WHY JESUS SAID MANY PROMINENT MINISTERS WON'T ENTER HEAVEN.

 You shall not labour in vain because of the anointing of God's favour upon you.

Good -Life Devotional:

WHY JESUS SAID  MANY PROMINENT MINISTERS WON'T ENTER HEAVEN.

By Rev Michael Benson Ajayi 

    Based on Matthew 7:21-23, many prominent preachers may not enter heaven because their ministry, despite its outward success, is built on self-centered performance rather than a genuine, intimate relationship with Jesus Christ. 

  Jesus explains that merely using his name or doing "wonderful works" (prophesying, casting out demons, healing) is insufficient if the heart is not in alignment with the will of the Father. 

    Here is a breakdown of why this occurs, based on Matthew 7:21-23 and the Greek definition of iniquity:

1. The Greek Definition of Iniquity (Anomia)  In Matthew 7:23, Jesus tells them to depart because they are "workers of iniquity" (KJV) or "lawlessness" (ESV/NASB). 

 The word used is 'anomia,' which means lawlessness, illegality, or disobedience.

SIGNIFICANCE: It goes beyond sinning occasionally. Anomia implies a life lived without regard for God’s law, acting as if they are not under His authority. It is a persistent rebellion, often disguised as religious activity. 

2. "I NEVER KNEW YOU" (RELATIONAL VOID)

Jesus declares, "I never knew you" (ginōskō), which indicates a complete lack of a personal, intimate covenant relationship. 

SUPERFICIAL RELATIONSHIP: These preachers may work for Jesus, but not with him.

NO TRANSFORMATION: While their words may sound righteous, their hearts have not been transformed by the Gospel. They are "strangers" to God despite working in His name. 

3. THE "WILL OF THE FATHER" VS. "MY WONDERFUL WORKS"

   The distinction lies between doing God’s will and doing impressive religious work for personal recognition.

Not Doing the Will: The will of the Father, as defined in context, is to believe on Christ, submit to his authority, and display obedience.

RELIANCE ON MINISTRY  Prominent preachers might point to their megachurches, YouTube views, healing rallies, or dramatic preaching as proof of their salvation, but Jesus calls these acts "filthy rags" (Isaiah 64:6) if they replace true repentance and obedience. 

SUMMARY OF WHY THEY ARE REJECTED

THEIR MINISTRY IS SELF-GLORIFYING: They use Jesus' name for their own brand, power, or financial gain rather than His glory.

It’s a Display of SELF-RIGHTEOUSNESS: They rely on their spiritual resume to justify themselves, rather than trusting entirely in Christ’s finished work.

THEIR FRUIT IS WRONG: Despite outward miracles, their lives do not produce the "good fruit" of obedience and humility (Matt 7:16-20). 

Ultimately, this passage serves as a warning that spiritual giftedness is not the same as spiritual fruitfulness. 

PRAYER: Heavenly Father forgive me of my sins against you I believe Jesus Christ died and was raised again for my salvation I receive him as lord and saviour and receive the Holy Spirit and power to overcome temptation.

+2348035536911 email michaelbensonajayi@gmail.com