Chapter Summary

Parables of the wise and foolish virgins. Testing of the servants in the Lord's absence. Future testing of the Gentile nations at the Lord's return.

Discussion Questions for Matthew, Chapter 25

1. Why does Jesus repeat the theme of "readiness" that He spoke of in Chapter 24? How do the "foolish" (HCSB) virgins represent being unprepared for Jesus's return? In what ways might we be tempted to live like the foolish virgins?
2. What do you think the oil in the "lampstands" (HCSB) symbolizes? What other references in Scripture can you think of that might speak to this?
3. What is the significance of the talents mentioned in this parable? How do you think this applies to our stewardship of the things in our lives today?
4. Why do you think that there was such a harsh punishment for the servant that "hid" (HCSB) his talent in the ground? In what ways are you guilty of "hiding" your resource and gifts from God rather than using them?
5. Does the existence of "the bankers" (HCSB) in this passage surprise you? What do you think is the significance of the financial aspect of this passage? Why do you think that it's so easy for us to mismanage our financial resources?
6. What is the significance of the "sheep" (HCSB) and the "goats" (HCSB)? What spiritual connection do sheep have to the broader story of Jesus and His ministry?
7. Why is it important that "the nations" (HCSB) are present at the judgement of God in this passage? What does that teach you about evangelism? How does this motivate you to cross the street and cross the oceans with the love of Jesus?
8. What do verses 35-36 teach us about justice and how we are to care for the "least of these"? How does this spiritually relate to how Jesus has met our needs?
9. What do you think about Jesus's declaration of "eternal punishment" (HCSB) and "eternal life" (HCSB)? How does this impact your view of Jesus's kindness and mercy? What spiritual truth does this declaration teach us?
10. In what ways does this passage signify that many people are often just "too busy" to consider spiritual things? What are some ways that you might find yourself so busy that you neglect the things of God?

Key Words/Phrase

Christ's return, vv. 6, 19, 31.

Characters

God, Jesus, disciples.

Strong Verse(s)

13, 29, 31, 32, 34, 40.