Luke 13:27

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

But {G2532} he shall say {G2046}, I tell {G3004} you {G5213}, I know {G1492} you {G5209} not {G3756} whence {G4159} ye are {G2075}; depart {G868} from {G575} me {G1700}, all {G3956} ye workers {G2040} of iniquity {G93}.

and he will tell you, ‘I don’t know where you’re from. Get away from me, all you workers of wickedness!’

And he will answer, ‘I tell you, I do not know where you are from. Depart from me, all you evildoers.’

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

Luke 13:27 (KJV) presents a solemn warning from Jesus, delivered within the context of His teachings about the "narrow door" and the ultimate judgment. It underscores the critical importance of a genuine, transformative relationship with God over mere outward religious association or superficial acquaintance.

Context

This verse is part of Jesus' discourse, prompted by a question about whether few or many will be saved (Luke 13:23). Jesus responds by urging His listeners to "Strive to enter in at the strait gate" (Luke 13:24). He describes a scenario where many will attempt to enter later, only to be rejected by the master of the house, who represents Christ himself. Those rejected might claim familiarity ("We have eaten and drunk in thy presence, and thou hast taught in our streets"), but the Lord's response in verse 27 reveals the true basis of acceptance.

Key Themes

  • Rejection Based on Relationship, Not Acquaintance: The core message is that superficial knowledge of Jesus, or even participation in religious activities, is insufficient for salvation. The phrase "I know you not whence ye are" signifies a profound lack of intimate, personal relationship.
  • The Nature of "Workers of Iniquity": This striking phrase identifies those rejected not merely as occasional sinners (as all humans are, Romans 3:23), but as individuals whose lives are characterized by unrighteousness. Their actions and lifestyle are inconsistent with a true relationship with God, despite their claims. It speaks to a pattern of life that works against divine righteousness.
  • Finality of Judgment: The command "Depart from me" is absolute and irreversible. It parallels the stark separation described in other judgment passages, emphasizing the eternal consequences of being found without genuine faith and obedient living. This echoes the powerful scene of separation in Matthew 25:41.

Linguistic Insights

  • "I know you not" (οἶδα, oida): In Greek, oida often implies a deep, experiential, and relational knowledge, not merely intellectual awareness. When Jesus says "I know you not," He means there is no genuine, personal fellowship or intimate understanding between Him and these individuals. This stands in contrast to the knowledge of God that brings eternal life, as described in John 17:3.
  • "Workers of iniquity" (ἐργάται ἀδικίας, ergatai adikias): This powerful phrase literally means "doers of unrighteousness." It's not just about committing isolated acts of sin, but about a life orientation where unrighteousness is the prevailing characteristic or practice. Their "work" is defined by injustice or moral wrongdoing, contrasting with those who are "workers together with God" (2 Corinthians 6:1).

Related Scriptures

This verse has a strong parallel in Matthew 7:23, where Jesus similarly declares to those who performed miracles and prophesied in His name, "I never knew you: depart from me, ye that work iniquity." Both passages emphasize that outward religious activity or even spiritual gifts do not substitute for a true, personal relationship with Christ and a life of genuine obedience that produces good fruit (Matthew 7:16).

Practical Application

Luke 13:27 serves as a vital call to self-examination for all who claim to follow Christ. It challenges us to move beyond superficial religious observance to cultivate a deep, living relationship with Jesus, characterized by genuine faith and a life that actively seeks to do His will. It reminds us that true discipleship involves not just hearing His words, but also obeying them, transforming us from "workers of iniquity" into those who "do the will of my Father which is in heaven" (Matthew 7:21). The urgency is clear: the opportunity to enter through the narrow door is not indefinite.

Note: Commentary was generated by an advanced AI, utilizing a prompt that emphasized Biblical fidelity over bias. We've found these insights to be consistently reliable, yet we always encourage prayerful discernment through the Holy Spirit. The Scripture text and cross-references are from verified, non-AI sources.

  • Psalms 6:8

    ¶ Depart from me, all ye workers of iniquity; for the LORD hath heard the voice of my weeping.

  • Matthew 25:41

    Then shall he say also unto them on the left hand, Depart from me, ye cursed, into everlasting fire, prepared for the devil and his angels:

  • Psalms 119:115

    ¶ Depart from me, ye evildoers: for I will keep the commandments of my God.

  • Matthew 7:22

    Many will say to me in that day, Lord, Lord, have we not prophesied in thy name? and in thy name have cast out devils? and in thy name done many wonderful works?

  • Matthew 7:23

    And then will I profess unto them, I never knew you: depart from me, ye that work iniquity.

  • Psalms 1:6

    For the LORD knoweth the way of the righteous: but the way of the ungodly shall perish.

  • Luke 13:25

    When once the master of the house is risen up, and hath shut to the door, and ye begin to stand without, and to knock at the door, saying, Lord, Lord, open unto us; and he shall answer and say unto you, I know you not whence ye are:

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