The Judgment of the Nations Read Matthew 25:31-46 This teaching of Jesus is difficult for some Christians because it seems to say that we will be judged on the basis of good works done rather than on faith or belief in Jesus alone. Most Bible experts say it means we will be judged by what we have done to help other people in need: This passage elaborated the concept in Matt.25:26 that not only blatant acts of evil would reap judgment. The failure to do the will of the Father and to use his gifts for the sake of others would also bring judgment. There has been much discussion about the identity of the brothers and sisters. Some have said they are the Jews; others say they are all Christians; still others say they are suffering people everywhere. Such a debate is much like the lawyers earlier question to Jesus, Who is my neighbor? (Luke 10:29). The point of this parable is not the who, but the what - the importance of serving where service is needed. The focus of this parable is that we should love every person and serve anyone we can. Such love for others glorifies God by reflecting our love for him. This is one of the most vivid parables Jesus ever spoke, and the lesson is crystal clear--that God will judge us in accordance with our reaction to human need. His judgment does not depend on the knowledge we have amassed, or the fame that we have acquired, or the fortune that we have gained, but on the help that we have given. We have been taught that salvation is by grace through faith apart from works, and here the judgment is on the basis of what people have done or not done. ... Does that mean we are saved by works after all? Does it mean that the theology of the Reformation is all wrong? No, but it is a statement of the necessity of works following faith - if we truly are regenerate.
Posted on: Wed, 19 Mar 2014 15:19:23 +0000
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