Whispers of a Butterfly

“Depart from me, ye that work iniquity”

Matthew 7: 15-23 (KJV)

“Depart from me, all ye workers of iniquity”

Luke 13: 22-30 (KJV)

            What is in a thought, a statement, a word? Why is it that some words tend to ‘weigh’ heavily upon our minds and hearts, while others can hurt, inflict emotional and mental pain and anguish, but some words can be forgotten all together? Here in this devotional, I hope to address some of these issues and these two questions by looking at the words of Jesus and examining what is considered the harshest and scariest phrase to any Christian— “Depart from me.”

Matthew 7: 15-23

            In these verses, Jesus is beginning to speak on the testing of false prophets. Upon studying this chapter, you will see that this sermon from Jesus is part of the very last of his sermons on the Mount of Olives where he preached to a multitude of people. So, his words mattered, and He knew that. Jesus was not shy about the way he spoke or to whom he spoke.

            In Verse 15, Jesus boldly proclaims to beware of false prophets. He even describes how they will come to you or approach you—in sheep’s clothing. However, Jesus goes on to say they are ravening wolves.

            In Verses 16-20, Jesus talks about examining the ‘fruit’ of another person. Jesus then gives an explanation as to what he means by that. Verse 17 “Even so every good tree bringeth forth good fruit; but a corrupt tree bringeth forth evil fruit” This is why what you say and do matter both in private and in public. God hears, sees, and knows all. Every thought, spoken or unspoken; every curse word spoken or thought, every time you swear against someone or something, makes Him displeased. {The tv shows you watch, music you listen to, movies you watch, even your friend group—all these affect/effect you as a person and your personality. How could that not affect your walk with God?}

Verse 19 “Every tree that bringeth forth not good fruit is hewn down, and cast into the fire” Verse 20 “Wherefore by their fruits ye shall know them.” Jesus outlines clearly how to recognize if a person is a good person or not; however, Jesus also gives us guidelines as Christians to examine and hold each other accountable through these verses as well. Jesus tells us, as Christians, that we should examine one another’s fruits {meaning fruits of the spirit: love, joy, peace, patience (or forbearance), kindness, goodness, faithfulness, gentleness, and self-control (Galatians 5:22-23)} and go from there with our decision.

Verse 21-23 “21. Not everyone 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. 22 Many will say to me in that day, Lord, Lord, have we not prophesied in thy name? And in thy name cast out devils? And in thy name done many wonderful works? 23 And the will I profess unto them, I never knew you: depart from me, ye that work iniquity.” These verses tend to carry a lot of weight and meaning for people, especially Christians. One of the scariest things to imagine is being saved but passing away suddenly and you hear those words—depart from me…We can determine from these verses, particularly verse 22 where it references ‘that day’— Jesus is talking about judgment day (read Revelation 20: 11-15 about the great white throne judgment). However, if you have faith, even as small as a mustard seed, and know in your heart that Jesus is your Lord and Savior, you have nothing to fear…

Luke 13: 22-30

In this passage, Jesus shares a profound parable about the kingdom of God, illustrating its nature and the urgency required to enter it. He tells the people that the kingdom is like a narrow door—many will desire to enter, but only a few will succeed because entry requires more than mere association or outward actions. The parable emphasizes that it is not just proximity to Jesus or participation in religious activities that guarantees entrance, but an earnest striving, a genuine relationship, and obedience to God. Through this teaching, Jesus reminds us that the kingdom is both a present reality and a future hope, accessible to all who truly seek Him, but exclusive to those who do the will of the Father.

This story serves as a warning not to assume automatic acceptance, but instead to examine our hearts and lives, ensuring we are truly living in accordance with God’s desires. In doing so, we respond to His invitation with sincerity and faith, striving to enter through the narrow gate that leads to everlasting life.

Verse 24 “Strive to enter in at the strait gate: for many, I say unto you, will seek to enter in, and shall not be able.” Jesus warned the multitude that he was preaching to at the sermon on the mount, that many would try to enter after it was too late. Even though Jesus would draw large crowds at his “preachings/telling of parables,” even some coming to seek healing from him, there were only a few who chose to be loyal and follow him and his teachings.

Verse 27 “But he shall say, I tell you, I know you not whence you are; depart from me ye workers of iniquity.

In Summary:

This devotional explores Jesus’ teachings from his sermon on the Mount of Olives, focusing on the dangers of false prophets and the criteria for entering the kingdom of God. Jesus warns listeners to be wary of false prophets, describing them as wolves in sheep’s clothing, and instructs believers to examine the “fruit” of others—meaning their actions and spiritual qualities—to discern their true character. He emphasizes that charitable deeds and genuine faith are essential, as outward appearances or religious activities alone do not guarantee entrance into heaven. Through references to Matthew and Luke, the text highlights that entering the kingdom requires: earnest striving, a sincere relationship with God, and obedience to His will. The parable of the narrow door serves as a caution against complacency, reminding believers to evaluate their hearts and actions, and to respond to God’s invitation with faith and sincerity. Ultimately, the message encourages living in accordance with God’s desires, striving for authenticity in one’s spiritual journey, and holding oneself and others accountable to the standards set forth by Jesus.

Reflective Questions

·      How can examining the “fruit” of others help us discern true character and intentions according to Jesus’ teachings?

·      What are some practical ways to hold ourselves and others accountable to the standards Jesus describes?

·      Why does Jesus emphasize that outward appearances and religious activities alone are not enough to enter the kingdom of God?

·      How does the parable of the narrow door challenge us to evaluate our own faith and relationship with God?

·      What does it mean to “strive to enter in at the strait gate,” and how can we apply this principle in our daily lives?

·      According to these passages, what role do the fruits of the Spirit play in our spiritual journey and in discerning the authenticity of others?

·      In what ways might complacency or assumptions about automatic acceptance prevent us from truly living in accordance with God’s desires?

·      How can we ensure our faith is genuine and not just based on proximity to religious activities or outward expressions?

·      What warnings does Jesus give about false prophets, and how can we recognize them in today’s context?

·      How does the message from these verses encourage us to pursue a more authentic and obedient relationship with God?