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Seven Words You Never Want to Hear: How to Be Sure You Won't

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When life is over and you stand before God, what will he say to you? There is no greater tragedy than for someone to go through their entire life thinking they are a Christian only to hear these seven fateful words at death: “I never knew you; depart from me” (Matt. 7:23). A. W. Tozer said, “It is my opinion that tens of thousands, if not millions, have been brought into some kind of religious experience by accepting Christ and they have not been saved.” How can you be sure that your profession of faith is more than just words? Seven Words You Never Want to Hear explores the mystery of salvation through the Scriptures and personal stories. Author Denise Wilson invites you to take the challenge that the apostle Paul gave to the church at Corinth—examine yourselves to see whether you are in the faith. The gospel changes everything—beliefs, lifestyles, and priorities. Has it changed you? Don’t wait until death to find out if you got it right.

256 pages, Kindle Edition

First published October 29, 2020

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1038 people want to read

About the author

Denise Wilson

2 books21 followers
Denise Wilson is a multi-award-winning author. For more than thirty years she has been concerned about the issues discussed in her book. She is a former missionary to Italy, leads Bible studies, speaks at women's events, and is passionate about sharing her faith.

Denise lives in small-town Ontario, Canada, with her husband, two sons, and a whole bunch of chickens.

Check out her YouTube channel:
www.youtube.com/@denisewilsonauthor

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Displaying 1 - 30 of 36 reviews
Profile Image for Steve Akerson.
27 reviews13 followers
May 12, 2021
I purchased this book.

All believers would be helped by reading this book. However, I bet that not all believers will necessarily like this book. I could feel the pain and heartache that the author (Denise Wilson) felt as she covered some of the subjects in this book. You see, she writes about the need for believer's lives to show consistent evidence of their faith - not that we Jesus' followers are saved by works, but that we have been saved FOR good works. And without the evidence of those good works, a person should examine their faith to see if their hearts (and not just their words) are with Jesus.

There are some sticky (but correct) things Denise writes about:

* That belief in Jesus is necessary for salvation, but belief alone is not enough
* Belief needs to come first, but it must be accompanied by:
* Repentance - which starts in the mind, goes to the heart and needs to end up in changed behavior. Or else a person can be like the ones Jesus mentions when he says "These people honor me with their lips, but their hearts are far from me."
* Confession - which means don't ever get in the habit of trying to ignore your sins. Practice confession as soon as the Lord sheds light on your sins.
* Forgiveness - for yourself and others.
* Obedience - faith and obedience are two sides of the same coin. If you don't have both, you have neither. She quotes John Piper, who said "The mark of a believer is not the absence of sin, but that we are fighting sin." She encourages us all to learn to hate sin and be repulsed by it.

Along the way Denise gives good examples via stories from her life and from Scripture. She has tough messages for us all - but they are given in a spirit of love and compassion, and are helpful for all believers. Be prepared to be challenged, and blessed.
2 reviews
November 20, 2020
Denise Wilson has done her due diligence in writing a book that is much needed today. It is a breath of fresh air in a world where what it means to be a Christian has become increasingly ambiguous. Here we have the clear ring of truth as Denise Wilson lays out what it means to be a genuine Christian in a way that is comprehensive and uncompromising, yet at the same time personal and relatable. Wilson writes from a solid knowledge of scripture which she uses well throughout the book along with relevant stories and great quotations from respected believers over the centuries that support what she has to say. I devoured this book eagerly and plan to read it again, slowing down the next time to answer the penetrating questions at the end of each chapter for my own spiritual benefit. I recommend this book for anyone. If you are not a believer, this is straight talk and you have the choice to take it or leave it at your own peril. If you are not sure you're a believer, there is no gray area here and you can know where you stand. If you are a true believer, this book will affirm your security and give you more courage in sharing the good news.
2 reviews
November 17, 2020
What is truth? “If I believe in error with enough sincerity, that doesn’t turn error into truth”.
In today’s world, many say and believe that they are Christians but are they really? How can you know for sure? How frightening that many will hear the words one day, “I never knew you; depart from me?
Denise’s book is straight forward in presentation but jammed packed with Biblical truth and people’s stories to give a clear understanding of what a Christian’s life is supposed to look like. Examine your life now!
1 review1 follower
November 6, 2020
Denise Wilson’s first book is a masterful and impassioned weaving together of core evangelical Christian doctrines with a keen focus on issues surrounding the assurance of authentic Biblical salvation. She warns the reader to never mistake religious activity, heritage or emotional experiences for a true internal spiritual transformation. The author outlines that personal re-creation only takes place within the life of an individual who has totally surrendered themselves to the reign of God in their lives based on the atoning work of Jesus Christ’s death and resurrection.
Without an ounce of arrogance, she invites everyone to carefully exam themselves and their life of faith according to the Word of God. The book emphases throughout that the positive development and maturation of a person’s attitudes and behaviour will always accompany a genuine Christian re-birth. She bravely identifies that these changes will not always be politically correct or socially convenient.
I would highly recommend the reading of this book to any believing Christian seeking to more deeply examine their own spiritual journey and to those who are honestly seeking to inquire into the essential underpinnings of Biblical faith.
1 review
December 31, 2020
Wow! This is a must read for anyone interested in spiritual issues. I love how Denise uses true stories to draw the reader into heart- felt connections to the points being made. I also appreciate how she digs into the Bible, presenting the Truth clearly.
Profile Image for Robin Morgan.
Author 5 books287 followers
November 22, 2020
I received an ARC [Advanced Reader's Copy] of this book from the author in a PDF.file, and the following is my honest opinion.

While this book applies to both men and women, I'm going to look at it from my POV [point of view]. As Christian women, there are several words you'd love to hear at different times in your life. They include your groom saying "I do" at your wedding, which gets followed in about a year by "Congratulations. You've given birth to a healthy baby girl/boy.

Many of you might go through life haphazardly without giving a thought to your relationship with the Lord. And then comes the day that you die, you're at heaven's pearly gates, awaiting your opportunity to enter and are confronted by St. Peter with the words from MATTHEW 7:23 [NKJV]:

"'I never knew you; depart from Me, you who practice lawlessness!"

Shocked and befuddled, you stand there believing you've been a good Christian all of these years; however, the truth tells another story, a story which speaks of actions being louder than words.

Being the Christian woman that I've become this year, I found this book to be one that causes its readers to do a thoroughly complete self-examination of themselves as it relates to their relationship with the Lord. Readers come to realize the truth about themselves.

We all go and say that we've gone and repented for the sins we've committed, but the question that overshadows this repenting is whether we've indeed done so. To be a truly good Christian, we're repeatedly told in scripture by Jesus that:

"And you shall love the LORD your God with all your heart, with all your soul, with all your mind, and with all your strength."
[LUKE 10:27 MARK 12:30 MATTHEW 27:37 DEUTERONOMY 6:5]

For this is the first and greatest commandment – MATTHEW 22:38

The reward for all this is that we get blessed by keeping the Lord's testimonies and seeking Him with our whole heart. We're required to live our lives according to the manner He wants us to. There's a particular joy that one receives when they find themselves being obedient to the Lord, and by doing this, we'll receive the salvation we desire to achieve.

Yet, there's an inherent mystery regarding salvation, a mystery that gets revealed through this book's pages by its author, Denise Wilson, through its scriptures and her personal stories.

For providing her readers with a possible pathway to and through the Gates of Heaven, I’ve given Ms. Wilson the 5 STARS she’s garnered from this reviewer of nonfiction Christian books.
1 review
November 7, 2020
I am only thirteen; however, after hearing the title of this book, I was drawn in with both curiosity and interest. I was shocked to realize that though it may seem we have accepted Jesus as our Savior, some really haven't, and will end up hearing the seven fateful words.
Author, Denise Wilson, helps explain what true faith in Jesus Christ is and how to obtain it while guiding you in your spiritual journey.
The chapters regarding confession and forgiveness also really stood out to me.
Seven Words you never want to hear is a very enjoyable book and helps examine the true meaning of salvation.
This is a must read!
Profile Image for Bruce Dunning.
1 review
November 3, 2020
Seven Words You Never Want to Hear is an excellent summary of the topic of what the Bible teaches about what it means to be a Christian. The title is based on Jesus’ teaching in Matthew 7 that says “Not everyone who says to me, ‘Lord, Lord,’ will enter the kingdom of heaven.” and to some he will say “I never knew you; depart from me”.

Author, Denise Wilson, is passionate about removing any doubt in the reader’s mind what it means to become a Christian. She interweaves personal stories throughout the chapters bringing clarity to the topic as well as warning the reader of the dangers of embracing a false gospel.
2 reviews
January 15, 2021
This book is for those who profess to be Christians but I urge everyone to read it. It presents a series of Biblical tests so that Christians can check if they really are true believers of the Lord Jesus Christ and His way of salvation. The author questions the efficacy of the evangelism method of getting people to pray the sinner’s prayer. She asks the readers to examine whether they really have been born again, do they really love the Lord Jesus first in their lives, do they show by how they live that they love Him, are they truly repentant for their sins. On and on she probes deeply but really not she; it is the Bible which does this.
This book is not for the faint of heart. Be prepared to be challenged in every area of your life to see if you really are a follower of Jesus. I found myself frequently reading a chapter and then having to stop and think for quite a while about what I read. For example, in chapter nine ‘Examine Your Obedience’, I was struck by the story of Natalie’s transformation. Her story shows that obedience to the Lord’s commands brings joy but only after a believer obeys. Are we willing to try Him and to really know Him? It is a soul searching book!
Seven Words You Never Want To Hear is very readable and the real life examples helped me understand the points the author was making. Each chapter could start a conversation. Bible study groups could use it as study book as there are questions at the end of each chapter.
Profile Image for Laura A.
214 reviews3 followers
February 13, 2021
A message that is 100% needed in the world today. Too many people are claiming to know Christ for personal, selfish reasons and are living a life contrary to scripture. This then leads to confusion to non-believers as to what Christianity is and the Saviour we serve. Sinners prayers and altar calls were not part of my upbringing, nor are they part of my church today - and this is something I am very thankful for after reading this book! Denise has done some incredible research for this book and you can tell her passion for Christ in every word. This book was very easy to award 5 stars to! I would have no hesitations to recommend this to anyone (and already have!). It would be especially convicting and helpful for those with doubts of their salvation. This book hurt me in places - but in the best way possible - only to help me grow!
11 reviews1 follower
May 13, 2021
Refreshing truth

The truth of the gospel. Finally someone unafraid to speak the whole gospel about heaven and hell. Thank you for your honesty
Profile Image for Anne-Marie Madore.
Author 2 books34 followers
May 11, 2022
Christians understand the author’s urgency is writing this book. She states, “God’s truth is made clear in God’s Word.” The way to receive salvation and eternal life are given in the Bible. Denise Wilson dares to ask the question, “When life is over and you stand before God, what will He say to you?”

Many people including those who profess to be Christians, hold the belief that they are saved and will automatically go to heaven after death. Yet, according to Matthew 7:21, Jesus Himself says, “Not everyone who says to me, ‘Lord, Lord’ will enter the kingdom of heaven.”

The author wrote this book with the hope that readers will know with certainty they are saved. Time is of the essence, a decision not to be put off for another day. She shows readers how to be sure they won’t hear those tragic words spoken by Jesus in Matthew 7:23, “I never knew you, depart from me.”

The book is well written, easy to understand, and backed up by Scripture verses, along with excerpts from Bible scholars, and personal stories. Each chapter ends with REMEMBER a summary note regarding the chapter, and Ask Yourself. The questions asked are challenging and thought provoking, and enable the reader to evaluate their own core beliefs.

The Gospel of Rome chapter was personal for me, I left Roman Catholicism behind years ago, with no regrets for doing so. What a revelation to find out after all these years what the church requires of its members to be considered saved. More surprising was discovering how these requirements vastly differ from what’s written in the Bible. I appreciate the author acknowledging that many Catholics may not agree, but adds that the truth is found in their own church documents. How unfortunate it is; that over 1.3 billion Catholics worldwide are caught up in a religious system that denies the simple truth of the gospel. Reading this chapter confirmed I made the right choice years ago. When you the truth, the truth will set you free.

Greed is a sin. God and greed cannot co-exist. Sadly, greed is found within churches and ministries. Stories are shared of those lured in by the promise of material blessings and physical healing. The author speaks against the prosperity gospel message and includes names of wealthy preachers and evangelists. Wealth is not evil; but the love of money is. She points out, prosperity preachers will stand before God and give an account for what they’ve done and taught. We will too when our times comes. Greed can evident in a person’s life, whether wealthy or not!
The Bible is clear, greedy people are not among those who will enter God’s kingdom.

Churches today tend not to preach on sin, repentance, or the wrath of God. The author reveals why mega churches pastored by Joel Osteen and others are so popular. Which raises the questions: How can those who constantly hear “me-centered gospel messages” ever grow spiritually? Are the teachings biblical? Readers are given answers to these questions and more.

The AFTERWORD contains a sermon written by Charles H. Spurgeon on October 23, 1881 titled, “Flee from the Wrath to Come”. Yes, his sermon was preached long ago, but God’s Word is timeless. Spurgeon’s message will leave no doubt on the importance of fleeing from the wrath to come, and how to avoid it. A message applicable for today and the times we are in.

I’m a born-again believer, and this book taught me much. I have greater knowledge, wisdom, and understanding concerning what is means to be saved, and a true follower of Jesus Christ. I encourage you to read this book and discover for yourself the biblical truth about salvation. Imagine arriving in heaven and hearing Jesus say, “Come…inherit the kingdom prepared for you.” (Matthew 25:34).

1 review
January 22, 2021
Seven Words You Never Want to Hear is a challenging and at the same time compassionate plea for Christians to take their faith seriously. The author does a thoughtful job presenting the seriousness of one's commitment to Christ, challenging the notion that reciting a sinner's prayer is all that's required to enter the kingdom of heaven. The way she used so many actual stories made her points so real and tangible. I would definitely recommend this book to any person who wants to have a clearer understanding of what it means to be true follower of Christ.
1 review
February 4, 2021
I thoroughly enjoyed this book; This book made me dig deeper into the Scriptures ( Matthew 7). This topic has burdened me for the past year and I was excited to see a book to explain it. I have been concerned that this has not been preached and it is a must for people to know the truth and get this revelation- thanks for following your call! This is MUST READ!
1 review
November 17, 2020
Denise Wilson has made available to us a book on a topic I believe needs to be discussed! However, she does it in a way which challenges us, as well as, reminds us of the grace God has given. Each chapter introduces a new subject and is cover by numerous Scripture references, quotes from notable Christians, and real life stories. At the end of each chapter there is an "Ask Yourself" section which has stretched me personally to examine myself, be honest, and initiate change in my life, knowing I will not be perfect at it. This book would be a great Bible study and a great catalyst for discipling a young Christian in your life!
1 review
January 20, 2021
The title of this book grabbed my attention immediately and I was anxious to read it. It is a thought provoking book and has truly made me examine myself deeply more consistently and to commune with my Creator, consistently putting my all to frequent failures at HIS feet, and rejoicing at His mercy and grace, to forgive and purify me.
Denise Wilson’s book makes you aware, through her stories, of just how miraculous salvation is, and what an incredible gift grace is.
I would recommend this book as a must read for anyone who claims the name Christian. It makes you ask yourself the question. What is my goal? Happiness or Holiness?
1 review
December 6, 2020
Timely and Timeless
Denise eloquently and deftly lays out, all of the pitfalls that will ultimately befall so many wanting to avoid those seven words: depart from me I never knew you. Her book is rich with truths not only taken from everyday life and stories of men and women who have come to see how far they were from the truth, but also from her own life. Her book is filled with notable and quotable quotes that will point you back to the truth again and again. It’s definitely a book to keep on the shelf when you need to examine your faith or give as a gift to encourage someone to examine theirs.
“What sets apart a true follower of Jesus from one who follows in word only is a proper response to sin. Your relationship with sin is one of the greatest indicators of the reality of your profession.  While most will admit to being sinners, some will deny that certain things in their lives are sin.” Denise Wilson
“A confession with an explanation is no confession at all.” Denise Wilson
“Anything that has a grip on our lives is serious business and needs to be dealt with.
Dying to self looks different in each person’s life, but if we want to be disciples of Jesus, we need to be willing to deal with whatever it is that consumes us.” Denise Wilson
1 review
February 13, 2021

This book cuts right to the heart of our soul security, questioning the presumption that we are good enough for heaven. It lays out in clear and simple terms the basis of salvation through Jesus Christ. But then it doubles down, challenging glib professions of faith that don’t follow through to changed behavior. So it is as much about discipleship as it is about conversion and evangelism.
I was fully engaged from the title on and immediately was drawn into self-examination. I felt a personal call for true repentance and for a sincere, surrendered walk with God. All my excuses were exposed. The author’s writing style flows easily, but the impact is sharp. She can be both stern and hard-hitting in sounding the note of divine judgement and yet gracious and compassionate in declaring God’s love in Christ for sinners. Her choice of real-life stories shows the wisdom and sensitivity of one who has lived deeply and grown her own faith through much devotion. The “Ask Yourself” section at the end of each chapter brings a practical focus that is helpful for personal application or group discussion. This is a book that searches you and finds you, whether you are ready or not. It demands a decision.

Profile Image for Melissa Hernandez.
412 reviews17 followers
April 17, 2021
Overall, I have mixed feelings about this book. I believe this is a great starting point for folks who want to immerse themselves in Christianity. Just starting? It's a great stepping stone. The first half was really good, and I would recommend it to everyone interested. The second half, a good chunk of it was on Catholicism, and it felt so dry. I understand we have to talk about and explain the different 'types' (if I can use that word?), but it was just dull. Could just be me. And I wish the author also talked about how missionary work isn't always pretty. I wish she acknowledged the dark history of it or just did not mention it at all. At times, it didn't feel necessary. When the author pointed out because we're "politically correct," we can't "speak the truth." I disagree with the entire notion. We're not "PC," we're people just trying to speak to one another with compassion and with honesty. I think we're at a point where if we're going to have conversations about religion, we should be honest about them and have love in them. This book is a great starting point, but we need to have a massive conversation about religion for today.
Profile Image for Pegboard.
1,821 reviews9 followers
April 14, 2021
Seven Words You Never Want to Hear: How to Be Sure You Won't by Denise Wilson is an interesting book as she teaches her message through several different stories. She gives reminders at the end of her chapters to highlight main thoughts in the book. She also has questions you can ask yourself, just as characters in her stories asked themselves about their walk with God, or lack thereof. The author makes the message clear. She then proceeds to living a productive life as a Christian and the benefits of following in faith.

I found Seven Words You Never Want to Hear comprehensive and appealing. It is obvious that Denise Wilson has studied this subject and put a lot of thought into writing this book. Her stories that tie in with the teachings are intriguing. The only thing I would have changed is to use the King James Bible.
1 review
February 8, 2021
7 Words is a must read for everyone.
All the relatives at Uncle Joe’s funeral agree that he is basking in heaven’s glory. He was coach to the Little League Hockey team, was chairman of the Fair Board and loved helping at the food bank. They did not mention that he only went to a church for weddings and funerals nor that sometimes he cursed like a drunken sailor.
It seems today that everyone thinks all people end up in “heaven” when they die. Justice and rightness don’t matter. God’s love covers everything.
7 Words boldly cuts through the fog and misbelief to reveal the truth from God’s Word as to the way to enter the kingdom of heaven.
Don’t miss reading it and at the end of your life hear the 7 words, “I never knew you; depart from me.”
3 reviews
February 15, 2022
Whether you have been a committed Christian for100years, wondering ‘what’s the point of this life’? or consider yourself anything else - get hold of a copy of this book in paper form or kindle now, it’s a MUST READ or if you don’t like reading, why not listen to it on Audible. Read, listen and then read, listen again...please
p.s. I am an avid reader and read a wide genre of books. I was that impressed by this book that I purchased not only a paperback copy, plus copies to give as gifts to others. However, I also purchased an audible and kindle version. I can’t remember doing this with any other book apart from the Bible.
1 review
February 21, 2021
Author Denise Wilson answered questions that I have pondered over the years, such as “what about loved ones who ‘prayed the sinner’s prayer’ but whose lifestyle shows no evidence of loving Jesus?” Denise has done an extremely thorough job searching the Scriptures and explaining with loving gentleness what biblical saving faith is. I read through the book quickly, and am now reading it a second time slowly, taking notes and looking up all of the Scriptures noted.

Thank you Denise for covering this eternally important subject!
Profile Image for Natine.
43 reviews
April 2, 2023
Thought-provoking, Clarifying

The title of this book caught my attention — both intriguing and scary. Its main message is clear, though: how can we know if we are TRULY saved? Each chapter is focused on a topic illustrated by real-life anecdotes, documented sources, and Bible references, ending with a few questions to encourage personal reflection. Wilson’s writing style is direct and personable, and chapters are short, so it would work well for both a personal and small group studies.
1 review1 follower
February 8, 2021
This book is a definite must read and share. It makes it clear that being a good person and believing there is a God does not mean that you are going to heaven. It will help you learn how to accept God's free gift of forgiveness that will save your life. There are excellent points made in this book that can refresh a person's commitment to learn and follow what the bible teaches about what to believe and how to live
Profile Image for Valerie Chamberlain.
Author 1 book8 followers
February 23, 2021
I really appreciate Denise's sound and Biblical approach to this topic. This is a challenge to us all to examine our hearts and lives for the evidence of our salvation. True life examples and stories bring the message home and make it entirely relatable and applicable to us all. Thank you, Denise, for not being afraid to tackle a subject that might be considered tricky so that someone out there may recognize their need to repent and make Jesus Lord of their life. Blessings!
8 reviews
February 22, 2021
A must read for every preacher.

I chose five stars because the author deals so thoroughly with such an important subject. It is an excellent reminder of the importance of understanding the reality of the words of Jesus and the consequence of ignoring them or sugar-costing them.
Profile Image for Rexann Duncan.
Author 1 book7 followers
May 19, 2024
Way to go, Denise! I read this book when it first came out. Such a true statement, "Seven Words You Never Want to Hear." Get this book and go with Denise on some of her journeys and find out what those 7 words are.
Profile Image for Amber Johnson.
23 reviews
August 27, 2022
Highly recommend! Denise is a great writer, and she gets to the point within each chapter which makes it easy to read. I liked the application questions at the end. This is a challenging but needed book for Christians!
9 reviews
June 1, 2021
Excellent book!

I am so glad that I bought and read this book! What an eye opener! I highly recommend this book!
Displaying 1 - 30 of 36 reviews

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