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In this article, we’ll explore the fascinating comparison between two important biblical passages: John 6:40 and Matthew 7:21. The former illuminates the Father’s will for salvation through belief in Jesus, while the latter underscores the importance of authentic faith over mere words. This comparison becomes particularly compelling in the context of false teachers advocating justification by law.
John 6:40 reveals the Father’s will for salvation: “For this is the will of my Father, that everyone who looks on the Son and believes in him should have eternal life, and I will raise him up on the last day.” Here, belief in Jesus and the promise of eternal life are closely linked.
The promise of eternal life is a recurring theme in the Gospel of John, indicating the profound nature of the salvation offered by Jesus. By believing in Jesus, we form a relationship that goes beyond our mortal existence and ushers us into eternal fellowship with God.
Matthew 7:21 cautions, “Not everyone who says to me, ‘Lord, Lord,’ will enter the kingdom of heaven, but the one who does the will of my Father who is in heaven.” This verse raises a stark warning against false professions of faith and trusting one’s own performance or in works, emphasizing that true salvation involves more than just words or works—it requires obedience to the Father’s will which is to believe in His Son.
In examining Matthew 7:21, many people conclude that those saying ‘Lord, Lord’ had lost their salvation. However, considering John 6:40, an alternative perspective emerges. Perhaps Jesus is suggesting that these individuals never genuinely had salvation in the first place, as their faith was not grounded in a true belief in Him. More weight is added to this position by the fact Jesus declares to them, “I never knew you.”
Justification, in theological terms, means being declared righteous before God. Justification by law involves achieving righteousness through one’s deeds or adherence to religious laws. Conversely, justification by faith involves being declared righteous because of faith in Jesus and His sacrificial work on the cross. The latter is a central tenet of Christian theology.
False teachers, as highlighted in Matthew 7, are those who distort the Gospel’s message, often emphasizing works over faith. They can mislead believers, creating a skewed understanding of salvation.
These false teachers can lead individuals astray, causing them to focus more on their actions (works) than on their faith in Jesus for salvation. This misplaced emphasis can create a false sense of security in one’s salvation.
Those uttering ‘Lord, Lord’ in Matthew 7:21 could well be focusing more on their works rather than on Jesus Christ for salvation. They may profess faith in Jesus with their mouths but their hearts are far from Him, placing their trust in their deeds instead.
John 6:40 emphasizes that salvation comes through genuine faith in Jesus. This faith is more than just verbal acknowledgment—it involves trusting Jesus for salvation and surrendering to His lordship. The ‘Lord, Lord’ proclamation in Matthew 7:21, void of this genuine faith, becomes an empty declaration.
When we consider these two scriptures together, we understand that true salvation involves genuine faith in Jesus, not merely good works or verbal declarations of faith. God’s will, as stated in John 6:40, is for individuals to believe in Jesus and gain eternal life. Matthew 7:21, on the other hand, warns against a faith that is only professed but not practiced.
These scriptures work together to present a balanced view of salvation. They underscore the necessity of genuine faith, warning against the dangers of false belief and emphasizing the importance of living out one’s faith in obedience to God’s will.
A common misconception in Christianity is the idea that salvation can be earned through good works. However, Ephesians 2:8-9 clarifies that salvation is a gift from God, received through faith, and not because of our works.
True salvation involves a transformation of the heart, brought about by genuine faith in Jesus. This faith is evidenced by a life of obedience to God’s commands and a love for others, reflecting the indwelling presence of the Holy Spirit.
Jesus, as the mediator of the New Covenant, plays a crucial role in salvation. His sacrificial death on the cross provides the means for humanity’s redemption, offering forgiveness and eternal life to those who believe in Him.
Faith in Jesus is essential for salvation. It involves recognizing our need for a Savior, trusting in Jesus’ work on the cross, and surrendering our lives to His lordship. Without this faith, even the most religious deeds are meaningless.
The warnings about false teachers serve as a sobering reminder for us to examine our beliefs and ensure our faith is grounded in Jesus, not in our works or religious rituals.
While good works are an important aspect of Christian life, they should be the result of our faith, not the basis for our salvation. By prioritizing faith over works, we align ourselves with the teachings of Jesus and guard against false doctrines.
Interpreting these passages can be tricky, and misunderstandings can occur. Some may mistake the ‘Lord, Lord’ declaration as a blanket statement on works, or misconstrue justification by faith as a license to sin.
A careful study of the Bible in its entirety helps clear up such misconceptions. Understanding the harmony between faith and works, and the necessity of genuine faith in Christ, helps to ward off misunderstandings.
Early Christians grappled with these same issues, as seen in debates recorded in the New Testament. The book of James, for instance, highlights the role of works as evidence of not only genuine faith but more of a ‘useful and beneficial faith’ not to imply that works are a means of earning salvation. James relates the lack of usefulness and therefore deadness of faith with the example of not feeding less fortunate hungry brethren.
Modern theology continues to delve into these themes, affirming that salvation is by faith alone but also recognizing the importance of good works as the fruit of faith. This balance is critical in comprehending the relationship between John 6:40 and Matthew 7:21.
By understanding John 6:40 and Matthew 7:21 together, we see a comprehensive picture of God’s saving grace, available to all who genuinely believe in Jesus Christ. The emphasis is not on what we can do for God (works), but on what God has already done for us through Christ. This understanding helps us guard against false teachings, live authentically in our faith, and experience the assurance of our salvation in Christ.
