Good and Faithful – Matt 25
“His lord said unto him, Well done, good and faithful servant; thou hast been faithful over a few things, I will make thee ruler over many things: enter thou into the joy of thy lord.” — Matthew 25:23
The return of Christ and the end of this age is a reality that should impact all of our choices and actions today. As Jesus continued to talk to His disciples in Matthew 25, He challenged them to preparedness (v. 1-13), faithfulness (v. 14-30), and genuine faith (v.31-46).
The parable of the ten young ladies awaiting the bridegroom’s return was lesson in being ready. They did not have oil in their lamps, and so could not accompany the bridegroom. Are we ready for Christ to come back? When He comes, will we have the oil of salvation and God’s Holy Spirit?
The parable of the lord who left His servants with various talents speaks of the need to use what He has given us. When Christ returns, will we have used what He gave us for His honour and glory? Or will we have done nothing with what He has given us?
The judgment of the Gentile nations is a challenge to live out our faith. Those who treat Israel correctly in the future will show they have genuine faith and will enter the kingdom. The ones who do will reveal that they are not believers and will not enter the kingdom and be saved.
Though much of this is written to future generations, there are definite applications for us. Let us be prepared for Christ is coming back soon to first rapture the church. Let us be busy using the gifts and abilities and opportunities that Christ has given us. Let us make sure we are genuine in the exercising of our faith in all we do.