Matthew 7:22 - Exposition

Matthew only; but cf Luke 13:26 , from which the "Western" addition of eating and drinking is probably derived. Many will say to me in that day. The great day. Notice Christ's claim, so early as this, to be the future Judge of the world. Lord, Lord (cf. Hosea 8:2 ). In Luke 13:21 profession of service, i.e. as regards work; here, as regards wages. Have we not prophesied. Revised Version did , etc.? The thought is not of abiding effect, but merely of historical facts ( οὐ τῷ σῷ ὀνόματι ἐπροφητεύσαμεν ) . In thy name? and in thy name have cast out devils? and in thy name done many wonderful works? Revised Version, by thy name. An important difference, for "in" implies some vital connexion. But in this case the revelation ( Matthew 6:9 , note) of Christ was merely the instrument by which these men proclaimed Divine truths, cast out; demons, and wrought miracles. With him, or even with it, they had no real union. The connexion of "prophesied" with the two other words seems to forbid this being only false prophesying ( Luke 13:15 ; cf. especially Jeremiah 27:15 [ Jeremiah 34:12 , LXX .]; Jeremiah 14:14 ). Rather does the verse teach that spiritual results can be effected by unspiritual men. "Suggested by this and like passages. Augustine has many instructive words and warnings on the nothingness of all gifts, even up to the greatest gift of working nil miracles, if charity be wanting" (Trench, ' Sermon on the Mount').