Matthew 7:22
Verse
Context
Sermons





Summary
Commentary
- Jamieson-Fausset-Brown
- John Gill
- Tyndale
Jamieson-Fausset-Brown Bible Commentary
Many will say to me in that day--What day? It is emphatically unnamed. But it is the day to which He had just referred, when men shall "enter" or not enter "into the kingdom of heaven." (See a similar way of speaking of "that day" in Ti2 1:12; Ti2 4:8). Lord, Lord--The reiteration denotes surprise. "What, Lord? How is this? Are we to be disowned?" have we not prophesied--or, "publicly taught." As one of the special gifts of the Spirit in the early Church, it has the sense of "inspired and authoritative teaching," and is ranked next to the apostleship. (See Co1 12:28; Eph 4:11). In this sense it is used here, as appears from what follows. in thy name--or, "to thy name," and so in the two following clauses--"having reference to Thy name as the sole power in which we did it." and in thy name have cast out devils? and in thy name done many wonderful works--or, miracles. These are selected as three examples of the highest services rendered to the Christian cause, and through the power of Christ's own name, invoked for that purpose; He Himself, too, responding to the call. And the threefold repetition of the question, each time in the same form, expresses in the liveliest manner the astonishment of the speakers at the view now taken of them.
John Gill Bible Commentary
And the rains descended, and the floods came,.... These several metaphors of "rain", "floods", "stream", and "winds", may design the temptations of Satan, the persecutions of the world, the corruptions of a man's own heart, and the errors and false doctrines of men; from all which such a man is safe, who is built upon the rock Christ Jesus; see Isa 32:2 not but that the rain of temptation may descend upon him, with great violence and force, but shall not beat him down; he shall be made able to bear the whole force of it; the gates of hell cannot prevail against him; the floods of persecution may be cast after him, but shall not carry him away; the stream of corruption may run strong against him, yet shall not overset him; and the wind of divers and strange doctrines may blow hard upon him, but not cast him down: some damage he may receive by these several things, but shall not be destroyed; he may be shaken by them, but not so as to be removed off of the foundation, on which he is laid; yea, he may fail from some degree of the steadfastness of his faith, but not so as to fail totally and finally; the reason is, because he is founded on the rock Christ Jesus, which is sure and immoveable: whence it appears that such a man acts the wise and prudent part, and may be truly called "a wise man". not but that the rain of temptation may descend upon him, with great violence and force, but shall not beat him down; he shall be made able to bear the whole force of it; the gates of hell cannot prevail against him; the floods of persecution may be cast after him, but shall not carry him away; the stream of corruption may run strong against him, yet shall not overset him; and the wind of divers and strange doctrines may blow hard upon him, but not cast him down: some damage he may receive by these several things, but shall not be destroyed; he may be shaken by them, but not so as to be removed off of the foundation, on which he is laid; yea, he may fail from some degree of the steadfastness of his faith, but not so as to fail totally and finally; the reason is, because he is founded on the rock Christ Jesus, which is sure and immoveable: whence it appears that such a man acts the wise and prudent part, and may be truly called "a wise man". Matthew 7:26 mat 7:26 mat 7:26 mat 7:26And everyone that heareth these sayings of mine,.... Who only externally hears them, but has no understanding of them; do not believe them, nor like and approve of them, but hates and despises them; or if not, depends upon his external hearing of them, and contents himself with a speculative knowledge, without the practice of them, and doth them not; does not yield the obedience of faith to the doctrines of the Gospel, nor submits to the ordinances of it, but neglects them, and all other duties of religion: or if he does obey, it is only outwardly, not from the heart; nor from a principle of love; nor in faith; nor in the name and strength of Christ; nor for the glory of God, but in order to obtain life for himself: such shall be likened unto a foolish man, which built his house upon the sand; or, as Luke has it, "without a foundation upon the earth"; upon the surface of the earth, without digging into it for a foundation: and such may be said to build without a foundation, who pretend to make their peace with God by their own works; who hope for pardon on the foot of the mercy of God, and their own repentance; seek for justification by their own, and not the righteousness of Christ; look for acceptance with God, for the sake of their own worthiness; and who expect salvation in any other way than by Christ: as in each of these articles, they leave out Christ, they may be said to build without a foundation indeed, and to build "upon" the surface of "the earth"; as they do, who build their hope of salvation upon anything that is merely external; as, their riches and grandeur, their wisdom and learning, their natural descent, and religious education, their civility, courteousness, and what is called good nature, their liberality and alms deeds, their morality, common justice and honesty, their legal righteousness, whether moral or ritual, and a round of religious duties; and such may be said to "build upon the sand", on that which will bear no weight, but gives way, and sinks. The salvation of the soul is a weighty thing; and that which is like sand, as is everything of a man's own, can never support it: God has therefore laid the salvation of his people on his own Son; and he must be a "foolish man" that builds on anything short of him.
Tyndale Open Study Notes
7:22 judgment day: The Old Testament concept behind this notion is the “day of the Lord,” when God will come to rescue the faithful and judge the oppressors (Isa 13–14; Joel 2:1-32; Zeph 1:14-16). In Jesus’ teaching, this day is when all will be judged for their response to him (see Matt 10:15; 11:20-24; 12:36; 24:19-50; 25:13, 31-46; Acts 17:31; Rom 2:16). • Neither charismatic gifts nor public accomplishments in Jesus’ name will necessarily bring God’s acceptance; the decisive issue is obedience (Matt 7:21).
Matthew 7:22
A Tree and Its Fruit
21Not everyone who says to Me, ‘Lord, Lord,’ will enter the kingdom of heaven, but only he who does the will of My Father in heaven.22Many will say to Me on that day, ‘Lord, Lord, did we not prophesy in Your name, and in Your name drive out demons and perform many miracles?’
- Scripture
- Sermons
- Commentary
Absalom
By Jacob Prasch3.0K51:49PSA 19:7ISA 52:7MAT 7:22MAT 12:46MAT 24:36ACT 1:8ROM 6:3GAL 1:6REV 21:4This sermon emphasizes the importance of sharing the full gospel message, including the need for repentance and the reality of trials, not just the blessings and feel-good aspects. It highlights the mission field starting with our families and neighbors, urging believers to pray for and witness to their unsaved loved ones. The speaker addresses the emotional struggle of having unsaved family members and the urgency to see them saved before Jesus returns, emphasizing the eternal family we have in Christ.
Miracles
By Jacob Prasch2.9K29:54MiraclesDEU 18:19MAT 7:22JHN 5:36In this sermon, the speaker discusses the reasons why Jesus performed miracles, signs, and wonders. The first reason is the compassion of God, as Jesus felt compassion for the people who were like sheep without a shepherd. The second reason is to bear witness to the fact that the kingdom of God has broken in and that Jesus is the Messiah and the way of salvation. The speaker emphasizes that these signs and wonders are meant to point people to Jesus and the Gospel, not to prove anything about a person. The sermon also highlights the importance of not reducing ministry to a circus or show, as Jesus refused to do so and warned against false teachers who engage in such practices.
First Epistle of John - Part 2
By Keith Daniel2.3K51:58Bible ReadingMAT 7:22JHN 3:10In this sermon, the preacher expresses gratitude to God for the opportunity to deliver this message, despite the opposition faced. The preacher emphasizes the importance of seeking God and not rejecting His word and standards. The sermon highlights the need to understand the context and entirety of biblical passages, rather than isolating verses. The preacher shares a personal story about his father befriending a godless man, highlighting the importance of showing love and compassion to others, even those who may seem wicked.
Parables of Jesus - 03 Loving God and Man
By Zac Poonen2.2K49:01ParablesMAT 6:33MAT 7:22MAT 25:31LUK 7:41In this sermon, the speaker focuses on two parables from the book of Luke and Matthew. The first parable is about a moneylender who forgives the debts of two debtors, illustrating how we are all in debt to God for our sins. The speaker emphasizes that the amount of love we have for God is reflected in our willingness to sacrifice and give. The second parable is about separating the sheep from the goats, where Jesus commends those who showed love and compassion to others in practical ways, such as feeding the hungry, giving drink to the thirsty, and clothing the naked. The speaker encourages listeners to be alert to the needs of those around them and to prioritize caring for others.
(The Last Days and the Lord's Coming) Great Deception
By Zac Poonen2.0K57:31MAT 7:22In this sermon, the speaker emphasizes the importance of being ready to meet the Lord at any moment. He highlights the humility of acknowledging that our lives are in God's hands and that we should always seek His will. The speaker also discusses the distinction between true believers and those who may perform miracles or prophesy but do not give up sin. He warns about the possibility of deception in the last days and emphasizes the need to know the Lord and forsake sin. The sermon references passages from James 4, Matthew 7, and Matthew 24 to support these teachings.
Differences in the Gospels Similarities and Differences
By William MacDonald1.8K36:55GospelMAT 7:22MAT 18:12LUK 13:25LUK 15:4In this sermon, the preacher discusses the topic of liberality and giving to the work of the Lord. He emphasizes that when we give to the Lord, we will receive in abundance, as the Lord's shovel is bigger than ours. The preacher also highlights the different aspects in which the four Gospels present Jesus - Matthew as the king of the Jews, Mark as the perfect servant, Luke as the son of man, and John as the son of God. The sermon concludes with a discussion on the concept of "with what measure ye meet, it shall be measured to you again," highlighting the importance of our judgmental attitude towards others and the appropriation of spiritual truth.
Rejoicing in What God Has Done
By Zac Poonen1.3K58:49MAT 7:22MAT 20:12MAT 23:12MAT 25:34LUK 10:171CO 1:291CO 13:5EPH 2:8JAS 4:6This sermon emphasizes the importance of not rejoicing in our own accomplishments or comparing ourselves to others, but rather rejoicing in what God has done for us. It highlights the dangers of pride, boasting in our own works, and the need for humility to receive God's grace for victory over sin. The message stresses the significance of being like the thief on the cross who acknowledged his unworthiness and the need to focus on God's work in our lives rather than our own achievements.
All That Jesus Taught Bible Study - Part 71
By Zac Poonen58825:57MAT 7:22MAT 25:13ROM 5:5GAL 6:10This sermon delves into the teachings of Jesus in the Gospel of Matthew, focusing on the importance of being prepared for His second coming. It emphasizes the need to be filled with the Holy Spirit, to faithfully use the gifts God has given us, and to serve others in need as if serving Christ Himself. The parable of the talents illustrates the accountability we have in using what God has entrusted to us, highlighting the consequences of faithfulness and laziness. The final parable of the sheep and the goats underscores the significance of caring for fellow believers as a reflection of our love for Christ.
Has the Church Lost the Fear of God - David Wilkerson
By From the Pulpit & Classic Sermons50625:33RadioMAT 7:22The video is a compilation of various speakers discussing the fear of God and the importance of getting right with Him. They emphasize that playing games with God is not an option and that there must be honesty in the heart. The speakers warn that there will be a day of standing before God to give an account and that personal accountability to God is a terrifying thought. They urge listeners to seek God's mercy and to be willing to pay the price to open doors for His use. The overall message is a call to repentance and a reminder of the fear and reverence that should be held for God.
How Purity Affects the Pathway of the Spirit
By Brian Guerin947:03PurityThe Holy SpiritDEU 8:18PSA 45:7PSA 119:11JER 1:11JOL 2:28MAT 7:221TI 5:221TI 6:11HEB 10:14JAS 1:27Brian Guerin emphasizes the critical role of purity in experiencing a powerful move of the Holy Spirit. He shares personal anecdotes from his early evangelism days and highlights the importance of living a life free from sin to unlock spiritual gifts and blessings. Guerin encourages the congregation to pursue righteousness and maintain a close relationship with God, as purity is essential for the Holy Spirit to flow freely in their lives. He also discusses the significance of prophetic dreams and visions, urging believers to be open to God's voice and guidance. Ultimately, he calls for a collective commitment to purity as a pathway to greater spiritual empowerment.
Homily 32 on Matthew
By St. John Chrysostom1MAT 7:22MAT 9:27MAT 9:30MAT 10:1MAT 10:5JHN 13:351CO 12:31John Chrysostom preaches on the importance of faith, humility, and love in the Christian life, emphasizing the need to focus on spiritual virtues rather than seeking after miracles. He highlights the significance of genuine love, peace, and unity within the church community, urging believers to imitate the apostles in their selfless service and devotion to God. Chrysostom encourages a life of virtue, charity, and moral transformation, stating that true miracles lie in the eradication of sin and the cultivation of a pure heart. He underscores the power of living a righteous life as a testimony to the world and a means to draw others to Christ.
The Holy Spirit Is Himself a Gift
By Samuel Chadwick0MAT 7:22ROM 12:61CO 12:41CO 14:11CO 14:121CO 14:26EPH 4:81TH 5:19Samuel Chadwick preaches about the Holy Spirit being a gift Himself, with various gifts given to believers for the perfecting of the saints and the edifying of the Body of Christ. He emphasizes the diversities of gifts, administrations, operations, and manifestations of the Spirit, highlighting that each person receives gifts according to their sanctified nature and ability. Chadwick discusses the distinctiveness of spiritual gifts from natural talents and the Fruit of the Spirit, pointing out that while gifts are for service, fruit is for character.
The Greatness of the Church
By T. Austin-Sparks0The Purpose of the ChurchDivine RevelationMAT 7:22MAT 11:27MAT 13:46MAT 16:17MAT 18:20EPH 1:4EPH 1:12EPH 2:7EPH 3:10EPH 3:21T. Austin-Sparks emphasizes the profound purpose of the Church, urging Christians to recognize their high calling beyond mere salvation. He highlights that the Church, as the Body of Christ, is meant to embody His glory and greatness, serving as a vessel through which God's revelation is made known. Sparks laments the loss of vision among believers, who often remain bound by tradition and fail to grasp the Church's eternal significance and stability rooted in Christ. He calls for a divine revelation to understand the true nature of the Church, which is not merely a human institution but a living expression of Christ's presence. Ultimately, the Church is called to fulfill a great vocation, serving God throughout the ages in close relationship with His Throne.
Faith Healing
By Daniel Steele0ISA 53:4MAT 7:22MAT 8:17ACT 28:51CO 12:41CO 13:2GAL 4:13COL 4:142TI 4:20JAS 5:15Daniel Steele preaches about the earnest effort to restore the lost extraordinary gifts of the Spirit in modern Christianity, focusing on healing by faith and the distinction between the grace of faith and the gift of faith. He emphasizes the importance of understanding that the gift of faith for healing is sovereignly bestowed by the Holy Spirit and is not morally obligatory like the grace of faith. Steele highlights the need for unwavering faith in God's will for healing, cautioning against the dangers of expecting unconditional healing through the exercise of faith. He concludes by advocating for a prayer of submission to God's will in times of sickness, rather than insisting on healing through faith alone.
Life and Fellowship
By Zac Poonen0MAT 7:22MRK 6:20GAL 5:221JN 1:11JN 2:12Zac Poonen emphasizes the importance of valuing life and fellowship above doctrines and church debates, highlighting the essence of God the Father, the Son, and the Holy Spirit in the beginning. In 1 John, three levels of spiritual life are discussed: Children rejoice in forgiveness, Young Men are strong in the Word and overcome Satan, and Fathers prioritize knowing God and manifesting His character. Poonen warns against being drawn to gifted preachers or seeking miracles, emphasizing the need to seek divine life and fellowship with humble, godly individuals to avoid falling away.
Receiving Divine Chastisement
By A.W. Pink0PSA 146:5MAT 7:22ACT 17:18ROM 1:201CO 10:20JAS 2:19REV 9:20In this sermon, the preacher discusses the concept of deities, focusing on the idea of demons or evil spirits with supernatural powers that are neither human nor divine. The preacher explains that 'daimonion' was used in pagan Greek writings to refer to inferior divine beings and emphasizes that demons are spiritual agents associated with idolatry. The sermon delves into how demons deceive and tempt individuals, their recognition of Christ's authority, and their future role in the end times according to the Bible.
The Superiority of Graces to Gifts
By Thomas Reade0MAT 7:22MAT 25:12ROM 5:8ROM 14:171CO 12:311CO 13:132CO 12:9PHP 1:91PE 5:52PE 3:18Thomas Reade preaches on the superiority of graces over gifts, emphasizing that while gifts like miracles and knowledge may be impressive, they are meaningless without the essential graces of humility, self-denial, and love. He warns that possessing gifts without grace may lead to rejection by God, as seen in the example of Judas Iscariot. Reade highlights that the kingdom of God values righteousness, peace, and joy in the Holy Spirit over mere gifts and ceremonies, and that true reward comes from humble obedience and holiness. He urges believers to prioritize growing in grace and love, as these qualities build up the soul and lead to eternal blessedness.
Dear Pastor, Will You Repent With Me?
By David Servant0MAT 7:22MAT 25:36LUK 6:46REV 3:17David Servant shares a personal account of his awakening to the truth of Jesus' teachings on the judgment of the sheep and goats, emphasizing the importance of sacrificial service to the poor and suffering members of Christ's body as a demonstration of true love for Jesus. Through a series of parables and teachings from Matthew 25, he highlights the sobering reality that many professing Christians may be shocked to find themselves condemned on judgment day due to their lack of genuine love and service to those in need. He challenges pastors and preachers to examine their ministries and the actions of their congregations, urging them to align with Christ's teachings and prioritize serving the less fortunate as an expression of their faith.
(Knowing God's Way) 5. Three Marks of a Spiritual Man
By Zac Poonen0PSA 73:25MAT 5:23MAT 7:15MAT 7:22LUK 10:30ACT 10:38ACT 24:161CO 3:12CO 4:10REV 12:9Zac Poonen preaches on the distinction between being gifted and being truly spiritual, emphasizing that spiritual maturity is not measured by eloquence, knowledge, or miraculous gifts, but by one's devotion to God, repentance of unChristlikeness, and selfless service to others. He warns against false prophets who may have supernatural abilities but lack genuine fruit in their character, as Jesus Himself warned that many who perform miracles in His name may not truly belong to Him. A spiritual man constantly looks upward in worship, inward in repentance and self-examination, and outward in compassion and service to others, seeking to bless and help those in need without expecting anything in return.
Hebrews 11:13-16
By St. John Chrysostom0PSA 39:12MAT 7:222CO 5:4GAL 6:14HEB 11:13John Chrysostom preaches about the virtue of being strangers and sojourners on earth, emphasizing the importance of living a life detached from worldly desires and focused on heavenly aspirations. He contrasts the righteous, who seek a heavenly country and are not ashamed to be called God's own, with the wicked who are consumed by earthly pleasures and face the consequences of their actions. Chrysostom urges the congregation to live virtuously, cultivate good habits, and strive for purity of heart and life, highlighting that God values an excellent course of life above miracles and signs.
Being Ready for the Coming of the Lord
By Zac Poonen0MAT 6:3MAT 7:22MAT 24:42MAT 25:401JN 3:3Zac Poonen preaches on the importance of being spiritually ready for the return of Christ, emphasizing the need for inner purity and faithfulness before God, rather than just outward appearances or knowledge of prophetic facts. He highlights the significance of faithfulness in the hidden life, ministry, and serving fellow believers as key areas to focus on to be prepared for Christ's coming.
An Exhortation and Caution
By James Smith0MAT 7:16MAT 7:22ROM 8:61CO 15:582CO 13:5GAL 6:7HEB 4:1JAS 1:22JAS 4:171PE 1:15James Smith preaches on the importance of being doers of the word, not just hearers, emphasizing that the Word of God is our daily counselor, guide, and friend, containing all necessary for comfort, direction, and safety. He urges Christians to walk in wisdom, love, and loyalty in various roles and relationships, highlighting the need for obedience, humility, and submission. Smith warns against self-deception, stressing the importance of genuine faith, holiness, and sanctification through the Word. He encourages believers to examine themselves, ensuring their faith is evidenced by good works and a life that glorifies God.
Believers and Professors
By C.I. Scofield0MAT 7:22MAT 13:24MAT 25:11LUK 7:50JHN 10:27ACT 8:13C.I. Scofield preaches about the presence of false believers among true believers, as depicted in the Bible, and how this will continue until the final judgment when the righteous will shine forth in God's kingdom. The Scriptures clearly distinguish between true believers who are saved by faith and mere pretenders who are condemned for their hypocrisy and lack of genuine faith.
There's a Sheep Born Every Second
By David Servant0PSA 23:1PSA 23:3MAT 7:22MAT 23:8JHN 10:111CO 11:1EPH 4:14David Servant delivers a powerful message drawing parallels between the behavior of sheep and humans, emphasizing the dangers of blindly following leaders and the importance of following Jesus, the Good Shepherd, to avoid being misled. He highlights the tendency of people to idolize spiritual leaders, giving them titles and praise that belong only to God, and warns against being deceived by those who seek approval and honor from men. David stresses the need for individuals to think for themselves, discern the fruits of spiritual leaders, and ensure that Christ has absolute preeminence in their lives to stay on the path of righteousness.
(God-Centered Praying) 9. to God Be the Glory
By Zac Poonen0GEN 15:6PSA 62:11ISA 42:8MAT 7:22MAT 25:31ACT 17:26PHP 3:131TI 6:5REV 1:8Zac Poonen preaches on the Lord's Prayer, emphasizing the importance of beginning and ending our prayers with a focus on God's kingdom, power, and glory. He highlights the significance of acknowledging God as the Alpha and Omega, the center and circumference of our lives, and the One we live and move in. Poonen draws parallels between the final statements of the prayer and the temptations Jesus faced in the wilderness, emphasizing the need for humility, servanthood, and giving all glory to God alone.
- Jamieson-Fausset-Brown
- John Gill
- Tyndale
Jamieson-Fausset-Brown Bible Commentary
Many will say to me in that day--What day? It is emphatically unnamed. But it is the day to which He had just referred, when men shall "enter" or not enter "into the kingdom of heaven." (See a similar way of speaking of "that day" in Ti2 1:12; Ti2 4:8). Lord, Lord--The reiteration denotes surprise. "What, Lord? How is this? Are we to be disowned?" have we not prophesied--or, "publicly taught." As one of the special gifts of the Spirit in the early Church, it has the sense of "inspired and authoritative teaching," and is ranked next to the apostleship. (See Co1 12:28; Eph 4:11). In this sense it is used here, as appears from what follows. in thy name--or, "to thy name," and so in the two following clauses--"having reference to Thy name as the sole power in which we did it." and in thy name have cast out devils? and in thy name done many wonderful works--or, miracles. These are selected as three examples of the highest services rendered to the Christian cause, and through the power of Christ's own name, invoked for that purpose; He Himself, too, responding to the call. And the threefold repetition of the question, each time in the same form, expresses in the liveliest manner the astonishment of the speakers at the view now taken of them.
John Gill Bible Commentary
And the rains descended, and the floods came,.... These several metaphors of "rain", "floods", "stream", and "winds", may design the temptations of Satan, the persecutions of the world, the corruptions of a man's own heart, and the errors and false doctrines of men; from all which such a man is safe, who is built upon the rock Christ Jesus; see Isa 32:2 not but that the rain of temptation may descend upon him, with great violence and force, but shall not beat him down; he shall be made able to bear the whole force of it; the gates of hell cannot prevail against him; the floods of persecution may be cast after him, but shall not carry him away; the stream of corruption may run strong against him, yet shall not overset him; and the wind of divers and strange doctrines may blow hard upon him, but not cast him down: some damage he may receive by these several things, but shall not be destroyed; he may be shaken by them, but not so as to be removed off of the foundation, on which he is laid; yea, he may fail from some degree of the steadfastness of his faith, but not so as to fail totally and finally; the reason is, because he is founded on the rock Christ Jesus, which is sure and immoveable: whence it appears that such a man acts the wise and prudent part, and may be truly called "a wise man". not but that the rain of temptation may descend upon him, with great violence and force, but shall not beat him down; he shall be made able to bear the whole force of it; the gates of hell cannot prevail against him; the floods of persecution may be cast after him, but shall not carry him away; the stream of corruption may run strong against him, yet shall not overset him; and the wind of divers and strange doctrines may blow hard upon him, but not cast him down: some damage he may receive by these several things, but shall not be destroyed; he may be shaken by them, but not so as to be removed off of the foundation, on which he is laid; yea, he may fail from some degree of the steadfastness of his faith, but not so as to fail totally and finally; the reason is, because he is founded on the rock Christ Jesus, which is sure and immoveable: whence it appears that such a man acts the wise and prudent part, and may be truly called "a wise man". Matthew 7:26 mat 7:26 mat 7:26 mat 7:26And everyone that heareth these sayings of mine,.... Who only externally hears them, but has no understanding of them; do not believe them, nor like and approve of them, but hates and despises them; or if not, depends upon his external hearing of them, and contents himself with a speculative knowledge, without the practice of them, and doth them not; does not yield the obedience of faith to the doctrines of the Gospel, nor submits to the ordinances of it, but neglects them, and all other duties of religion: or if he does obey, it is only outwardly, not from the heart; nor from a principle of love; nor in faith; nor in the name and strength of Christ; nor for the glory of God, but in order to obtain life for himself: such shall be likened unto a foolish man, which built his house upon the sand; or, as Luke has it, "without a foundation upon the earth"; upon the surface of the earth, without digging into it for a foundation: and such may be said to build without a foundation, who pretend to make their peace with God by their own works; who hope for pardon on the foot of the mercy of God, and their own repentance; seek for justification by their own, and not the righteousness of Christ; look for acceptance with God, for the sake of their own worthiness; and who expect salvation in any other way than by Christ: as in each of these articles, they leave out Christ, they may be said to build without a foundation indeed, and to build "upon" the surface of "the earth"; as they do, who build their hope of salvation upon anything that is merely external; as, their riches and grandeur, their wisdom and learning, their natural descent, and religious education, their civility, courteousness, and what is called good nature, their liberality and alms deeds, their morality, common justice and honesty, their legal righteousness, whether moral or ritual, and a round of religious duties; and such may be said to "build upon the sand", on that which will bear no weight, but gives way, and sinks. The salvation of the soul is a weighty thing; and that which is like sand, as is everything of a man's own, can never support it: God has therefore laid the salvation of his people on his own Son; and he must be a "foolish man" that builds on anything short of him.
Tyndale Open Study Notes
7:22 judgment day: The Old Testament concept behind this notion is the “day of the Lord,” when God will come to rescue the faithful and judge the oppressors (Isa 13–14; Joel 2:1-32; Zeph 1:14-16). In Jesus’ teaching, this day is when all will be judged for their response to him (see Matt 10:15; 11:20-24; 12:36; 24:19-50; 25:13, 31-46; Acts 17:31; Rom 2:16). • Neither charismatic gifts nor public accomplishments in Jesus’ name will necessarily bring God’s acceptance; the decisive issue is obedience (Matt 7:21).