Thank you for writing. I would point out that you have misapprehended the meaning of the word you have rendered as "iniquity." The actual word in the Greek is "anomia" which literally means "lawlessness."

Christ is not speaking of some gross, moral violation as you have defined it. The examples He cites are casting out demons, performing miracles, and prophesying.

The reason these acts were condemned is that they were done apart from the Father's command. Christ begins this section by saying, "He who does the will of my Father shall enter the kingdom of heaven."

The entire passage is about being under authority. Those who do even works that appear externally righteous are considered lawless when they do such works of their own initiative, rather than waiting on a word from the Father.

Christ did every one of the actions cited, but NEVER of His own initiative. He said He was always beholding the Father, and He did only what His Father showed Him to do (John 5:20).

May you be blessed with peace and understanding in these days.

Praise be to God

A beautiful message,
What faith calls Jesus Lord, we should meditate on this.

Matthew 7:21-Not every one that saith unto me Lord, Lord, shall enter into the Kingdom of Heaven; but he that doeth the will of my Father which is in Heaven

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.

Iniquity definition
Gross immorality or injustice;wickedness
A grossly immoral act; or sin

Glory to God

Tom

Thank you for writing and briefly sharing your testimony. In an interesting parallel to your testimony, the Father also used the imagery of "launching out into the deep" when He called me to leave employment at the rescue mission He had directed me to, and return to full-time ministry as I looked to Him for all my needs.

The Father has been faithful to meet all my needs. Where He calls, He provides. I have a model of a sailing boat in my bus that says, "The will of God will never lead you where the grace of God cannot keep you."

Regarding coming to Memphis, although Joseph went down to Egypt, God has not indicated I am to do so at this time 🙂
(I say this in jest.)

The Father has not shown me that I am to travel at this time. I remain in central Georgia for the time being. If you would like to correspond personally, you will find my e-mail address posted on my websites.

Thank you for these very profound comments. They are well expressed and full of truth.

Any who have been on this pathway will immediately identify with Joseph. While others can plan their lives, these are continually placed in situations beyond their control, giving the appearance of fault or failure in their choices.

It is not only the prospect of the loss of material comforts and possessions that People will balk at; as many do not have much in the material realm. For some followers, it is things less tangible than houses or cars. Many who are poor by worldly standards have no trouble walking away from their meager possessions, but are not willing to lose the approval of others. They refuse to sacrifice their ‘ministry’. For them, the most important thing is being ‘highly esteemed’ and ‘seen as being wise.’
He never said it would be easy, just that it would be worth it.
Amen