Speaker: Daniel Deininger
Date: November 8, 2025

Summary:

In this powerful and sobering message, Daniel Deininger explores one of the most serious warnings Jesus ever gave: that some who believe they are following Him will one day hear the words, “I never knew you; depart from Me.” The sermon examines what it truly means to be known by God—and what causes some to be rejected despite their religious activity.

Drawing from Matthew 7, Matthew 25, Luke 13, and many supporting passages, the message emphasizes that:

1. Mere profession is not enough

Saying “Lord, Lord” or being outwardly religious does not guarantee a place in God’s Kingdom. Jesus requires that we actively do the Father’s will.

2. Good works alone are not the measure

Some point to their prophetic gifts, miracles, or accomplishments, but Jesus rejects them because their lives were marked by lawlessness—violating God’s commands, or failing to do the good they knew to do.

3. Lawlessness includes both sins of commission and omission

Failing to love, forgive, help others, or live out God’s commands can constitute spiritual rebellion just as much as breaking His laws outright.

4. A relationship with God is built through obedience, study, prayer, worship, and fruit-bearing

Like the wise virgins with oil, believers must invest daily in knowing God—through His Word, through prayer, and through consistent spiritual growth.

5. Deception is a major end-time danger

Those who do not love the truth become vulnerable to deception, delusion, and lawlessness. Loving the truth is essential for salvation.

6. God knows those who are humble, contrite, obedient, and faithful

Scriptures such as Psalm 34, Psalm 51, and Isaiah 66 show that God draws near to those with a humble and repentant heart—those who tremble at His Word.

Final Message

Now is the time to build a genuine relationship with God and Christ—one marked by obedience, humility, repentance, worship, and fruitfulness. If we walk faithfully with God, then instead of hearing “I never knew you,” we will hear the joyous words:

“Well done, good and faithful servant… enter into the joy of your Lord.”