Reflection Questions for Matthew 25:31-46 Sermon

Sermon Summary: Pastor Jim explores the divine authority of Christ through Matthew 25:31-46, drawing from contemporary cultural resistance to authority. He emphasizes the return of Jesus as the Sovereign Judge, urging believers to demonstrate true faith through acts of mercy and compassion.

1. Authority and Rebellion

• How does the sermon address the cultural resistance to authority, and how does it contrast this with the authority of Christ as King?
• In what ways do you see the theme of “No Kings” manifesting in today’s society, and how should Christians respond to this mindset?

2. The Sovereignty of God

• What does the sermon teach about the sovereignty of God, particularly in relation to predestination and the final judgment?
• How does understanding God’s sovereignty impact our daily lives and our view of salvation?

3. Judgment and Separation

• How does the sermon explain the separation of the sheep and the goats, and what criteria does Jesus use for this separation?
• Why is the concept of judgment often resisted in contemporary culture, and how can we communicate its importance effectively?

4. Faith and Works

• According to the sermon, what is the relationship between faith and works in the life of a believer?
• How can we ensure that our good works are a genuine reflection of our faith rather than an attempt to earn salvation?

5. The Role of Compassion and Mercy

• What role do acts of mercy and compassion play in the life of a Christian, as highlighted in the sermon?
• How can we cultivate a heart that naturally responds with compassion to those in need?

6. Eternal Consequences

• What does the sermon say about the eternal consequences of our choices, and how should this influence our priorities and actions?
• How does the sermon address the concept of purgatory, and what biblical evidence is provided to refute it?

7. Personal Reflection

• How can we examine our own lives to determine whether we are living as sheep or goats, according to the sermon?
• What steps can we take to ensure that our lives bear the fruit of true faith and align with the teachings of Christ?