Sheep and Goats

The key to understanding the judgement scene in Matthew 25:31-46 lies in the response of each group. As the Son of Man separates the sheep from the goats, he reveals what each unknowingly does or does not do. Both groups respond, “When did we do that!?” The sheep naturally and effortlessly respond to the needs of those around them while the goats naturally and effortlessly ignore them. Left to my own devices, I naturally and effortlessly ignore the needs of those around me. Gradually, however, I am becoming a different kind of person. Not by muscling up and trying harder, but by daily surrendering to the easy yoke of Jesus’ way of living (Matthew 11:28-30). 

If you missed yesterday’s messages, listen to it here or watch the entire service on our YouTube channel.

Yours for Christ,

Pastor Steve

steve@clpc.org

When Jesus Comes Back

Jesus is coming back, and the Thessalonians are getting ready! Yet they’re concerned about their loved ones who have already fallen “asleep.” Will they miss out when Jesus returns? Using imagery of an emperor visiting a colony or province, Paul explains that the dead will rise. They, along with the living, will form a royal delegation to welcome King Jesus (I Thessalonians 4:13-18). Jesus isn’t coming to take us away from earth. Jesus is coming to rule on the earth - to establish God’s kingdom “on earth as it is in heaven.” Our life’s calling and greatest joy is getting ready for Jesus’ return. If you missed yesterday’s messages, listen to it here or watch the entire service on our YouTube channel.

Yours for Christ,

Pastor Steve

steve@clpc.org