What does Jesus mean by workers of lawlessness?

The phrase "workers of lawlessness" is found in Matthew 7:21-23. In this passage, Jesus speaks about the final judgment and the shocking reality that not everyone who claims to be His follower will enter the kingdom of heaven.

He explicitly states that it is not enough to just call Him "Lord" or to perform miraculous works in His name; true discipleship must be accompanied by obedience to God's will. In this context, Jesus pronounces the chilling declaration, “I never knew you; depart from me, you workers of lawlessness.”

To understand what Jesus means by "workers of lawlessness," it is essential to recognize the cultural and religious context of His audience. The people of first-century Judea were living under the Jewish Law, which served as a guideline for righteous living and relationship with God. By using the term "lawlessness," Jesus contrasts true righteousness—rooted in a genuine relationship with Him and obedience to God's commands—with the empty religious practices of those who had not submitted to His authority.

The Meaning of Lawlessness

Lawlessness, in biblical terms, signifies a rejection or disregard for God's moral law and a failure to adhere to His commandments. It is not simply an absence of law but represents an active rebellion against God’s directives. This concept is interwoven throughout Scripture, illustrating the distinction between living according to God’s will and pursuing one's desires without regard for divine precepts.

When Jesus references "workers of lawlessness," he refers to those who may outwardly profess faith or even perform remarkable deeds but fail to engage in a true relationship with Him characterized by obedience and transformation. Their actions—despite appearing “successful” by human standards—are ultimately in conflict with God’s principles of love, mercy, and justice.

The Dangers of False Discipleship

This teaching from Jesus serves as a sobering reminder of the dangers of false discipleship. In the context of the Sermon on the Mount, where this passage is located, Jesus is emphasizing that true faith is evidenced not merely by profession but by a lifestyle that aligns with God's will. The workers of lawlessness are those who may be deceived into thinking that their actions or ministry accomplishments are sufficient for salvation.

The tension between genuine faith and superficial religion is a recurring theme in the New Testament. The Apostle Paul warns against those who preach another gospel (Galatians 1:8) and encourages believers to examine themselves to ensure they are in the faith (2 Corinthians 13:5). Jesus’ declaration, “I never knew you,” starkly illustrates the finality of judgment for those who lack authenticity in their commitment to Him.

Implications for Modern Believers

The concept of being a "worker of lawlessness" invites modern believers to engage in self-reflection regarding their faith and relationship with Jesus. It challenges the notion that mere association with Christianity, whether through church attendance, performing good deeds, or demonstrating charismatic gifts, equates to genuine salvation.

For contemporary followers of Christ, this passage raises critical questions: Are we living out our faith through obedience to God's Word? Do our actions reflect the character of Christ? Are we simply performing rituals, or are we cultivating a deep and transformative relationship with Jesus that affects how we live daily?

To guard against becoming "workers of lawlessness," believers are called to develop a heart of obedience and submission to God's will. This requires immersing oneself in Scripture, engaging in prayer, and fostering a community of faith where accountability and encouragement thrive.