Matthew 7:21

“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.”

Context:Matthew 7:21 is part of Jesus’ Sermon on the Mount, specifically within the section commonly known as the conclusion or the closing exhortation. In this part of the sermon, Jesus addresses the importance of discernment and genuine obedience to God.

Importance of Words and Actions:The verse begins with the phrase “Not everyone who says to me, ‘Lord, Lord,’” indicating that mere verbal acknowledgment of Jesus as Lord is not sufficient for entrance into the kingdom of heaven. Jesus highlights the distinction between mere lip service and genuine commitment.

Obedience to God’s Will:Jesus emphasizes that those who enter the kingdom of heaven are those who “doeth the will of my Father which is in heaven.” This implies that genuine faith in Jesus should be accompanied by obedience and a willingness to follow God’s commands.

Understanding God’s Will:To do the will of the Father, it is essential to have a deep understanding of what God desires. This requires a personal relationship with God, diligent study of His Word, and seeking the guidance of the Holy Spirit. The will of the Father is revealed through Scripture and through the life and teachings of Jesus.

The Kingdom of Heaven:Jesus highlights that not everyone who claims to be a follower of Christ will enter the kingdom of heaven. This reminds us that entrance into the kingdom is not based on religious affiliation or outward appearances but on a personal relationship with Jesus and genuine obedience to God’s will.

Discernment and Self-Examination:This verse encourages believers to examine their own hearts and actions. It challenges us to evaluate our own motivations and ensure that our faith is not merely superficial or based on empty words.

Application:Matthew 7:21 urges us to go beyond mere verbal profession of faith and strive for a genuine, obedient relationship with God. It calls us to evaluate our own lives, ensuring that our actions align with God’s will and that our faith is rooted in a deep personal relationship with Jesus Christ.

• Overall:Matthew 7:21 reminds us that true discipleship goes beyond empty words and requires obedience to God’s will. It challenges us to examine our hearts and live out our faith in a way that honours God.