THE SHEEP VS THE GOATS ON THE LAST DAY: LOVING JESUS VIA SERVING OTHERS
NOVEMBER 9, 2024
TEXT
And before him shall be gathered all nations: and he shall separate them one from another, as a shepherd divideth his sheep from the goats (Matthew 25:32).
Today’s discussion will mainly center around the events of the last day and how the sheep will be separated from the goats. Of course, it’s crystal clear that these two animals have opposite attributes. While gentleness, meekness, and loyalty are associated with a sheep, a goat often possesses more rebellious, stubborn, and unyielding attitudes. The “sheep” is a metaphorical representation of the saints, while unbelievers are classified as the “goats”.
In the aforementioned text, we can see how, on the last day, the sheep were separated from the goats. One thing that catches our attention is that the saints were favorably judged in line with their good deeds towards mankind while they were on earth, not knowing they were doing it for Jesus Christ (Matthew 25:40). Similarly, the “Goats” perpetrated all manner of bad deeds, not knowing that they were doing it unto Jesus Christ, albeit indirectly (Matthew 25:45).
It is sacrosanct for us to know some of the basic criteria for judgment on the last day. Of course, the key criterion is to please God. However, most of what we are expected to do in pleasing God are usually channeled towards our fellow humans. In separating the sheep from the goats, Jesus acknowledged that on different occasions, the “sheep” fed the hungry, gave water to the thirsty, welcomed strangers, clothed the naked, and visited prisoners, etc. Jesus said all those acts, though rendered to others, were indirectly being rendered to Him. The same applied to the “Goats” who did the exact opposite of the acts listed above.
Jesus said all their evil acts were also being indirectly done unto Him. One of the ways we can sincerely prove our love for Jesus around us is via our hospitality and kind gestures towards those we see physically around us. If you don’t love your neighbor whom you can see today physically, how can you love a supernatural being you have never set your eyes on?
This is just a summary of some of the episodes likely to occur on the last day. Many will be surprised at how huge a role their actions and inactions will actually play in determining whether or not they qualify for heaven.
SEARCHLIGHT
Love for God goes beyond oral proclamation. Physical acts of kindness and holiness will go a long way, as whatever we do (either good or bad) is indirectly being done for our Lord Jesus Christ.
PRAYER
On the last day, O Lord, may I not be a castaway, in Jesus’ name.
BIBLE READING
Hosea 10-12, Mark 9
PST. MICHAEL OMOLE
