Day #312

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Matt 25 - Reading
Matt 25 - Audio

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Matthew 25

v. 1-13 – By their readiness, the wise distinguish themselves from the foolish during the delay of Christ’s return. Being ready includes being prepared for a long delay; short-lived zeal is inadequate.

v. 1 – It was the Jewish marriage custom for the groom and his friends to leave his home and proceed to the home of the bride, where the marriage ceremony was conducted, often at night. After this, the entire wedding party returned to the groom’s home for a celebratory banquet.

v. 20-23 – The master’s identical statements of praise to both servants show that what was important was not the total amount earned but faithfulness in utilizing their gifts and potential. Faithful stewardship in this life will result in being given greater responsibility and stewardship in the life to come.

v. 27 – In the OT, Israelites were forbidden from charging interest to other Israelites, but it was permissible to charge interest on money loaned to Gentiles. In any case, the central point of the parable concerns the importance of being a faithful servant of all that God has entrusted to one’s care.

v. 40 – In the context of the parable the “least of these” refers to those who are most needy among Jesus’ brothers – a reference most likely to Jesus’ disciples and by extension all believers. The “sheep” are commended for their great compassion for those in need. The righteous will inherit the kingdom not because of the compassionate works they have done but because their righteousness comes from their transformed hearts as evidenced by their compassion for the “least of these”. In caring for those in need, the righteous discover that their acts of compassion for the needy are the same as if done for Jesus himself.

v. 41-46 – The reason for their condemnation is that they are guilty of sins of omission.