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ТРИДЕСЕТ И ЧЕТВЪРТА СЕДМИЦА Тържество на нашия Господ Исус Христос, цар на Вселената Година А ПЪРВО ЧЕТИВО Вие, мои овци; Ето, вас ще съдя между овца и овца. Четене из книгата на Пророк Иезекиил 34, 11-12.15-17 Това казва Господ Бог: "Ето, Аз сам ще издиря Моите овци и ще ги прегледам; както пастир проверява стадото си в деня, когато се намира всред своето пръснато стадо, тъй ще прегледам Аз моите овци и ще ги освободя от всички места, дето бяха пръснати в ден облачен и мрачен. Моите овци Аз ще паса и ще ги отморявам, казва Господ Бог. Изгубената ще намеря и прокудената ще възвърна, ранена ще превърже, и болна ще укрепя, а затлъстяла и буйна ще изтребя; ще ги паса с правда. Вас пък, мои овци, тъй казва Господ Бог: "Ето, вас ще съдя между овца и овца, между овен и козел." Това е Божие слово. ОТПЕВЕН ПСАЛОМ Пс 22, 1-2а.2в-3.5.6 (O: 1) Господ е Пастир мой, от нищо не ще се нуждая. Господ е Пастир мой, от нищо не ще се нуждая: Той ме настанява на злачни пасбища. O Той ме води на тихи води. Подкрепя душата ми, насочва ме по пътя на правдата поради Своето име. O Ти приготви пред мене трапеза пред очите на враговете ми; помаза главата ми с елей; Чашата ми е препълнена. O Тъй благостта и милостта Ти да ме придружават през всички дни на живота ми. И аз ще пребъдвам в дома Господен много дни. O ВТОРО ЧЕТИВО Предаде царството Богу и на Отца, за да бъде Бог всичко във всички. Четене от първото послание на Свети Павел Апостол до коринтяни15, 20-26а.28 Братя: Христос възкръсна от мъртви и за умрелите стана начатък; понеже, както смъртта дойде чрез човека, тъй и възкресението от мъртви дойде чрез човека. И както в Адам всички умират, тъй и в Христа всички ще оживеят; но всеки по своя ред: начатък е възкръсналият Христос; после, при Неговото идване, ще възкръснат ония, които са Христови; а след това ще бъде краят, когато Той предаде царството на Бога и на Отца, когато унищожи всяко началство, всяка власт и сила. Защото Той трябва да царува, докато тури всички врагове под нозете си. А най-последен враг, който ще бъде унищожен, е смъртта. Когато пък Му бъде подчинено всичко, тогава и Сам Синът ще се подчини на Онзи, който Му бе всичко подчинил, за да бъде Бог всичко у всички. Това е Божие слово. АЛИЛУЯ Вт 11, 10 O Алилуя. Благословен, който иде в името Господне; благословено царството на отца ни Давид, което иде. O Алилуя. ЕВАНГЕЛИЕ Ще седне на престола на славата Си и ще отдели едни от други. Четене от светото Евангелие според Матей 25, 31-46 В онова време: Исус каза на учениците Си: Когато дойде Син човечески в славата Си, и всички свети Ангели с Него, тогава ще седне на престола на славата Си, и ще се съберат пред Него всички народи; и ще отдели едни от други, както пастир отлъчва овци от кози; и ще постави овците от дясната си страна, а козите от лявата. Тогава Царят ще каже на ония, които са от дясната Му страна: "Дойдете вие, благословените на Отца ми, наследете царството, приготвено вам от създание мира; защото гладен бях, и Ми дадохте да ям; жаден бях, и Ме напоихте; странник бях, и Ме прибрахте; гол бях, и Ме облякохте; болен бях, и Ме посетихте; в тъмница бях, и Ме споходихте. Тогава праведниците ще Му отговорят и кажат: "Господи, кога Те видяхме гладен, и нахранихме, или жаден, и напоихме? Кога Те видяхме странник, и прибрахме, или гол, и облякохме? Кога Те видяхме болен или в тъмница, и Те споходихме? Царят ще им отговори и каже: "Истина ви казвам: Доколкото сте сторили това на един от тия Мои най-малки братя, Мене сте го сторили." Тогава ще каже и на ония, които са от лява страна: "Идете от Мене, проклети, в огън вечен, приготвен за дявола и неговите ангели; защото гладен бях, и не Ми дадохте да ям; жаден бях, и не Ме напоихте; странник бях, и не Ме прибрахте; гол бях, и не Ме облякохте; болен и в тъмница, и не Ме споходихте." Тогава и те ще Му отговорят и кажат: "Господи, кога те видяхме гладен, или жаден, или странник, или гол, или болен, или в тъмница, и не Ти послужихме?" Тогава ще им отговори и каже: "Истина ви казвам: "Доколкото не сте сторили това на един от тия най-малките, и Мене не сте го сторили." И тия ще отидат във вечна мъка, а праведниците - в живот вечен." Това е слово Господне.
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Are you a goat, and don’t know it? When one hears of Christ separating the sheep from the goats on judgment day, we assume he is separating the believers from the unbelievers. But this is not so. Goats are those that call Him “Lord.” What is wrong? The separation of the sheep and the goats. The sheep are accepted, but the goats are cast into everlasting fire. Mat 25:31 When the Son of man shall come in his glory, and all the holy angels with him, then shall he sit upon the throne of his glory: Mat 25:32 And before him shall be gathered all nations: and he shall separate them one from another, as a shepherd divides [his] sheep from the goats: Mat 25:33 And he shall set the sheep on his right hand, but the goats on the left. Mat 25:41 Then shall he say also unto them on the left hand, Depart from me, ye cursed, into everlasting fire, prepared for the devil and his angels: Preceding this passage are 2 parables Parable of the 10 virgins. Half are prepared with the right amount of oil (representing the holy spirit) and half are unprepared. Only the ones prepared are admitted to the wedding feast, and the other half were rejected. Being told “I know you not” by God is a VERY traumatic moment for the rejected ones. Mat 25:12 But he answered and said, Verily I say unto you, I know you not. Parable of the talents. In this, Christ describes faithful servants being productive, and multiplying what was given them vs. an unprofitable, lazy servant who multiplied nothing at all. The lazy servant is punished. Mat 25:30 And cast ye the unprofitable servant into outer darkness: there shall be weeping and gnashing of teeth. Back to the goats – what Christ tells them as he rejects them. Notice they call Him Lord. They are supposed to be saved people. Mat 25:42 For I was hungry, and ye gave me no meat: I was thirsty, and ye gave me no drink: Mat 25:43 I was a stranger, and ye took me not in: naked, and ye clothed me not: sick, and in prison, and ye visited me not. Mat 25:44 Then shall they also answer him, saying, Lord, when saw we thee hungry, or athirst, or a stranger, or naked, or sick, or in prison, and did not minister unto thee? Mat 25:45 Then shall he answer them, saying, Verily I say unto you, Inasmuch as ye did [it] not to one of the least of these, ye did [it] not to me. Mat 25:46 And these shall go away into everlasting punishment: but the righteous into life eternal. To the sheep, Christ says: Mat 25:35 For I was hungry, and ye gave me meat: I was thirsty, and ye gave me drink: I was a stranger, and ye took me in: Mat 25:36 Naked, and ye clothed me: I was sick, and ye visited me: I was in prison, and ye came unto me. Mat 25:37 Then shall the righteous answer him, saying, Lord, when saw we thee hungry, and fed [thee]? or thirsty, and gave [thee] drink? Mat 25:38 When saw we thee a stranger, and took [thee] in? or naked, and clothed [thee]? Mat 25:39 Or when saw we thee sick, or in prison, and came unto thee? Mat 25:40 And the King shall answer and say unto them, Verily I say unto you, Inasmuch as ye have done [it] unto one of the least of these my brethren, ye have done [it] unto me. A lesson to be learned from all this Faith without works is dead. God has provided guidelines as to His will – how he wants us to behave toward Him and toward others. Many people enjoy church. They accept salvation, and then sit back to enjoy themselves. They enjoy the fellowship, the music, the sermons, and the acceptance. They say they love God, but ignore the poor, the sick, the feeble, the ones in bondage. They have only fulfilled half of the 2 great commandments. Unless one obeys both of the two greatest commandments, they are a “goat.” If you love God, but have no mercy for your fellow man – enough to do something to help him – then you are an unprofitable servant, and a virgin without any oil. What to do This is Christmas time. It is a time to show the love of God to others. How many people will suffer this Christmas, because you showed no mercy on them? This also could be the last Christmas on earth for many believers, if the rapture happens. Will they be rejected as goats, because they lacked compassion for others? Because they had no “oil?” Because the mercy seat in their heart was closed to others? While you still have time, if you really love God, then PROVE it: Feed the hungry Clothe the naked Give drink to the thirsty Take in the stranger Help the sick Visit those in prison – a literal prison, or someone in bondage, who needs help Countdown to the rapture Either we act as sheep, or we act as goats. Our behavior needs to be changed by the Holy Spirit. We need the oil of compassion in our lives, to pour out over others. This is a 24 hour a day, 7 days a week effort. It is not confined to Christmas time. Make your last days on earth count for something. You cannot convince the unbelieving world, or God, that you belong to Christ, unless you demonstrate His heart to others. Remember, it was not songs, or worship, or prayers that hung on the cross for you. It was MERCY !!! MERCY !!! MERCY !!! The mercy seat was open and the blood of Jesus was poured over it from the cross. Mercy is self-sacrificial LOVE – love of God for others. Wake up your hearts if they are dead. Find the mercy inside, and pour it out on the world around you. If you do, you will find Jesus in front of you, saying You are my beloved sheep !!!! You are my beloved Bride !!!! Welcome, enter into my kingdom. My good, and faithful servant. 91 Responses to “Are you a goat, and don’t know it?” […] unbelievers. But this is not so. Goats are those that call Him “Lord.” What is wrong? Click here for […] The other two prophets are: Brother Stair at overcomerministry.org and parowanprophet.com I CAN ONLY GUESS, BUT I THINK THAT “indian reservations” IN RURAL usa AREAS MAY, I REPEAT MAY BE THE ONLY SAFE PLACES AT 4am et ON 12/24/08. i AM PRAYING TO GOD AND JESUS OF NAZARETH THAT THERE WILL BE A DIVINE INTERVENTION TO STOP A NUCLEAR ATTACK FROM RUSSIA. I AM ALSO HOPING THAT I AM wRoNg IN MY PREDICTION. GOOGLE NEWS: “russian military” and what they are going to have combat ready on 12-24-08. One thing the Lord showed me about sheep and goats; Sheep follow their shepherd down into the valleys. Goats want to stay only on the high ground, circling the valley instead. We can see many Christians of both natures. Some will go willingly into the valleys, which is the real place of learning of God. Most will instead praise the Lord all the louder, refusing to participate in the painful lessons. DavWms Very good message………..so true. Another look at the 10 virgins parable; If you or I had a lamp, we would share the light with another and walk side by side to the wedding. But note that parable did not allow for that. Perhaps it is because this is such a narrow path that two cannot walk side by side. In other words, we must make certain WE have made the effort, and to not rely on sliding in on someone else’s coat tails. And at judgment, we will not be able to point out the pastor God sent us and complain he didn’t tell us all we needed to know. This parable makes it certain that we are each responsible for our own salvation. DavWms It is interesting that in the parable with the goats none of the religious works were mentioned? No prayers, no church visits, nothing, just pure human basics. Praising the Lord is a good and wonderful thing if it comes from a pure heart, however I get the impression that it may become the counterpart of the world’s “Let’s have a good time”. If you stick only to that you may become a “good feeling junkie” and be deceived by all the noise and commotion and gimmicks, the devil uses to divert the attention from the Cross and wearing it yourself daily. I think this is interesting. God has been talking to me about goats lately. He has told me that the antichrist spirit is rooted in lawlessness and self worship, and goats unknowingly follow this spirit rather than Christ. The way to safeguard our hearts is to remember that Christ was a servant. He was the king of kings and the lord of lords, yet He came to serve, love, and lay His life down for His sheep. If we act for our own glory, are out of balance between truth and mercy, or do not possess a servant’s heart than we should be careful and reevaluate our hearts. I watched goats try to slaughter some sweet servants of Jesus in my church as of late, and when I prayed about it, God said don’t talk to the darkness and try to rebuke it, but make the light brighter and drive it away. I am excited, because great is He who is in me, and Jesus is still on the throne. God also told me how to tell who is a sheep and who is a goat. The bible states that by their fruits we will know them. If they are not producing good fruit, then we should be warry. Is that person setting people free, lightening loads, bringing healing to broken hearts, serving others, and walking in mercy and love or are they judgemental, immature, self worshiping, self glorifying, and spreading offenses? Sheep are much like goats in appearance, but their fruit is different. Sheep are submissive, they follow their shepherd’s voice, and they give off wool. Goats are stubburn, strong willed, proud, and give off milk. In the church we worry about wolves, but we should be looking out for goats. It is their similarities that make them deceptive and attractive. Don’t look at the outside, look at the fruit. I loved this posting. OH, goodness this was convicting. To think like a sheep but still act like a goat a lot of the time, won’t ‘cut it’. Good intentions don’t count! Bless you all for your replies; may this message spread and assault the hearts of all who read it! I enjoyed this post immensely Marianne..there is something that a lot of people don’t understand though, believing and RECEIVING are two different things…it is possible to believe in JESUS but be lost all the same…we have to receive HIM, invite HIM into our hearts, and listen to what HE would have us to do, and obey..there is a reason the WORD says that “Obedience is better than sacrifice..” If we won’t live for HIM, how can we ever think that we would die for HIM? Ok, but once again everyone forgots something: Rom 4:2 For if Abraham were justified by works, he hath whereof to glory; but not before God. Rom 4:3 For what saith the scripture? Abraham believed God, and it was counted unto him for righteousness. Rom 4:4 Now to him that worketh is the reward not reckoned of grace, but of debt. Rom 4:5 But to him that worketh not, but believeth on him that justifieth the ungodly, his faith is counted for righteousness. Rom 4:6 Even as David also describeth the blessedness of the man, unto whom God imputeth righteousness without works, Rom 4:7 Saying, Blessed are they whose iniquities are forgiven, and whose sins are covered. Rom 4:8 Blessed is the man to whom the Lord will not impute sin. Gal 2:16 Knowing that a man is not justified by the works of the law, but by the faith of Jesus Christ, even we have believed in Jesus Christ, that we might be justified by the faith of Christ, and not by the works of the law: for by the works of the law shall no flesh be justified. Gal 2:17 But if, while we seek to be justified by Christ, we ourselves also are found sinners, is therefore Christ the minister of sin? God forbid. Gal 2:18 For if I build again the things which I destroyed, I make myself a transgressor. Gal 2:19 For I through the law am dead to the law, that I might live unto God. Gal 2:20 I am crucified with Christ: nevertheless I live; yet not I, but Christ liveth in me: and the life which I now live in the flesh I live by the faith of the Son of God, who loved me, and gave himself for me. Gal 2:21 I do not frustrate the grace of God: for if righteousness come by the law, then Christ is dead in vain. Jas 2:26 For as the body without the spirit is dead, so faith without works is dead also. Gal 5:4 Christ is become of no effect unto you, whosoever of you are justified by the law; ye are fallen from grace. Eph 2:5 Even when we were dead in sins, hath quickened us together with Christ, (by grace ye are saved;) Eph 2:6 And hath raised us up together, and made us sit together in heavenly places in Christ Jesus: Eph 2:7 That in the ages to come he might shew the exceeding riches of his grace in his kindness toward us through Christ Jesus. Eph 2:8 For by grace are ye saved through faith; and that not of yourselves: it is the gift of God: Eph 2:9 Not of works, lest any man should boast. Eph 2:10 For we are his workmanship, created in Christ Jesus unto good works, which God hath before ordained that we should walk in them. Truly i say to you: If you are not naturally doing good works, then you are not believer at all, because its: Php 2:13 For it is God which worketh in you both to will and to do of his good pleasure. So who does good works? God or You? A: God! You are just a tool. SO: If you dont let God be your master instead of fless, you are not going to get saved. Doing good works by your own fate, is not going to save you!!! BUT, if you are dwelling in His spirit (Holy spirit) and you listen to God, then you are saved! Everyone who has the mark of Holy Spirit is SAVED! Those verses which you Marianne used are for those who DONT KNOW GOD & DOESNT HAVE HIS SPIRIT! I AM SURE THAT EVERYONE WHO READS THIS ARTICLE THINGS: DO I NEED TO DO THOSE THINGS TO GET SAVED?.. A: NOT ATT ALL, YOU ARE NOT SAVED BY DOINGS OF YOURS, BUT DOINGS OF GOD YE ARE SAVED!!!! THIS IS SO EASY LEVEL BIBLE STUDY, AND STILL SOME OF FOLKS ON THE NET TRY TO MAKE RESURRECTION OF CHRIST A NO-MATTER STUFF! DO NOT FORGET THAT THOSE LAMBS DIDNT EVEN KNOW THAT THEY INDEED HAD DONE GOOD THINGS, SO WONT YOU, CUZ; IF YOU GLORIFY GOD YOU ARE NOT GLORIFYING YOURSELF. THAT WHAT JESUS TEACHED WAS ALL ABOUT MERCY OF GOD, HE IS SAYING: IF I AM NOT WITH YOU, HOW CAN YOU SAY YOU ARE WITH ME! REMEMBER WHAT I SAYED TO YOU: 1Co 13:3 And though I bestow all my goods to feed the poor, and though I give my body to be burned, and have not charity, it profiteth me nothing. EVERYONE WHO BELIEVES IN THE NAME OF ONLY BEGOTTEN SON OF GOD; JESUS MESSIAH, IS SAVED: 1Jn 5:3 For this is the love of God, that we keep his commandments: and his commandments are not grievous. 1Jn 5:4 For whatsoever is born of God overcometh the world: and this is the victory that overcometh the world, even our faith. 1Jn 5:5 Who is he that overcometh the world, but he that believeth that Jesus is the Son of God? 1Jn 5:6 This is he that came by water and blood, even Jesus Christ; not by water only, but by water and blood. And it is the Spirit that beareth witness, because the Spirit is truth. 1Jn 5:7 For there are three that bear record in heaven, the Father, the Word, and the Holy Ghost: and these three are one. 1Jn 5:8 And there are three that bear witness in earth, the Spirit, and the water, and the blood: and these three agree in one. 1Jn 5:9 If we receive the witness of men, the witness of God is greater: for this is the witness of God which he hath testified of his Son. 1Jn 5:10 He that believeth on the Son of God hath the witness in himself: he that believeth not God hath made him a liar; because he believeth not the record that God gave of his Son. 1Jn 5:11 And this is the record, that God hath given to us eternal life, and this life is in his Son. 1Jn 5:12 He that hath the Son hath life; and he that hath not the Son of God hath not life. 1Jn 5:13 These things have I written unto you that believe on the name of the Son of God; that ye may know that ye have eternal life, and that ye may believe on the name of the Son of God. DO YOU DEAR READER UNDERSTAND? By doing God’s will, you show you love Him, God will give treasures to you because you do His will. By believing in His Son, you are saved, Jesus cries every time He sees you glorifying yourself, because He suffered so hard, how can you forgot again and again His sufferings? Jesus said: Mat 6:21 For where your treasure is, there will your heart be also. So, if you do God’s will, you collect treasures to heaven, so it is more likely that you dont fall away from God, but collecting treasures to heaven is NOT going to save you, only by mercy you are saved! AND ALSO: Heb 13:9 Be not carried about with divers and strange doctrines. For it is a good thing that the heart be established with grace; not with meats, which have not profited them that have been occupied therein. Are you following doctrines of men or are you depended on G-d’s mercy? Abou me: I am Messianic Jew, from paternal side: Levi & Judah (N) from maternal side: Asher, (V) And i have been believer in Christ years before i done DNA testing ( I have believed for 16 years ). I am telling all this because this is what matters in todays “christian” world. To me DNA test just confirmed what God had revealed to my mother and to me, and though, also my name features are Jewish ( my mother didnt believe in Jesus when she named me ): Joel Aarni Johannes Kiskola You are teaching against God’s word when you are saying: “Have a nice Christmas”, when Messiah returns, do you really wanna keep your Juliania pig parties or do you follow His Word? This is just a warning, and i also tell that Holy Spirit reminds me of His Words. Lets see how you are going to deny His Word ( almost everybody is jealous to believing Jews ).. Happy Chanukah! Barukh attah Adonai Eloheinu Melekh ha-olam, she’asah nissim la’avoteinu bayamim hahem, ba-zeman hazzeh. And it was at Jerusalem the feast of Chanukah, and it was winter. – John 10:22 Happy Chanukah! Did you learn all the things from the bible? I am wondering if all this is true why does the Bible say if you don’t work you don’t eat. Everyday I see men out on the streets with signs asking for food and money, and the confusion is if you are to be a good steward is giving to these guys that can work, but possibly don’t want to, a sin. I help people , however I am lost when it comes to these guys, is holding a sign and asking for handouts a job? I don’t want to be a goat. I want to be in heaven with God and Jesus. fourellsranch@yahoo.com Well, are we saved by grace or not? Are we saved by what Christ did on the cross or are we saved by our own human efforts? If we are saved by our own human efforts then there won’t be anyone going to heaven since we all fall short of the glory of God. This is a perversion of the gospel of grace. We are saved by grace not works. When we are saved Christ starts to transform us from the inside and then good works will naturally follow. That is why faith without works is dead. It does not mean that we purposely do good works to earn grace but that because we are saved by grace we will end up doing good works. There is a fine line between grace and legalism and I think that you have crossed that line. By the way the sheep are the saved and the goats are the lost. Those that are saved by having faith in Christ are written in the Lamb’s Book of Life. There is also no condemnation for those that are in Christ Jesus according to the Bible. Believer’s have passed from death to life. Are you a Galatian? John 11:25 NIV Jesus said to her, “I am the resurrection and the life. He who believes in me will live, even though he dies; 1 John 5:13 NIV I write these things to you who believe in the name of the Son of God so that you may know that you have eternal life. Ephesians 2:8,9 NIV For it is by grace you have been saved, through faith—and this not from yourselves, it is the gift of God— 9not by works, so that no one can boast. Romans 4:5-8 NIV However, to the man who does not work but trusts God who justifies the wicked, his faith is credited as righteousness. 6David says the same thing when he speaks of the blessedness of the man to whom God credits righteousness apart from works: 7″Blessed are they whose transgressions are forgiven, whose sins are covered. 8Blessed is the man whose sin the Lord will never count against him.” John 3:16-18 NIV “For God so loved the world that he gave his one and only Son,[f] that whoever believes in him shall not perish but have eternal life. 17For God did not send his Son into the world to condemn the world, but to save the world through him. 18Whoever believes in him is not condemned, but whoever does not believe stands condemned already because he has not believed in the name of God’s one and only Son. Romans 10:9-13 NIV That if you confess with your mouth, “Jesus is Lord,” and believe in your heart that God raised him from the dead, you will be saved. 10For it is with your heart that you believe and are justified, and it is with your mouth that you confess and are saved. 11As the Scripture says, “Anyone who trusts in him will never be put to shame.”[e] 12For there is no difference between Jew and Gentile—the same Lord is Lord of all and richly blesses all who call on him, 13for, “Everyone who calls on the name of the Lord will be saved.” John 5:24 NIV “I tell you the truth, whoever hears my word and believes him who sent me has eternal life and will not be condemned; he has crossed over from death to life. Galatians 3:1-14 NIV You foolish Galatians! Who has bewitched you? Before your very eyes Jesus Christ was clearly portrayed as crucified. 2I would like to learn just one thing from you: Did you receive the Spirit by observing the law, or by believing what you heard? 3Are you so foolish? After beginning with the Spirit, are you now trying to attain your goal by human effort? 4Have you suffered so much for nothing—if it really was for nothing? 5Does God give you his Spirit and work miracles among you because you observe the law, or because you believe what you heard? 6Consider Abraham: “He believed God, and it was credited to him as righteousness.”[a] 7Understand, then, that those who believe are children of Abraham. 8The Scripture foresaw that God would justify the Gentiles by faith, and announced the gospel in advance to Abraham: “All nations will be blessed through you.”[b] 9So those who have faith are blessed along with Abraham, the man of faith. 10All who rely on observing the law are under a curse, for it is written: “Cursed is everyone who does not continue to do everything written in the Book of the Law.”[c] 11Clearly no one is justified before God by the law, because, “The righteous will live by faith.”[d] 12The law is not based on faith; on the contrary, “The man who does these things will live by them.”[e] 13Christ redeemed us from the curse of the law by becoming a curse for us, for it is written: “Cursed is everyone who is hung on a tree.”[f] 14He redeemed us in order that the blessing given to Abraham might come to the Gentiles through Christ Jesus, so that by faith we might receive the promise of the Spirit. I agree with you that faith without works is dead but I don’t agree that you have to prove your faith. This is a subtle way to trap people into a works based salvation. It is God who saves through faith in the atonement of Christ on the cross. There is nothing that you could do that is good enough to merit salvation. That is why it is by grace that you are saved and not by your own effort and works. If your faith is indeed genuine then there is nothing to prove and your faith will speak for itself. Good works would be a natural consequence of your saving faith not the other way around. Regarding the sheep and goats. Why read something that isn’t there? Sheep are the saved and the goats are the lost. You stated that “Back to the goats – what Christ tells them as he rejects them. Notice they call Him Lord. They are supposed to be saved people.” The goats are not supposed to be saved people. If this is referring to the Great White Throne Judgment then the addressing of the goats towards Christ as Lord is because of what is stated in Philippians 2:9-11 NIV Therefore God exalted him to the highest place and gave him the name that is above every name, 10that at the name of Jesus every knee should bow, in heaven and on earth and under the earth, 11and every tongue confess that Jesus Christ is Lord, to the glory of God the Father. At the time of the judgment even the lost will know that Christ is Lord and will confess that fact but by that time it will have been too late to profess faith in Christ for redemption. What does it say is the determining factor at that time to determine where the person will be placed? The Book of Life. Revelation 20:11-15 NIV Then I saw a great white throne and him who was seated on it. Earth and sky fled from his presence, and there was no place for them. 12And I saw the dead, great and small, standing before the throne, and books were opened. Another book was opened, which is the book of life. The dead were judged according to what they had done as recorded in the books. 13The sea gave up the dead that were in it, and death and Hades gave up the dead that were in them, and each person was judged according to what he had done. 14Then death and Hades were thrown into the lake of fire. The lake of fire is the second death. 15If anyone’s name was not found written in the book of life, he was thrown into the lake of fire. Preceding this is the resurrection of the dead in Christ and those that are alive at that time in Christ being caught up in the rapture. There is no separating here. These are saved individuals hence the term “the dead in Christ”. 1 Thessalonians 4:15-17 NIV According to the Lord’s own word, we tell you that we who are still alive, who are left till the coming of the Lord, will certainly not precede those who have fallen asleep. 16For the Lord himself will come down from heaven, with a loud command, with the voice of the archangel and with the trumpet call of God, and the dead in Christ will rise first. 17After that, we who are still alive and are left will be caught up together with them in the clouds to meet the Lord in the air. And so we will be with the Lord forever. As for the saved there is therefore no condemnation for those in Christ Jesus as stated in Romans 8:1-3 NIV Therefore, there is now no condemnation for those who are in Christ Jesus,[a] 2because through Christ Jesus the law of the Spirit of life set me free from the law of sin and death. 3For what the law was powerless to do in that it was weakened by the sinful nature,[b] God did by sending his own Son in the likeness of sinful man to be a sin offering. Romans 11:5,6 NIV So too, at the present time there is a remnant chosen by grace. 6And if by grace, then it is no longer by works; if it were, grace would no longer be grace. Romans 3:23-25 NIV for all have sinned and fall short of the glory of God, 24and are justified freely by his grace through the redemption that came by Christ Jesus. 25God presented him as a sacrifice of atonement,[a] through faith in his blood. He did this to demonstrate his justice, because in his forbearance he had left the sins committed beforehand unpunished— Romans 5:16,17 NIV Again, the gift of God is not like the result of the one man’s sin: The judgment followed one sin and brought condemnation, but the gift followed many trespasses and brought justification. 17For if, by the trespass of the one man, death reigned through that one man, how much more will those who receive God’s abundant provision of grace and of the gift of righteousness reign in life through the one man, Jesus Christ. Romans 5:19-21 NIV For just as through the disobedience of the one man the many were made sinners, so also through the obedience of the one man the many will be made righteous. 20The law was added so that the trespass might increase. But where sin increased, grace increased all the more, 21so that, just as sin reigned in death, so also grace might reign through righteousness to bring eternal life through Jesus Christ our Lord. Galatians 2:20,21 NIV I have been crucified with Christ and I no longer live, but Christ lives in me. The life I live in the body, I live by faith in the Son of God, who loved me and gave himself for me. 21I do not set aside the grace of God, for if righteousness could be gained through the law, Christ died for nothing!” Galatians 3:17-19 NIV What I mean is this: The law, introduced 430 years later, does not set aside the covenant previously established by God and thus do away with the promise. 18For if the inheritance depends on the law, then it no longer depends on a promise; but God in his grace gave it to Abraham through a promise. 19What, then, was the purpose of the law? It was added because of transgressions until the Seed to whom the promise referred had come. The law was put into effect through angels by a mediator. Galatians 5:4,5 NIV You who are trying to be justified by law have been alienated from Christ; you have fallen away from grace. 5But by faith we eagerly await through the Spirit the righteousness for which we hope. Ephesians 1:6-8 NIV to the praise of his glorious grace, which he has freely given us in the One he loves. 7In him we have redemption through his blood, the forgiveness of sins, in accordance with the riches of God’s grace 8that he lavished on us with all wisdom and understanding. Ephesians 2:4-6 NIV But because of his great love for us, God, who is rich in mercy, 5made us alive with Christ even when we were dead in transgressions—it is by grace you have been saved. 6And God raised us up with Christ and seated us with him in the heavenly realms in Christ Jesus, Ephesians 2:7-9 NIV in order that in the coming ages he might show the incomparable riches of his grace, expressed in his kindness to us in Christ Jesus. 8For it is by grace you have been saved, through faith—and this not from yourselves, it is the gift of God— 9not by works, so that no one can boast. Finally, John 6:27-29 NIV 27Do not work for food that spoils, but for food that endures to eternal life, which the Son of Man will give you. On him God the Father has placed his seal of approval.” 28Then they asked him, “What must we do to do the works God requires?” 29Jesus answered, “The work of God is this: to believe in the one he has sent.” I think too the fruits of the spirit need to be evident according to the NT, maybe not straight away, everyone’s walk is different. Hi all. This teaching is so amazing. I Peter 4:17 For the time is come that judgment must begin at the house of God: and if it first begin at us, what shall the end be of them that obey not the gospel of God? Believers appear before the (Judgment Seat of Christ) shortly after being taken away. This is the first judgment mentioned. A false premise taught in many churches today says that the worst thing that can happen to a Christian at the Judgment Seat of Christ is simply the loss of rewards. What are we going to have to confess before God? What are we going to have to give an account of; We will give account of every word we speak. Matthew 12:36 But I say unto you, That every idle word that men shall speak, they shall give account thereof in the day of judgment. We will give an account of our lives lived. I Timothy 5:24 Some men’s sins are open beforehand, going before to judgment; and some men they follow after. 25 Likewise also the good works of some are manifest beforehand; and they that are otherwise cannot be hid We will give an account of our stewardship. Luke 16:1 And he said also unto his disciples, There was a certain rich man, which had a steward; and the same was accused unto him that he had wasted his goods. 2 And he called him, and said unto him, How is it that I hear this of thee? give an account of thy stewardship; for thou mayest be no longer steward Those in positions of authority will give an account. Hebrews 13:17 Obey them that have the rule over you, and submit yourselves: for they watch for your souls, as they that must give account, that they may do it with joy, and not with grief: for that is unprofitable for you. We will give an account of our witnessing. Ezekiel 3:18 When I say unto the wicked, Thou shalt surely die; and thou givest him not warning, nor speakest to warn the wicked from his wicked way, to save his life; the same wicked man shall die in his iniquity; but his blood will I require at thine hand. The Great White Throne Judgment (or “last judgment”) of unbelievers at the end of the Millennium. Jesus will seperate the sheep (those saints coming out of the great tribulation) and the goats. John says in Revelation 20:6 that he who has a part in the first resurrection will escape the second death. Revelation 20:11-15 “And I saw a great white throne, and him that sat on it, from whose face the earth and the heaven fled away; and there was found no place for them. And I saw the dead, small and great, stand before God; and the books were opened: and another book was opened, which is the book of life: and the dead were judged out of those things which were written in the books, according to their works. And the sea gave up the dead which were in it; and death and hell delivered up the dead which were in them: and they were judged every man according to their works. And death and hell were cast into the lake of fire. This is the second death. And whosoever was not found written in the book of life was cast into the lake of fire.” The put down of the final rebellion is followed by the Great White Throne Judgment of the unsaved. This is the second resurrection and second death. The first resurrection was that of the saved, while the second is that of the unsaved. The first death is the separation of the spirit from the body, while the second is eternal separation from God in the lake of fire. These are the unsaved. We know that these are the unsaved, because they are not part of the first resurrection (Rev. 20:6) and they are judged by their works. We know that these are the unsaved because their names are not written in the book of life through faith in Jesus Christ. Compare Revelation 20:15. There are no exceptions mentioned. Have you heard the song by Keith Green? (I forgot the name of the song, now) about the goats and the sheep? great song. I sure hope I make it. I’ve done alot for others, but on the other hand, been very rebellious and blown it a few times. The Lord gave me a word once about the poor, homeless, elderly, sick, drug addicts and single parents. Jesus weeps for them and He weeps the Church doesn’t care that much (it seems) although they do sometimes. But generally, it’s all about buying and selling the gospel (like in the money changer’s temple) they are not helping the poor, the elderly, those in prison or single parents, much. Jesus weeps about that, too. oh yes, that is the song. Keith did alot of those talking songs like that. Great song. On the GOATS Mat.25:32…to me this reads of national judgment. Jesus separating nations who were welfare-oriented towards the poorer,catastrophy-stricken nations versus the disaster untouched ones holding back to provide for…say refugees and Nth Koreans, Africans etc. with ‘sanctions’ which deprives the public but not the ‘fat-cats’ It is the deliberate fault of the richest nations that we have such poverty elsewhere. The timeline touches on this subject after the illustration given of the ‘wedding’ of Mat.25:10, where unprofitable servants (or servant nations) are cast into the outer darkness. Also Rev.19:15,17…((I come across harsh but don’t mean to)) I want to thank you for opening my eyes, i have become lazy and prideful. I have forgotten what it means to really love God and care for my fellow man, i have not fed the hungry or gave clothes to the needy or visited anyone in prison and for that i am truely ashamed. I read your article and i thank God i did because i know i must change or may life is nothing, i cannot lose Jesus, or my kids, thank you brother, thank you. God bless you. Its tough times these days I have been out of the church for awhile due to being sick with diabetes and other problems which has made it tough to get back into or find real Christians because mostly I come into contact with goats or religious spirits and something is missing today when you see liberals trying to do good works but you find Christians today attacking health care for all people to have. Would you agree that todays goats are found in something called liberal Christianity? I want to thank you for this post. In the past, I have given without realizing it, but lately I have been wrapped up in my own world and have become somewhat selfish in it. Since reading this post, I have decided to give my baby items to ppl who need them instead of selling them in a garage sale this spring. Being a woman traveling with two babies all the time, I am afraid to pick up hitchikers anymore or even roll down my window to speak to strangers in a public place. Just this past shopping season, we had a stranger shooting at a women in a WalMart parking lot after asking her for money. It has become a scarey world out there and I am afraid for myself and my babies. I’ve allowed my fear to take away from my good deeds and perhaps I need to find other ways to help the needy that won’t put me in possible harms way. Again, Thank You and God Bless You! What do people think of this poor woman? http://www.geekologie.com/2010/03/demonspawn_burn_it_with_fire_w.php I doubt that your reference to “Christmas” has (should have) any significance on us doing good: for Christmas is a heathen holiday remembering the Sun god, not so? Secondly: A goat cannot become a sheep, period! It’s not a matter of “choice”. I believe if you are a goat you are not of God’s (the real God of Israel) people. I want to thank the Lord for your obedience to post this powerful prayer.. I needed every word.. I truly thank the Lord that this prayer will be an aid to the turning point in my relationship with the Father and helping those who are close to me as well. Thank you again for all of your help. God bless you and your family Hi folks. I dont see the goats as saved people as all. God would not throw His children in hell. Remember, we are not saved by works. It is by grace through faith and that not of ourselves, lets we boast….etc. BUT yes, we need to have good works, but its Christ living His life in us. The virgins, the goats, all are missing something….ITS the Holy Spirit!! Jesus said to Nicodemus: you MUST be born again. Too many Christians try to mix grace and law and it doesnt work. God forbid that we take the gift of grace in vain. Please read “One Book Rightly Divided” by Doug Stauffer. http://www.rightlydivided.com/content/chapter-3-section-i-of-iii.htm Also, go to kjv1611.org “The Gospel of Matthew deals with the “King of the Jews.” The genealogy of the King is in chapter 1, the birth of the King is in chapter 2, the herald of the King is in chapter 3, the preparation of the King and for the kingdom is in chapter 4, the constitution of the kingdom is in chapters 5-7 (the Sermon on the Mount), the credentials of the King are i chapters 8-9, the message of the kingdom is in chapter 10, the rejection of the kingdom is in chapter 12, and then, in chapter 13, the kingdom goes into a mystery form in this age that is not the literal, physical form that it will take in the Millennium. “The Gospel of Matthew is a book that makes a transition from the Old Testament to the New Testament. No “new testament” appears in the book until chapter 26. Even then, the “new testament” is only instituted in chapter 26; it is not in effect until Jesus Christ, the “testator,” dies in chapter 27 (Heb. Whenever you find a statement in Matthew, Acts, and Hebrews that doesn’t doctrinally match the statements found in the Pauline Epistles, IT IS A DOCTRINAL STATEMENT THAT IS NOT AIMED AT THE CHRISTIAN IN THE CHURCH AGE.” -from kjv1611.org Marianne I really like Sue’s comment that the sermon on the mount is the consttution of the kingdom, though I disagree with her conclusion that the kingdom did not begin until Jesus’ death. It started at his Baptism, with little or no “fanfare”. Just a dove descending and words heard only by some saying “this is my son, in whom I am well pleased”. There is no contradictions in Matthew and the Pauline epistles, except the prescense of the Holy spirit which helped the apostles understand Jesus’ words. Dru, Just wondering, as to how you can disagree with Scripture? Yeshua’s ministry began in earnest, when He was Baptized by the Spirit, but the New Covenant did not come into effect until Yeshua died. “Being asked by the pharisees when the kingdom of God would come, He answeredthem, “the kingdom of God is not coming with signs to be observed, 21 …for behold the kingdom of god is in the Midst of you.” “The Law and the prophets were until John (the baptist); since then the good news of the kingdom of God is preached,… An indirect view for you is John the baptists confession in john 3:22-36 “whoever believes in the Son has eternal life; whoever does not obey the Son shall not see life, BUT THE WRATH OF GOD REMAINS ON HIM.” Belief in the Son in the present tense granted eternal life. Therefore the kingdom was already present. While the wrath of God remained on those who rejected belief. Johns Baptism had the ability to forgive and cleanse sin, once Jesus Died His blood replaced the cleansing effects of water baptism. It should only be considered an outword sign, and witness of the blood of Christ. This is where the catholic church messes up its understanding of baptism. Holy Cow Dru, Do you ever appear to have a lot of pent up hostility, simply because someone disagrees with you? You can strike out at me as much as you like, for you are surely not my judge. And I will not retaliate as you might expect either, for I attempt to think rather than instead of being reactionary. However I will address some of what you say above. First, I only do my best in contending for God’s word. If a particular theology is expressed in it, then so be it. It is not my doctrine but His. Regarding the aspect of OSAS. As well as all the other Scripture that I and others have provided, (on the OSAS post), to express the same point of view, (that it could very well be, a false doctrine), I ask you to also read 1 Peter 4:17-19. “17 For the time has come for judgment to begin at the house of God; and if it begins with us first, what will be the end of those who do not obey the gospel of God? 18 Now “If the righteous one is scarcely saved, Where will the ungodly and the sinner appear?” 19 Therefore let those who suffer according to the will of God commit their souls to Him in doing good, as to a faithful Creator.” NKJV. The word that is translated above as “scarcely” is from the Greek “Molis” (Strong’s 3433) and its definitions are, ” with difficulty, hardly, not easily, i.e. scarcely, very rarely” Again this is not my doctrine or me saying this. It is instead the word of God. As well as verses, (of which there are many), that express that we have the responsibility to participate willingly. For example, “Therefore, my beloved brethren, be “steadfast, immovable”, always abounding in the work of the Lord, knowing that your labor is not in vain in the Lord.” 1 Corinthians 15:57. NKJV. Being “steadfast, immovable” is left up to us. It is our responsibility to do. When I posted my study that was done on the Ten Virgins, it was to hopefully open the eyes of those that are indifferent to their Salvation. So it was done based upon Scripture, and what the study itself revealed. It was therefore out of concern and of love for others. As well, when I express my views regarding OSAS which is also based upon Scripture, it is also done out of concern and of love for others as well. That is far different from you, when you start to express you views regarding “making the choice to go through the tribulation, and the need to suffer like Yeshua” which has no Biblical foundation whatsoever to substantiate the premise. How much fear do you think you yourself are placing in the hearts of those that are “new and fresh” in the faith, that are looking forward to that day? Or that there could possibly be a false tribulation? Which again has no Biblical foundation at all. Your accusations towards me are merely your opinion, and statements like “If you cannot remember the pit from which God rescued you, then perhaps you never were rescued to begin with!” is not as you say, “said out of Godly love.” But is rather quite frankly in my opinion, sad, and not a demonstration of a Christian heart. You have your beliefs and I have mine. I have spent time in the study of God’s word with the guidance of the Spirit, and in how God created me and lead me too, since 1973. I would hazard a guess that you are barely that old. Perhaps we should make a pact to not respond any further to each others posts, and allow for the others that come here to decide for themselves? This is a proposal that I am making simply because it is obvious that since I happen to disagree with you, you then find it necessary to attack me personally. This is a course of action that I refuse to participte in. Agreed? Be Blessed Regarding the Sheep and Goat Judgment. Though only two groups are directly referred too, (sheep and goats), I believe that another group is also present. (3 actually. the Church, the 144,000, and the Saints.) The Lord Yeshua has returned, His Millenial Kingdom has been established, and He is sitting on His throne, (or Bema seat). Matthew 25:31. Everyone that is still alive at this time, (after the tribulation), is then gathered to be judged by Him. In my opinion, I believe that is unreasonable to assume that since both the “sheep and goat” groups refer to Yeshua as “Lord” that all of these people that are living still, were all believers in Him. This coming, His coming, will be witnessed by every living person on the whole planet. “29 Immediately after the tribulation of those days shall the sun be darkened , and the moon shall not give her light, and the stars shall fall from heaven, and the powers of the heavens shall be shaken: 30 And then shall appear the sign of the Son of man in heaven: and then shall all the tribes of the earth mourn , and they shall see the Son of man coming in the clouds of heaven with power and great glory. 31 And he shall send his angels with a great sound of a trumpet, and they shall gather together his elect from the four winds, from one end of heaven to the other.” NKJV. So I think that it is highly unlikely that there will be anybody who will not know who He is. The word translated into Lord here, is from the Greek “Kurios”, (Strong’s 2962) and its definitions are, “he to whom a person or thing belongs, about which he has power of deciding; master, lord, (a) the possessor and disposer of a thing. (1) the owner; one who has control of the person, the master (2) in the state: the sovereign, prince, chief, the Roman emperor (b) is a title of honour expressive of respect and reverence, with which servants greet their master (1) this title is given to: God, the Messiah. So both groups are going to be well aware that a judicial proceeding is taking place, with one who has power to decide their overall future fate. Let us also take a look at the sequence of events. First Yeshua the King will separate all of those that were gathered, into “two” groups. To the one group on His right He says, “(34) Come, ye blessed of my Father, inherit the kingdom prepared for you from the foundation of the world: (35) for I was hungry and you gave Me food; I was thirsty and you gave Me drink; I was a stranger and you took Me in; (36) I was naked and you clothed Me; I was sick and you visited Me; I was in prison and you came to Me.” Remember the timing of this event as well. These people that Yeshua is talking to at this time, have gone through the tribulation. They are also only referred to as “righteous” or “Dikaios” (Strong’s 1342) in Greek. They are neither a part of the Church, or a Saint. Dikaios in this context of being considered approved would mean, “righteous, observing divine laws, in a wide sense, upright, righteous, virtuous, keeping the commands of God, (Work’s in expressing and demonstrating “love for others” would fit the context here.) * innocent, faultless, guiltless * used of him whose way of thinking, feeling, and acting is wholly conformed to the will of God, and who therefore needs no rectification in the heart or life. * only Christ truly approved of, or acceptable of God. This group then questions in their response to what He has stated, in what appears to be surprise and wonderment, “Lord, when did we see You hungry and feed You, or thirsty and give You drink? 38 When did we see You a stranger and take You in, or naked and clothe You? 39 Or when did we see You sick, or in prison, and come to You?” Yeshua the King then answers their questions with the following, “‘Assuredly, I say to you, inasmuch as you did it “to one of the least of these My brethren”, you did it to Me.” (verse 40) This then implies that another group is also there. I can actually visualize Yeshua turning and pointing them out to this group of righteous as He is speaking to them. So, if this group of righteous that had gone through the tribulation had helped others that Yeshua had considered to be His brethren, it is not unreasonable to assume that those brethren must have also gone through the tribulation as well. (In my opinion it would be the Saint’s that have now also been resurrected. see Psalm 89:5) I believe that Yeshua is not only talking to all of the still living that took the opportunity to help His brethren, but especially that of the remnant of Israel. And with that, the story of Rahab most definitely comes to mind. (Joshua 2 and Joshua 6) “By faith the harlot Rahab did not perish with those who did not believe, when she had received the spies with peace.” Hebrews 11:31 NKJV. “Likewise, was not Rahab the harlot also justified by works when she received the messengers and sent them out another way?” NKJV. There is no mention of the Holy Spirit within the passages above, only that of works. Therefore this group that Yeshua refers to as righteous have not received their righteousness through the Spirit like the Church and with His Holy sacrifice. They have received this designation through works, as are accounted righteous through faith just like their father Abraham was. “(21) Was not Abraham our father justified by works when he offered Isaac his son on the altar? (22) Do you see that faith was working together with his works, and by works faith was made perfect?” NKJV. (Also see Psalm 87, 89, and Isaiah 51) From verse 41 on, the rest of the judgment is pretty well self explanatory. I believe that those on the left refer to Yeshua as “Lord” simply because they would have witnessed those that were previously approved, do the same. They are in a position of pleading for their future existence and are utilizing whatever respect they can demonstrate at this time to accomplish their desire to somehow be saved. So I don’t believe that they were all necessarily believers, or followers. Just my thoughts. Be Blessed Alienated Funny thing is I agree with most of what you say, but have found a level of resistence to understanding the “fullness” of the Gospel. As I have mentioned before, I say this NOT out of hostility, but for some reason you interpret it as such, probably because it is a challenge to your world view. Regarding suffering in the bible, to deny this is to deny a major theme in scripture. I have always pointed out that my placing this in relation to the rapture event is “theoretical” and not necessarily biblical. But the fact that we are to suffer, and how we should view suffering are 100% biblical. It is therefore a logical deduction on my part, to extend that to what is said regarding the tribulation. could it be wrong? By all means. But I must point it out so that if it is the case, the church will be prepared for this possibility. The same can be said of the “false tribulation”. Just because it is not backed by scripture, does not mean i am not allowed to mention it. For that matter about half the stuff on this site is not mentioned in the bible, but we still talk about it. I know marianne, and anyone else i have mentioned it to have not “seen” what I am seeing with regard to this, but as it plays out in my theory, it is a truly diabolical deception, and I must warn people of the possibility of this. Blood will be on my hands if i do not, and if i must be mocked for it, so be it. I will remain a voice in the wilderness on this one. As for placing fear on the children of the faith, I am not saying that all are called to go through this tribulation, whereas you are saying that they are not going to be raptured. If you as a parent would put your own child on a lifeboat to be saved from the sinking ship, how much more would a holy and Loving God do this for his children. You have never answered the question regarding how children of the faith fit in your ten virgins study, because you do not have an answer. Just like you cannot respond to what i have said about the sermon on the mount, and the beatitudes showing our walk with God. The only thing you can come back with is that this was written for the Jews. That is akin to arguments that the muslims make regarding scripture being corrupted. It is a naive response at best. You cannot make the sermon on the mount fit your theory, therefore you discard it. The funny thing is is that I see how your study fits perfectly with the sermon, and it adds to our understanding of both. But because you resist criticism, and view it as an attack on you, you get defensive. (I even gave you a hint on one of my posts, so that you could discover this yourself) All this leads me to conclude that you are afraid of “letting go” and letting the HS guide you in your studies. This is why you always have to have “proof” in what you believe, instead of believing by faith. This is what we are called to do is to “continue in faith” Just like you believed that Jesus blood was capable of forgiving your sins when you first believed. Ultimately it is a control and submission issue. whether you can be led by the Spirit, or led by your own understanding. In my church we call it having our faith move from our head to our heart. I am sure you’ve heard that expression before, I call it submitting to God’s will. Like the analogy I wrote of above, There is another mountain to climb in our walk with God that is concealed in the clouds. We cannot climb it without giving our will over to God, and being led by the Spirit. As Jesus puts it in the sermon on the mount, “Enter by the narrow gate. for the gate is wide and the way is easy that leads to destruction, and those who enter it are many, 14. For the gate is narrow and the way is hard that leads to life, AND THOSE WHO FIND IT ARE FEW.” Matt. does this mean that those who are “poor in spirit will not enter the kingdom of heaven”? I see no contradiction, as your interpretation does see. This is the entry into maturity of the faith, and our reward for making this step is to be “called the sons of God.” in other words we attain, not by our work, the same title as Jesus had as a human…for Jesus spoke and did the will of the father throughout his life. These are the final three levels of faith, through which we are called to be Christlike. If we should be called to suffer for the faith, then we will receive unnamed and great rewards in heaven. Stop looking back at your fruit and falling into the trap of self-righteousness, and continue in your journey. Christianity is not a power struggle, and the church is not something we look at to build our ego. Rather Christianity is a shared struggle to climb that mountain which we are faced with that we may all share in the glory of his kingdom. It does not matter where we are on the mountain so long as we continue climbing!!! God bless you, and may he lead you to that narrow gate. marianne we are just duking it out over a minor difference in views on Christianity. Hopefully the end result will edify both parties? If you see someone who is a brother in Christ falling victim to a deception that you once held, which was corrected by God in your own life, should we not point that out to that person so that they will see the “whole counsel of God”? I will try to say things in a more tactful way next time, but I still must get their attention as Paul did with the Corinthians. This could be fun! Question: “What is the meaning of the Parable of the Sheep and Goats?” Answer: In studying the Parable of the Sheep and Goats (Matthew 25:31-46), let’s take a look at just what a parable is. Webster’s New World Dictionary, Second College Edition, defines the parable as “a comparison; a short simple story, usually of an occurrence of a familiar kind, from which a moral or religious lesson may be drawn.” However, Jesus explained the parable in a little different way. In Luke 8:9-10, He says to His disciples, “The knowledge of the secrets of the kingdom of God has been given to you, but to others I speak in parables so that ‘seeing they may not see; though hearing they may not understand.’” This quotation from Isaiah 6:9-10 does not express a desire that some would not understand, but simply states the sad truth that those who are not willing to receive Jesus’ message will find the truth hidden from them. Jesus spoke in parables because of the spiritual dullness of the people, and He compares His preaching in parables to the ministry of Isaiah, which, while it gained some disciples (see Isaiah 8:16), it also exposed the hard-hearted resistance of the many to God’s warning and appeal. God does not want anyone to perish (see 1 Timothy 2:3-4 and 2 Peter 3:9). After a casual reading of the sixteen verses that make up the Parable of the Sheep and Goats (Matthew 25:31-46), it seems that they suggest that salvation is the result of good works. The people compared to the sheep were the ones that acted in charity in giving to the needy food, drink, and clothing, who exhibited hospitality, and who visited the sick and those in prison. The goats seem to have done nothing in regard to these things. This resulted in salvation for the sheep and damnation for the goats. The casual reading seems to make it very clear and concise that salvation comes from good works. However, this is clearly not the meaning of the Parable of the Sheep and Goats. All Scripture proves itself right and non-contradictory when compared with the totality of Scripture. This is what is referred to in 2 Timothy 2:15 as “rightly dividing the word of truth.” Scripture does not contradict Scripture, and the Bible clearly and repeatedly teaches that salvation is by faith through the grace and mercy of God and not by good works (see John 1:12, Acts 15:11, Romans 3:22-24, Romans 4:4-8, Romans 7:24-25, Romans 8:12, Galatians 3:6-9, and Ephesians 2:8-10, to mention a few). A closer examination of the Parable of the Sheep and Goats reveals much, much more. In the very first verse of the parable, Matthew immediately establishes the kingship and authority of Christ by using the title that Christ so often used in identifying Himself: the “Son of Man” (see John 5:27 and Daniel 7:13-14). The sheep are placed at His right hand. This is a place of honor and shows that the sheep are esteemed by Christ. Compare this with Matthew 22:64; Luke 22:69; Acts 7:55 and Hebrews 1:13; where Christ is at the right hand of the Father. The goats are placed on the left. Testimony is given, judgment is made, and reward and punishment are the result. There are many things in these verses that could be examined in depth and at length. We could look at whether or not this is part of the “Great White Throne Judgment,” the “judgment of the dead” mentioned in Revelation 20:11, or the judgment of those who survived the “Great Tribulation” and are still alive at the return of Christ. We could look at who the “brethren” are, referred to in vv. 40 and 45. Does this parable have to do with the treatment of Israel by the other nations of the world? We could look at the doctrines of predestination or election prompted by verse 34, or the question of the eternality of hell referred to in verse 46. While the examination of these issues is certainly worthwhile, none of them pertain to what is the main thrust of the Parable of the Sheep and Goats. What is God trying to reveal to us in these verses? Note that both of the groups represented by the Sheep and the Goats were not aware of their actions in relation to the judgment conferred upon them, and both asked, “When did we do these things?” And this question, in itself, is very revealing as to the condition of the heart of those involved. In these verses we are looking at man redeemed and saved, and man condemned and lost. Salvation takes place at the moment we receive Jesus Christ, by grace through faith, as our Savior. In this giving of ourselves, we become children of God (see John 1:12-13). Second Corinthians 5:17 tells us that “if anyone is in Christ he is a new creation, the old has gone, the new has come.” But what is it, exactly, that makes us a “new creation.” We are still in this flesh (see Romans 7:14-25), we are still in this world (see James 4:4), and, have no doubt, we are still sinners (see 1 John 1:8). The change or transformation that takes place in us at the moment of conversion is due to the fact that we are sealed by God in the person of the Holy Spirit (see Ephesians 1:13-14), resulting in salvation. Salvation means that we are brought to the place where we are able to receive something from Christ, namely, forgiveness of sins (see Acts 26:17-18). Our sin debt to God is then cancelled by the atoning death of Christ on the cross, who, at salvation, becomes our Lord. He paid the price for our sin since we could not (see 1 Corinthians 6:19-20 and Hebrews 10:27-28). From this moment on, when the Father looks at us, He chooses to see His Son indwelling us by the Spirit as opposed to seeing our own sinful flesh, and it is only in this manner that our works become acceptable to Him. These works are not being offered by our sinful flesh, but by the power of the Spirit that resides in us. At salvation our duty as Christians is to become disciples of Christ. Our duty is to become like Him (see Romans 8:29; 2 Corinthians 3:18; and Colossians 2:6-7). Galatians 5:22 tells us that the fruit of the Spirit is love, joy, peace, patience, kindness, goodness, gentleness, faithfulness, and self control. These are the traits that Jesus Christ exhibited throughout His life, and a Christian will grow in this fruit in direct proportion to the cooperation that he gives the Holy Spirit working in his life. Good works in a Christian’s life are the direct overflow of these traits, and are only acceptable to God because of the relationship that exists between servant and Master, the saved and their Lord, the sheep and their Shepherd (see Ephesians 2:10). So, the core message of the Parable of the Sheep and Goats is that good works will result from our relationship to the Shepherd, to Christ. Followers of Christ will produce good works, will treat others with kindness, will deal with others as if they were Christ. Those who reject Christ live in the opposite manner. While “goats” can indeed do acts of kindness and charity, their hearts are not truly in them for the right purpose – to honor and worship God. The practical message of the Parable of the Sheep and Goats is, just where, exactly, do you stand in relation to the Shepherd? Are you a sheep or a goat, saved or lost? Until you come to the place in your life that you find yourself among the sheep, until you are saved by faith, through the grace and mercy of God, you will never find true and lasting peace with God. God made us for Himself, and our hearts will be restless until we find our rest in Him. Consider the Parable of the Sheep and Goats. What is the condition of your heart? Remember, “He is no fool who gives away what he cannot keep, to gain that which he cannot lose” (Jim Elliott). Make your decision to dwell with the sheep under the care of the Shepherd, by the grace of God, with the love of Jesus Question: “What is the meaning of the Parable of the Sheep and Goats?” Answer: In studying the Parable of the Sheep and Goats (Matthew 25:31-46), let’s take a look at just what a parable is. Webster’s New World Dictionary, Second College Edition, defines the parable as “a comparison; a short simple story, usually of an occurrence of a familiar kind, from which a moral or religious lesson may be drawn.” However, Jesus explained the parable in a little different way. In Luke 8:9-10, He says to His disciples, “The knowledge of the secrets of the kingdom of God has been given to you, but to others I speak in parables so that ‘seeing they may not see; though hearing they may not understand.’” This quotation from Isaiah 6:9-10 does not express a desire that some would not understand, but simply states the sad truth that those who are not willing to receive Jesus’ message will find the truth hidden from them. Jesus spoke in parables because of the spiritual dullness of the people, and He compares His preaching in parables to the ministry of Isaiah, which, while it gained some disciples (see Isaiah 8:16), it also exposed the hard-hearted resistance of the many to God’s warning and appeal. God does not want anyone to perish (see 1 Timothy 2:3-4 and 2 Peter 3:9). After a casual reading of the sixteen verses that make up the Parable of the Sheep and Goats (Matthew 25:31-46), it seems that they suggest that salvation is the result of good works. The people compared to the sheep were the ones that acted in charity in giving to the needy food, drink, and clothing, who exhibited hospitality, and who visited the sick and those in prison. The goats seem to have done nothing in regard to these things. This resulted in salvation for the sheep and damnation for the goats. The casual reading seems to make it very clear and concise that salvation comes from good works. However, this is clearly not the meaning of the Parable of the Sheep and Goats. All Scripture proves itself right and non-contradictory when compared with the totality of Scripture. This is what is referred to in 2 Timothy 2:15 as “rightly dividing the word of truth.” Scripture does not contradict Scripture, and the Bible clearly and repeatedly teaches that salvation is by faith through the grace and mercy of God and not by good works (see John 1:12, Acts 15:11, Romans 3:22-24, Romans 4:4-8, Romans 7:24-25, Romans 8:12, Galatians 3:6-9, and Ephesians 2:8-10, to mention a few). A closer examination of the Parable of the Sheep and Goats reveals much, much more. In the very first verse of the parable, Matthew immediately establishes the kingship and authority of Christ by using the title that Christ so often used in identifying Himself: the “Son of Man” (see John 5:27 and Daniel 7:13-14). The sheep are placed at His right hand. This is a place of honor and shows that the sheep are esteemed by Christ. Compare this with Matthew 22:64; Luke 22:69; Acts 7:55 and Hebrews 1:13; where Christ is at the right hand of the Father. The goats are placed on the left. Testimony is given, judgment is made, and reward and punishment are the result. There are many things in these verses that could be examined in depth and at length. We could look at whether or not this is part of the “Great White Throne Judgment,” the “judgment of the dead” mentioned in Revelation 20:11, or the judgment of those who survived the “Great Tribulation” and are still alive at the return of Christ. We could look at who the “brethren” are, referred to in vv. 40 and 45. Does this parable have to do with the treatment of Israel by the other nations of the world? We could look at the doctrines of predestination or election prompted by verse 34, or the question of the eternality of hell referred to in verse 46. While the examination of these issues is certainly worthwhile, none of them pertain to what is the main thrust of the Parable of the Sheep and Goats. What is God trying to reveal to us in these verses? Note that both of the groups represented by the Sheep and the Goats were not aware of their actions in relation to the judgment conferred upon them, and both asked, “When did we do these things?” And this question, in itself, is very revealing as to the condition of the heart of those involved. In these verses we are looking at man redeemed and saved, and man condemned and lost. Salvation takes place at the moment we receive Jesus Christ, by grace through faith, as our Savior. In this giving of ourselves, we become children of God (see John 1:12-13). Second Corinthians 5:17 tells us that “if anyone is in Christ he is a new creation, the old has gone, the new has come.” But what is it, exactly, that makes us a “new creation.” We are still in this flesh (see Romans 7:14-25), we are still in this world (see James 4:4), and, have no doubt, we are still sinners (see 1 John 1:8). The change or transformation that takes place in us at the moment of conversion is due to the fact that we are sealed by God in the person of the Holy Spirit (see Ephesians 1:13-14), resulting in salvation. Salvation means that we are brought to the place where we are able to receive something from Christ, namely, forgiveness of sins (see Acts 26:17-18). Our sin debt to God is then cancelled by the atoning death of Christ on the cross, who, at salvation, becomes our Lord. He paid the price for our sin since we could not (see 1 Corinthians 6:19-20 and Hebrews 10:27-28). From this moment on, when the Father looks at us, He chooses to see His Son indwelling us by the Spirit as opposed to seeing our own sinful flesh, and it is only in this manner that our works become acceptable to Him. These works are not being offered by our sinful flesh, but by the power of the Spirit that resides in us. At salvation our duty as Christians is to become disciples of Christ. Our duty is to become like Him (see Romans 8:29; 2 Corinthians 3:18; and Colossians 2:6-7). Galatians 5:22 tells us that the fruit of the Spirit is love, joy, peace, patience, kindness, goodness, gentleness, faithfulness, and self control. These are the traits that Jesus Christ exhibited throughout His life, and a Christian will grow in this fruit in direct proportion to the cooperation that he gives the Holy Spirit working in his life. Good works in a Christian’s life are the direct overflow of these traits, and are only acceptable to God because of the relationship that exists between servant and Master, the saved and their Lord, the sheep and their Shepherd (see Ephesians 2:10). So, the core message of the Parable of the Sheep and Goats is that good works will result from our relationship to the Shepherd, to Christ. Followers of Christ will produce good works, will treat others with kindness, will deal with others as if they were Christ. Those who reject Christ live in the opposite manner. While “goats” can indeed do acts of kindness and charity, their hearts are not truly in them for the right purpose – to honor and worship God. The practical message of the Parable of the Sheep and Goats is, just where, exactly, do you stand in relation to the Shepherd? Are you a sheep or a goat, saved or lost? Until you come to the place in your life that you find yourself among the sheep, until you are saved by faith, through the grace and mercy of God, you will never find true and lasting peace with God. God made us for Himself, and our hearts will be restless until we find our rest in Him. Consider the Parable of the Sheep and Goats. What is the condition of your heart? Remember, “He is no fool who gives away what he cannot keep, to gain that which he cannot lose” (Jim Elliott). Make your decision to dwell with the sheep under the care of the Shepherd, by the grace of God, with the love of Jesus. I guess it’s true that it is our works and not God’s grace that makes us Christians. hello clarke I think you need to read the post again. that is not the conclusion. God’s grace follows repentance of a sincere heart, and a desire to obey God. Faith without works is dead. I remember going to a nursing home and really enjoying the fellowship with these people who yearn for company and just plain acceptance. I feel ashamed I have not returned, that I let my life convince me I was just too busy. Thank you Marianne for reminding me of those very beautiful and fun times with people who are loving and worthwhile and have something to share with us if we will just slow down and listen. Very thought provoking topic. The entire time I was reading, especially the comments, I kept thinking of this video I had just watched prior to finding this. So sad and heartbreaking, and scary all at the same time…. Would this not be an obvious goat? Goat, plainly deceived, or both, I believe this is a prime example of true faith in Jesus not being the only result of salvation, and of Jesus’ words, “By their fruits you will know them” . Jesus said we must be born again, born of the water and of the Spirit. The Holy Spirit enables us to love God and our neighbor as ourself. 8 Owe no man any thing, but to love one another: for he that loveth another hath fulfilled the law. 9 For this, Thou shalt not commit adultery, Thou shalt not kill, Thou shalt not steal, Thou shalt not bear false witness, Thou shalt not covet; and if there be any other commandment, it is briefly comprehended in this saying, namely, Thou shalt love thy neighbour as thyself. 10 Love worketh no ill to his neighbour: therefore love is the fulfilling of the law. 11 And that, knowing the time, that now it is high time to awake out of sleep: for now is our salvation nearer than when we believed. 12 The night is far spent, the day is at hand: let us therefore cast off the works of darkness, and let us put on the armour of light. 13 Let us walk honestly, as in the day; not in rioting and drunkenness, not in chambering and wantonness, not in strife and envying. 14 But put ye on the Lord Jesus Christ, and make not provision for the flesh, to fulfil the lusts thereof. Romans 8 12 Therefore, brethren, we are debtors, not to the flesh, to live after the flesh. 13 For if ye live after the flesh, ye shall die: but if ye through the Spirit do mortify the deeds of the body, ye shall live. 14 For as many as are led by the Spirit of God, they are the sons of God. Romans 8 28 And we know that all things work together for good to them that love God, to them who are the called according to his purpose. 29 For whom he did foreknow, he also did predestinate to be conformed to the image of his Son, that he might be the firstborn among many brethren. All of which I believe is accomplished by the work of the Holy Spirit in us. May the Lord bless and keep us all by and in His Truth! Amen!! Are you a goat, and don’t know it? I am glad I read this now I see u r ignorant. Rightly divide the word of God. Hi there, FYI people are not sheep or goats. The animals represent human belief systems: some beliefs are good things to have on the journey to the Kingdom, some are detrimental. The son of man (us) must choose healthy beliefs. It is time for this parable to be explained properly. The son of man is a human being who is attempting to find the kingdom. The King is Christ, who shares his throne with the son of man. We must not ignore the fact that this wisdom was known to Matthew many years before Revelations was written: “To the one who is victorious, I will give the right to sit with me on my throne, just as I was victorious and sat down with my Father on his throne.” The sheep and goats are further defined by Matthew himself as spiritual truths and lies in the Parable of the Net (Mt 13:47-48) “Once again, the kingdom of heaven is like a net that was let down into the lake and caught all kinds of fish. When it was full, the fishermen pulled it up on the shore. Then they sat down and collected the good fish in baskets, but threw the bad away.” I hope you will reconsider the classic interpretation – this is causing more harm than good because it makes people think their Father in Heaven will burn them. That would not make him a perfect loving father, would it. With thanks, love and hope, Andrew Michael I understand completely what you’re saying but I have a real problem with the saying that a goat is going to hell and the Sheep going to heaven it doesn’t make any sense to me I have to sheepand I have 2 goats they are very lovable so my question really is there won’t be any goats in heaven but they’ll be sheep and other animals doesn’t make any sense to me Bonnie Lovelady I am a believer I believe in God and Believe In ChristI live it everyday Marianne, Again, my point is the sheep and goats are peoples’ beliefs, not human beings. A human being gets the chance to repent. The goats were offered no such chance. Therefore, the sheep and goats are NOT people. But errant beliefs, lies… these things can and should be destroyed in fire.