The Forbidden Verse: No One in the Church Dare to Read It… Why?

There are biblical texts that are repeated in every sermon. Others, however, seem to fade into the background, not because they are hidden, but because they directly confront both leaders and believers.

For a long time, there has been talk of an “uncomfortable verse,” one that doesn’t point first to the obvious sinner or the declared unbeliever, but to those who believe they are firm in their faith. That text is found in the Gospel of Matthew 7:21–23:

“Not everyone who says to me, ‘Lord, Lord,’ will enter the kingdom of heaven, but only the one who does the will of my Father who is in heaven… Then I will tell them plainly, ‘I never knew you; away from me, you evildoers!’”

These words attributed to Jesus don’t question religious outward appearances, but rather the consistency between what is said and what is lived. They don’t speak of spiritual fame, miracles, or public recognition. They speak of true obedience.

This passage isn’t “forbidden.” It’s in the Bible that millions read every day. However, its power lies in the fact that it forces us to look inward. It’s not about how many words we utter in prayer, but about how much our actions reflect God’s will.

Superficial Faith vs. Authentic Transformation

The central message of the text is clear: faith isn’t measured by declarations, but by fruit.

Jesus doesn’t mention external heretics or atheists. He speaks of people who even prophesied and performed works “in his name.” This makes the message deeper: religious activity doesn’t guarantee true communion with God.

This leads us to an important reflection:

Am I living what I believe?

Does my faith transform my character?

Does my private life align with my public discourse?

Scripture insists that authentic faith produces visible changes: humility, self-control, compassion, justice, and consistency.

On Purity and Secret Sins

Throughout Christian history, sexuality has been a sensitive topic. Some hold strict views that link certain private practices to serious spiritual consequences, while others analyze them from a psychological or medical perspective.

It is important to approach this topic with balance and responsibility.

The Bible does emphasize purity, self-control, and respect for the body (1 Corinthians 6:18–20). However, it also presents God as a Father willing to forgive, restore, and accompany us through processes of growth.

Excessive guilt, constant fear, or the idea of ​​automatic spiritual oppression for every lapse can generate unnecessary anguish and affect mental health. Christian transformation is not based on terror, but on sincere repentance and progressive change.

Self-control is a fruit of the Spirit (Galatians 5:22–23), and it develops with discipline, proper guidance, and a healthy understanding of sexuality.

The True Warning of the Gospel

The strongest message of Matthew 7 is not about a specific sin, but about inconsistency.

The danger is not just falling, but justifying hypocrisy. It is not the struggle that condemns, but the hardness of heart.

The warning is clear:

It is not enough to talk about God.

It is not enough to have a spiritual appearance.

It is not enough to have religious activity.

What is essential is doing the Father’s will.

And that will includes loving, forgiving, living with integrity, and seeking holiness without destructive fanaticism.

Advice and Recommendations

Examine your faith honestly, not from a place of paralyzing guilt, but from a desire to grow.

Seek consistency, not immediate perfection. Spiritual growth is a process.

Practice self-control as a gradual discipline, not as a war based on fear.

Talk to a spiritual mentor or counselor if you struggle with habits that cause you anxiety. Don’t face your battles alone.

Nourish your inner life with sincere prayer, thoughtful Bible reading, and concrete acts of service.

Avoid extremes: neither minimizing sin nor living under constant condemnation.

Remember that grace and truth go hand in hand. God confronts, but He also restores.

The uncomfortable verse isn’t hidden: it reminds us that true faith is demonstrated through actions. Rather than pointing fingers at others, it invites us to examine our own hearts. And that examination, when done with humility, can become the beginning of real transformation.