In Your name

"Many will say to Me on that day, 'Lord, Lord, did we not prophesy in Your name, and in Your name cast out demons, and in Your name perform many miracles?' "And then I will declare to them, 'I never knew you; depart from Me, you who practice lawlessness.’ 

Matthew 7:22-23

These people are able to cast out demons and perform many miracles and yet He says He never knew them. How is that even possible? I have asked the Lord this question so many times these last few years. If I’m honest, this has been a verse that has been so discouraging to me. How can anyone be certain of their salvation if even those who can cast out demons be unsaved in the end? 

But He has answered me and this is now one of the most encouraging verses in the whole Bible to me.

Three times He says “in Your name”. In His name they did all these things and yet He says He never knew them and sends them away from Him in judgement.

Jesus' name is so powerful that even those unknown to Him, "who practice lawlessness” can perform miracles. The demons have to flee when they speak His name, not because of anything that person is, but because even demons tremble in fear at just the mention of His name.

I have prayed things all my life “in Jesus name” while entertaining thoughts of doubt of His power and ultimate control over all things. I have prayed for Jesus to open loved ones eyes to Him and cause them to finally, truly live, all while doubting that He can really move in these who seem so stubborn in their unbelief.  I have despaired even while praying "in His name" over fellow believers who are struggling with issues that keep them defeated and discouraged.

No... it just won’t do. Not anymore. I see now. 

“There is not a square inch in the whole domain of our human existence over which Christ, who is Sovereign over all, does not cry: 'Mine!’” Jesus reigns in all things. And even speaking His name unleashes His might and power and goodness and life giving light in this dark world. I wonder how much more victorious the Church would be if we would grab hold of this truth and live our lives through this filter.

And so I say --- Jesus… Jesus... Jesus! Come, Lord Jesus. Teach us to take hold of the authority You were pleased to give us so that we can take back these things that the enemy has stolen. For Your glory and Your pleasure. You deserve so much more than we could ever give and yet You are pleased with us anyway.

Thank You, Jesus.

Then I heard the Lord asking, "Whom should I send as a messenger to this people? Who will go for us?" I said, "Here I am. Send me."   Isaiah 6:8