Context

• Jesus delivered this final parable to His disciples before reminding them one more time of His imminent death (Matt. 26:2).
• In the previous two parables, He taught to be ready for His return (25:1-13) and to be active in the meantime (25:14-30).
• While Christ calls us to be compassionate to all, this parable focuses on our responsibility to other Christians (25:40).

Content

• King Jesus will eventually sort through all of us and pronounce judgment based upon the evidence our life provides.
• The sheep belong to Jesus, but the goats are those who are out of place while looking and grazing similarly.
• Christ notices when we provide food, drink, hospitality, clothing, care, and support to those in need.
• Offering compassion to other believers is a service Jesus receives as if done for Him personally.
• Our eternal standing is not decided by our works, but it is distinguished by them.

Concept

• Compassionate disciples motivated by grace aren’t concerned about their efforts being noticed.
• None of our efforts are deemed insignificant in light of eternity.
• Our actions serve as proof of our standing with God, not a prerequisite. 
• You cannot obey this parable if you aren’t close enough to know the needs of fellow believers. 
• What does your manner of compassion for God’s people say about your relationship with God?