All the nations will be gathered before him, and he will separate the people . . . as a shepherd separates the sheep from the goats. (Matt. 25:32)
Expanded Passage: Matthew 25: 31–33
Growing up in rural Pennsylvania, I have seen and visited many different farms. I always loved when you could feed the goats and pet the sheep. Those familiar with livestock will know that sheep and goats can live together in the same space. They eat similar foods and get along well. Jesus used this metaphor to explain that, like sheep and goats, while believers and unbelievers can do life together, they will be separated come eternity. Unbelievers or pretend believers can walk alongside us—and may even appear as strong Christians—but all our hearts will be exposed in the end.
It can be hard to distinguish between “sheep” and “goats,” but we need not question another person’s heart. This passage encourages us to look inward, not point fingers at those around us. “All the nations” means that all people will be brought before God. Jesus reminded us that our appearance or reputation will not matter come judgment. Our actions only go so far if they are not backed with true godly intentions.
This passage inspires us to look at our own hearts and to reach out to the unbelievers in our lives, knowing we will be torn from them for eternity. We cannot change their hearts—only the Holy Spirit can do that—but we can help them meet Jesus, just like someone once helped us.
Prepare for the day when all nations will meet with Jesus.
Rachel Reigard serves the Great Lakes Region of The Wesleyan Church as an ordained minister. She loves walking around Lake Michigan with her husband, Josh, and Corgi, Waffles.
© 2023 Wesleyan Publishing House. Reprinted from Light from the Word. Used by permission. Scriptures taken from the Holy Bible, New International Version®, NIV®.
