The Way of the Goat

The Danger of False Assurance

Bible Passage: Matthew 7:21–23

Summary: In this passage, Jesus warns that not everyone who claims to follow Him will enter the kingdom of heaven, but only those who do the will of the Father. He emphasizes the importance of genuine faith reflected by obedience rather than mere verbal declarations.

Application: This sermon encourages believers to examine their faith and assures them that true faith is evidenced by obedience. It serves as a wake-up call to dismiss any false security and to cultivate a relationship with Jesus that is authentic and transformative.

Teaching: This passage teaches that genuine faith must be accompanied by action. Merely proclaiming faith without the outworking of that faith in obedience to God's will leads to spiritual deception.

How this passage could point to Christ: In this context, Jesus is depicted as the ultimate judge who discerns true faith from falsehood. He embodies perfect obedience to the Father's will, serving as both the example and the way to true salvation.

Big Idea: True faith is recognized not just by words but by our actions and obedience to God's will; we must actively align our lives with His commands to know we truly belong to Him.

Recommended Study: As you prepare for this sermon, consider exploring the cultural context of first-century Judea to understand the implications of Jesus' words in your audience's context. Look at various commentaries in your Logos library to unpack the original Greek nuances in terms such as 'will of my Father' and 'worker of lawlessness.' Understanding historical perspectives on what constituted true religious practice during Jesus' time can enhance your application to modern believers.

1. Lip-Service vs. Heart-Service

Matthew 7:21

Perhaps you could emphasize the distinction between mere verbal affirmation and actual obedience. Stress that entering the kingdom requires doing God's will, not just proclaiming Jesus as Lord. Encourage listeners to self-reflect, identifying areas where their lives need to align more closely with God's commands. This reflection challenges them to go beyond external religiosity and nurture a heartfelt relationship with Christ.

2. Faithless Works are Fruitless Works

Matthew 7:22

You could describe how even impressive religious acts can be deceptive if not rooted in true faith. Highlight that miraculous events and public declarations are insufficient without genuine obedience. Urge the audience to evaluate their motivations, focusing on a heart transformed by Christ rather than on empty rituals or public recognition. This invites believers to seek authenticity in their spiritual walk.

Strange fire: Leviticus 10:1–2 (ESV)

1 Now Nadab and Abihu, the sons of Aaron, each took his censer and put fire in it and laid incense on it and offered unauthorized fire before the Lord, which he had not commanded them. 2 And fire came out from before the Lord and consumed them, and they died before the Lord.

Consider King Uzziah from 2 Chronicles 26. He was a king who began well, seeking God and experiencing His blessings. However, as Uzziah grew powerful, he took it upon himself to enter the temple and burn incense on the altar—an act reserved for the priests. His disregard for God’s ordained structure led to disastrous consequences. This highlights the essential nature of the Regulative Principle of Worship: we must honor God’s commands and design in worship, lest we stray into dangerous territory.

In the early 17th century, the Puritans sought to reform the Church of England, advocating for a worship style grounded in Scripture. They believed that worship should only include elements explicitly ordained by God. This principle, known as the Regulative Principle, emphasizes that our approach to worship must reflect God’s desires as revealed in His Word. A striking example of this can be seen in their rejection of elaborate rituals and practices that were not found in the Bible, which teaches us the importance of adhering strictly to God’s instructions in our worship today.

One of my favorite things that I get to do with Pastor Matt every week is planning the worship service. We sit down on Tuesday and consider songs

3. What You Show Isn’t as Important as Who You Know (And Who Knows You)

Matthew 7:23

Maybe focus on the ultimate consequence of living a life of false assurance—being unknown to Christ. Illustrate how true faith is a personal relationship with Jesus where He guides our lives. Warn of the dangers of self-deception and encourage a pursuit of intimacy with God. The essence of this message is to drive the desire for a deep, personal commitment to Jesus that extends beyond superficial faith.

Beware of false assurance.