How can we prepare to inherit the kingdom as described in Matthew 25:34? Setting the Scene Matthew 25 unfolds three parables on readiness for Christ’s return. Verse 34 sits in the last one, the “Sheep and Goats,” where the King rewards those whose faith expressed itself in practical love. Key Verse “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.’” (Matthew 25:34) Understanding the Promise • The kingdom is already “prepared” by God—inheritance, not achievement. • It has existed “from the foundation of the world”—God’s eternal plan, not an afterthought. • It is given to those “blessed by My Father”—people in right relationship with Him through Christ. • The context (vv. 35-40) shows that genuine faith inevitably overflows in acts of mercy. Who Receives the Invitation? Scripture lines up clear markers: 1. Born-again believers in Jesus • “Unless one is born again he cannot see the kingdom of God.” (John 3:3) 2. Saved by grace through faith, not human merit • “For it is by grace you have been saved, through faith… not by works.” (Ephesians 2:8-9) 3. Yet created for good works as evidence of that faith • “…created in Christ Jesus to do good works, which God prepared in advance for us to walk in.” (Ephesians 2:10) 4. Persevering in holiness and obedience • “Be holy in all you do.” (1 Peter 1:15-16) • “The one who endures to the end will be saved.” (Matthew 24:13) Practical Steps to Prepare 1. Receive Christ’s finished work • Repent of sin (Acts 3:19). • Believe in the Lord Jesus (Romans 10:9-10). 2. Cultivate compassionate love • Feed the hungry, welcome strangers, visit the sick and imprisoned (Matthew 25:35-36). • “Let us not love with words or speech but with actions and in truth.” (1 John 3:18) 3. Steward God-given resources faithfully • Time, talents, treasure deployed for His purposes (1 Peter 4:10). 4. Walk in daily holiness • Guard heart and mind (Philippians 4:8). • Flee immorality (1 Corinthians 6:18). 5. Stay watchful and prayerful • “Be on the alert, for you do not know the day nor the hour.” (Matthew 25:13) 6. Persevere to the finish line • “I have fought the good fight, I have finished the race, I have kept the faith.” (2 Timothy 4:7) Walking It Out Daily • Start each day in Scripture; let truth shape thoughts and actions. • Look for specific, tangible ways to serve someone in need. • Keep short accounts with God—confess sin quickly, receive cleansing (1 John 1:9). • Gather with believers for encouragement and accountability (Hebrews 10:24-25). • Fix hope on Christ’s appearing, fueling purity and perseverance (Titus 2:13; 1 John 3:3). Encouragement from Other Passages • James 2:17—“Faith by itself, if it does not have works, is dead.” • 1 Corinthians 15:58—“Be steadfast, immovable, always excelling in the work of the Lord.” • Revelation 22:12—Christ comes “with My reward… to repay each according to his work.” A Final Takeaway Inheritance is a gift secured by Christ, yet Scripture calls believers to live out that gift in visible love, faithful stewardship, and steadfast holiness. Those who do will hear the King’s joyful invitation: “Come… inherit the kingdom prepared for you.” |
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