Today’s passage: Matthew 25:31-46
Helpful thoughts:
- Not so hidden in the content of this passage…God is omniscient. He knows all and will judge perfectly.
- Also, as we continue to read through the Olivet Discourse, remember that Jesus did not shy away from teaching about judgment and damnation. He wasn’t mean or rude about it, but he didn’t sugarcoat the truth.
- The nations being gathered for this judgment appear to be those who remain on the earth at the end of the Tribulation.
- The selfless works done by the sheep who have been blessed by the Father are an evidence to the grace given to them.
- The sheep are blessed, inherit the kingdom prepared for them, and have a record of living for the King.
- The goats are under the curse (John 3 – “Condemned already”), are sent to the punishment prepared for the devil and fallen angels, and have a record of living for themselves.
Questions to consider:
- Even if this particular judgment is for those alive at the end of the Tribulation, are the principles applicable to us? How so?
- Why is it loving to be honest about what we believe will happen to people in the end? What should the truth of the judgment compel us to do?
- In what ways is God’s grace being manifested in your life? In what ways are you (could you be) serving others who need help? Praise God for His grace in your service!