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Verse
Context
The Sheep and the Goats
34Then the King will say to those on His right, ‘Come, you who are blessed by My Father, inherit the kingdom prepared for you from the foundation of the world.35For I was hungry and you gave Me something to eat, I was thirsty and you gave Me something to drink, I was a stranger and you took Me in,36I was naked and you clothed Me, I was sick and you looked after Me, I was in prison and you visited Me.’
Sermons







Summary
Commentary
- Jamieson-Fausset-Brown
- John Gill
- Tyndale
Jamieson-Fausset-Brown Bible Commentary
For I was an hungered . . . thirsty . . . a stranger, &c.
John Gill Bible Commentary
For I was an hungered and ye gave me meat..... This, and the following, are not mentioned as causes of the kingdom being prepared for them, or of their being entitled to it, or of their being put into the possession of it; but as descriptive of their characters, and as testimonies and evidences of the grace of God in them; by which it appeared, that they were the blessed of his Father, having his special grace vouchsafed unto them; and that they were the children of God, to whom the inheritance of the kingdom belonged, and for whom it was prepared: for what was done by them in time, could never be the cause of what was done for them in eternity, or before, or from the foundation of the world; nor is there any proportion between a kingdom, and such services as here mentioned: and besides, this kingdom is by inheritance, and not, merit; is prepared by God, and not procured by men, and was got ready for them before they had a being; and therefore could not be caused by any actions of theirs: what is here, and in the following instances, said to be done to Christ, is not to be understood of him personally, but mystically, of the members of his body, as he himself explains it, Mat 25:40, and the sense is, that when some of the servants of Christ, ministers, or private Christians, were in distress for want of the necessaries of life, these gracious souls supplied them with food; which to do, especially in a time of persecution, showed not only love to Christ, but great faith in him, and that they were not ashamed of him, and their profession of him, nor of his poor ministers and members; for this was done by them, not as the effect of mere humanity to the poor in general, but as an instance of affection to Christ's poor; and was done for his sake, and because they belonged to him, were preachers of his Gospel, and professors of his name; and therefore was considered as if done to himself personally: I was thirsty, and ye gave me drink; not gall and vinegar, as the Jews did, but a cup of cold water in the name of a disciple, prophet, and righteous person, and because belonging to Christ: this is taken notice of with acceptance by him; and such shall not lose the reward of grace. The Targumist (g) has a passage which may be compared with this: "Solomon said, by a spirit of prophecy from before the Lord; the Lord of the world shall say to all the righteous in the presence of everyone, go taste, with joy, thy bread which is returned unto thee, for thy bread which thou hast given to the poor and needy, who were hungry; and drink with a good heart the wine which is laid up for thee in paradise, instead of thy wine, which thou hast mingled for the poor and needy, who were thirsty; for, lo! now are thy works accepted before the Lord. I was a stranger, and ye took me in, or "gathered me": an Hebraism; see Sa2 11:27, and the Septuagint there. Such servants of Christ as were obliged to quit their habitations through the violence of persecution, and were scattered abroad, or went about preaching the Gospel; such were by these righteous ones taken into their houses, and provided for with food and lodging, and every convenience of life; as they were by Gaius, and others, (g) Zohar in Eccl. ix. 7.
Tyndale Open Study Notes
25:35-36 The deeds described here, often called “deeds of mercy,” were acts of compassion shown to the helpless (see Isa 58:1-12; Ezek 18:7; Jas 1:26-27). These good deeds are not attempts to merit God’s favor; rather, they arise from a love for Christ that results in compassion toward others (see 6:1-4).
The Sheep and the Goats
34Then the King will say to those on His right, ‘Come, you who are blessed by My Father, inherit the kingdom prepared for you from the foundation of the world.35For I was hungry and you gave Me something to eat, I was thirsty and you gave Me something to drink, I was a stranger and you took Me in,36I was naked and you clothed Me, I was sick and you looked after Me, I was in prison and you visited Me.’
- Scripture
- Sermons
- Commentary
Fighting Hypocrisy in the Church
By Francis Chan9.4K46:17HypocrisyMAT 25:351CO 5:4In this sermon, the speaker reflects on a play he watched and how it made him question his own commitment to living out the Bible. He emphasizes the importance of not just preaching about denying oneself and following God, but actually living it out. The speaker also references Matthew 25 and the parable of the sheep and goats, highlighting the need to care for the poor and needy. He encourages the church to take slander seriously and confront those who engage in it. The sermon concludes with the speaker sharing how their church's commitment to caring for the poor has garnered attention and praise from people around the world.
Cost of Discipleship - Part 12
By Paris Reidhead5.5K20:50Cost Of DiscipleshipMAT 25:35ROM 8:102CO 5:17GAL 2:20In this sermon, the speaker explains that when we open our hearts to receive Jesus Christ, we close the gap between us and God. Through faith, we can connect with God and receive His blessings. The speaker emphasizes that when we receive Jesus, we receive the broadcast from Calvary, where our sins are forgiven and we have peace with God. The sermon also shares a powerful story of a man named Karga who, despite the pain of his father's murder, chose to share the message of Christ with the people responsible. Through his testimony, many people came to know Jesus and a church was established. The sermon concludes by highlighting the mystery of the Trinity and the fact that God is present in every aspect of our lives.
Testimony - Part 5
By Jackie Pullinger3.8K09:56Empowerment through the Holy SpiritTestimonyCompassionMAT 25:35Jackie Pullinger shares a poignant testimony about the tragic death of a mother and the subsequent struggles of her children, highlighting the importance of caring for those in need. Despite her initial inability to help the mother in time, Pullinger recounts how the children sought refuge with her, leading to their eventual healing and acceptance of Jesus. She emphasizes the necessity of the Holy Spirit's power in ministry, recounting her journey to understanding and utilizing spiritual gifts, which ultimately transformed her ability to share the gospel effectively. The sermon illustrates the profound impact of faith, love, and community support in overcoming adversity and finding hope in Jesus.
New Life Baptist Church - Part 4
By Paul Washer3.4K1:28:28EZK 36:26MAT 25:35In this sermon, the preacher addresses the problems he sees in America today. He highlights the poor understanding of the gospel of Jesus Christ, which has been reduced to a simplistic formula for salvation. He emphasizes the need for the true power of the gospel to be preached, rather than relying on church growth techniques and manipulation. The preacher also emphasizes the transformative nature of true salvation, where a person's heart is changed and they no longer desire the sins they once loved.
Psalm 100- Prayer and Praise
By Francis Chan2.9K44:10MAT 25:35This sermon emphasizes the impact of giving and caring for others, highlighting the need to look beyond ourselves and address the needs of individuals in our communities. It also touches on the challenges faced in spreading the gospel, the importance of seeking God wholeheartedly, and the power of prayer for various missions and projects.
Winning God's Approval - Part 2
By Zac Poonen2.5K49:25ApprovalJOB 1:21JOB 29:15JOB 31:1MAT 5:28MAT 6:24MAT 25:35GAL 3:24In this sermon, the preacher discusses two types of preachers: those who focus on visions and dreams, and those who cling to traditions. He emphasizes the importance of not changing what our forefathers believed and challenges the listener to see if God will accept that challenge. The preacher then shifts to discussing the book of Job and how Job's response was not always perfect, but God still blessed him. He highlights the difference between the Old Covenant and the New Covenant, stating that in the Old Covenant, God treated people like children, but in the New Covenant, God treats us like adult sons. The preacher concludes by discussing the three-fold hedge of protection that God puts around believers and how it brings comfort in times of trouble.
Oh God, How Long Shall the Enemy Reproach
By Carter Conlon2.4K1:04:06ReproachISA 58:6MAT 8:20MAT 16:24MAT 25:35LUK 4:21ACT 1:8In this sermon, the preacher emphasizes the importance of the church resembling the original pattern set by Jesus. He highlights the need for believers to take up their cross and follow Christ, just as Jesus yielded himself to the provision of his Father. The preacher references Isaiah 58:6, which speaks about the true meaning of fasting and how it involves helping those in need and showing compassion. He encourages believers to walk with God, talk to Him, and trust in His guidance, promising that God will satisfy their souls and make them like a watered garden.
Ger-14 the Rule of God Through Israel
By Art Katz1.6K1:01:16GermanMAT 25:35The sermon transcript discusses the issue of life and death and the importance of extending mercy, even at the risk of one's own life. It emphasizes the need to help refugees and those in need, as an act of grace that can lead them to believe in God. The sermon also highlights the longing for God's theocratic kingdom and the return of Jesus to establish his throne in Jerusalem. It emphasizes the role of the church in seeking and discerning God's will and fulfilling his purposes, particularly in relation to the restoration of Israel.
Times Square Church Fast - Day 2
By Carter Conlon1.4K1:05:07ISA 6:8MAT 25:35This sermon emphasizes the importance of moving beyond personal comfort zones to reach out to those in need, trusting in God's provision and being willing vessels for His work. It highlights the need for spiritual authority, compassion, and obedience to God's leading in confronting the darkness and bringing life to a dead generation.
The Call to Die
By Jackie Pullinger1.1K1:19:03SurrenderJDG 7:20MAT 25:35GAL 2:10In this sermon, the speaker shares their experience of working with the poor and how traditional methods and strategies do not work with them. They emphasize the importance of recognizing the heart of Christ in ministry rather than focusing on numbers. The speaker also mentions their involvement with the triads, a mafia-like group, and how it affected their visa application. They highlight the privilege of ministering with the poor and share stories of families struggling with poverty and difficult circumstances.
Ezra's Reading of the Law to the People
By Chuck Smith1.1K25:04Law Of GodEXO 17:6NEH 8:7NEH 8:10MAT 25:35JHN 4:14JHN 7:37ACT 8:8In this sermon, Pastor Chuck Smith emphasizes the importance of experiencing the work of the Holy Spirit in our lives. He highlights the joy that comes from understanding and following God's word, as seen in the examples of the apostles and the people of Samaria. Pastor Chuck also discusses the significance of fasting and repentance as a means of seeking God's forgiveness and guidance. He encourages believers to rejoice in the work of the Spirit and to share their blessings with others, particularly the poor.
Interview With James A. Stewart
By James A. Stewart1.1K14:40InterviewMAT 25:35JAS 1:27In this sermon transcript, James Stewart discusses the oppressive living conditions in tenement buildings in certain countries, where spies monitor the comings and goings of residents. He suggests that this atmosphere of fear and surveillance could potentially lead to revolution. Stewart also highlights the lack of liberty experienced by the Russian people, even under the czar, and the constant surveillance they faced. He emphasizes the importance of both spiritual and social work, stating that while he preaches the old-fashioned gospel, practical Christianity is necessary in a world filled with misery.
In Gods We Trust
By Shane Idleman73355:31PSA 82:3ISA 58:10EZK 16:49MAT 25:35JAS 1:22This sermon emphasizes the need to dethrone the idol of materialism and abundance in our lives by giving to those in need. It highlights the importance of repentance, restructuring our lifestyles, and extending our souls to the hungry and afflicted. The message focuses on the transformation of the heart, seeking God's will, and finding peace and joy through obedience and generosity.
The God of Materialism (Clip)
By Shane Idleman71806:45PRO 19:17ISA 58:10MAT 25:35This sermon challenges the congregation to reflect on their materialism and self-absorption in light of the extreme poverty and suffering experienced by many around the world. It emphasizes the need to restructure lifestyles to bless others, support missions, and address critical needs like sex trafficking. The speaker urges a shift from self-focus to making a tangible difference in the lives of those in need, highlighting the importance of sacrificial giving and serving.
47 - Integrating North and South Korea
By Ben Torrey68307:04Compassion for RefugeesIntegrationNorth KoreaMAT 25:35Ben Torrey addresses the challenges of integrating North and South Korea, focusing on the struggles faced by North Korean refugees and Chinese Koreans in adapting to life in the South. He highlights the cultural and social disconnect that leads to feelings of loneliness and depression among these individuals, as well as the inadequacy of current support systems. Torrey emphasizes the role of the Church in reaching out to these communities, suggesting that churches adopt North Korean families to foster integration and understanding. He calls for a compassionate response that acknowledges cultural differences and promotes love and support for those in need. Ultimately, he believes that such efforts could pave the way for future integration when North Korea opens up.
Jesus, the Saviour Who Cares
By Erlo Stegen54455:01PSA 107:9ISA 58:10MAT 6:25MAT 14:13MAT 15:32MAT 25:35MRK 8:1LUK 9:12JHN 6:1PHP 4:19This sermon focuses on the two instances of Jesus feeding the thousands, emphasizing how Jesus cared for both the spiritual and physical needs of the people. It highlights the compassion and mercy Jesus showed towards the crowds, teaching his disciples about the importance of relying on God in times of great need. The sermon delves into the significance of the miracles, the disciples' doubts, and the abundance that resulted from Jesus' provision, showcasing Jesus as a caring Savior who understands and meets our needs.
In "Gods" We Trust
By Shane Idleman5055:32Trust in GodGenerosityMAT 25:35Shane Idleman emphasizes the importance of trusting in God over material possessions in his sermon 'In
Homily 4 on Matthew
By St. John Chrysostom1DAN 3:17MAT 25:35HEB 11:38John Chrysostom preaches about the importance of imitating the faith and courage of the three young men in the fiery furnace, who chose to remain faithful to God even in the face of great danger. He emphasizes the need to prioritize spiritual wealth over material riches, urging believers to show compassion and generosity towards the poor and needy. Chrysostom warns against the dangers of idolizing wealth and exhorts listeners to find true glory in humility, self-restraint, and gratitude towards God, even in times of adversity.
Isaiah 58:7-8
By Samuel Johnson0PRO 19:17PRO 22:9ISA 58:7MAT 25:35LUK 6:38GAL 6:2EPH 4:32HEB 13:16JAS 2:141JN 3:17Samuel Johnson preaches about the importance of charity and compassion towards the needy and distressed, emphasizing that God requires us to help those in need as a tribute of gratitude for His blessings. He highlights how charity not only benefits the recipients but also promotes virtue and protects individuals from falling into sin, especially in the face of poverty and temptation. Johnson urges the congregation to reflect on the shortness of life and the eternal rewards of practicing charity, reminding them that true charity arises from faith in God's promises and expects rewards in the afterlife.
Baker , Caleb J. Bio
By John Bjorlie0MAT 6:19MAT 25:35LUK 12:33JHN 6:35ACT 20:352CO 5:11TI 6:17JAS 2:141JN 3:17John Bjorlie shares the inspiring story of Caleb Jason Baker, a man of faith who trusted in God's provision and turned his humble beginnings into a successful business, using his resources to help those in need and spread the gospel. Despite facing challenges like the Chicago fire, Baker's unwavering faith led him to establish a rescue mission and later start an assembly in Kansas City, impacting many lives through his evangelistic efforts and generosity. His dedication to serving others and sharing the message of Christ exemplifies a life lived in accordance with 2 Corinthians 5:1, focusing on eternal treasures rather than earthly riches.
1 Peter 4:9
By John Gill0Love for StrangersHospitalityGEN 18:1LEV 19:34MAT 25:35LUK 10:33ACT 28:7ROM 12:13GAL 6:2HEB 13:21PE 4:91JN 3:17John Gill emphasizes the importance of hospitality in his sermon on 1 Peter 4:9, urging believers to love and care for strangers, particularly those who are displaced for their faith. He explains that hospitality should be shown both by not causing distress to others and by actively providing for their needs, such as food and shelter. Gill highlights biblical examples of hospitality, including Abraham and Lot, and stresses that this practice is not only a natural inclination but also a command from God. He encourages the faithful to embrace hospitality without grudging, viewing it as a vital expression of love and charity among believers, especially those who are strangers to one another.
The Tent Dwellers of Faith
By Finis S. Idleman0MAT 25:35GAL 6:2HEB 11:9HEB 11:13JAS 2:14Finis S. Idleman preaches about the audacious faith of ancient heroes and the disciples of Jesus, who renounced worldly comforts for the promise of a better country. He emphasizes the importance of Church Extension as an opportunity to partner with faith's immortals, sustain the faith of tent dwellers, and build places of worship for the community. Idleman challenges established congregations to show loyalty and love through contributions to Church Extension, highlighting the need for cooperation and stewardship in shaping new communities and supporting homeless Disciples.
In the United States
By K.P. Yohannan0Missionary WorkCompassion for the PoorMAT 25:35K.P. Yohannan shares his experiences of traveling in the United States and the stark contrast of living conditions faced by national missionaries in Asia, who often go without food due to financial constraints. He reflects on the suffering of these missionaries and their families, particularly in unreached fishing villages in Tamil Nadu, where poverty and illiteracy hinder the spread of the Gospel. Yohannan recounts the dedication of Brother Moses Paulose, who sacrificed his own comfort to raise funds for a projector to share the Gospel effectively. This sermon emphasizes the importance of empathy and action towards those in need, urging listeners to consider the plight of the less fortunate.
For Bedding Let This Suffice
By St. Benedict of Nursia0PRO 22:9MAT 25:35ACT 4:35PHP 2:41JN 3:17St. Benedict of Nursia emphasizes the importance of communal living and the eradication of private ownership among the monks. He instructs the Abbot to regularly inspect the monks' belongings to ensure they only possess items provided by the monastery. The Abbot is encouraged to supply all necessary items to remove any excuse for personal possessions, while always considering the needs of the less fortunate. St. Benedict reminds the Abbot to base decisions on God's retribution and the principle of distributing resources according to individual needs.
Christmas Mourning
By Keith Green0ISA 9:6MAT 25:35LUK 2:10JHN 3:16JAS 1:27Keith Green reflects on the joy and expectation of Christmas from his childhood, filled with the warmth of family, friends, and giving. He shares his journey of discovering the true meaning of Christmas through encountering Jesus at the age of 21, transforming his perspective on the holiday. Keith delves into the origin of Christmas, highlighting Constantine's role in merging Christian celebrations with pagan festivals to appease the masses. He also discusses the evolution of St. Nick into Santa Claus and the commercialization of gift-giving. Finally, Keith challenges Christians to refocus on the true essence of Christmas by spreading the Gospel, helping the needy, and teaching the next generation the value of sacrificial giving.
- Jamieson-Fausset-Brown
- John Gill
- Tyndale
Jamieson-Fausset-Brown Bible Commentary
For I was an hungered . . . thirsty . . . a stranger, &c.
John Gill Bible Commentary
For I was an hungered and ye gave me meat..... This, and the following, are not mentioned as causes of the kingdom being prepared for them, or of their being entitled to it, or of their being put into the possession of it; but as descriptive of their characters, and as testimonies and evidences of the grace of God in them; by which it appeared, that they were the blessed of his Father, having his special grace vouchsafed unto them; and that they were the children of God, to whom the inheritance of the kingdom belonged, and for whom it was prepared: for what was done by them in time, could never be the cause of what was done for them in eternity, or before, or from the foundation of the world; nor is there any proportion between a kingdom, and such services as here mentioned: and besides, this kingdom is by inheritance, and not, merit; is prepared by God, and not procured by men, and was got ready for them before they had a being; and therefore could not be caused by any actions of theirs: what is here, and in the following instances, said to be done to Christ, is not to be understood of him personally, but mystically, of the members of his body, as he himself explains it, Mat 25:40, and the sense is, that when some of the servants of Christ, ministers, or private Christians, were in distress for want of the necessaries of life, these gracious souls supplied them with food; which to do, especially in a time of persecution, showed not only love to Christ, but great faith in him, and that they were not ashamed of him, and their profession of him, nor of his poor ministers and members; for this was done by them, not as the effect of mere humanity to the poor in general, but as an instance of affection to Christ's poor; and was done for his sake, and because they belonged to him, were preachers of his Gospel, and professors of his name; and therefore was considered as if done to himself personally: I was thirsty, and ye gave me drink; not gall and vinegar, as the Jews did, but a cup of cold water in the name of a disciple, prophet, and righteous person, and because belonging to Christ: this is taken notice of with acceptance by him; and such shall not lose the reward of grace. The Targumist (g) has a passage which may be compared with this: "Solomon said, by a spirit of prophecy from before the Lord; the Lord of the world shall say to all the righteous in the presence of everyone, go taste, with joy, thy bread which is returned unto thee, for thy bread which thou hast given to the poor and needy, who were hungry; and drink with a good heart the wine which is laid up for thee in paradise, instead of thy wine, which thou hast mingled for the poor and needy, who were thirsty; for, lo! now are thy works accepted before the Lord. I was a stranger, and ye took me in, or "gathered me": an Hebraism; see Sa2 11:27, and the Septuagint there. Such servants of Christ as were obliged to quit their habitations through the violence of persecution, and were scattered abroad, or went about preaching the Gospel; such were by these righteous ones taken into their houses, and provided for with food and lodging, and every convenience of life; as they were by Gaius, and others, (g) Zohar in Eccl. ix. 7.
Tyndale Open Study Notes
25:35-36 The deeds described here, often called “deeds of mercy,” were acts of compassion shown to the helpless (see Isa 58:1-12; Ezek 18:7; Jas 1:26-27). These good deeds are not attempts to merit God’s favor; rather, they arise from a love for Christ that results in compassion toward others (see 6:1-4).