Commentary on Luke 13:27

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

Introduction

The verse Luke 13:27 presents a sobering picture of divine judgment and the ultimate rejection faced by those who do not truly follow Christ. This commentary synthesizes insights from notable public domain theologians such as Matthew Henry, Albert Barnes, and Adam Clarke, providing a comprehensive understanding of this scripture.

Contextual Background

In examining this passage in its broader context, it is crucial to understand that Jesus is addressing the issue of false security among the people, particularly the Jews. He speaks about the narrow door that leads to salvation (Luke 13:24), emphasizing the need for genuine repentance and faith.

Examination of the Passage

Luke 13:27 can be broken down into several key components that can be explored to enrich our understanding:

• The Speaker: "But he shall say" refers to Jesus, asserting His authority as the judge.
• The Response: "I tell you, I know not whence ye are" signifies a complete separation from those who do not truly belong to Him.
• The Accusation: "Depart from me, all ye workers of iniquity" indicates a definitive rejection of those whose lives do not reflect the righteousness expected of believers.

Theological Insights

This verse poses deep theological implications regarding eternal security, the nature of God's grace, and the reality of divine judgment.

Matthew Henry's Insight

Matthew Henry underscores the profound truth of Christ’s statement regarding those who merely claim affiliation with Him yet lack the fruit of true repentance. He notes that the term "workers of iniquity" refers to those engaged in sinful practices while thinking they possess favor with God. His commentary emphasizes the reality that many will presume to be in good standing with God, only to find themselves excluded from His presence due to unrepentant sin.

Albert Barnes' Perspective

Albert Barnes provides a more pastoral view, stressing the urgency of entering through the narrow door. He relates this verse to the larger theme of salvation and the contrast between the authentic Christian and those who are nominally Christian. Barnes highlights the idea of knowing God versus merely knowing about Him, suggesting that the phrase "I know not whence ye are" represents a relational disconnect rather than a lack of omniscience on God’s part.

Adam Clarke's Analysis

Adam Clarke approaches the verse with a focus on the cultural context of Jesus’ audience. Clarke explains that the Jews had a strong belief in their election as God's people. Jesus, however, is warning them against complacency. His comments deepen our understanding of how societal and religious identities can create barriers to true godliness. Clarke points out that the harshness of "depart from me" reflects the seriousness of spiritual realities faced by those who do not genuinely turn to God.

The Narrow Door

The preceding verses from Luke provide the critical backdrop of the narrow door, highlighting that the path to salvation is restrictive and demands earnestness in pursuit of God. The idea that most will not enter suggests a sincere call to self-examination and a challenge to evaluate one's spiritual walk.

Practical Implications

For pastors, students, theologians, and scholars, this passage invites a critical reflection on the nature of faith and the importance of genuine transformation. It challenges the church to not only preach grace but also the need for repentance and an authentic relationship with Christ.

Lessons for Leadership

• Preach Authenticity: Leaders should encourage congregants to examine their hearts and seek a genuine relationship with Christ rather than a superficial faith.
• Encourage Accountability: Creating environments where believers can confess their sins and receive guidance is essential for spiritual development.
• Promote Discernment: Teach congregants to discern between true and false teachings to avoid being misled by external appearances.

Conclusion

Luke 13:27 is a poignant reminder of the seriousness of our walk with God. The insights gathered from Matthew Henry, Albert Barnes, and Adam Clarke provide a rich tapestry of meaning and application, urging believers to strive for authenticity in their faith. Recognizing the reality of divine judgment and the necessity of genuine repentance should propel us towards a deeper commitment to our relationship with Christ, ensuring that we are among those who will not hear the chilling words of rejection on that final day.