The Second Coming of Jesus and the Last Judgment

Doomsday Sunday

Third Edition

Gospel of Matt. 25:31–46 Christ, Lord of all

Jesus said to his disciples:

“When the Son of Man comes in his glory, and all the angels with him, he will sit on the throne of his glory. All the nations will be gathered before him, and he will separate people one from another, as a shepherd separates his sheep from the goats. He will place the sheep on his right hand, but the goats on his left. Then 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. I was hungry and you gave me food. I was thirsty and you gave me drink. I was a stranger and you took me in. I was naked and you clothed me. I was sick and you visited me. I was in prison and you came to me.’

Then the righteous will answer him, ‘Lord, when did we see you? When did we see you hungry and feed you, or thirsty and give you something to drink? When did we see you a stranger and take you in, or naked and clothe you? When did we see you sick or in prison and visit you?’ The King will answer them, ‘Truly I tell you, whatever you did for one of the least of these brothers of mine, you did for me.’

Then he will say to those on his left, ‘Depart from me, you cursed, into the eternal fire prepared for the devil and his angels. I was hungry and you did not feed me. I was thirsty and you did not give me drink. I was a stranger and you did not take me in. I was naked and you did not clothe me. I was sick or in prison and you did not visit me.’

Then they also will ask, ‘Lord, when did we see you hungry or in prison and you did not visit me? thirsty, or a stranger, or naked, or sick, or in prison, and did not help you?’ Then he will answer them, ‘Truly I tell you, whatever you did not do for one of the least of these, you did not do for me.’ And they will go away, some into eternal punishment, but the righteous into eternal life.” (Matthew 25:31–46 Third Edition)

Introduction

Chapter 25 of the Gospel of Matthew is an important part of Jesus’ teachings. In it, he describes the Second Coming and the Final Judgment, emphasizing how the actions of our lives play a decisive role. Jesus challenges us to consider how we treat others and what it reveals about our relationship with God. This article explores these teachings and offers practical examples of how we can prepare for this important moment.

Jesus as Judge

Jesus describes himself as the supreme judge, responsible for evaluating people’s actions and hearts. Matthew says that at the Last Judgment, everyone will gather before him. For example, when Jesus tells the parable of the sheep and the goats, he emphasizes that those who do good deeds are in the flock, while those who fail to help are the goats. In the Bible, this portrays many people believing that their actions affect their ultimate fate.

Good Works and Their Meaning

Jesus teaches that good works are not just a condition for salvation, but that their meaning is profound. Faith should not remain a mere theory; it must be reflected in our daily lives. According to a 2020 survey, 65 percent of believers reported that their works have improved their relationships with other people, which shows how good works can have a greater impact on our community. Good works can be as simple as sharing a smile or a kind word. When we choose to do good to others, we can make choices every day that bring us closer to God. This means that we must be aware of our actions and their impact on those around us.

The Authority of the Body of Christ

The body of Christ, or the church, represents the connection we have with each other and with God. Everything that happens in the church directly affects Christ. According to the Bible, Jesus is the head and we are members of his body. When we treat our neighbors and community members well, we are not only doing them a favor, but we are showing respect for Christ himself. We have a constant opportunity to make a difference in the lives of others. When members care for one another, it creates strength and connection that resonates more widely. For example, in many areas, different churches participate in food banks; such joint efforts can save hundreds of families in times of crisis.

Understanding Salvation

Salvation by God’s grace also means taking responsibility. Faith saves us, but responsibility for our neighbors is absolutely essential. We should share this gift. That sharing can happen in many ways: by volunteering, participating in a charity project, or offering a listening ear to a friend in need. Those who volunteer feel happier and more fulfilled, which shows how helping also improves our own well-being. Salvation is not just a personal matter; it is a community matter. By sharing love, we can create a safer and more loving environment around us.

Responding to the Call

We must ask how we can best serve others in the name of Jesus. Our response requires us to be able to listen and be sensitive to the needs around us. This is not a one-time task, but an ongoing process that requires self-examination. For example, many volunteer organizations, such as Habitat for Humanity, offer the opportunity to participate in construction projects. Such experiences can change not only the lives of others but also our own. Every good deed brings us the opportunity to create relationships that can lead to deeper faith. Continuous involvement in the community can guide us towards better and more meaningful choices.

Christ and Following Him

At the time of Jesus’ return, it is important to remember that he offers us the opportunity to be a beautiful example. Following Christ means taking practical steps in love. This can mean participating in even the smallest ways, whether it is helping our neighbors or participating in local charitable projects. Jesus chose 12 disciples and each of them had a role; each of us can also be part of the plan. Following Christ is not just an internal matter of faith; it is also a practical application that brings light to those around us. We should live in a way that others can see God’s love through our actions.

Heart Connection

Everything we do comes from our hearts. Jesus calls us to help in his name. This means we need to be clear about our own motives. Are our hearts pure? Let us ask ourselves what God wants us to do. When we focus on God’s will, we can live with genuine joy and peace. We are part of a bigger picture. We need to strengthen our relationships with each other and with God. Only through such relationships can we experience the deep joy and peace that comes from following Jesus and his example.

Final Thoughts

Jesus’ teaching on the Second Coming and the Last Judgment in Matthew challenges us to consider our own role. Our actions are more than just choices; they are part of God’s plan. Preparing for the coming of Jesus involves practical steps and attitudes of heart that we must develop in our daily lives.

Spiritual growth and helping others are ways to live in accordance with God’s love. This writing challenges us to think about our relationship with both our neighbors and with Christ, who calls us to be instruments of love and light in the world. Jesus expects our active participation, and only in his name can we reach people and do good today.