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Matthew 25:40
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Commentary
- Jamieson-Fausset-Brown
- John Gill
- Tyndale
Jamieson-Fausset-Brown Bible Commentary
And the King shall answer and say unto them, Verily I say unto you, &c.--Astonishing dialogue this between the King, from the Throne of His glory, and His wondering people! "I was an hungered, and ye gave Me meat," &c.--"Not we," they reply. "We never did that, Lord: We were born out of due time, and enjoyed not the privilege of ministering unto Thee." "But ye did it to these My brethren, now beside you, when cast upon your love." "Truth, Lord, but was that doing it to Thee? Thy name was indeed dear to us, and we thought it a great honor to suffer shame for it. When among the destitute and distressed we discerned any of the household of faith, we will not deny that our hearts leapt within us at the discovery, and when their knock came to our dwelling, our bowels were moved, as though 'our Beloved Himself had put in His hand by the hole of the door.' Sweet was the fellowship we had with them, as if we had 'entertained angels unawares'; all difference between giver and receiver somehow melted away under the beams of that love of Thine which knit us together; nay, rather, as they left us with gratitude for our poor givings, we seemed the debtors--not they. But, Lord, were we all that time in company with Thee? . . . Yes, that scene was all with Me," replies the King--"Me in the disguise of My poor ones. The door shut against Me by others was opened by you--'Ye took Me in.' Apprehended and imprisoned by the enemies of the truth, ye whom the truth had made free sought Me out diligently and found Me; visiting Me in My lonely cell at the risk of your own lives, and cheering My solitude; ye gave Me a coat, for I shivered; and then I felt warm. With cups of cold water ye moistened My parched lips; when famished with hunger ye supplied Me with crusts, and my spirit revived--"YE DID IT UNTO ME." What thoughts crowd upon us as we listen to such a description of the scenes of the Last Judgment! And in the light of this view of the heavenly dialogue, how bald and wretched, not to say unscriptural, is that view of it to which we referred at the outset, which makes it a dialogue between Christ and heathens who never heard of His name, and of course never felt any stirrings of His love in their hearts! To us it seems a poor, superficial objection to the Christian view of this scene, that Christians could never be supposed to ask such questions as the "blessed of Christ's Father" are made to ask here. If there were any difficulty in explaining this, the difficulty of the other view is such as to make it, at least, insufferable. But there is no real difficulty. The surprise expressed is not at their being told that they acted from love to Christ, but that Christ Himself was the Personal Object of all their deeds: that they found Him hungry, and supplied Him with food: that they brought water to Him, and slaked His thirst; that seeing Him naked and shivering, they put warm clothing upon Him, paid Him visits when lying in prison for the truth, and sat by His bedside when laid down with sickness. This is the astonishing interpretation which Jesus says "the King" will give to them of their own actions here below. And will any Christian reply, "How could this astonish them? Does not every Christian know that He does these very things, when He does them at all, just as they are here represented?" Nay, rather, is it conceivable that they should not be astonished, and almost doubt their own ears, to hear such an account of their own actions upon earth from the lips of the Judge? And remember, that Judge has come in His glory, and now sits upon the throne of His glory, and all the holy angels are with Him; and that it is from those glorified Lips that the words come forth, "Ye did all this unto ME." Oh, can we imagine such a word addressed to ourselves, and then fancy ourselves replying, "Of course we did--To whom else did we anything? It must be others than we that are addressed, who never knew, in all their good deeds, what they were about?" Rather, can we imagine ourselves not overpowered with astonishment, and scarcely able to credit the testimony borne to us by the King?
John Gill Bible Commentary
Then shall he also say unto them on his left hand,.... The goats, the foolish virgins, and slothful and wicked servants, depart from me: a like expression is used by him to preachers of the word, and professors of religion, that are mere nominal ones. Mat 7:23 and such are intended here, who professed to be on Christ's side, had been in his visible church, and hoped to have been with him for ever; but having nothing but the lamp of a profession, and some external works to trust to, they are bid to be gone from him; they are banished his presence, which is what is commonly called the punishment of loss; the loss of the presence of God, Father, Son, and Spirit, angels, and saints; and is thought to be greater than the punishment of sense, hereafter expressed. The character given of them, which is the reverse of the former, is, ye cursed; for having sinned against God, and his righteous law, they are cursed by it, which curses everyone that is under its works, as these were, and do not perfectly fulfil whatsoever it requires; and so were justly rejected of God, and hated by him: and therefore are condemned and sent, into everlasting fire: by which is meant, the wrath of God; and the phrase expresses the intolerable fierceness of it, and its perpetual continuance; the sense of which, without intermission, will ever be felt in the conscience; and is the punishment of sense, the wicked will for ever endure: it may also intend the pit and prison of hell, where these torments will be for ever inflicted; and so hell is called by the Jews (k), the hell , "eternal fire", or "everlasting burning": and is here said to be prepared for the devil and his angels; for Satan, or Beelzebub, the prince of devils, and all his principalities and powers under him: it is not said to be prepared for these persons, though it was, and who were foreordained to this condemnation, but for the devil and his angels; showing, that the same punishment will be inflicted on hypocrites and carnal professors, as on the devils themselves; and it is indeed of such, that the devouring fire, and everlasting burnings are spoken, in Isa 33:14, to which this passage seems to have some respect; for no where else is mention made of this everlasting fire: it is not said neither when it was prepared. It is a notion of the Jews (l), that the angels were created on the second day; and it should seem by them, that they fell the same day; hence it is a prevailing opinion among them (m), that hell was made on the second day of the creation; though at, other times, they reckon hell among the seven things which were created before the world was (n), and which may be reconciled together: for as heaven, the place of the saints' happiness, was prepared from the foundation of the world, or on the first day of its creation, though the happiness itself was provided long before; so hell, the place of the torments of the devils and wicked, though it was not made or prepared until the second day of the creation, when, according to this opinion, the angels were made and fell; yet the punishment they were to endure there, was appointed before the world was; and so hell is said to. , "be ordained from eternity", because of their sins (o), (k) Targum in Isa. xxxiii. 14. (l) Targum Jon. in Gen. i. 26. Pirke Eliezer, c. 4. (m) Targum in Cant. viii. 6. T. Bab. Pesach. fol. 54. 1. Zohar in Gen. fol. 13. 3. & 30. 2. & in Exod. fol. 61. 4. & in Deut. fol. 120. 1. Bereshit Rabba, sect. 4. fol. 4. 1. & sect. 21. fol. 19. 1. Shemot Rabba, sect. 15. fol. 101. 4. Tzeror Hammor, fol. 1. 2. & 121. & 1. 2. & 130. 3. (n) T. Bab. Pesach. fol. 54. 1. & Nedar. fol. 39. 2. Zokar in Lev. fol. 14. 4. Targum Jon. in Gen iii. 24. (o) Targum in Isa. xxx. 33.
Tyndale Open Study Notes
25:40 my brothers and sisters: This expresses either Jesus’ solidarity with his disciples (see 10:42; 18:1-14; Gal 6:10) or Jesus’ solidarity with humanity in general, irrespective of the faith of the one being helped (see Matt 6:1-4; 25:43; Prov 19:17). The use of brothers and sisters points to the first interpretation (Matt 12:46-50; 18:15-35; 23:8; 28:10) but does not invalidate social responsibility for other people in general (see Luke 10:30-37).
Matthew 25:40
The Sheep and the Goats
39When did we see You sick or in prison and visit You?’40And the King will reply, ‘Truly I tell you, whatever you did for one of the least of these brothers of Mine, you did for Me.’
- Scripture
- Sermons
- Commentary
Rope Wanted
By William Booth8.0K02:14Classic RecordingsPSA 127:3PRO 31:8ISA 58:10MAT 6:33MAT 25:40LUK 10:25JAS 1:27In this sermon, the preacher tells the story of Mary, a young woman who bravely risked her life to save others during a devastating tidal wave. Despite the warnings of her comrades, Mary was determined to rescue the children who were perishing. She went out into the storm with a coil of rope, but tragically, she did not return. The preacher uses this story to emphasize the importance of selfless sacrifice and the need for more resources to help those in need.
Dvd - 23: Timeless Interview (High Quality)
By Art Katz7.1K57:06JER 30:7EZK 20:35AMO 9:9MAT 16:24MAT 25:40REV 12:6This sermon by Art Katz discusses his journey from being a professional atheist to accepting Jesus Christ as his Messiah. He emphasizes the importance of authenticity in the church, highlighting the need for a genuine relationship with God and the dangers of falling into religious clichés. Katz also shares his prophetic anticipation for the Jewish people, expecting apocalyptic suffering and the need for places of refuge in the last days.
(Becoming a Prophetic Church) 3. Israel the Suffering Servant - Part 2
By Art Katz6.4K04:34Suffering for OthersThe Role of Israel in RedemptionSuffering ServantPSA 126:5ISA 53:5MAT 25:40JHN 15:20ROM 8:172CO 1:5PHP 3:10HEB 13:31PE 4:13REV 21:4Art Katz emphasizes the profound significance of Israel's suffering as a means to reveal the true church and the true God to the nations. He highlights that only the righteous are willing to suffer for others, particularly for Israel, who is both a suffering servant and a reflection of Christ's own sacrifice. Katz calls for a deeper understanding of God's purposes through suffering, urging the church to identify with Israel and participate in their journey. He warns against reducing the church's calling to mere programs, advocating instead for a prophetic and apostolic stature that embraces suffering for the sake of God's glory and Israel's redemption. The sermon concludes with a prayer for the church to awaken to its eternal destiny and the necessity of suffering in fulfilling God's redemptive plan.
Timeless Interview
By Art Katz4.6K56:06JER 30:7EZK 20:35AMO 9:9MAT 25:40REV 12:6REV 12:11This sermon by Art Katz delves into the importance of authenticity, truth, and anointing in the church. He highlights the need for a genuine relationship with God, the dangers of religious clichés, and the prophetic anticipation of apocalyptic suffering for Israel. Art emphasizes the significance of standing with the oppressed, particularly Jews, in the last days and the necessity for sacrificial love and courage in the face of persecution.
Testimony - Part 3
By Jackie Pullinger4.2K09:57TestimonyPSA 82:3PRO 14:21ISA 58:10MIC 6:8MAT 25:40LUK 10:25JAS 1:27In this sermon, the speaker reflects on the overwhelming number of people in need in Hong Kong. They express a desire to understand and love the people in their community, but feel overwhelmed by the sheer number of faces and stories. The speaker then shares their realization that they can make a difference in a specific area called the World City, where there is a need for a nursery to care for babies and support for teenagers who cannot afford to go to school. They also mention the presence of homeless individuals in the area. The speaker sees this as their calling and a way to make a positive impact in their community.
Being to Familar With Christ - Slovakia Conference 2003 (Slovakian/english)
By David Wilkerson3.9K2:37:02Familiar With ChristISA 61:1MAT 9:12MAT 11:28MAT 25:40LUK 4:18LUK 4:21ACT 2:38In this sermon, Pastor David shares a powerful testimony of how God transformed the lives of Mary and James, who were once homeless and struggling with addiction. Through God's intervention, Mary and James experienced physical and emotional healing, and their lives were completely changed. They dedicated their lives to serving God and making a difference in the lives of others. Despite facing challenges and the loss of James, Mary continued to carry on their ministry until her passing. The sermon emphasizes the love of Jesus and the transformative power of the gospel.
Testimony - Part 7
By Jackie Pullinger3.7K09:53True MinistryTestimonyUnconditional LoveMAT 25:40MRK 12:31LUK 6:35JHN 15:13ROM 5:82CO 5:14GAL 6:2PHP 2:41TH 1:51JN 3:16Jackie Pullinger shares her testimony of faith and sacrifice, illustrating the profound impact of unconditional love and service to others, particularly the needy. She recounts her experience of selling her beloved oboe to help a girl in trouble, emphasizing that true ministry is not about expecting gratitude or change but about reflecting the love of Jesus, who gave His life for us without conditions. Pullinger's encounter with a gang leader highlights the importance of living out the gospel through actions and genuine care, rather than mere words. Ultimately, she stresses that the essence of ministry lies in sharing our lives and love with others, just as Christ did for us.
Dvd 03 - Israel, the Suffering Servant
By Art Katz3.7K1:27:27PSA 22:1ISA 53:3EZK 20:38AMO 9:9MIC 4:2MAT 25:40JHN 10:30ACT 3:21This sermon delves deep into the significance of Jesus' crucifixion, highlighting the parallel between the suffering of Jesus and the future suffering of the Jewish people. It emphasizes the need for nations to recognize the suffering of Israel as a means of understanding the depth of God's glory and redemption. The message calls for a profound revelation of God through the suffering of His people and the importance of extending mercy to Israel, even at the risk of one's own life, as a determinant of one's eternal destiny.
Just Vessels
By Jackie Pullinger3.4K1:46:30PSA 72:12PSA 102:18PRO 19:17ISA 58:10JER 22:16MAT 25:40LUK 4:18GAL 2:10JAS 2:5This sermon emphasizes the importance of ministering to the poor, highlighting how God chooses the weak and needy to shame the strong, and how reaching out to the poor can lead to the transformation of lives and the spread of the gospel. It discusses the unfairness in the world, the need for humility, and the power of God's love to touch and change lives, especially those who are marginalized and forgotten. The sermon encourages a focus on serving the poor and allowing the Holy Spirit to work through individuals to bring about transformation and salvation.
The Indwelt Saint
By Leonard Ravenhill3.0K1:29:46Holy SpiritMAT 6:33MAT 25:40ACT 1:8ROM 6:6ROM 8:37In this sermon, the pastor discusses the concept of being more than conquerors. He explains that this statement is not an empty promise, but rather a reflection of the believer's victory through the redemptive work of Jesus Christ. The pastor emphasizes the power of the Spirit and the impact of revival in shaping the history of America. He also delves into Romans 7, highlighting the limitations of the law in bringing deliverance from sin and the need for a Savior. The sermon concludes with the story of Daniel in the lion's den, illustrating the liberation that comes from trusting in God's deliverance.
Road to Reality - Christ's Call - Part 2
By K.P. Yohannan2.8K26:02CallingMAT 25:40MAT 28:19In this sermon, the speaker emphasizes the importance of fasting and praying for the salvation of souls. He challenges the audience to dedicate one day of the week to fasting and praying. The speaker also urges believers to consider going to places like India, Afghanistan, and Bhutan to serve God and share the gospel with those who have never heard it. He highlights the significance of the 1040 window, which includes countries with a large population of people who have not heard the gospel. The speaker encourages believers to prioritize reaching the lost world and to use their resources to support missions work.
Take Heed to Yourselves
By Richard Baxter2.4K31:03Audio BooksMAT 7:21MAT 25:40MRK 12:31ROM 8:301CO 9:271TI 4:16JAS 1:22In this sermon, the preacher emphasizes the importance of not being slothful in business but fervent in spirit. He urges the audience to lose no time and to diligently study, pray, confer, and practice in order to increase their abilities. The preacher warns against behaving weakly or with indifference when delivering God's message, as it can dishonor God and hinder the work of conversion. He also reminds the audience to be mindful of the scrutiny of the world and to walk circumspectly, redeeming the time because the days are evil. The sermon emphasizes the need for holy skill in preaching and the importance of honoring God in the delivery of His message.
Choose to Serve, Part One
By K.P. Yohannan2.0K25:59ServiceMAT 25:40LUK 19:10In this sermon, Brother KP Ohanon emphasizes the importance of finding Jesus and what to do with that encounter. He encourages believers to not just gather information about the word of God, but to actively live out their faith. He references Matthew 25:40, where Jesus teaches that whatever is done for the least of his brothers is done for him. Brother KP also shares about the mission work of Gospel for Asia's Bridge of Hope program, which aims to rescue children from poverty and introduce them to the love of God.
Let the Children Come
By K.P. Yohannan2.0K43:19ChildrenMAT 6:33MAT 25:40MAT 28:19MRK 9:36MRK 10:13LUK 18:16JAS 1:27The video begins with a description of a poor Dalit woman who goes into the forest to collect firewood to sell and buy food for her children. The speaker then describes a dream in which he sees a massive bridge filled with children from all backgrounds. He interprets this dream as a message from God, urging him to embrace and help these children. The video highlights the dire conditions faced by millions of children in South Asia, including hunger, lack of education, and child labor. The speaker expresses his dream of seeing 100 million of these children come to know God and calls for action to address their needs.
Jackie Pullinger Testimony
By Gareth Evans1.9K07:05ISA 6:8MAT 25:40ACT 1:8ROM 8:311CO 1:272CO 12:9EPH 3:20PHP 4:13JAS 2:141JN 4:18This sermon shares a powerful testimony of encountering Jackie Pullinger, a remarkable individual who fearlessly entered the dangerous Wall City in Hong Kong to bring hope and light to drug addicts, criminals, and prostitutes. Through her selfless actions and unwavering faith, Jackie demonstrated how God can use anyone for His glory, regardless of qualifications or background, showcasing the transformative power of God's anointing in unexpected ways.
Useful for the Master - Part 10
By Jackie Pullinger1.9K09:40ISA 58:10JER 22:16EZK 16:49MAT 25:40LUK 4:18PHP 2:5This sermon emphasizes the importance of Christians behaving like Jesus Christ to inspire belief in others. It discusses the need to reach out to the poor and marginalized, especially those who cannot read, and the significance of helping them understand the gospel. The sermon also touches on the consequences of neglecting the poor and the commendation for defending the poor and needy, as seen in the Bible.
Evolution - Foundation for the Antichrist 1
By Kent Hovind1.9K58:14GEN 1:27PRO 24:11MAT 25:40ACT 17:26EPH 6:12This sermon delves into the dangerous implications of evolution as a foundation for ideologies like racism, genocide, and totalitarianism. It explores how influential figures like Hitler, Mussolini, and Stalin were driven by evolutionary beliefs to commit atrocities against humanity. The speaker highlights the importance of understanding the philosophical underpinnings of historical events and the urgent need to address the impact of such ideologies in modern society.
Bridge of Hope Maranatha
By K.P. Yohannan1.8K25:59BenevolenceMAT 7:7MAT 9:37MAT 19:14MAT 25:40MRK 10:14JHN 4:35JHN 14:6In this sermon, the speaker shares a personal story about his impoverished childhood and the struggles his family faced. He talks about his mother's death and the desperation they felt as they wandered the streets in search of food. The speaker then recounts a dream he had about a bridge filled with children from different backgrounds. The Holy Spirit speaks to his heart, urging him to reach out to these children. Inspired by this dream, the speaker and his team start schools for underprivileged children, providing hope and education to thousands.
Useful for the Master - Part 7
By Jackie Pullinger1.8K09:10ISA 61:1MAT 25:40LUK 15:7JHN 3:16ACT 1:8ROM 8:281CO 1:27EPH 2:41JN 4:19This sermon emphasizes the power of God's love and redemption, showcasing a transformative story of reaching out to the marginalized and witnessing the impact of Jesus' sacrificial love. It highlights the unexpected ways God works in people's lives, the challenges faced in ministry, and the profound change that occurs when individuals encounter the unconditional love of Christ.
(Through the Bible) 2 Timothy 3-4
By Chuck Smith1.8K1:13:30GEN 1:1MAT 25:402TI 3:162TI 4:1REV 20:12In this sermon, the speaker emphasizes the contrast between Christians and the world around them. He highlights how the Christian lifestyle should stand out as the world becomes more corrupt. The speaker expresses concern over the deterioration of a person who once had a legitimate ministry but has now become crude and blasphemous. He emphasizes the importance of preaching the Word of God and warns against the prevalence of preaching psychology and other topics instead. The speaker also references the Scriptures and encourages Timothy to continue in what he has learned from them.
Useful for the Master - Part 4
By Jackie Pullinger1.7K09:10PSA 41:1PRO 19:17PRO 22:9ISA 58:10MAT 25:40LUK 6:20LUK 14:131CO 1:26GAL 2:10JAS 2:5This sermon emphasizes the importance of ministering to the poor as a fundamental requirement for all Christians, highlighting God's heart for the marginalized and the need to reach out to them in various capacities. It challenges believers to consider their role in uplifting others and bringing about the Kingdom of God, stressing that ministry to the poor is not optional but a core aspect of following Jesus.
From Insignificance to Fame
By Arno Stegen1.7K1:04:05FameMAT 6:33MAT 25:40MAT 26:6MRK 14:1ACT 16:9In this sermon, the preacher focuses on the story of a woman who gave and did all she could for God. The preacher emphasizes the importance of responding to God's call and testing ourselves to see if we have done what we could. The sermon references Mark chapter 14, where the chief priests and scribes were seeking to kill Jesus. The preacher warns against giving the enemy an opportunity to harm the gospel and emphasizes the need to be in tune with the Lord in our service.
The Impact One Life Can Have, Part One
By K.P. Yohannan1.7K25:57BenevolenceJER 20:9LAM 1:12MAT 9:36MAT 25:40MAT 28:19LUK 15:4JHN 20:21In this sermon, the speaker shares his experience of witnessing the devastation caused by natural disasters in southern India, where millions of people were displaced and villages were wiped out. He reflects on his own emotional response to the suffering and prays for a compassionate heart. The speaker then references Matthew's Gospel, highlighting Jesus' compassion for the lost and his call for his followers to go and share the message of salvation. He emphasizes the urgency of reaching the billions of people who do not know Jesus and calls on the audience to embody the heart of Jesus in their generation. The speaker also shares a personal story of facing opposition while trying to establish a church, emphasizing the impact that one individual can have in spreading the gospel.
How Do I Humble Myself? (Part 2)
By Denny Kenaston1.7K1:06:01Humble YourselfMAT 6:33MAT 9:14MAT 23:11MAT 25:40JHN 17:17ROM 12:15JAS 4:10In this sermon, the speaker emphasizes that greatness does not require being the best, smartest, or most spiritual. Instead, greatness comes from becoming a servant of others. The speaker encourages listeners to humble themselves by submitting to their authorities, such as parents, bosses, and elders. Additionally, the speaker suggests that humility can be cultivated by grieving over the needs of those around us, including the church and the world. The sermon concludes with a powerful example of a man who used his television time to mourn and intercede for the brokenness he witnessed in the world.
Useful for the Master - Part 6
By Jackie Pullinger1.7K09:40MAT 25:40LUK 15:4This sermon emphasizes the importance of ministry to the poor, highlighting the sacrificial nature of this work that mirrors Jesus' unconditional love for each individual. It stresses the value of reaching out to one person at a time with the love of Jesus, regardless of immediate results, and the lasting impact such genuine care can have on individuals and communities. The speaker encourages a patient, one-on-one approach to sharing the gospel, focusing on building deep connections and meeting people where they are, rather than pressuring them into immediate responses.
- Jamieson-Fausset-Brown
- John Gill
- Tyndale
Jamieson-Fausset-Brown Bible Commentary
And the King shall answer and say unto them, Verily I say unto you, &c.--Astonishing dialogue this between the King, from the Throne of His glory, and His wondering people! "I was an hungered, and ye gave Me meat," &c.--"Not we," they reply. "We never did that, Lord: We were born out of due time, and enjoyed not the privilege of ministering unto Thee." "But ye did it to these My brethren, now beside you, when cast upon your love." "Truth, Lord, but was that doing it to Thee? Thy name was indeed dear to us, and we thought it a great honor to suffer shame for it. When among the destitute and distressed we discerned any of the household of faith, we will not deny that our hearts leapt within us at the discovery, and when their knock came to our dwelling, our bowels were moved, as though 'our Beloved Himself had put in His hand by the hole of the door.' Sweet was the fellowship we had with them, as if we had 'entertained angels unawares'; all difference between giver and receiver somehow melted away under the beams of that love of Thine which knit us together; nay, rather, as they left us with gratitude for our poor givings, we seemed the debtors--not they. But, Lord, were we all that time in company with Thee? . . . Yes, that scene was all with Me," replies the King--"Me in the disguise of My poor ones. The door shut against Me by others was opened by you--'Ye took Me in.' Apprehended and imprisoned by the enemies of the truth, ye whom the truth had made free sought Me out diligently and found Me; visiting Me in My lonely cell at the risk of your own lives, and cheering My solitude; ye gave Me a coat, for I shivered; and then I felt warm. With cups of cold water ye moistened My parched lips; when famished with hunger ye supplied Me with crusts, and my spirit revived--"YE DID IT UNTO ME." What thoughts crowd upon us as we listen to such a description of the scenes of the Last Judgment! And in the light of this view of the heavenly dialogue, how bald and wretched, not to say unscriptural, is that view of it to which we referred at the outset, which makes it a dialogue between Christ and heathens who never heard of His name, and of course never felt any stirrings of His love in their hearts! To us it seems a poor, superficial objection to the Christian view of this scene, that Christians could never be supposed to ask such questions as the "blessed of Christ's Father" are made to ask here. If there were any difficulty in explaining this, the difficulty of the other view is such as to make it, at least, insufferable. But there is no real difficulty. The surprise expressed is not at their being told that they acted from love to Christ, but that Christ Himself was the Personal Object of all their deeds: that they found Him hungry, and supplied Him with food: that they brought water to Him, and slaked His thirst; that seeing Him naked and shivering, they put warm clothing upon Him, paid Him visits when lying in prison for the truth, and sat by His bedside when laid down with sickness. This is the astonishing interpretation which Jesus says "the King" will give to them of their own actions here below. And will any Christian reply, "How could this astonish them? Does not every Christian know that He does these very things, when He does them at all, just as they are here represented?" Nay, rather, is it conceivable that they should not be astonished, and almost doubt their own ears, to hear such an account of their own actions upon earth from the lips of the Judge? And remember, that Judge has come in His glory, and now sits upon the throne of His glory, and all the holy angels are with Him; and that it is from those glorified Lips that the words come forth, "Ye did all this unto ME." Oh, can we imagine such a word addressed to ourselves, and then fancy ourselves replying, "Of course we did--To whom else did we anything? It must be others than we that are addressed, who never knew, in all their good deeds, what they were about?" Rather, can we imagine ourselves not overpowered with astonishment, and scarcely able to credit the testimony borne to us by the King?
John Gill Bible Commentary
Then shall he also say unto them on his left hand,.... The goats, the foolish virgins, and slothful and wicked servants, depart from me: a like expression is used by him to preachers of the word, and professors of religion, that are mere nominal ones. Mat 7:23 and such are intended here, who professed to be on Christ's side, had been in his visible church, and hoped to have been with him for ever; but having nothing but the lamp of a profession, and some external works to trust to, they are bid to be gone from him; they are banished his presence, which is what is commonly called the punishment of loss; the loss of the presence of God, Father, Son, and Spirit, angels, and saints; and is thought to be greater than the punishment of sense, hereafter expressed. The character given of them, which is the reverse of the former, is, ye cursed; for having sinned against God, and his righteous law, they are cursed by it, which curses everyone that is under its works, as these were, and do not perfectly fulfil whatsoever it requires; and so were justly rejected of God, and hated by him: and therefore are condemned and sent, into everlasting fire: by which is meant, the wrath of God; and the phrase expresses the intolerable fierceness of it, and its perpetual continuance; the sense of which, without intermission, will ever be felt in the conscience; and is the punishment of sense, the wicked will for ever endure: it may also intend the pit and prison of hell, where these torments will be for ever inflicted; and so hell is called by the Jews (k), the hell , "eternal fire", or "everlasting burning": and is here said to be prepared for the devil and his angels; for Satan, or Beelzebub, the prince of devils, and all his principalities and powers under him: it is not said to be prepared for these persons, though it was, and who were foreordained to this condemnation, but for the devil and his angels; showing, that the same punishment will be inflicted on hypocrites and carnal professors, as on the devils themselves; and it is indeed of such, that the devouring fire, and everlasting burnings are spoken, in Isa 33:14, to which this passage seems to have some respect; for no where else is mention made of this everlasting fire: it is not said neither when it was prepared. It is a notion of the Jews (l), that the angels were created on the second day; and it should seem by them, that they fell the same day; hence it is a prevailing opinion among them (m), that hell was made on the second day of the creation; though at, other times, they reckon hell among the seven things which were created before the world was (n), and which may be reconciled together: for as heaven, the place of the saints' happiness, was prepared from the foundation of the world, or on the first day of its creation, though the happiness itself was provided long before; so hell, the place of the torments of the devils and wicked, though it was not made or prepared until the second day of the creation, when, according to this opinion, the angels were made and fell; yet the punishment they were to endure there, was appointed before the world was; and so hell is said to. , "be ordained from eternity", because of their sins (o), (k) Targum in Isa. xxxiii. 14. (l) Targum Jon. in Gen. i. 26. Pirke Eliezer, c. 4. (m) Targum in Cant. viii. 6. T. Bab. Pesach. fol. 54. 1. Zohar in Gen. fol. 13. 3. & 30. 2. & in Exod. fol. 61. 4. & in Deut. fol. 120. 1. Bereshit Rabba, sect. 4. fol. 4. 1. & sect. 21. fol. 19. 1. Shemot Rabba, sect. 15. fol. 101. 4. Tzeror Hammor, fol. 1. 2. & 121. & 1. 2. & 130. 3. (n) T. Bab. Pesach. fol. 54. 1. & Nedar. fol. 39. 2. Zokar in Lev. fol. 14. 4. Targum Jon. in Gen iii. 24. (o) Targum in Isa. xxx. 33.
Tyndale Open Study Notes
25:40 my brothers and sisters: This expresses either Jesus’ solidarity with his disciples (see 10:42; 18:1-14; Gal 6:10) or Jesus’ solidarity with humanity in general, irrespective of the faith of the one being helped (see Matt 6:1-4; 25:43; Prov 19:17). The use of brothers and sisters points to the first interpretation (Matt 12:46-50; 18:15-35; 23:8; 28:10) but does not invalidate social responsibility for other people in general (see Luke 10:30-37).