God the Father is calling and Christ Jesus is knocking on your door today, and He exclaims to you, as spoken by Isaiah the prophet…

Isaiah 41:17…"The poor and needy seek water, but there is none, their tongues fail for thirst. I, the LORD, will hear them; I, the God of Israel, will not forsake them."

Matthew 25:31-46 Explained:

There are basically two assumed interpretations of these verses that the wise of this world apply to this parable: the first one has the correct time, but the wrong interpretation as to the standard of judgment used. Bible scholars will say when Christ used the phrase "inasmuch as you did it to one of the least of these My brethren [brothers or sisters]", that He refers to Christians’ treatment of the Jews then and now (See verses 40 and 46). The second one has the wrong time, thinking it’s the great white throne judgment; plus they have the wrong standard or principle used for judgment by claiming and thinking this phrase in verses 40 and 46 refers to the treatment of the people of God (the Christians then and now).

As I said before, and I say again that we cannot rely on our own understanding of God’s word, which the wise of this world used in their private interpretations of Matthew 25, as I mentioned above. When interpreting the Scripture, we must let the Scripture interpret itself. This means we must look elsewhere in the Holy Scriptures for similar references and support to our explanations and conclusions of Scripture to interpret 'the words', 'the phrases', 'verses' and 'the passages' we seek to understand or explain. Now, let us move to the third parable in Matthew 25:

First, let me point that chapter 25 is a continuation of Matthew 24 where the disciples ask Christ these questions in verse 3…"Tell us, when will these things be? And what will be the sign of Your coming, and of the end of the age?" Christ is still speaking to these questions in Matthew 25; also informing the disciples what they should be doing while awaiting His return. Accordingly, there should not be any question as to the time of this judgment in Matthew 25:31-46. Yet, the wise of this world’s churches and this society not only debate the time of this judgment; they dispute even the fulfillment of Matthew 24 - whether or not its already been fulfilled.

In Matthew 25:31-46, we have the third parable Jesus gave to His disciples. In the first and second parables, Christ spoke of the condition of the churches of the saints, and the abilities of the Christians within these churches. Then Jesus gave the third parable, the parable called "the Son of Man will Judge the Nations". After we read this parable we will find that it actually should be called, "the parable of the Sheep and Goats" instead.

First, let us determine when this "parable of judging the nations of sheep and of goats", actually happen. Now, Matthew 25:31 says, "when the Son of Man comes", this tells us that whatever Christ says next happen immediately after His return in His glory with His holy angels. Question, when did the Great White Throne Judgment occur? Did it occur immediate after Christ’s return to earth (Revelation 20)? No, it did not, and by letting the Holy Scriptures do the interpreting for us, we can prove it.

Matthew 25:31... "When the Son of Man comes in His glory, and all the holy angels with Him, then He will sit on the throne of His glory."

• Matthew 25:1-13… First parable, called "The Parable of the Wise and Foolish Virgins... "1 Then the kingdom of heaven shall be likened to ten virgins who took their lamps and went out to meet the bridegroom…5 But while the bridegroom was delayed, they all slumbered and slept. 6 "And at midnight a cry was heard: "Behold, the bridegroom is coming; go out to meet him!'"
• Matthew 25:14-30… Second parable, called "The Parable of the Talents"... "14 For the kingdom of heaven is like a man traveling to a far country, who called his own servants and delivered his goods to them… 15… and immediately he went on a journey… 19 After a long time the lord of those servants came and settled accounts with them"…

As we see, the three parables in Matthew 25 point to a timeframe when Christ returns for His Church. The phrases "then the kingdom of heaven" (25:1) and "for the kingdom of heaven" (25:14) both speak of the church of the living God. Then we have the phrases "when the son of man comes" (25:31); and "the bridegroom is coming" (25:6) and "after a long time the lord of those servants came and settled accounts with them" (25:15). All these phrases point to the return of Christ. When Christ Jesus returns is the day all faithful Christians await, will your account be counted worthy of your calling? These verses should suffice as proof that the three parables in Matthew 25 occurs immediately after Christ returns to earth, but since the wise of this world are without this understanding, let us view other Scriptures to close the debate for those with eyes to see, and ears to hear.

• Mark 8:38… " For whoever is ashamed of Me and My words in this adulterous and sinful generation, of him the Son of Man also will be ashamed when He comes in the glory of His Father with the holy angels."
• Zechariah 14:1-4… The Coming Day of the LORD... "1 Behold, the day of the LORD is coming… 4 And in that day His feet will stand on the Mount of Olives, Which faces Jerusalem on the east. And the Mount of Olives shall be split in two, From east to west, Making a very large valley; Half of the mountain shall move toward the north, And half of it toward the south…Thus the LORD my God will come, And all the saints with You."

In Mark 8:38, we read that Christ spoke of Himself and His holy angels coming in His Father glory. Jesus says He will be ashamed of those who are ashamed of Him in this present evil age, to whom is Christ speaking to here? Is not Christ speaking to His followers? Please read Mark 8:34-38, Jesus gives us the answer in saying, "Whoever desires to come after Me, let him deny himself, and take up his cross, and follow Me." Then we come to Zechariah 14, where we see the prophet prophesying that Jesus will return and "stand on the Mount of Olives, which faces Jerusalem on the east". Jesus come on the "day of the Lord" spoken of throughout the Scriptures as a Day of Judgment, and Jesus will return with "all the saints". (Please, take a look at Revelation 14:1-5 also). When will the saints of God return with Jesus? Did not the Holy Spirit say, "we who are alive and remain shall be caught up together with them in the clouds to meet the Lord in the air, and thus we shall always be with the Lord", when He returns (1 Thessalonians 4:16-18)? "Them", here refers to those who will rise first and Christ’s holy angels.

Now, let us look at some verses that your minister has probably never spoken about. These verses are in Revelation 20, where the Holy Spirit speaks of a thousand-year reign of Christ and His saints on this planet earth:

• Revelation 20:1-3… The Serpent of Old, called the Devil and Satan Bound 1000 Years... "1 Then I saw an angel coming down from heaven, having the key to the bottomless pit and a great chain in his hand. 2 He laid hold of the dragon, that serpent of old, who is the Devil and Satan, and bound him for a thousand years; 3 and he cast him into the bottomless pit, and shut him up, and set a seal on him, so that he should deceive the nations no more till the thousand years were finished. But after these things he must be released for a little while."

In Revelation 20:1-3, "the serpent of old" (this is the same serpent spoken of in Genesis 3), "who is the Devil and Satan" will be bound for 1000 years. It is also said that Satan will not be able to deceive the people during this 1000 years period (presently, the Devil deceives the whole world - Rev. 12:9). After these 1000 years, the Spirit says, "the serpent of old...must be released for a little while." Next, we have the Spirit telling us that those who witnessed for Jesus will rule with Him during this 1000 years reign.

• Revelation 20:4-6… The Saints Reign with Christ 1000 Years... "4 And I saw thrones, and they sat on them, and judgment was committed to them. Then I saw the souls of those who had been beheaded for their witness to Jesus and for the word of God, who had not worshipped the beast or his image, and had not received his mark on their foreheads or on their hands. And they lived and reigned with Christ for a thousand years. 5 But the rest of the dead did not live again until the thousand years were finished. This is the first resurrection. 6 Blessed and holy is he who has part in the first resurrection. Over such the second death has no power, but they shall be priests of God and of Christ, and shall reign with Him a thousand years."

The above verses 20:4-6 tells us that thrones will be set, and judgment committed to the saints of Christ. Our fellow brethren who were killed throughout the ages will live again and reign with Christ for a thousand years. Now, there is some powerful truth and hope for the churches of the saints who read these verses; yet, most will hear this for the first time today. The verses here clearly place Christ Jesus back on earth for 1000 years with His holy angels and His saints. Why is it that the wise of this world does not understand these things? Because the things which I speak are spiritual things, and we who have eyes to see, and ears to hear do understand spiritual things; for "God has revealed them to us by His Spirit, for the Spirit searches all things - even the deep things of God" (1 Corinthians 1:10). And this same Spirit clearly tells us that this is a "first resurrection", the resurrection of the Church of God and His Christ. Then the Spirit speaks of a second death, and if the Spirit speaks of a second death then there was a first death. Also, please note that those who took part in the first resurrection, (by saying first it makes as of necessity a second, implying a second resurrection); the priests of God and Christ will have eternal life. And the second death will have no power over them (I will speak more on this later). Amen. Praise God.

• Revelation 20:7-10… Satanic Rebellion Crushed... "7 Now when the thousand years have expired, Satan will be released from his prison 8 and will go out to deceive the nations which are in the four corners of the earth, Gog and Magog, to gather them together to battle, whose number is as the sand of the sea. 9 They went up on the breadth of the earth and surrounded the camp of the saints and the beloved city. And fire came down from God out of heaven and devoured them. 10 The devil, who deceived them, was cast into the lake of fire and brimstone where the beast and the false prophet are. And they will be tormented day and night forever and ever."

Have you ever heard your minister talking about Satan being released from prison by God? Notice, Satan is allowed to go out and deceive the nations. What I want you to pay attention to, is who these deceived nations are attacking; that is the "camp of the saints and the beloved city" (Rev. 20:9), which is Jerusalem here on planet earth. The meaning here is that the saints were already glorified by God with immortality, eternal life; therefore this is a time after Christ coming and after the 1000 years rule of the saints of Christ (discussed above in Rev. 20:4-6). I will speak later on verse 10 because it is the source of many debates, and that is whether or not the prophet and beast whether be tormented forever or Satan and his demons. Moving now to the final proof of the timeframe when Christ will judge the sheep and goats in Matthew 25:31-46. That is the judgment in Matthew 25 is not the Great White Throne Judgment. Read it for yourself below:

• Revelation 20:11-15… The Great White Throne Judgment... "11 Then I saw a great white throne and Him who sat on it, from whose face the earth and the heaven fled away. And there was found no place for them. 12 And I saw the dead, small and great, standing before God, and books were opened. And another book was opened, which is the Book of Life. And the dead were judged according to their works, by the things which were written in the books. 13 The sea gave up the dead who were in it, and Death and Hades delivered up the dead who were in them. And they were judged, each one according to his works. 14 Then Death and Hades were cast into the lake of fire. This is the second death. 15 And anyone not found written in the Book of Life was cast into the lake of fire."

Notice, the apostle John is shown in this vision that after the 1000 years reign of Christ and His saints on earth, Satan and his demons were released to deceive thee nations into attacking the "camp of the saints", and God destroyed them. Also, take note of the fact that both the old earth and heaven fled from the present of God. These phrases are absent from the judgment mentioned in Matthew 25. Read Revelation 20:12-15 again, and pay attention to the phrases: "the dead, small and great, standing before God"; "books were opened"; another book was opened…the Book of Life"; "dead were judged"; "Death and Hades delivered up the dead"; "Death and Hades were cast into the lake of fire". Then the Spirit says "the second death", and is the punishment of the dead and "Death and Hades".

Let us move on from here, because I understand that those without eyes to see, and ears to hear will not understand these things; but those of you who understand these things thanks be to God our Father in heaven, for Him blessing you with wisdom in His Holy word. As you can see, Scripture always interpret itself; this is not Ron Davis’ own private interpretation nor is this Ron’s opinion, as so many will give their own opinion when Scripture speaks against something they wish to do. For, I have found that most people who wish to do evil will always twist the word of God to support their evil deeds. As Revelation 20:11-15 above says, the things they do are being recorded, and they will be "judged according to their works, by the things which", are "written in the books".

Next, we have verse 32 where Jesus says He will gather His sheep (His followers, faithful Christians) before Him. Notice Jesus separates "His" sheep, and "the" goats.

Matthew 25:32... "All the nations will be gathered before Him, and He will separate them one from another, as a shepherd divides his sheep from the goats."

So, we ask ourselves, what do the phrase "all the nations" mean here in verse 32? Again, we must go to other Scriptures when defining the meaning of words and phrases not defined and used in Matthew 25, not just giving some unfounded opinion, as so many of the wise of this world so often do, not being spiritual discerned.

(For Scripture interpret itself, Scriptures interpreting Scripture, as the Holy Spirit speaking by the prophet Isaiah says, "For precept must be upon precept, precept upon precept, Line upon line, line upon line, Here a little, there a little" (Isaiah 28:10).

• The English word "nations" used in Matthew 25:32 is translated from Strong's Number 1484: The original Greek word is "e[qnoß" probably coming from Strong’s number 1486. The transliterated word is "Ethnos". With the phonetic spelling is "eth'-nos", the definition of "a multitude" (whether of men or of beasts) associated or living together means: "a company, troop, swarm, a multitude of individuals of the same nature or genus the human family, a tribe, nation, people group in the OT, foreign nations not worshipping the true God, pagans, Gentiles, the apostle Paul uses the term for Gentile Christians". The old King James version of the Bible translates the word "Ethnos" as "Gentiles" 93 times, "nation" 64 times, "heathen" 5 times, "people" 2 times.

As we see in Revelation 7 below, the Spirit speaking by the apostle John says, "one hundred and forty-four thousand of all the tribes of Israel" and "a great multitude… of all nations, tribes, peoples, and tongues"

• Revelation 7:4, 9-10, 13-14... "4 And I heard the number of those who were sealed. One hundred and forty-four thousand of all the tribes of the children of Israel were sealed… 9 After these things I looked, and behold, a great multitude which no one could number, of all nations, tribes, peoples, and tongues, standing before the throne and before the Lamb, clothed with white robes, with palm branches in their hands, 10 and crying out with a loud voice, saying, "Salvation belongs to our God who sits on the throne, and to the Lamb!"… 13 Then one of the elders answered, saying to me, "Who are these arrayed in white robes, and where did they come from?" 14 And I said to him, "Sir, you know." So he said to me, "These are the ones who come out of the great tribulation, and washed their robes and made them white in the blood of the Lamb."

These verses describe the judgment of the people of God who are from "all the nations" on this planet. For many are called from every nation, tribe and tongue (Acts 2:16-18). They are "gathered before" Christ (Matthew 25:32) at His coming on the "day of the Lord". As we see in Revelation 7:9, "a great multitude… of all nations, tribes, peoples, and tongues" were "standing before the throne and before the Lamb" to be judged. This is the same judgment spoken of in Matthew 25. Please, see my previous messages given on the seven churches concerning the characteristics and behavior of those in the churches of the saints of God (i.e. the Loveless, Compromising, Corrupt Dead, and Lukewarm churches), for more information on why these Christians went through the "Great Tribulation". Now, we can clearly see that, Christ Jesus immediately on His return to earth will judge the Christians in this present age.

Next, we have Christ saying, "He will separate them one from another, as a shepherd divides his sheep from the goats". These are Christians in the churches of this world that are gathered before Christ at His coming. Now, let us see why Christ called some them "sheep" and some "goats", as the Christ says, "Beware of false prophets, who come to you in sheep's clothing, but inwardly they are ravenous wolves. You will know them by their fruits. Do men gather grapes from thorn bushes or figs from thistles? Even so, every good tree bears good fruit, but a bad tree bears bad fruit" (Matthew 7:15-17).

• The English word "goats" used in Matthew 25:32 is translated from Strong's Number 2056: The original Greek word is "e[rifoß" perhaps it's from the same as Strong’s number 2053 (through the idea of hairiness). The transliterated word, written in English is "Eriphos" with the phonetic spelling of " er'-if-os"; the definition of: "a kid, a young goat". The old King James Version of the Bible translates the word twice; once as goat, and once as kid.
• The English word "kid" is translated from Strong's Number: 2055: The original Greek word is "ejrivfion" coming from Strong’s number 2056. The transliterated word is "Eriphion" with a phonetic spelling of "er-if'-ee-on". The definition of: "a kid, a young goat". The old King James Version of the Bible translates this word only once as "goat".

As I said before, this parable should be called the "parable of the sheep and goats" not "the judgment of the nations or the last judgment parable". Seeing that this judgment is not the great white throne judgment spoken of in Rev. 20:11-15 which is the judgment of all the nations of this evil and adulterous world from Adam, since the world began to the end of the 1000 years reign). More specifically, this parable is best described as the "judgment of Christians" or "judgment of the churches of the saints, the household of God, the Church of the living God". For as the Holy Spirit says, "the time has come for judgment to begin with the household of God; and if it first begins with us, what will be the end of those who do not obey the gospel of God? And if the righteous are saved with much difficulty, what will become of the ungodly and the sinner?" (Coulter New Testament)

Jesus tells us to, "Beware of false prophets, who come to you in sheep's clothing, but inwardly they are ravenous wolves. You will know them by their fruits". (Matthew 7:15). By their fruits we will know them! Therefore, let us compare goats and sheep behavior with the behavior of Christians. Word of caution here, Christ is the One who will make this separation at His coming; we as Christians today are not capable of making this separation; for as Christ says in His "Parable of the Wheat and the Tares" in Matthew 13:26-30… "26 But when the grain had sprouted and produced a crop, then the tares also appeared. 27 So the servants of the owner came and said to him, "Sir, did you not sow good seed in your field? How then does it have tares?' 28 He said to them, "An enemy has done this.' The servants said to him, "Do you want us then to go and gather them up?' 29 But he said, "No, lest while you gather up the tares you also uproot the wheat with them. 30 Let both grow together until the harvest, and at the time of harvest I will say to the reapers, "First gather together the tares and bind them in bundles to burn them, but gather the wheat into my barn." (Also, see Matthew 13:36-43 Jesus explained this parable to His disciples).

Now, let us examine some of the behavior and characteristics of sheep and goats, so we can understand why Christ called some of the Christians "sheep", and some He referred to as "goats". We have already established that the "kingdom of heaven" equals to the churches of the saints, and the fact that Christians are those who are judged throughout Matthew 25, for Jesus refers to them as His servants, and "His sheep", as well as goats (Matthew 25:1,14, and 32):

The Behavior of Goats:

• Goats are independent animals. One particular behavior of goats that is intriguing is that while they are independent, they often prefer to surround themselves with goats of their same breed in a mixed herd.
• Goats in large groups are more difficult to handle because they tend to scatter and not flock as well.
• Goats are more selective about what they will eat (despite the old wives' tales) and will often refuse soiled or dusty food. Although less likely to overeat than sheep.
• Goats are browsers and may strip the bark and leaves of bushes and trees. Whereas, sheep prefer short grasses.
• Goats are extremely curious and willing to spend hours to manipulate with their mobile lips a wide variety of locks and latches.
• Goats like the development of dominance (the need for a lead goat)…once established, it may remain stable for several years even though the organization of the flock itself changes as individuals are born, die or mature.
• Goats who are newcomers to the herd have to find their own level and establish themselves in the flock order, with the result of increased fighting for a short period of time. Any fighting is always on a one to one basis; there is never a gang attack on a goat, although one after another may fight against the same goat.

As you can see goats describe false Christians, Jesus warns us of these "goat" Christians in Matthew 7:15 saying, "beware of false prophets, who come to you in sheep's clothing, but inwardly they are ravenous wolves". Also, among these are Christians who quench the Spirit of Christ known in the Scripture by the names Loveless, Compromising, Corrupt and Dead, and Lukewarm Christians (Revelations 2 and 3).

Jesus uses the word "goats" to represent false Christians and those Christians who are selfish, concern only for themselves, and their position in the their circle of other fake Christians. These Christian leaders have the mega-churches that are difficult to manage and feed spiritual food. They are not familiar with other Christians in their congregation nor or they concern about getting to know them. They are selective about which part of God's word they will follow. If it does not fit into their way of thinking then they will not follow it. They will not accept what God's word say whenever they perceive it to not be in-line with this world's ways.

These "goat" Christians love to appear religious and are self-righteous, always walking around with their Bibles in hand and their crosses around their necks. Proudly, parading around as though they were somebody, boasting among each other and before this world that they represent God. Yet, they willfully forget what the Spirit clearly says of such Christians: "Let nothing be done through contention or vainglory" (Philippians 2:3); and again "giving heed to deceiving spirits and doctrines of demons, speaking lies in hypocrisy, having their own conscience seared with a hot iron..." (1 Timothy 4:1-2).

They love to twist and manipulate God's word to their own imagination and liking. Spending many endless debates and arguing without any thought of coming to understanding, for they are spots in the churches of the saints, without knowledge and given to all sorts of foolish doctrines of Satan and men. These "goats" called "dead" Christians without good works are always fighting one another, battling to be the lead leader of the masses of members in their churches.

Their leaders are "goat" like in nature always bragging about how big and large their churches and membership are - never allowing other "goats" (other Christians) in their churches to rise above them in knowledge and teaching, if they do they must leave "their" churches. New "goats" or members must find their own place in these congregations without any support from the churches as a whole. They are always comparing themselves among themselves, believing that they would never get as low or sinful as those whom they perceive to be less in class status than themselves. Is there any doubt as to why Christ Jesus called these Christians "goats"? If so, read these behavior habits of goats again.

Christ says to us, the followers of Christ whom He compares to "sheep", "I am the good shepherd. The good shepherd gives His life for the sheep" (John 10:11). And again He says, "My sheep hear My voice, and I know them, and they follow Me" (John 10:27). Do you hear Christ voice? Does Christ know you? Do you believe Christ’s word? Will you follow Christ today?

The Behavior of Sheep:

• Sheep tend to be timid, nervous and easily frightened. Having little natural means of defense, they instinctively join together in a group, called a flock, to run from perceived danger.
• Sheep will remain with all other members of the flock, and will follow any member of the flock that happens to lead.
• Sheep who are separated from the flock will frantically try to rejoin the flock. They will not remain separated.
• Sheep, if the flock is split, the smaller groups will keep trying to get back together and more panic and chaotic movement will occur.
• Sheep are natural grazers, preferring short grasses for forage, whereas goats are browsers and may strip the bark and leaves of bushes and trees.
• Sheep are inclined to eat almost anything that is offered to them, and may even eat themselves to death (I mean literally overeating so much that they die).
• Sheep need to be fed a fixed amount on a regular basis and any changes must be gradual. Never give sheep 3 days worth of grain or hay to last over the weekend.

"Sheep" Christians on the other hand, are timid (easily frightened). They are humble and meek willing to learn, and remain teachable in the word of God. They are easily led astray (when not grounded in the word of God and faith of Christ) and defenseless against the evil one and his followers; yet, they are strong when they are weak for the power of God, the Spirit of Christ lives in them. They will seek to remain in the flock of God, for it gives them strength in times of sufferings and tribulations. Wanting to remain with other like-minded Christians in the faith. They will actively seek out other like-minded Christians when separated from the flock of God.

The "sheep" Christians will become fearful and discouraged when they feel alone without God. On the other hand, at times when they feel God is with them, they will be zealous for the Living God of Abraham, Isaac and Jacob, our Holy Father in heaven. These "sheep" Christians will be strong and bold in the word of God; yet, they will panic immediately after their display of courage if they feel alone and doubt the power of God. For example, as the prophet Elijah fled seeking to save their physical life, they will do the same today, for they quickly forget what God says, "Never will I leave you; never will I forsake you." Therefore, when we are fearful in our walk with God the Father in heaven and His Christ, we should "say with confidence, The Lord is my helper; I will not be afraid. What can man do to me (Hebrews 13:5-6 NIV)?" And again in Matthew 10:28 Christ Jesus says, "Do not be afraid of those who kill the body but cannot kill the soul. Rather, be afraid of the One who can destroy both soul and body in hell" [Greek word Gehenna]. (Also, see the story of Elijah when he fled from Jezebel in 1 Kings chapters 18 and 19).

They are faithful to the word of God, and will follow any man (some will even follow women because of these women own imagination causes them to believe God have called them to preach in the churches of this world). God sets apart men for the ministry of preaching and teaching His people about the gospel of Christ (1 Timothy 2:11-15). When a person is found to be set apart by God or appear to be set apart to preach and teach, these "sheep" Christians will follow them as long as they perceive the person is teaching and proclaiming the word of God. They will even follow this person even after it is clearly shown they are being led astray, for most put their faith in the minister, rather than God and His Christ. Some of these "sheep" Christians may not hear sound doctrine, but God do grant some understanding to receive the teachings of the Bible when the whole counsel of God is given to them. "Sheep" Christians will naturally feed on the word of God. They love the word of God and truth. At times they may become overly zealous for the word of God, overly righteous, which sometimes causes them to error in knowledge and in understanding the counsel of God.

Also, some will become overly religious at times, and others will have faith in keeping the law rather than in the faith of Christ, which "expresses itself through love". They have forgotten what the Spirit says concerning the law, "no one is justified before God by the law, because, 'The righteous will live by faith'" (Galatians chapters 3 through 5). They will quickly abandon the word of God, which says, "If someone is caught in a sin, you who are spiritual should restore him gently. But watch yourself, or you also may be tempted" (Galatians 6:1), and began to condemn those who are practicing sinners and other Christians who have lost their way, refusing to show mercy to those who are perishing. Finally, the "sheep" Christians must remain in the word of God, enduring in the faith until the very end; they must above all else pray-serious prayers and continue in the study of God's holy word. Now, do you see why Christ, the word of God refers to true Christians as "sheep"?

Now, let us look at some Scriptures that support our conclusion of the matter, and that is: that God's people are referred to as sheep by God, and He will save His flock and separate them from the goats and fat sheep who crept into the flock.

God calls His people sheep, and Christ leads us as a flock in this present age of wilderness.

· Psalm 78:52... "But He made His own people go forth like sheep, And guided them in the wilderness like a flock..."

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· Matthew 10:16... "Behold, I send you out as sheep in the midst of wolves. Therefore be wise as serpents and harmless as doves."

Listen to the words of Christ our Master says to Peter. We, as Christians are liken as sheep, needing a leader to follow which Christ is our High Priest.

· John 21:15-17... "15 …Jesus said to Simon Peter, "Simon, son of Jonah, do you love Me more than these?" he said to Him, "Yes, Lord; You know that I love You." He said to him, "Feed My lambs." 16…"Tend My sheep." 17 He said to him the third time,"Feed My sheep."

Matthew 25:33... "And He will set the sheep on His right hand, but the goats on the left."

As our Lord and Master Christ Jesus stand and remains at the right hand side of God the Father in heaven, we as true and faithful Christians will stand on the right hand side of Christ and remain with Him forever. We will reign with Him for 1000 years here on earth, our reward for answering the call of the Father in heaven and remaining faithful to Christ until the end of this age.

• Ecclesiastes 10:2-3... Wisdom and Folly... "2 A wise man's heart is at his right hand, but a fool's heart at his left. 3 Even when a fool walks along the way, He lacks wisdom, and he shows everyone that he is a fool."
• Ezekiel 34:17-22... "17 And as for you, O My flock, thus says the Lord GOD: "Behold, I shall judge between sheep and sheep, between rams and goats. 18 Is it too little for you to have eaten up the good pasture, that you must tread down with your feet the residue of your pasture--and to have drunk of the clear waters, that you must foul the residue with your feet? 19 And as for My flock, they eat what you have trampled with your feet, and they drink what you have fouled with your feet." 20 "Therefore thus says the Lord GOD to them: "Behold, I Myself will judge between the fat and the lean sheep. 21 Because you have pushed with side and shoulder, butted all the weak ones with your horns, and scattered them abroad, 22 therefore I will save My flock, and they shall no longer be a prey; and I will judge between sheep and sheep."

Notice, what God says here, "a wise man's heart is at his right hand", and the right side symbolizes the right way, the righteous and wisdom of God. In Ezekiel 34, God says He judge between the 'sheep' and the 'goats'. Also, God tells us of the behavior of the fat 'sheep', and the 'goats' in the flocks of the saints. They are "greedy", "pushy", and "will step on all in their way". And "they are bossy", "they have no regard for the weak", and are always commenting with the Christian refrain "God helps those who help themselves". "The goat Christian have 'scattered' the flock of God with their traditions and commandments of men", and "their leaders 'prey' on the flock of God for 'tithes and offerings' and have caused the 'weak ones' to sin". But God will rescue and deliver His flock from the 'goats', and overfed 'fat' 'sheep'.

Let us not forget, that in Matthew 25:1-13 where Christ Jesus speaks of the five wise virgins and the five foolish virgins. Please compare these foolish ones in Matthew 25 with the verse above, and Matthew 7:26-27. There Christ tells us that those who "hears these sayings of Mine, and does not do them, will be like a foolish man who built his house on the sand: and the rain descended, the floods came, and the winds blew and beat on that house; and it fell. And great was its fall." I say to those of you today who are slow the believe do not be as the, "foolish ones, and slow of heart to believe in all that the prophets have spoken (Luke 24:25)!" Seek God today while He can be found. Awake out of your sleep; do not quench the Spirit, which God has given to you.

Now, let us see what the King of kings say to those on His right hand. Christ says His Father blesses them, and the kingdom was prepared beforehand for us His servants. After separating the sheep on His right hand, from the goats on His left; Jesus render His judgment by giving the kingdom of God to those Christians who are represented by the sheep. The standard of this judgment was measured by the Christians treatment of the helpless and needy on this evil and adulterous world. For the Holy Spirit says, "He who oppresses the poor shows contempt for their Maker, but whoever is kind to the needy honors God" (Proverbs 14:31).

Matthew 25:34-36... "34 Then the King will say to those on His right hand, "Come, you blessed of My Father, inherit the kingdom prepared for you from the foundation of the world: 35 for I was hungry and you gave Me food; I was thirsty and you gave Me drink; I was a stranger and you took Me in; 36 I was naked and you clothed Me; I was sick and you visited Me; I was in prison and you came to Me.'"

God the Father and our Lord Jesus looks on the poor and oppressed of this evil and adulterous world as a special group of people. Jesus says, to those who treat those in need well; that is if we Christians remember to do for the poor and needy then we remember to do for Him. When we as Christians feed the hungry, help a stranger in need, give clothes to the poor, visit those who are sick or in prison; this is the same as doing for Jesus. The poor and needy are the representatives of Christ on this earth in this present age.

Today, if one look into the plight of the poor then one would find that their plight is mostly due to the greed of the rich. See, the below listed Scriptures: Luke 4:18-19 (Jesus quotes Isaiah 61:1, saying that He was sent to set free the oppressed). And in Luke 6:20-26, (Jesus says the poor is blessed, and gives the rich four woes); and again in Luke 7:18-23 (Jesus tells John the Baptist that preaching the gospel to the poor is a sign that He is the Christ). This is a powerful truth whom the leaders of this world and the churches will not admit to; they will tell you that giving a little to the poor is alright, and give plenty to their churches (they say give their churches at least a tenth of your earnings). Therefore, they will receive the greater punishment for causing you to neglect the poor while feeding their belly, for their God is their belly.

How many preachers do you hear teaching your congregation to always remember the poor especially those who are in your church? Have you ever picked up those in your church without a car for church or bible study? The so-called western churches are reluctant to point out that God has a special place for the poor and oppressed, and indeed He Himself lives among them. Have you ever wondered why these "tithes and offerings" seeking western churches never mentions that God has a special place in heart for the poor and needy? Do you not know that the poor and oppressed represent God on earth?

Listen to what Christ says about the poor and those who are oppressed:

• Luke 4:18-19... "18 The Spirit of the LORD is upon Me, Because He has anointed Me To preach the gospel to the poor; He has sent Me to heal the brokenhearted, To proclaim liberty to the captives And recovery of sight to the blind, To set at liberty those who are oppressed; 19 To proclaim the acceptable year of the LORD."
• Luke 6:20-26... "20 Then He lifted up His eyes toward His disciples, and said: "Blessed are you poor, For yours is the kingdom of God. 21 Blessed are you who hunger now, For you shall be filled. Blessed are you who weep now, For you shall laugh. 22 Blessed are you when men hate you, And when they exclude you, And revile you, and cast out your name as evil, For the Son of Man's sake. 23 Rejoice in that day and leap for joy! For indeed your reward is great in heaven, For in like manner their fathers did to the prophets. 24 "But woe to you who are rich, For you have received your consolation. 25 Woe to you who are full, For you shall hunger. Woe to you who laugh now, For you shall mourn and weep. 26 Woe to you when all men speak well of you, For so did their fathers to the false prophets."
• Luke 7:18-23... John the Baptist Sends Messengers to Jesus... "18 Then the disciples of John reported to him concerning all these things. 19 And John, calling two of his disciples to him, sent them to Jesus, saying, "Are You the Coming One, or do we look for another?" 20 When the men had come to Him, they said, "John the Baptist has sent us to You, saying, "Are You the Coming One, or do we look for another?"' 21 And that very hour He cured many of infirmities, afflictions, and evil spirits; and to many blind He gave sight. 22 Jesus answered and said to them, "Go and tell John the things you have seen and heard: that the blind see, the lame walk, the lepers are cleansed, the deaf hear, the dead are raised, the poor have the gospel preached to them. 23 And blessed is he who is not offended because of Me."

From these Scriptures we see that Christ was very much concern about the poor whose only lot in life were to carve out a meager living in poverty. Listen to the phrases used by Christ: "To preach the gospel to the poor" and "To set at liberty those who are oppressed". These verses tell us that Christ came in the flesh not only to died for world's sins, but as the Man Jesus, He came to "preach the gospel to the poor", and to free those who are oppressed in this evil and adulterous world. The poor of this world will be blessed with the kingdom of God. Christ says, those who hunger will be filled; and the wealthy and rich in this present evil age will receive their wages for their sins.

Then Christ says to the rich "woe to you", for they have received their consolation (their reward) in this present age. Christ also speaks to those "so-called" religious persons whom the world speaks well of, that they will receive the punishment of false prophets. For these are religious leaders who approve of the things the rich do. These religious leaders themselves refuse to heed Christ's words, as it is said, "Preach the gospel to the poor" and "the poor have the gospel preached to them". This these gospel peddlers of today do not do for they love the praise of men and the tithes of rich for their mega-churches more than they love God. And no wonder for their God is their belly, as the Spirit says, one cannot serve God and money both.

Listen to what the Holy Spirit says about the poor and those who are oppressed:

• James 5:1-6... Rich Oppressors Will Be Judged... "1 Come now, you rich, weep and howl for your miseries that are coming upon you! 2 Your riches are corrupted, and your garments are moth-eaten. 3 Your gold and silver are corroded, and their corrosion will be a witness against you and will eat your flesh like fire. You have heaped up treasure in the last days. 4 Indeed the wages of the laborers who mowed your fields, which you kept back by fraud, cry out; and the cries of the reapers have reached the ears of the Lord of Sabaoth. 5 You have lived on the earth in pleasure and luxury; you have fattened your hearts as in a day of slaughter. 6 You have condemned, you have murdered the just; he does not resist you."

I have said it before, and now I say it again; if a rich or power person come to you or says to you that he or she is a Christian, then look and see what he or she does with their money or power. Is he like the rich fool in Luke 12? Is he or she saying, "I will do this: I will pull down my barns and build greater, and there I will store all my crops and my goods" (Luke 12:18)? Is he or she mistreating their workers by stealing their pension funds?

• Proverbs 29:7... "The righteous considers the cause of the poor, But the wicked does not understand such knowledge..."
• Proverbs 31:20 "She extends her hand to the poor, Yes, she reaches out her hands to the needy."
• 1 John 3:17... "If anyone has material possessions and sees his brother in need but has no pity on him, how can the love of God be in him?"

The Holy Spirit speaks well of the poor and likens those who treat the poor and those in need well as the righteous of God, having the "love of God" living in them. The Spirit of Christ tells us in James 5 that the rich whom the Scripture condemns because they oppress the poor are those who are corrupted. They have fat and large bank accounts; as the fool who decided to build a bigger barn for his riches, they have "heaped up treasure" in these last days, rather than considering the poor. If you are Christian then the word of God not only command you to remember the poor, but Christ demands that you have compassion for the poor else you will suffer punishment as an unbeliever.

Yes, the Spirit of God says to these rich fools that their mistreatment of the weak and those workers whom they refuse to give a fair wage; the cries of the working poor are heard by God their Father in heaven, and He will repay. As the Spirit ask, how can a rich Christian who lives in pleasure and luxury on this earth, having the "material possessions" of this world "and sees his brother in need but has no pity on him, how can the love of God be in" this rich person? How can the rich claim to be a follower of Christ Jesus, yet they do not consider the plight of the poor? Does not the Spirit also says, "the cause of the poor...the wicked does not understand such knowledge"?

Notice, what the righteous, the saints of God says to Jesus at their judgment, what they will ask Christ Jesus, which is when did they see Him in need? Today, if any one who claims to be a Christian deny these Scriptures concerning the treatment of the needy and oppressed, and teaches others to do the same, then I say "woe to you"; for you shall reap what you have sown.

Mathew 25:37-40... "37 Then the righteous will answer Him, saying, "Lord, when did we see You hungry and feed You, or thirsty and give You drink? 38 When did we see You a stranger and take You in, or naked and clothe You? 39 Or when did we see You sick, or in prison, and come to You?' 40 And the King will answer and say to them, "Assuredly, I say to you, inasmuch as you did it to one of the least of these My brethren, you did it to Me.'"

The righteous did NOT feed the hungry, care for the stranger, and visit the sick and oppressed for a reward or to feel good, they did it because they have the love of God in them. And this love is revealed by their treatment of the poor as part of their nature and life, not a once in a while feeling of volunteerism, as so many do during the "so-called" Christian holiday of this world (aka Xmas). These "sheep" Christians had compassion on the poor and needy and those who are oppressed by unbelievers and these "goat" Christians. The phrase "inasmuch as you did it to one of the least of these My brethren, you did it to Me", Christ is speaking about the poor, as seen in the previous phrases "hungry and feed You", "naked and clothe You" and "in prison".

• Proverbs 19:17... "He who is kind to the poor lends to the LORD, and he will reward him for what he has done."
• Proverbs 14:31... "He who oppresses the poor shows contempt for their Maker, but whoever is kind to the needy honors God."

The Christians spoken of in Matthew 25:37-40 have followed these instructions from the Holy Spirit; and that is we are kind to God and honors Him when we do these things to the poor. God gives us this promise, He will reward us, and Christ will fulfill this promise at His coming, as foretold here in Matthew 25. Are you who are hearing (reading) these words going to heed the Spirit?

• 2 Corinthians 8:9... "For you know the grace of our Lord Jesus Christ, that though He was rich, yet for your sakes He became poor, that you through His poverty might become rich."
• Deuteronomy 24:14... "You shall not oppress a hired servant who is poor and needy, whether one of your brethren or one of the aliens who is in your land within your gates."

The apostle Paul by the Holy Spirit speaks of Christ becoming poor for our sakes, and this He did while we were still sinners. Not only are we commanded in the New Covenant to remember the poor, but even under the Old Covenant the physical nation of God was commanded not to oppress their working poor; whether a member of the nation or alien. In Deuteronomy 24, find that the so-called Bible scholars who claim that these who are helped by the sheep Christians, the righteous and called by Christ Jesus, as His brethren are Jews prove this private interpretation to be false. And not supported by other Scripture, which is a requirement of any biblical conclusion (Scripture interpreting Scripture). So I ask you again, are you who are hearing (reading) these words going to heed the Spirit that is in you, if indeed Christ lives in you?

• Luke 19:7-9... "But when they saw it, they all complained, saying, "He has gone to be a guest with a man who is a sinner." 8 Then Zacchaeus stood and said to the Lord, "Look, Lord, I give half of my goods to the poor; and if I have taken anything from anyone by false accusation, I restore fourfold." 9 And Jesus said to him, "Today salvation has come to this house, because he also is a son of Abraham..."

Those who once were sinners and wealthy should do what Luke 19:7-9 says after they receive the calling of God. That is, giving to the poor and helping those who are oppressed. Notice what Zacchaeus did with his wealth that he had made by oppressing and defrauding those whom he collected taxes from. Most importantly, notice what Christ Jesus says after Zacchaeus makes this announcement, "Today salvation has come to this house". Jesus says today, to those who are rich and claiming to be a Christian you must do what Zacchaeus did. So I ask you again, are you who are hearing (reading) these words going to heed the Spirit that is in you, if indeed Christ lives in you?

• Luke 12:13-21... The Parable of the Rich Fool... "13 Then one from the crowd said to Him, "Teacher, tell my brother to divide the inheritance with me." 14 But He said to him, "Man, who made Me a judge or an arbitrator over you?" 15 And He said to them, "Take heed and beware of covetousness, for one's life does not consist in the abundance of the things he possesses." 16 Then He spoke a parable to them, saying: "The ground of a certain rich man yielded plentifully. 17 And he thought within himself, saying, "What shall I do, since I have no room to store my crops?' 18 So he said, "I will do this: I will pull down my barns and build greater, and there I will store all my crops and my goods. 19 And I will say to my soul, "Soul, you have many goods laid up for many years; take your ease; eat, drink, and be merry."' 20 But God said to him, "Fool! This night your soul will be required of you; then whose will those things be which you have provided?' 21 "So is he who lays up treasure for himself, and is not rich toward God."

This is the parable of the rich fool, which represent all that are only concern with how much money and wealth they can accumulate while sojourning on this evil and adulterous world. Notice, what Jesus tells the young man who comes to Him because his brother would not shall an inheritance with him; Christ says, "beware of covetousness". This man was more concern with adding to his already accumulated wealth. And the very fact that his brother wronged him, you know the feeling of wanting to get even and saying "it's the principle of the thing" rather than getting his portion of the inheritance. We see this when Christ gives this parable to him as well as to others of that time and us today: "Take heed and beware of covetousness". Jesus says to us as Christians if a person who claims to be a Christian or relative refuses to share with us our just do, then we should not go to the court before unbelievers against this person rather we should be wronged by them, and forgive them. For our life as true followers of Christ do not consist in how much wealth we have, but what matters is us keeping the testimony of Jesus and becoming rich towards God; therefore, let us "beware of covetousness".

This parable of the rich fool can also be said of those super ministers with their mega-churches and followers. For example, it can be said: "there was a certain pastor whose congregation grew large with many wealthy members who gave an abundance of 'tithes and offerings' to support the pastor's habits. So the pastor said to himself, What shall I do, since I have no room in my church building for all these new members, and what shall I do with this extra money? So, the pastor said to himself, “self I know what I will do, I will build a bigger church for the new members, and for more growth”. Then I will boast of my state of the art building, and 'my church' large membership.' But to those pastors who are building mega-churches and mega-memberships of which these pastors have wrongfully and unlawfully collected and stored up 'tithes and offerings' for their family’s wealth. God says, you fool, Your soul is required from you this night for robbing Me and My people". So I ask you again, are you who are hearing (reading) these words going to heed the Spirit that is in you, if indeed Christ lives in you?

• Luke 14:12-14... "12 Then He also said to him who invited Him, "When you give a dinner or a supper, do not ask your friends, your brothers, your relatives, nor rich neighbors, lest they also invite you back, and you be repaid. 13 But when you give a feast, invite the poor, the maimed, the lame, the blind. 14 And you will be blessed, because they cannot repay you; for you shall be repaid at the resurrection of the just."

I ask you how many pastors do you hear preaching this parable in "their churches"? I mean asking you to invite the poor and the least among you over for a dinner or cookout? More than that, how many of you who have the means are willing to "invite the poor, the maimed, the lame, the blind", and those who cannot repay you over to your place for a feast? Christ Jesus commands you, are you a hearer of the word or a doer?

Listen to what the Holy Spirit says concerning those who came to Christ in the beginning:

• Acts 4:32-35... Sharing in All Things... "32 Now the multitude of those who believed were of one heart and one soul; neither did anyone say that any of the things he possessed was his own, but they had all things in common. 33 And with great power the apostles gave witness to the resurrection of the Lord Jesus. And great grace was upon them all. 34 Nor was there anyone among them who lacked; for all who were possessors of lands or houses sold them, and brought the proceeds of the things that were sold, 35 and laid them at the apostles' feet; and they distributed to each as anyone had need."

Christians in the beginning shared all things with each other. None of them claimed what they own were their own. Notice, what verse 34 says, there was none among the members lacking anything, and all who had land or homes sold them to share the proceeds with other members in the churches not the "lone minister". In verse 35, the apostles gave the proceeds they received from the members to those in the congregation not to their family or bank account as so many "tithes and offerings" gospel peddlers do today. Go ahead ask your minister what these verses say and mean? Remember to always ask him to explain his answer. As I said before, and I say again if your minister will not answer your questions concerning his teachings then you need to find yourself another church, like now!

• Galatians 2:1-10... "1 Then after fourteen years I went up again to Jerusalem with Barnabas, and also took Titus with me. 2 And I went up by revelation, and communicated to them that gospel which I preach among the Gentiles, but privately to those who were of reputation, lest by any means I might run, or had run, in vain. 3 Yet not even Titus who was with me, being a Greek, was compelled to be circumcised. 4 And this occurred because of false brethren secretly brought in (who came in by stealth to spy out our liberty which we have in Christ Jesus, that they might bring us into bondage), 5 to whom we did not yield submission even for an hour, that the truth of the gospel might continue with you. 6 But from those who seemed to be something--whatever they were, it makes no difference to me; God shows personal favoritism to no man--for those who seemed to be something added nothing to me. 7 But on the contrary, when they saw that the gospel for the uncircumcised had been committed to me, as the gospel for the circumcised was to Peter 8 (for He who worked effectively in Peter for the apostleship to the circumcised also worked effectively in me toward the Gentiles), 9 and when James, Cephas, and John, who seemed to be pillars, perceived the grace that had been given to me, they gave me and Barnabas the right hand of fellowship, that we should go to the Gentiles and they to the circumcised. 10 They desired only that we should remember the poor, the very thing which I also was eager to do."

Here the apostle Paul gives us a replay of the event and details of his trip to Jerusalem with Barnabas and Titus. What I want you to get from these verses is why they went to Jerusalem. As verses 3-5 tells us that some "false brethren" had secretly came into their congregations and were trying to persuade the new members in the faith of Jesus to be circumcised and keep the Law of Moses to be saved. The Holy Spirit through the apostle Paul tells us that the conference ended with the other apostles giving them the right hand of fellowship. After some debate the Holy Spirit through the apostle Peter and James, render judgment that the apostle Paul and Barnabas should continue preaching to the Gentiles, exhorting them to guess what? "Remember the poor", something they had been doing and desired to do always. Now, isn't that something, I ask you when is the last time you were exhorted by your minister to remember the poor in your giving? Is your minister asking you to give only to "his church", and he and his church will decide who gets remembered? (See Acts 15 for this same conference).

Matthew 25:41-43... "41 Then He will also say to those on the left hand, "Depart from Me, you cursed, into the everlasting fire prepared for the devil and his angels: 42 for I was hungry and you gave Me no food; I was thirsty and you gave Me no drink; 43 I was a stranger and you did not take Me in, naked and you did not clothe Me, sick and in prison and you did not visit Me.'"

These are the "goats" in the churches of this world. Their behavior is similar to the behavior of goats. These Christians did not remember the poor or those in need. They were cursed for their actions towards the poor, their neglect of the poor. They only thought of "mega-churches", "larger memberships", and "how much money you put in their offerings / collection plates". These Christians were thrown "into the everlasting fire prepared for the devil and his angels" for not giving Christ food, for not giving Christ water, for not taking Christ in, for not providing Christ clothing, and for not visiting Christ is when He was sick and in prison. So I ask you again, are you who are hearing (reading) these words going to heed the Spirit that is in you, if indeed Christ lives in you?

Let us examine the phrase, "into the everlasting fire prepared for the devil and his angels", which Christ used when referring to where these cursed Christians who will be thrown into for neglecting the poor and oppressed of the land. First, notice Christ said this "everlasting fire" was "prepared for the devil and his angels" it was specifically prepared for the devil and his angels not these Christians. However, they were thrown into it because they earned wages of the unbeliever, and they received their portion with the unbeliever to be made ashes under the feet of the saints of God, which is "the second death" (Malachi 4:2-3 and Revelation 20:14-15). Next, this phrase does not say these Christians will be in this fire for an "everlasting" time, it only says the fire is everlasting. But the religious scholars of this world will tell you this phrase mean the 'unsaved' will 'burn' forever in this 'fire'.

I submit to you that the word of God must be spiritual discerned by those with His Spirit, which the natural person do not have, for those who have His Spirit can search the Spirit of Christ for wisdom and understanding of spiritual things. As the Spirit says in 1 Corinthians 2:10... "But God has revealed them to us through His Spirit. For the Spirit searches all things, yes, the deep things of God".

The word "everlasting" used here as defined by Strong:

• Strong's Number: 166 Original Word "aijwvnioß" from Transliterated Word "Aionios"; Phonetic Spelling, "ahee-o'-nee-os". Definition: "without beginning and end, that which always has been and always will be without beginning without end, never to cease, everlasting. Translated in the old King James Version 71 times as eternal 42 times, everlasting 25 times, the world began twice, since the world began once, and for ever once"

The word "fire" used here as defined by Strong:

• Strong's Number: 4442 Original Word "pu'r" a root word; Transliterated Word "Pur" with the phonetic spelling sounding like "poor". Definition: "fire; translated in the old King James Version 74 times as fire 73 times and fiery once."

Here's a spiritual truth concerning Matthew 25:41, "only the devil and his angels will be tormented in this 'everlasting fire' prepared for them". I have much to say about this subject later because of the ongoing debate on this matter. (You can look for my previous tape on this matter for now). Again, we must go to other Scripture to understand the full meaning of these verses here Matthew 25:41-43.

• Matthew 7:21-23… 21 "Not everyone who says to Me, "Lord, Lord,' shall enter the kingdom of heaven, but he who does the will of My Father in heaven. 22 Many will say to Me in that day, "Lord, Lord, have we not prophesied in Your name, cast out demons in Your name, and done many wonders in Your name?' 23 And then I will declare to them, "I never knew you; depart from Me, you who practice lawlessness!'"

Notice what they did as Christians they prophesied, cast out demons, and did other wonders and miracles in Christ’s name. Yet, they had no real love, no real faith, and no real hope in Christ, which comes from the Spirit of God and Christ living in us (See 1 Corinthians 13). We as Christians must do both that is: "prophesy, casting out demons and healing of the sick", as well as "caring for the poor and those in need". For if they did have the love of God, they would have done what the Spirit says by the prophet Isaiah, "Learn to do good; seek justice, Rebuke the oppressor; defend the fatherless, plead for the widow" (Isaiah 1:17). After all the "whooping and howling", "getting the holy ghost" and "slaying in the spirit" as some would say, these ministers and Christians are told by our Master and Savior to "depart from Me, you who practice lawlessness!"

• Isaiah 3:14-15… "14 The LORD enters into judgment against the elders and leaders of his people: "It is you who have ruined my vineyard; the plunder from the poor is in your houses. 15 What do you mean by crushing my people and grinding the faces of the poor?" declares the Lord, the LORD Almighty. "

Are you willing to care for those in need as your good service for Christ? Notice, the prophet speaks of the "elders and leaders" of the people. Who are the leaders and elders of the churches of this world? Are they ruining Christ’s vineyard? Are not these who demand you pay ten percent of your income to their churches plundering the poor and elderly in the community (those on assistance - i.e. Social Security)? God asks you this question today, "What do you mean by crushing My people and grinding the faces of the poor?" So I ask you again, are you who are hearing (reading) these words going to heed the Spirit that is in you, if indeed Christ lives in you?

• James 2:1-9... Favoritism Forbidden... "1 My brothers, as believers in our glorious Lord Jesus Christ, don't show favoritism. 2 Suppose a man comes into your meeting wearing a gold ring and fine clothes, and a poor man in shabby clothes also comes in. 3 If you show special attention to the man wearing fine clothes and say, "Here's a good seat for you," but say to the poor man, "You stand there" or "Sit on the floor by my feet," 4 have you not discriminated among yourselves and become judges with evil thoughts? 5 Listen, my dear brothers: Has not God chosen those who are poor in the eyes of the world to be rich in faith and to inherit the kingdom he promised those who love him? 6 But you have insulted the poor. Is it not the rich who are exploiting you? Are they not the ones who are dragging you into court? 7 Are they not the ones who are slandering the noble name of him to whom you belong? 8 If you really keep the royal law found in Scripture, "Love your neighbor as yourself," you are doing right. 9 But if you show favoritism, you sin and are convicted by the law as lawbreakers."

Do you show favor in your churches to those with wealth and power? Will your congregation let a homeless person sit up front in your church building? Have you said in your heart who deserve help and who do not? Notice, what the Holy Spirit says here, "Has not God chosen those who are poor in the eyes of the world to be rich in faith and to inherit the kingdom he promised those who love him?" Do not insult the poor for their status in life, for by insulting them you have insulted God Himself. We, as Christians if we are going to keep the "royal law found in Scripture", which is, "Love your neighbor as yourself" then every poor person would be you.

For the Spirit says, in Psalm 72:4 that God Himself "will bring justice to the poor of the people; He will save the children of the needy, and will break in pieces the oppressor."

Matthew 25:44-45... "44 Then they also will answer Him, saying, "Lord, when did we see You hungry or thirsty or a stranger or naked or sick or in prison, and did not minister to You?' 45 Then He will answer them, saying, "Assuredly, I say to you, inasmuch as you did not do it to one of the least of these, you did not do it to Me.'"

Please, hear what these "goat" Christians are saying, "Lord, when did we see" you? They were indicting themselves as being guilty of not caring for those in need, for Christ said in another place "you have the poor with you always, and whenever you wish you may do them good" (Mark 14:7). Some of these Christians did not even know and some did but they plundered the flock and swayed them from helping the poor directly. Saying, give to the churches and they will give to the poor for you (they were deceiving the people because these tithes and offerings went to building bigger buildings and their bank accounts instead of the poor). They felt that those in need probably were not worthy of their handouts. They felt that helping the poor and needy were a waste time and money because these people are just plain lazy. They do not want to work and help themselves, why should I help them, these "goat" Christians will say.

These Christians described by Jesus as "goats" are the ones who will say to Christ Jesus on His return; "Lord, Lord, have we not prophesied in Your name, cast out demons in Your name, and done many wonders in Your name" (Matthew 7:22)? As Christ said to the self-righteous religious leaders of His time in Matthew 23:23, where Jesus tells them that paying a tithe on every single little item they own while neglecting "the weightier matters of the law: justice and mercy and faith" was their sin of omission (Matthew 7:23). Today, the Holy Spirit is saying to these "goat" Christians, while you were prophesying in Christ name, casting out demons in Jesus name, and doing other wonders in Jesus’ name. You should not have neglected to love in deed and in truth (1 John 3:18), by doing good towards "one of the least of these" Christ’s brethren (Matthew 25:45). Then Jesus will respond to these "goat" Christians with this phrase saying, "I never knew you; depart from Me, you who practice lawlessness!" For they pretend to be righteous, quenching the Spirit in them, if indeed they ever had the Spirit. So I ask you again, are you who are hearing (reading) these words going to heed the Spirit that is in you, if indeed Christ lives in you?

• Deuteronomy 24:14… "You shall not oppress a hired servant who is poor and needy, whether one of your brethren or one of the aliens who is in your land within your gates…"
• 1 John 3:17… "If anyone has material possessions and sees his brother in need but has no pity on him, how can the love of God be in him?"
• Luke 6: 46 "But why do you call Me "Lord, Lord,' and not do the things which I say? 47 Whoever comes to Me, and hears My sayings and does them, I will show you whom he is like…"
• Psalm 146:7-9… "7 He upholds the cause of the oppressed and gives food to the hungry. The LORD sets prisoners free, 8 the LORD gives sight to the blind, the LORD lifts up those who are bowed down, the LORD loves the righteous. 9 The LORD watches over the alien and sustains the fatherless and the widow, but he frustrates the ways of the wicked."

Here in Deuteronomy 24:14, God commands the Hebrews whom He had brought out of Egypt by the hand of Moses, that they "shall not oppress a hired servant who is poor and needy". Now, get this God says, "whether one of your brethren or one of the aliens who is in your land". This phrase proves that the Israelites were commanded by God to help "all" people not just Israelites. Question? If God were concern about the poor and needy under the Old Covenant then would He not be equally concern or more so about them under the New Covenant? I mean these Israelites were not given the Spirit of God, but under the New Covenant the Spirit testifies that God says, "I will pour out My Spirit upon all flesh". The Holy Spirit says by the apostle John that we as Christians should have pity on the poor, if we have the Spirit of God. Christ says, why called Him Lord, Lord, and do not do the things I say? But you say I do; yet, Christ says again, then feed Me, clothe Me, and visit Me when I am sick. God the Father in heaven says, He will upload the cause of the oppressed, feed the hungry, set prisoners free from the devil, and He will watch over the fatherless and the widow.

Now, the Spirit clearly says to us in 1 John 3:18… "My little children let us not love in word or in tongue, but in deed and in truth"; that is these "goat" Christians committed a sin of omission not commission, they were omitting to love in deed. They were saying all the right things, but doing all the wrong things: that is, they were oppressing their workers, they had no pity on the poor and needy, and they were refusing to help those in need if they did not "pay tithes and offerings" to "their" churches.

Matthew 25:46... "And these will go away into everlasting punishment, but the righteous into eternal life."

So I ask you again, are you who are hearing (reading) these words going to heed the Spirit that is in you, if indeed Christ lives in you? Are you neglecting those in need in your congregation and community? Are you as ministers teaching your congregation to remember the poor in their giving and helping? Are you loving "in deed and in truth", and not in word and tongue only (you know just give the poor lip service)? As so many of the super evangelists gain vast financial wealth from their followers, I ask are they remembering the poor? Or are they begging you to give more money to them - to claim they are helping the poor? Jesus says, "these will go away into everlasting punishment", for neglecting the poor and oppressed on earth. This is not Ron Davis saying this, but our Lord and Master, and if He is our Master should we not obey Him? I mean hear what the Scripture is saying here.

Now, the word "everlasting" was spoken of earlier in verse 41 of Matthew 25 with the word "fire", and now used again here in verse 46 with the word "punishment". Above we discussed its meaning: "without beginning and end, that which always has been and always will be, without beginning without end, never to cease, everlasting" (meaning the fire never ceases, not the burning of the person body or spirit). Since, the word "everlasting" is now used with "punishment"; I think I should say a few things about before moving on.

The word "punishment" used here as defined by Strong:

• Is Strong's Number: 2851 the original Greek word "kovlasiß" from the transliterated word "Kolasis". Its phonetic spelling "kol'-as-is"; a feminine noun. Definition: it meaning in the English is "correction, punishment, or penalty". The old King James Version translates it twice, once as punishment and once as torment.

In 1 John 4:18, the word is translated as "torment" saying, "because fear involves torment". Here it is translated as "punishment". Now, the word "punishment" is also translated in the old King James Version from three other Greek words: "ejpitimiva" Strong’s number 2009; "timwriva" Strong’s Number 5098; and "ejkdivkhsiß" Strong’s number. I say this because the word used here in Matthew 25:41 and 46 means "penalty". These "goat" Christians received their due penalty for their deeds.

We can study the phase "everlasting punishment" in more detail later; but this phrase means permanent penalty no returning, as spoken of in Revelation 20:14, "Then Death and Hades were cast into the lake of fire. This is the second death." This means total destruction becoming ashes under the saints’ feet. (There is No resurrection from this death). Their punishment, which "is the second death", will be everlasting meaning no returning from this death (as with our first death, a person is resurrected for judgment). But this after God render this second death, there is no resurrection from this second death there is a never ending of this death, its forever. (Also, spoken of in Genesis when God told Adam, he would surely die - the penalty for sin, of which I will speak more on later).

• Amos 2:6-7, 13... Judgment on Israel... "6 This is what the LORD says: "For three sins of Israel, even for four, I will not turn back {my wrath}. They sell the righteous for silver, and the needy for a pair of sandals. 7 They trample on the heads of the poor as upon the dust of the ground and deny justice to the oppressed. Father and son use the same girl and so profane my holy name. 13 "Now then, I will crush you as a cart crushes when loaded with grain."

The Holy Spirit tells us that God will not turn back His wrath on those who sell the righteous (e.g. the kidnapping and selling of Black people into forced chattel enslavement). God says He will crush those who trample upon the "heads of the poor" and "deny justice to the oppressed".

• Amos 8:4-7... "4 Hear this, you who trample the needy and do away with the poor of the land, 5 saying, "When will the New Moon be over that we may sell grain, and the Sabbath be ended that we may market wheat?"- skimping the measure, boosting the price and cheating with dishonest scales, 6 buying the poor with silver and the needy for a pair of sandals, selling even the sweepings with the wheat. 7 The LORD has sworn by the Pride of Jacob: "I will never forget anything they have done."

Notice, what God says here about those who trampled the needy and the poor, and wishing His rest has past so they can make a profit (as in capitalism); that is He has sworn, and "will never forget anything they have done".

• Isaiah 1:10-17... "10 Hear the word of the LORD, You rulers of Sodom; Give ear to the law of our God, You people of Gomorrah: 11 "To what purpose is the multitude of your sacrifices to Me?" Says the LORD. "I have had enough of burnt offerings of rams And the fat of fed cattle. I do not delight in the blood of bulls, Or of lambs or goats. 12 "When you come to appear before Me, Who has required this from your hand, To trample My courts? 13 Bring no more futile sacrifices; Incense is an abomination to Me. The New Moons, the Sabbaths, and the calling of assemblies-- I cannot endure iniquity and the sacred meeting. 14 Your New Moons and your appointed feasts My soul hates; They are a trouble to Me, I am weary of bearing them. 15 When you spread out your hands, I will hide My eyes from you; Even though you make many prayers, I will not hear. Your hands are full of blood. 16 "Wash yourselves, make yourselves clean; Put away the evil of your doings from before My eyes. Cease to do evil, 17 Learn to do good; Seek justice, Rebuke the oppressor; Defend the fatherless, Plead for the widow."

Here Isaiah the prophet speaks of the rulers' of Sodom and Gomorrah, this is spiritual Sodom and Gomorrah, for God destroyed these cities during Abraham’s time. Also, we can tell from these phrases "multitude of your sacrifices to Me", "when you come to appear before Me", "the calling of assemblies", "your appointed feasts My soul hates", and then God said, "even though you make many prayers, I will not hear" that these rulers are religious leaders, and the people are religious folks (Churchgoers). What I want you to see here is what the Holy Spirit exhorts these religious (Churchgoers) to do. The Spirit says, they must do to "learn to do good": that is, "Seek justice, Rebuke the oppressor; defend the fatherless, Plead for the widow." There it is. God says if you want to do good then "defend the fatherless" and "plead for the widows". This you must do to be righteous in God’s sight. The exact thing Matthew 25 parable of the sheep and goats says. Are you among these Churchgoers who are omitting helping the poor and oppressed?

• Jeremiah 5:26-29... "26 "Among my people are wicked men who lie in wait like men who snare birds and like those who set traps to catch men. 27 Like cages full of birds, their houses are full of deceit; they have become rich and powerful 28 and have grown fat and sleek. Their evil deeds have no limit; they do not plead the case of the fatherless to win it, they do not defend the rights of the poor. 29 Should I not punish them for this?" declares the LORD. "Should I not avenge myself on such a nation as this?"

Here Jeremiah the prophet speaking under the inspiration of the Holy Spirit, God says, "among My people are wicked men" whose "houses are full of deceit"; and they "have become rich and powerful", growing "fat and sleek". Question? Who do you think God is speaking of here? Walking through this, we ask who are God's people, for God says, among His people "are wicked men". Jeremiah prophesy around 640 to 585 BC, as his book was probably completed around 585 BC Israel fell around 720 BC and Judah carried away in captive around 586 BC So, the book was specifically written to the city of Jerusalem and the nation Judah. Yet, the spiritual words of the book speak to us today. For if God's people Judah had wicked men, so do the churches today. And if there were deceitful people who were rich and powerful, and growing fat and sleek in Judah, then there are people in the churches today who are growing fat and sleek, with deceitful intent. And have become rich and powerful by collecting your "tithes and offerings", claiming they are God's representative on earth. For God is the same yesterday, today, and tomorrow. When we look at what these wicked men (today we have wicked women claiming they ministers also, of which these verses also speak), we find that those who perform such evil deeds today will receive the same fate. God says, He will punish these men and avenge Himself on this nation (Judah yesterday and the churches today). Why was God going to punish and avenge these people? Because these people did not "plead the case of the fatherless" nor did they "defend the rights of the poor", here again God punishes not only the wicked and evil people of Judah; but He punishes the whole nation for neglecting the poor and helpless in the land.

• Ezekiel 16:49-50... "49 " 'Now this was the sin of your sister Sodom: She and her daughters were arrogant, overfed and unconcerned; they did not help the poor and needy. 50 They were haughty and did detestable things before me. Therefore I did away with them as you have seen."

Now, Ezekiel the prophet prophesy during the captive of Judah; therefore, making his prophesying more specifically to both houses of God's people (Judah and Israel), that were in captivity at the time. But, as I said before all spiritual words spoken by the Holy Spirit apply to us today as well as. For we are the spiritual nation of God, a holy nation chosen by God as His very own (1 Peter 2:6, 9-10). Notice, what God says about the people of Judah, calling Judah's sister Israel by one of her spiritual names "Sodom". Saying, the nation of Israel was not concerned, nor did they give help to "the poor and needy". God says, this is why He "did away with them", as Judah had seen. Again, another nation remove by God because of their treatment to "the poor and needy".

• Luke 16:19-23... The Rich Man and Lazarus... "19 "There was a rich man who was dressed in purple and fine linen and lived in luxury every day. 20 At his gate was laid a beggar named Lazarus, covered with sores 21 and longing to eat what fell from the rich man's table. Even the dogs came and licked his sores. 22 "The time came when the beggar died and the angels carried him to Abraham's side. The rich man also died and was buried. 23 In hell, where he was in torment, he looked up and saw Abraham far away, with Lazarus by his side."

This parable of the Rich Man and Lazarus is largely used by those Christians who teach and believe Christians go straight to their reward in heaven at death, and that non-Christians go straight to a burning hellfire at death. None of this is true for no Scripture support this notion; yet many profess to this heresy, of which I will speak more at another time. But, I like to point your attention to the behavior of the rich man before he died. These verses tell us that the rich man "lived in luxury every day", and refused to give the poor man named Lazarus even the crumbles from his table. Then Jesus tells us that even the dogs licked poor Lazarus' sores to smooth them, giving him relief for the itching and painfully sores on his body. The point that Christ wanted us to get was the attitude of the rich man, who refused to share with and help Lazarus. Something the leaders of the argument that this support their unfound doctrine, thereby causing those who read these verses to only see support for their argument rather than the treatment of Lazarus, who represents all those who are poor on this planet. The rich man was punished for not having pity on Lazarus, something that even the dogs were willing to do. So I ask you again, are you who are hearing (reading) these words going to heed the Spirit that is in you, if indeed Christ lives in you? Amen. Praise God.

• Psalm 12:5... "For the oppression of the poor, for the sighing of the needy, Now I will arise," says the LORD; "I will set him in the safety for which he yearns."

God says He will rise up for the "oppression of the poor" and the cry of the needy. God tells us He will give the poor and needy safety from their oppressors. God is serious about your treatment of the poor. Are you serious about your treatment of the poor and needy? Do you call it socialism or communism when someone wishes to help the working poor, and those in need?

• Jeremiah 3:14-15... "14 "Return, O backsliding children," says the LORD; "for I am married to you. I will take you, one from a city and two from a family, and I will bring you to Zion. 15 And I will give you shepherds according to My heart, who will feed you with knowledge and understanding."

Now, God calls upon us as Christians to return to Him, to stop backsliding from Him (you know I even heard some minister once say Christians cannot backslide - makes you wonder what Bible he read for the word of God clearly says we can). The heavenly Father and His Christ say He will give us ministers with a pure heart, such as His heart. And we will feed His people who are seeking knowledge and understanding. Return to your Husband of your youth, as when you first believed, remember the poor and needy, plead the cause of the oppressed.

Christ says to those who are His sheep; "Therefore you shall be perfect, just as your Father in heaven is perfect" (Matthew 5:48). Yes, we may fall down at times, but a righteous person will always rise again, for God is faithful to forgive our sins if we confess them. So do not use that human saying, "I am only human" (for we are more than human. If indeed we have the Spirit of Christ in us) or "Nobody is perfect". For Christ exhorts us today, that we should be perfect as our Father in heaven is perfect. For He send His rain and sunshine on both the wicked and the righteous. Therefore, we too when we see someone in need and we can help, help them without questioning or looking for repayment.

And again Christ Jesus says to us today, "If you want to be perfect, go, sell what you have and give to the poor, and you will have treasure in heaven; and come, follow Me" (Matthew 19:21). If you want to be saved out of this evil and adulterous world then Christ says you must be perfect; and to be perfect you must keep oneself free from sinful practices, and willing to share with all people your material blessings.

Therefore, my fellow brothers and sisters know for sure that God our Father in heaven by His Christ will judge the churches of the saints of the living God at His coming. Today, Jesus exhorts us to have compassion on the helpless and treat the poor and those in need as if they were Christ in the flesh because Jesus on His return will view your treatment of them as how you treated Him. So I ask you again, are you who are hearing (reading) these words going to heed the Spirit that is in you, if indeed Christ lives in you? Amen. Praise God.

I pray that God and His Christ bless you and your household until we speak again.

Evangelist Ron Davis, a minister of Christ, of the Kush Edifying Ministries, the author, gave this message in part on his Radio program. Similar messages maybe heard on radio station WFBR 1590AM coming out of Glen Burnie / Baltimore, Maryland area and my Spreaker Page.

The Kush Edifying Ministries proclaims the whole counsel of God. This ministry believes in the command of Jesus to His disciples in Matthew 10:7-8 "As you go, preach this message: 'The kingdom of heaven is near.' Heal the sick, raise the dead, cleanse those who have leprosy, drive out demons. Freely you have received, freely give" (NIV). Jesus commands us to "freely" preach the word without demanding that those preached to give you a tithe or tenth of their earnings. "For if I do this willingly, I have a reward...That in preaching the gospel, I may make the gospel of Christ without expense [by not demanding an offering from you], so that I may not abuse my authority in the gospel." For if I do not receive an offering from you, should I stop preaching the gospel to you? "Woe to me, if I stop preaching the gospel... What then is my reward?" (See I Corinthians 9:15-18).

Send your comments to Evangelist Ron Davis:

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If you want to argue your own "private interpretation", then please send it to the below email address with your Scripture backing up what you say. Thanks, and may God bless you in understanding His Holy and righteous word.

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