that a shallow relationship with God will be enough. Ultimately, however, we cannot hide an unyielding heart from God. You cannot live in opposition to God’s ways on earth and expect to be accepted into heaven.

Jesus’ words reveal that many who think they know Him, who assume their devotion is enough, will be turned away. Only those who do the will of the Father will enter. This is a warning about false devotion, a devotion built on self rather than on obedience to the words of Jesus.

Acting Responsibly

If Jesus is telling us that only those who actively seek to do the Father’s will can enter, doesn’t that challenge us to examine our own lives? Are we truly doing His will, or are we simply giving lip service? Are we walking according to His light? “Your word is a lamp to my feet, And a light to my path.” Psalm 119:105. It requires careful reflection, not casual participation. Romans 12:1-3 calls us to be transformed by renewing our minds, while Philippians 2:12 instructs us to “work out your salvation with fear and trembling”. Following Jesus requires personal responsibility and intentional action.

What Is the Father’s Will?

If calling Jesus “Lord” is not enough, what does it mean to do the Father’s will? This question should drive us to deeper study and understanding. Seeking God’s will requires more than knowledge—it demands transformation. It means turning to God’s Word, earnestly seeking His commands, and aligning our lives accordingly. As Romans 1:16 reminds us, “it is the power of God for salvation to everyone who believes.”

The best way to understand and apply God’s will is to dive into Bible study with an open heart. If Jesus says that doing the Father’s will is essential, when would be a better time than now to truly study His Word and learn what that will entails? “Now is the time of God’s favor, now is the day of salvation.” (2 Corinthians 6:2).

What kind of foundation is your Faith built on? Sand or Rock?

Immediately following this passage, in Matthew 7:24, Jesus offers a vivid parable about two builders. One built his house on sand; the other on rock. When storms came, only one house stood firm—the one on the rock. This parable illustrates the critical difference between hearing Jesus' words and acting on them. Just as a strong foundation is vital for a house to withstand storms, a life grounded in genuine obedience to Jesus is essential for spiritual security.

So, as you reflect on Jesus’ warning in Matthew 7, consider this final question: Is your foundation sand or rock? The answer may keep you awake tonight—but it could make all the difference for eternity.

Final Thought

Since you’ve read this far, why not examine the scriptures to see what Jesus offers you and how you can respond biblically to His call? Jesus loves you and cares for all mankind. He died for the sins of the world and asks that you respond in faith to receive the benefit of His sacrifice. Scripture lays out a path: “Faith comes by hearing, and hearing by the word of Christ” (Romans 10:17). Jesus calls you to believe (John 8:24), repent (Luke 13:3), confess Him as Lord (Matthew 10:32), and be baptized, washing away your sins (Mark 16:16, Acts 22:16).

Walking in His light brings joy and peace to your soul. Will you join us on this journey? Won’t you join us?