Encouragement from Christ's Judgment

I was afraid of Christ's return. But now I relish and pray for His return. What changed? Me, I became a Christian! Christ's return should be a source of comfort for you and me!
About This Parable

1. It is about the way we treat Christ's people ("the least of these").
2. We find this teaching in other places in Matthew and in the Bible.
3. It is not salvation by works.
4. Two classes of people. There is nothing in between.
5. Sins of omission.
6. Surprised by the reasoning for the blessing/condemnation and not for the blessing/condemnation itself.
7. Foundation of salvation is election; foundation of damnation is guilt.
   I. ENCOURAGEMENT ONE: Christ identifies with His people (vv. 40, 45).
   II. ENCOURAGEMENT TWO: Christ knows our every condition (v. 36).
   III. A Few Challenges
8. We have obligations to our brothers.
9. Look at your blessings as opportunities to meet the needs of others (2 Cor. 1:3, 4).
10. Our aim must always be to all that we do for Christ — "as you did it to one of the least of these my brothers, you did it to me" (v. 40).
11. Lastly, if you are convicted, address this in the right manner and order.