Primary Text: Matthew 25:31-46
Memory Verse: “‘When did we see You a stranger and take You in, or naked and clothe You? Or when did we see You sick, or in prison, and come to You?’ And the King will answer and say to them, ‘Assuredly, I say to you, inasmuch as you did it to one of the least of these My brethren, you did it to Me.’” Matthew 25:38-40
Introduction:
It is important to understand that as Christians we are accountable to do good works. By the very act of our being saved by the grace of God, we are to reach out to others and share that grace with them.
Our salvation is the act of justification, which is a free gift from God. It is not earned by any effort on our part. It is instantaneous and is completely based on the sacrifice of Jesus on the cross (1 Peter 2:4). It is received by faith (Romans 5:1) and it is freely given. Justification has no requirements of work associated with it—we can do nothing to earn it (Ephesians 2:8-9).
Sanctification involves the growth of godly character within a believer. Once we are justified (saved from sin’s penalty) the act of making us more like Him begins. Romans 6:1-4 teaches the accountability we have to walk in righteousness. As we exercise Biblical principles in our lives, we grow and produce fruit. We begin to demonstrate the Biblical principle of multiplication. As we develop a deeper walk with God, we deepen our commitment and strengthen our understanding. We become more and more like Him…more and more “Christ-like.”
It is in the process of sanctification that our acts of faithfulness are important. We work towards being more godly (Galatians 5:22-23) and actively submit to God’s will, resisting temptation, and seeking holiness. We desire to be more like Him and to serve Him with our entire being. It is this type of fervent commitment to following after righteousness that is expounded in Philippians 2:12-13, “Therefore, my beloved, as you have always obeyed…work out your own salvation with fear and trembling; for it is God who works in you both to will and to do for His good pleasure.” We seek to serve Him knowing that He gives us the strength and ability to do it, and knowing that we are unworthy without Him.
Studying the Word
Lesson Study
- What event needs to transpire before the Day of Judgment can take place? Matthew 25:31
- Who does Matthew 25:32 indicate will be judged?
- What criterion will be used to separate those who receive the rich rewards from those who receive eternal punishment? Matthew 25:34-40
- What implications does the information in Matthew 25:37-40 have for Christians today? Isaiah 58:6-10
- Discuss ways that the Church of God can answer God’s call to His children in Matthew 25:40.
- Explain what the punishment will be for the unrighteous. Matthew 25:41, 46
- What will the reward be for the righteous? Matthew 25:34
- How does the unmerited favor of God balance with the responsibility Christians have in service of their King? Matthew 25:35-40; Romans 3:28; James 2:24, 26; Ephesians 2:8-10