February 4, 2010
Matthew 25
Pastor Paul Turbedsky
In Matthew 25, three parables bring separate lessons that everyone needs to receive in order to spend eternity in heaven.
The first tells about 10 virgins – five prepared for the long wait of the bridegroom and five not. When the bridegroom arrived, the five that were prepared were given access to the wedding banquet. The others were shut out.
Lesson: Be prepared for the coming of Christ. If you haven’t accepted Him as Savior – wait no more. If you have - persevere, stay faithful and be watchful for His return. Be disciplined in prayer, reading and serving.
The second parable tells about a master giving each of three servants a measure of talents before leaving on a journey. Two servants were good stewards of the gifts and multiplied them – later hearing the words “well done, good and faithful servant …” The third servant was afraid to use the gift and returned only with the original amount. This servant was dismissed, while the others were praised and given more responsibility and reward.
Lesson: In large part, our place in heaven will be determined by how well we live our lives here. Use well what you have been given (i.e. talents, abilities, time, resources, opportunities) to be a blessing to others and glorify God.
The third parable relates to sheep and goats – or the righteous and the wicked. Those who accept Christ as Savior will be admitted into heaven’s eternal glory. Those who don’t will be rejected to the eternal damnation of hell. On our day of judgment, we will be held accountable for whether we accepted or rejected Jesus, and what we did with the gifts He gave us.
Lesson: If it’s Heaven that you want, prepare now. Accept Jesus Christ as Savior and demonstrate your salvation by serving others and giving God the glory.
A native of Allentown, Pennsylvania, Paul Turbedsky has served on the Grace Covenant pastoral staff since 2004.
