Preparation for the Kingdom
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Matthew 25
Many concern themselves over what will happen in the future. Some see apocalyptic things occurring (2012, Mayan calendar, etc.). However, this simple passage really tells us all we need to do. The previous chapter deals with upcoming events at that time, but chapter 25 is all about preparation for that final day when we will face Christ in judgment (Rom 14:10; 1 Corinthians 4:5; 2 Cor 5:10)
We need Wisdom, Fruit, and Judgment from God if we are to be a part of the Eternal Kingdom.
We Need the Wisdom of the Kingdom (1-13)
We Need the Wisdom of the Kingdom (1-13)
-A “kingdom parable” - VERY important!
Two groups behave differently.
We must learn that God will assign the label of “fool” (just like the foolish virgins) if we show it through our actions.
The fool has said in his heart, “There is no God.”
They are corrupt, and have done abominable iniquity;
There is none who does good.
If we say there is no God, we are a fool. Consider further that the one who is corrupt and done abominable iniquity has laid the path to end up in this mindset! No one starts out saying “I’m going to say there is no God”. They are motivated to do so by life experience and the pressure of the world.
It is true to note that no one in this world has it ABSOLUTELY right, but it is foolish to go along with that error!
He who trusts in his own heart is a fool,
But whoever walks wisely will be delivered.
If we trust in our own hearts, we are foolish.
Then He said to them, “O foolish ones, and slow of heart to believe in all that the prophets have spoken!
If we are slow of heart to believe in all the prophets (and apostles) have spoken concerning Jesus, then we are foolish.
God will assign the label of “wise” (just like the wise virgins) if we show it through our actions.
Even a fool is counted wise when he holds his peace;
When he shuts his lips, he is considered perceptive.
Note, the wise virgins didn’t have to say anything to gain entry to the wedding. They had prepared, they had plenty of oil, their lamps were burning.
I don’t think these women were any “smarter” than the others. It was only such that they had taken steps to prepare.
In that hour Jesus rejoiced in the Spirit and said, “I thank You, Father, Lord of heaven and earth, that You have hidden these things from the wise and prudent and revealed them to babes. Even so, Father, for so it seemed good in Your sight.
Just like the wise virgins, the apostles did as Jesus commanded, even though His instructions were harsh and difficult to keep. (Mat 10:4-11)
Faithfulness will demand much from us in preparation.
We don't have to have a lack of intelligence to be a fool; Likewise, we don't have to have all knowledge to be wise.
Preparation vs. lack of preparation.
The wise will be READY; the foolish will not.
No halfway point here – Both groups left for the wedding, but only ONE group actually went.
Luke 6:46-49 - The foolish ask for help when it's too late, or wait for someone to do the work FOR them.
Consider how this applies today.
Working as a Congregation
Evangelism
Visiting Sick
Benevolence
Consequence of inaction – barred from the wedding.
A terrible fate for those who didn't act to prepare!
Matthew 22:1-14 - Not only do we want to be “at the marriage” - we want to be READY for it!
Don't claim to be a Christian without living it!
We Need the Fruit of the Kingdom (14-30)
We Need the Fruit of the Kingdom (14-30)
Multiple servants, but still two groups with different behavior.
Both were servants, but one was inactive.
Similar to “wise” and “foolish”; God knows who we are.
ACTION is rewarded, and Inaction is rebuked.
Servant makes excuses. Wonder what excuses will be made at the judgment?
God doesn't want excuses. He wants service.
By this we know that we love the children of God, when we love God and keep His commandments. For this is the love of God, that we keep His commandments. And His commandments are not burdensome.
God expects effort, and accepts whatever positive result follows.
But these are the ones sown on good ground, those who hear the word, accept it, and bear fruit: some thirtyfold, some sixty, and some a hundred.”
Not only what we DO, but what we DO with what we HAVE.
Many applications of these “talents”
Luke 13:23-30 – We can THINK we're doing all we need to do, when we really aren't.
Part of the problem - “How much do I HAVE to do?” - a question that reveals a “satisfaction” mindset. Do you want to just “satisfy” God, or do you want to give Him everything you are?
Matthew 22:37-40 – How much are you willing to give up?
We Need the Judgment of the Kingdom (31-46)
We Need the Judgment of the Kingdom (31-46)
Two groups – sheep and goats.
Saints and Sinners – Again, God knows the difference, and will divide them up!
Matthew 13:24-30 – This “division” concept is clear – God will root out those unfaithful to Him. In the meantime He allows us all to grow together!
1 Corinthians 15:20-28 – offenses and opposition to the Kingdom will be cleared entirely.
Action vs. Inaction.
Again we see, but this time not in a parable – this is reality!
Consider the actions given here:
Hunger & Thirst provided for
Hospitality to Strangers
Free giving of Clothing, Wellness, and Comfort
These are all things that God tells us to do for others in the Scriptures.
Notice the reaction of the faithful. A righteous person doesn't seek their own credit. The same question is asked by both groups, but the context changes the situation very much!
It’s dangerous not to take this literally. Why would the text be this way if we are not expected to do so?
Final Consequences.
The Faithful will Inherit.
The Unfaithful will Depart.
Jesus answered, “Most assuredly, I say to you, unless one is born of water and the Spirit, he cannot enter the kingdom of God. That which is born of the flesh is flesh, and that which is born of the Spirit is spirit.