The Left and the Right

March 22, 2025

Scripture Passage: Matthew 25:31-36


Initiate

A video introduction using illustrations, personal stories, metaphors, or active learning examples to begin the discussion.

 

 


 

Interact

After the video, prompts are supplied for thinking and sharing with others personal perception and experience. This opening activity prompts participants to think about and relate to the topic, and to share with others. 

 

 

By Two’s

Give each person (or pairs / groups) one of these pairs of items, along with the corresponding Bible reference:

Ask each person (or pair / group) to consider:

  • “What action or idea distinguishes one from the other in your pair?”

Be able to share what you decide on with the rest of the group.  


Insight

The Bible discussion begins with a careful reading of the whole passage, either from your own Bibles, or from the provided images below.

Then participants are to ask:

  1. What is going on in this passage of Scripture?
  2. What are the key words and phrases? Highlight them.
  3. Why do you think this passage is included in the Bible?
  4. What does it contribute to our “knowing Christ” and “living in Christ”?

 

Download PDF of Matthew 25:31-36

Please read the whole parable Matthew 25:31-46.

Jesus' parable of the sheep and goats highlights the difference between those who actively show compassion and those who do not. The "sheep" are gentle and obedient, engaging in acts of kindness like giving, inviting, clothing, caring for, and visiting those in need. In contrast, the "goats" neglect these opportunities to help others.

Both groups encounter people in need, yet neither realizes they are serving (or ignoring) Jesus himself. For the sheep, compassion is a natural response—an outflow of righteousness. The familiar imagery of sheep and goats emphasizes the clear divide between active faith and passive indifference, echoing Ezekiel 34:17-22.

The five specific actions—giving, inviting, clothing, caring, and visiting—are practical, everyday ways to show mercy. This parable calls us to intentional acts of kindness, simple gestures, or thoughtful efforts. Yes, taking action before overthinking. There is a sense of a natural action without being aware that you are being tested. Similarly, James 1:27 encourages caring for orphans and widows, while 1 John 3:17-18 challenges believers to demonstrate faith by meeting real needs.


Insight Out

A parting video clip with a personal invitation to apply the message to “knowing Christ” and “living in Christ” in the coming week.

 

 

Connect With Us