Devine Scripture

Matthew 7:22

What does Matthew 7:22 mean?

A plain-English look at Matthew 7:22 in WEB alongside six other public-domain English translations, with cross-references and chapter context.

What Matthew 7:22 means

Jesus describes a future judgment day where 'many' will claim to have performed impressive spiritual works in His name—prophesying, casting out demons, and doing 'mighty works.' These individuals will appeal to their religious service as proof of their relationship with Him. This highlights a common human tendency to equate spiritual activity with genuine godliness. Jesus reveals that even miraculous gifts and outward service are not necessarily indicators of true saving faith or a relationship with Christ, setting up the shocking response in the next verse.

Parallel translations

WEB

World English Bible · 2000

Many will say to me in that day, Lord, Lord, did we not prophesy by thy name, and by thy name cast out demons, and by thy name do many mighty works?

KJV

King James Version · 1611

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?

ASV

American Standard Version · 1901

Many will say to me in that day, Lord, Lord, did we not prophesy by thy name, and by thy name cast out demons, and by thy name do many mighty works?

BBE

Bible in Basic English · 1949

A great number will say to me on that day, Lord, Lord, were we not prophets in your name, and did we not by your name send out evil spirits, and by your name do works of power?

YLT

Young's Literal Translation · 1862

Many will say to me in that day, Lord, lord, have we not in thy name prophesied? and in thy name cast out demons? and in thy name done many mighty things?

DRA

Douay-Rheims (Challoner) · 1752

Many will say to me in that day: Lord, Lord, have not we prophesied in thy name, and cast out devils in thy name, and done many miracles in thy name?

DBY

Darby Bible · 1890

Many shall say to me in that day, Lord, Lord, have we not prophesied through thy name, and through thy name cast out demons, and through thy name done many works of power?

Context

Building on the warning that mere profession is insufficient, this verse elaborates on the scenario of judgment, introducing those who will appeal to their spiritual 'works.' It heightens the sense of urgency and gravity, as even impressive religious accomplishments are revealed as potentially inadequate. This verse prepares the reader for Jesus' stunning and severe rejection of these seemingly pious individuals, solidifying the distinction between outward performance and genuine relationship with Him.

v.21Not every one that saith unto me, Lord, Lord, shall enter into the kingdom of heaven; but he that doeth the will of my Father who is in heaven.

v.22This passage

v.23And then will I profess unto them, I never knew you: depart from me, ye that work iniquity.

Cross references

Related passages from across Scripture, drawn from the Treasury of Scripture Knowledge.

  • Luke 10:12

    I say unto you, It shall be more tolerable in that day for Sodom, than for that city.

  • Hebrews 6:4

    For as touching those who were once enlightened and tasted of the heavenly gift, and were made partakers of the Holy Spirit,

  • Acts 19:13

    But certain also of the strolling Jews, exorcists, took upon them to name over them that had the evil spirits the name of the Lord Jesus, saying, I adjure you by Jesus whom Paul preacheth.

  • 2 Thessalonians 1:10

    when he shall come to be glorified in his saints, and to be marvelled at in all them that believed (because our testimony unto you was believed) in that day.

  • Matthew 10:15

    Verily I say unto you, It shall be more tolerable for the land of Sodom and Gomorrah in the day of judgment, than for that city.

  • Luke 13:25

    When once the master of the house is risen up, and hath shut to the door, and ye begin to stand without, and to knock at the door, saying, Lord, open to us; and he shall answer and say to you, I know you not whence ye are;

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