An Ending Invitation

November 23, 2008
Christ the King Sunday
Year A
Ezekiel 34:11-16, 20-24
Matthew 25:31-46

An invitation
We are given an invitation to be a part of Jesus Kingdom. We are invited to listen to Jesus.

These are the last words of Jesus
This is the last teaching in Matthew before Jesus is brought to trial.

Not as bad as the rest of the talk
We have been talking about Mathew 25 for the last three weeks. And many would like to talk with Jesus personally to understand why he needed to tell these three parables. This one about separating the sheep from the goat is the final one. This is the one where we are given not just an invitation, but a challenge. – to join either be with Jesus by helping others, or literally become destined for hell.

What is Matthew 25 about? Jesus has been working hard to get us to this point to accept this challenge.

Three parables
The first parable is about ten smart bridesmaids and ten dumb bridesmaids. The smart ones are the ones who keep there lamps burning in preparation for the upcoming but unknown wedding. We are always supposed to live as if Christ is coming back, expecting him, ready to dance at the wedding. The next parable is about three servants who are have prepared treasure for the owner to come back. One made a good choice, one made an acceptable choice, the other made a poor choice – which are we in our service to God.
And today Jesus brings our decision to a head. Either you served or you didn’t. Depending on how willing you were to help others as Jesus asked you to.

Why are we separating the sheep from the goat

What they have in common Both groups are Christians, both want to make it to heaven, both follow the teachings of Christ.

How they are different One group goes out of their way to help.

It is Not what we do – but how we choose to do it - that makes a difference. Are we happy and willing to even sacrifice, or are we grudging?

Story of helping someone else

What was the effect?

Never know

But it is the simple things that change the world

We are to think of what the Kingdom will be like when Jesus comes and we show all that we have done – that is kingdom thinking.
What does the end look like?

It Looks like a beginning.

This is the end of the Christian year, but it is time to get ready for the beginning of advent.