Do most people believe in some kind of future judgment when bad people will answer for their actions? Explain your answer. What is appealing about the concept of judgment? What is unappealing about this concept? What arguments have you heard against a literal judgment?

In this week’s passage, as only the Lord can do, He linked together one of the most significant events on the human calendar (judgment) with the believer’s response, or lack thereof, to the needs of people.

There’s a Great Day Coming! Matthew 25:31–46 Judgment family theme: Judgment

THE BIG IDEA What we do for others, we do for Jesus.

Expect Christ to Judge Us All Matthew 25:31–33

What kind of impact might the reality of facing judgment someday have on a person’s life now? Is fear of facing judgment a good motivation for coming to Christ? Why or why not? Jesus made it clear judgment is coming, and a distinction will be made between those who know Him and those who do not. Expect Christ to Judge Us All

Care for the Oppressed and Be Blessed Matthew 25:34–40

While this passage is not intended as a complete explanation of the doctrine of salvation, it raises some interesting questions. Care for the Oppressed and Be Blessed What is the connection between faith and good works? How would believers respond if they considered that what they were doing for others, they were doing for Christ?

Ignore the Oppressed and Be Cursed Matthew 25:41–46

A failure to notice and help the needy indicates the absence of genuine faith. (See 1 John 3:17.) Ignore the Oppressed and Be Cursed Why do people today fail to notice those in need? Would you agree that the government today is doing what the church or individual Christians should do for those in need? (Explain your answer and defend it with Scripture.)

1 No one, neither sheep nor goats, escapes judgment. Judgment, along with death, is appointed for everyone (Hebrews 9:27).

2 God is indeed a God of love and He is concerned about people and their plight. We are the means by which God has chosen to minister to those that have specific needs. As believers, we should repent of personal failure to care for the poor.

3 Believers need to ask God for spiritual eyes to see people in need and clear direction regarding how to respond. As Christ-followers, we must be on the lookout for those in need and allow our hearts to be broken.

My Daily Diary will provide an opportunity for us to focus on the needs we encounter in the next six days. Make a conscious effort to notice people this week, especially those with specific and recognizable needs.

Before going to bed each night, take a few moments and ponder what you witnessed for that day. This practice of “training your eyes” will help you become more aware of the opportunities to be a blessing to those God puts before you. Pray daily for those God has put in your path.