Matthew 7:23
And then will I profess unto them, I never knew you: depart from me, ye that work iniquity.
Original Language Analysis
καὶ
And
G2532
καὶ
And
Strong's:
G2532
Word #:
1 of 15
and, also, even, so then, too, etc.; often used in connection (or composition) with other particles or small words
τότε
then
G5119
τότε
then
Strong's:
G5119
Word #:
2 of 15
the when, i.e., at the time that (of the past or future, also in consecution)
αὐτοῖς
unto them
G846
αὐτοῖς
unto them
Strong's:
G846
Word #:
4 of 15
the reflexive pronoun self, used (alone or in the comparative g1438) of the third person, and (with the proper personal pronoun) of the other persons
ὅτι
G3754
ἔγνων
knew
G1097
ἔγνων
knew
Strong's:
G1097
Word #:
7 of 15
to "know" (absolutely) in a great variety of applications and with many implications (as follow, with others not thus clearly expressed)
ἀπ'
from
G575
ἀπ'
from
Strong's:
G575
Word #:
10 of 15
"off," i.e., away (from something near), in various senses (of place, time, or relation; literal or figurative)
οἱ
G3588
οἱ
Strong's:
G3588
Word #:
12 of 15
the (sometimes to be supplied, at others omitted, in english idiom)
ἐργαζόμενοι
ye that work
G2038
ἐργαζόμενοι
ye that work
Strong's:
G2038
Word #:
13 of 15
to toil (as a task, occupation, etc.), (by implication) effect, be engaged in or with, etc
Cross References
Matthew 25:41Then shall he say also unto them on the left hand, Depart from me, ye cursed, into everlasting fire, prepared for the devil and his angels:Psalms 6:8Depart from me, all ye workers of iniquity; for the LORD hath heard the voice of my weeping.Luke 13:25When 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, Lord, open unto us; and he shall answer and say unto you, I know you not whence ye are:Luke 13:27But he shall say, I tell you, I know you not whence ye are; depart from me, all ye workers of iniquity.Matthew 25:12But he answered and said, Verily I say unto you, I know you not.John 10:14I am the good shepherd, and know my sheep, and am known of mine.Revelation 22:15For without are dogs, and sorcerers, and whoremongers, and murderers, and idolaters, and whosoever loveth and maketh a lie.Psalms 5:5The foolish shall not stand in thy sight: thou hatest all workers of iniquity.2 Timothy 2:19Nevertheless the foundation of God standeth sure, having this seal, The Lord knoweth them that are his. And, Let every one that nameth the name of Christ depart from iniquity.
Historical Context
This warning echoes Jesus's teaching about entering through the narrow gate. Many claim Christianity, perform religious activities, even minister powerfully—yet lack genuine saving relationship with Christ. External religion without internal regeneration damns.
Questions for Reflection
- Do you know Jesus personally and intimately, or do you merely know about Him and serve Him externally?
- What evidence in your life demonstrates that Jesus knows you and you know Him?
Related Resources
Explore related topics, people, and study resources to deepen your understanding of this passage.
Analysis & Commentary
The most terrifying words in Scripture: 'I never knew you.' Not 'I once knew you but you fell away,' but 'I never knew you.' Despite their religious works and supernatural ministry, Jesus never had relationship with them. They worked iniquity—lawlessness—showing that apparent Christian activity masked unregenerate hearts.