Matthew 7:20
Verse
Context
Sermons







Summary
Commentary
- Jamieson-Fausset-Brown
- John Gill
Jamieson-Fausset-Brown Bible Commentary
Wherefore by their fruits ye shall know them--that is, But the point I now press is not so much the end of such, as the means of detecting them; and this, as already said, is their fruits. The hypocrisy of teachers now leads to a solemn warning against religious hypocrisy in general.
John Gill Bible Commentary
Then will I profess unto them,.... Publicly before men and angels, at the day of judgment, I never knew you; which must be understood consistent with the omniscience of Christ; for as the omniscient God he knew their persons and their works, and that they were workers of iniquity; he knew what they had been doing all their days under the guise of religion; he knew the principles of all their actions, and the views they had in all they did; nothing is hid from him. But, as words of knowledge often carry in them the ideas of affection, and approbation, see Psa 1:6 the meaning of Christ here is, I never had any love, or affection for you; I never esteemed you; I never made any account of you, as mine, as belonging to me; I never approved of you, nor your conduct; I never had any converse, communication, nor society with you, nor you with me. The Persic version reads it, "I have not known you of old", from ancient times, or from everlasting; I never knew you in my Father's choice, and my own, nor in my Father's gift to me, nor in the everlasting covenant of grace; I never knew you as my sheep, for whom, in time, I died, and called by name; I never knew you believe in me, nor love me, or mine; I have seen you in my house, preaching in my name, and at my table administering mine ordinance; but I never knew you exalt my person, blood, righteousness, and sacrifice; you talk of the works you have done, I never knew you do one good work in all your lives, with a single eye to my glory; wherefore, I will neither hear, nor see you; I have nothing to do with you. In this sense the phrase is used in the Talmud (y): "Bar Kaphra went to visit R. Juda; he says to him, Bar Kaphra, , "I never knew thee".'' The gloss upon it is, "he intimates, that he would not see him.'' So here, Christ declares, he knew them not; that is, he did not like them; he would not admit them into his presence and glory; but said, depart from me, ye workers of iniquity. The former of these expressions contains the awful sentence pronounced by Christ, the judge; which is, banishment from his presence, than which nothing is more terrible: for as it is his presence that makes heaven, it is his absence that makes hell; and this supposes a place and state, whither they are banished; which is elsewhere called their "own place, the lake" which burns with fire and brimstone; "everlasting fire", prepared for the devil and his angels. Departure from Christ's presence is the punishment of loss, and being sent to everlasting burnings, is the punishment of sense; and the whole, as it is an instance of strict justice, so a display of Christ's almighty power. The latter expression contains the character of these persons, and in it a reason of their punishment; they were "workers of iniquity": it may be, neither adulterers, nor murderers, nor drunkards, nor extortioners, nor thieves, or any other openly profane sinners; but inasmuch as they did the work of the Lord deceitfully, preached themselves, and not Christ; sought their own things, and not his; what they did, they did with a wicked mind, and not with a view to his glory; they wrought iniquity, whilst they were doing the very things they pleaded on their own behalf, for their admission into the kingdom of heaven. Some copies read, "all the workers of iniquity", as in Psa 6:8 from whence the words are taken. (y) T. Bab. Moed Katon, fol. 16. 1.
Matthew 7:20
A Tree and Its Fruit
19Every tree that does not bear good fruit is cut down and thrown into the fire.20So then, by their fruit you will recognize them.
- Scripture
- Sermons
- Commentary
There's Too Much Riding on Eternity
By Paul Washer3.6K53:22MAT 6:33MAT 7:1MAT 7:13MAT 7:15MAT 7:20In this sermon, the speaker highlights the importance of ministers of Jesus Christ being willing to confront and address the spiritual condition of individuals in the congregation. He contrasts this approach with the tendency in America for people to be thin-skinned and avoid such confrontations. The speaker emphasizes that genuine love for others involves speaking the truth and holding them accountable. The sermon also discusses the passage from Matthew 7:13-20, where Jesus warns about the narrow gate and the few who find it, and cautions against false prophets. The speaker encourages self-reflection and examination of one's own spiritual fruit as evidence of a genuine relationship with the Lord.
College Conference - 2 Cor. 13:5 & 1 Jn.
By Paul Washer2.3K50:31AssuranceMAT 7:20ROM 8:92CO 13:5EPH 2:81JN 1:91JN 2:31JN 2:6In this sermon, the speaker highlights the problem of reductionism in our understanding of the gospel. He criticizes the tendency to simplify the message of Jesus Christ into a few basic principles, diminishing its depth and significance. The speaker shares personal anecdotes to illustrate his point, emphasizing the need to truly marvel at the gospel rather than treating it as a basic introductory lesson. He also emphasizes the importance of being sensitive to sin and growing in our knowledge of God.
Pure Heart, Pure Church - Part 8
By Leonard Ravenhill1.3K09:03PSA 51:10ISA 53:5MAT 7:20GAL 2:20GAL 5:24HEB 7:251JN 1:9This sermon emphasizes the need for confession of sin and a return to a deep reverence for God's presence, highlighting the importance of recognizing and repenting of sin, as well as the transformative power of God's grace in the lives of even the most broken individuals. It calls for a revival of the fear of the Lord and a rediscovery of the majesty of God, leading to a heightened awareness of sin and a passion for reaching the lost with the message of the gospel.
Does Doctrine Matter - Part 8
By Derek Melton1.2K51:30Importance of DoctrineDoctrineRegenerationEZK 36:25MAT 7:20JHN 3:3ROM 6:162CO 7:11EPH 2:81TI 4:161JN 2:291JN 3:141JN 5:18Derek Melton emphasizes the critical importance of doctrine, particularly the doctrine of regeneration, in the Christian faith. He explains that true regeneration leads to a transformation of the heart and life, evidenced by a love for God and His people, a desire for righteousness, and a rejection of sin. Melton warns against the complacency in modern Christianity that neglects the teaching of sound doctrine, urging believers to examine their lives for the fruits of true conversion. He passionately calls for a return to the biblical understanding of being 'born again' and the necessity of a genuine relationship with Christ, which results in a changed life. The sermon concludes with an invitation for those who feel the weight of their sin to seek true regeneration through Christ.
This Heart Is Too Small - Part 1
By Joshua Daniel1.1K08:33PSA 139:1PRO 15:3MAT 7:20GAL 6:7HEB 4:13REV 3:14This sermon delves into the message to the church of Laodicea in Revelation 3, emphasizing the importance of being true and faithful witnesses before God. It highlights the need to focus on our inner character rather than just outward appearances, as God sees through us like an x-ray, knowing our words and works. The speaker challenges the congregation to reflect on the fruit they are bearing and the sincerity of their faith.
Wolves Don't Advertise
By Shane Idleman1.0K1:03:48PSA 19:1ISA 5:20MAT 7:15MAT 7:20JHN 8:32ACT 4:12ROM 1:252PE 2:1This sermon emphasizes the danger of false teachers who disguise themselves as sheep but lead people astray, focusing on the importance of discerning true from false teachings. It highlights the need to be vigilant, discerning, and anchored in the truth of God's Word to avoid deception and destruction. The message calls for a deep examination of the fruits produced by teachings and urges listeners to seek the truth that leads to salvation and transformation.
Models of Apostolic Church
By Victor Choudhrie76354:19MAT 7:20JHN 15:5JHN 15:16ACT 13:1GAL 5:22This sermon emphasizes the importance of being a sending church, focusing on the Antioch model where leaders ministered to God through prayer and fasting, leading to the Holy Spirit sending out missionaries. It highlights the need for lasting fruit through disciple-making and the significance of dialogue, deliverance, and disciple-making in the Ephesus model. The sermon challenges the dichotomy between faith and works, stressing the importance of both in bearing lasting fruit for God's kingdom.
The 1904 Welsh Revival: Lessons of Hope (Part 2)
By Tim Williams66642:13MAT 6:33MAT 7:201TH 1:51TH 1:9In this sermon, the preacher describes a prayer meeting attended by hardworking coal miners. These men gathered before their work to seek God's blessing and to commit to honest and proper execution of their tasks. The impact of their prayers was profound, as old debts were paid, jails emptied, and the community experienced positive change. The preacher emphasizes the simplicity of salvation through belief in Jesus Christ and shares a testimony of a convert who realized that salvation comes through faith, not through personal effort or anguish in prayer.
On Eagles' Wings Pt 467
By Don Courville31441:08Radio ShowNUM 21:7MAT 6:33MAT 7:20JHN 3:3In this sermon, the speaker emphasizes the importance of understanding the gospel by listening to and meeting people where they are at. He uses the example of Nicodemus, a master teacher of Israel, who Jesus engages in conversation about being born again. Jesus meets Nicodemus on his own ground and explains the concept of the new birth. The speaker highlights the significance of the new birth and suggests that if someone cannot explain it, their own new birth may be questionable.
Supernatural Opposition
By Bud Elford2891:24:46Spiritual WarfarePSA 119:62MAT 7:20MRK 16:17JHN 1:9ACT 9:18ROM 12:2JAS 5:14In this sermon, the preacher shares a story about two stray cats that were let into a missionary's home. The white cat made a terrible noise and left, while the black cat stood up on its back legs and spoke in audible English. The preacher then transitions to talking about the mission work among the native people of Canada. He mentions an old Indian man named William Papanicus who was impacted by the Methodist revival. The preacher emphasizes the need for more evangelical missionaries in over 100 Indian and Eskimo villages that do not receive visits. He also shares a personal experience of encountering a ruling spirit in a native village. The sermon concludes with a reference to Revelation 12, highlighting the power of testimony in overcoming Satan.
First Works
By G.W. North1201:21:41Christian LifeMAT 7:20MAT 22:37MAT 28:20REV 2:2REV 2:4In this sermon, the preacher emphasizes the importance of believers taking action and doing good works for God. He highlights that while those with families seem to be able to do more, young ladies often feel overwhelmed and exhausted from work. The preacher encourages everyone to step out of their comfort zones and start by helping acquaintances, gradually expanding their reach. He shares a story of a young lady who visited a lonely old lady and brought her joy, emphasizing the impact of simple acts of kindness. The preacher also references the Bible, specifically Jesus' words in Revelation 2:5, urging listeners to remember their initial love for God, repent, and obey quickly.
How to Attain to the Knowledge of Christ
By George Mueller0Knowledge of ChristSpiritual FruitfulnessMAT 7:20JHN 15:5GAL 5:22PHP 3:8George Mueller emphasizes the necessity of self-condemnation and trust in Jesus Christ as the foundation for attaining a deeper knowledge of Him. He encourages believers to strive for a higher degree of spiritual fruitfulness, aiming for a hundred-fold return in their lives, rather than settling for less. Mueller stresses that the ultimate goal is not just personal salvation but glorifying God through abundant fruitfulness. He calls on Christians to renounce worldly pleasures and distractions, focusing solely on knowing Christ and living for Him. The pursuit of this intimate knowledge of Christ should be the singular aim of every believer's life.
1 John 2:5
By John Gill0ObedienceLove for GodMAT 7:20JHN 14:21JHN 15:5ROM 5:51CO 1:30GAL 5:22JAS 1:221JN 2:51JN 3:182JN 1:6John Gill emphasizes the significance of keeping God's word as a demonstration of genuine love for Him. He explains that true love for God is perfected in those who embrace and adhere to His commandments, reflecting sincerity rather than mere verbal affirmation. This love is not a result of human effort but is a manifestation of God's grace, leading to obedience as evidence of one's relationship with Christ. Gill clarifies that being in Christ is not just a nominal association but a profound spiritual reality evidenced by one's actions and adherence to God's teachings.
Xiii. Aimless Efforts
By John Sung0SalvationPurpose in MinistryMAT 7:20MAT 28:19LUK 19:10JHN 3:51CO 9:26John Sung reflects on his past three years of aimless efforts in ministry, where he engaged in various programs but failed to lead anyone to salvation. Despite his busy schedule promoting social movements and educational initiatives, he realized that these efforts lacked spiritual depth and did not address the fundamental need for salvation. His journey took him through various cities, where he encountered the emptiness of modernism and the futility of his previous endeavors. Ultimately, it was in Nanchang that he discovered the true purpose of his calling: to win souls for Christ, emphasizing that the need of the hour is to save sinners rather than merely improve livelihoods. Sung's experience serves as a reminder that without a focus on the heart and soul, efforts in ministry can be fruitless.
A Commentary Upon Christ's Life
By Thomas Brooks0Living FaithfullyChristian ExampleMAT 5:16MAT 7:20EPH 5:8PHP 2:15COL 3:171TI 4:12TIT 2:7JAS 1:221PE 2:211JN 2:6Thomas Brooks emphasizes the importance of Christians living exemplary lives that reflect Christ's teachings. He highlights that while precepts can instruct, it is the examples of believers that truly persuade others. Christians are called to be lights in the world, demonstrating good works that glorify God and serve as a commentary on Christ's life. Brooks urges believers to ensure their actions align with their words, as their lives are under constant observation. Ultimately, he encourages Christians to follow Christ's example in all aspects of their lives.
Satan as an Angel of Light.
By Watchman Nee0Spiritual WarfareDiscernmentMAT 7:20LUK 22:31JHN 8:44ROM 16:172CO 11:142CO 12:7EPH 6:11JAS 4:71PE 5:81JN 4:1Watchman Nee emphasizes that Satan disguises himself as an angel of light to deceive believers, making it crucial to have discernment beyond mere sight and sound. He warns that while Satan may appear as light, true protection comes from understanding the fruits of one's actions and the fundamental truths that distinguish God from the deceiver. Nee illustrates how Satan torments even the most faithful, as seen in Paul's experience, and highlights the importance of prayer and reliance on God for strength in times of trial. The sermon calls for vigilance against the various tactics of Satan, including his role as a sifter of faith.
Demonstrate Your Faith
By A.W. Tozer0Faith in ActionLiving Out DoctrineMAT 5:16MAT 7:20ROM 12:1GAL 5:6EPH 2:10COL 3:17HEB 11:7JAS 2:171PE 2:121JN 3:18A.W. Tozer emphasizes that mere knowledge of Christian doctrine is insufficient; true faith must be demonstrated through our daily lives. He points out that God desires us to act on our faith, just as He commanded Noah to do, rather than simply holding correct beliefs. Tozer agrees with Martin Lloyd-Jones that learning doctrine for its own sake can be perilous, and that doctrine should be lived out and incarnated in the lives of believers. The ultimate example of this is God Himself, who manifested His nature through His life on earth.
Evidence by Which One May Know That He Is Entirely Sanctified
By Randolph S. Foster0MAT 7:20ROM 8:161CO 2:12GAL 5:221TH 5:232TI 1:7HEB 12:141JN 3:241JN 5:10Randolph Sinks Foster delves into the question of how one can know if they have truly attained holiness after following the prescribed means, emphasizing the importance of seeking a reasonable certainty in matters of personal holiness. He discusses the distinctive marks of each stage of religious progress, from conviction for sin to entire sanctification, highlighting the necessity of inward and outward authentication of religious experiences. Foster also explores the direct and indirect evidences of sanctification, including the joint witness of the Divine Spirit, the fruits of the Spirit, and the absence of sin as proof of sanctification.
Modern Devices
By Lewis Sperry Chafer0MAT 7:20MAT 24:42ROM 1:161TH 5:42TI 4:3HEB 10:192PE 3:3REV 3:17REV 13:3Lewis Sperry Chafer emphasizes the importance of the Church's anticipation of Christ's return, warning against losing sight of this hope which leads to spiritual decline and worldly distractions. He highlights the necessity of true devotion to Christ, which naturally results in a deep desire to be with Him and eagerly await His return. Chafer discusses how Satan has strategically discredited the imminent return of Christ to establish his own authority and deceive humanity. He also addresses the rise of false doctrines and counterfeit systems that divert believers from the essential truth of Christ's atoning work, leading them astray with secondary truths and human-centered ideologies.
Identification - Holiness
By Charles William Butler0PSA 16:11MAT 7:20MAT 25:40LUK 19:10JHN 15:5JHN 17:17GAL 5:22COL 3:41TH 4:71PE 1:15Charles William Butler emphasizes the importance of identification with Christ in various aspects, such as material interests, life, and mission. He highlights the need for believers to be fully consecrated and aligned with the great objective of Christ in seeking and saving the lost. Butler stresses the significance of maintaining a strong identification with holiness, urging believers to uphold this truth and experience without compromise. He calls for a revival of true holiness preaching and the propagation of holiness through witnesses and special meetings.
Bishop Wilson's Meditations on His Sacred Office, No. 3.-- Tuesday
By J.H. Newman0MAT 7:20MAT 13:25ACT 28:292TI 4:3REV 2:14J.H. Newman preaches about the importance of defending the truth and combating erroneous doctrines within the Church, urging pastors to be vigilant and not tolerate teachings that go against God's Word. He emphasizes the need for unity, piety, and steadfastness in faith, praying for God's mercy and guidance in preserving the Church. Newman warns against complacency and the dangers of allowing sin and false teachings to infiltrate the Church, citing biblical examples of the consequences of neglecting sound doctrine.
The Spiritual Path of St. Seraphim of Sarov
By St. Seraphim of Sarov0MAT 7:20JHN 14:26ACT 1:8ROM 8:14ROM 15:131CO 6:19GAL 5:22GAL 5:25EPH 4:30JAS 2:26Fr. Gabriel Rochelle preaches about the life and teachings of St. Seraphim of Sarov, highlighting how saints are not officially certified by an institution but are those set apart for service to God. St. Seraphim exemplified a life dedicated to prayer, recognizing God's presence in all of creation and humanity, and emphasizing the importance of faith accompanied by good works. His focus on acquiring the Holy Spirit through prayer, discipline, and acts of mercy serves as a model for Christians striving to deepen their relationship with God and impact those around them.
Three Lessons From Lakeland
By David Servant0MAT 7:20MAT 20:26MAT 23:12MRK 16:181CO 6:9GAL 5:19EPH 5:5REV 21:8David Servant addresses the controversial revival meetings in Lakeland, Florida, led by Todd Bentley, emphasizing the importance of discerning true prophets by their fruits and teachings, rather than being misled by false signs and wonders. He highlights the downfall of Bentley, revealing the dangers of exalting oneself and the consequences of immorality and deception in ministry. Servant urges believers to focus on holiness, obedience to God's commandments, and humility, warning against following self-proclaimed apostles and prophets who prioritize personal gain over biblical truth.
Exhortations to Faith and Love
By Ignatius of Antioch0MAT 7:201CO 13:13GAL 5:6JAS 2:171JN 4:20Ignatius of Antioch emphasizes the importance of possessing faith and love towards Christ, as they are the foundation and culmination of a Christian's life. Faith initiates life, while love completes it, and these two qualities are intertwined in perfecting a person of God. He stresses that those who claim faith should not sin, and those who have love should not harbor hatred towards others, as loving God and loving one's neighbor are interconnected. True followers of Christ are recognized not just by their words but by their actions, as a tree is known by its fruit.
True Virgins Proved by Self-Denial
By Clement of Rome0MAT 7:20GAL 5:24COL 3:22TI 3:5JAS 2:17Clement of Rome emphasizes the importance of genuine faith and works, stating that simply being called a believer or a virgin is not enough to enter the kingdom of heaven. He warns against empty worship and urges believers to examine their hearts and actions. Clement stresses the need for true sanctity, which involves crucifying the flesh, avoiding worldly temptations, and focusing on heavenly pursuits.
- Jamieson-Fausset-Brown
- John Gill
Jamieson-Fausset-Brown Bible Commentary
Wherefore by their fruits ye shall know them--that is, But the point I now press is not so much the end of such, as the means of detecting them; and this, as already said, is their fruits. The hypocrisy of teachers now leads to a solemn warning against religious hypocrisy in general.
John Gill Bible Commentary
Then will I profess unto them,.... Publicly before men and angels, at the day of judgment, I never knew you; which must be understood consistent with the omniscience of Christ; for as the omniscient God he knew their persons and their works, and that they were workers of iniquity; he knew what they had been doing all their days under the guise of religion; he knew the principles of all their actions, and the views they had in all they did; nothing is hid from him. But, as words of knowledge often carry in them the ideas of affection, and approbation, see Psa 1:6 the meaning of Christ here is, I never had any love, or affection for you; I never esteemed you; I never made any account of you, as mine, as belonging to me; I never approved of you, nor your conduct; I never had any converse, communication, nor society with you, nor you with me. The Persic version reads it, "I have not known you of old", from ancient times, or from everlasting; I never knew you in my Father's choice, and my own, nor in my Father's gift to me, nor in the everlasting covenant of grace; I never knew you as my sheep, for whom, in time, I died, and called by name; I never knew you believe in me, nor love me, or mine; I have seen you in my house, preaching in my name, and at my table administering mine ordinance; but I never knew you exalt my person, blood, righteousness, and sacrifice; you talk of the works you have done, I never knew you do one good work in all your lives, with a single eye to my glory; wherefore, I will neither hear, nor see you; I have nothing to do with you. In this sense the phrase is used in the Talmud (y): "Bar Kaphra went to visit R. Juda; he says to him, Bar Kaphra, , "I never knew thee".'' The gloss upon it is, "he intimates, that he would not see him.'' So here, Christ declares, he knew them not; that is, he did not like them; he would not admit them into his presence and glory; but said, depart from me, ye workers of iniquity. The former of these expressions contains the awful sentence pronounced by Christ, the judge; which is, banishment from his presence, than which nothing is more terrible: for as it is his presence that makes heaven, it is his absence that makes hell; and this supposes a place and state, whither they are banished; which is elsewhere called their "own place, the lake" which burns with fire and brimstone; "everlasting fire", prepared for the devil and his angels. Departure from Christ's presence is the punishment of loss, and being sent to everlasting burnings, is the punishment of sense; and the whole, as it is an instance of strict justice, so a display of Christ's almighty power. The latter expression contains the character of these persons, and in it a reason of their punishment; they were "workers of iniquity": it may be, neither adulterers, nor murderers, nor drunkards, nor extortioners, nor thieves, or any other openly profane sinners; but inasmuch as they did the work of the Lord deceitfully, preached themselves, and not Christ; sought their own things, and not his; what they did, they did with a wicked mind, and not with a view to his glory; they wrought iniquity, whilst they were doing the very things they pleaded on their own behalf, for their admission into the kingdom of heaven. Some copies read, "all the workers of iniquity", as in Psa 6:8 from whence the words are taken. (y) T. Bab. Moed Katon, fol. 16. 1.