Dynamics of Shepherd & Sheep – Sheep, Goats, Rewards, or Punishments – Part 9

In this message, we continue to see Jesus as our great Shepherd, even to the point of Him indicating that, like a shepherd who separates the sheep and goats within his flock, Jesus will divide us—those in His flock, His kingdom—on the day of judgment. By sharing two parables, one with sheep and goats and the other using wheat and weeds, He gives us a clear picture of how we can know our eternity. Many people have been led astray by being taught they just need to say a prayer, and they’ll be “there”, in heaven. However, Jesus’ own words, shared with clarity, tell us that He will be looking for something in our lives—He calls it fruit, works, deeds—that prove who we are and who are His. Yes, we are saved by grace, through faith, and not by our works, for it is a gift from God. Yet, He tells us if we are saved, we should have this fruit in our lives. We’re called to produce fruit in keeping with our repentance. Our fruit proves who we are, not our confession alone. For faith without works is dead and can save no one, but living faith, accompanied by our actions, is called complete faith. It is this faith, living faith, that will assure we’ll be gathered like sheep by Jesus, our Shepherd, to His right hand, and those who did not accept Him, who are not saved, proven by their lack of fruit, works will be sent to eternal punishment. Just like the sheep and the goats, Jesus tells us about the same thing with the parable of the wheat and the weeds. This message will help you to prepare yourself to be ready for this great day! For as a flower naturally produces pollen and bees naturally produce honey, a true believer naturally produces good works, compelled by their love.