Sermon on the Last Judgment (Matthew 25:31-46) By His Eminence, Metropolitan Cleopas of Sweden
Dearly Beloved Brothers and Sisters in Christ,
Today, we reflect on one of the most profound passages in the Holy Gospel, the Parable of the Last Judgment; a vision, where Christ, seated on His glorious throne, separates the righteous from the siners, as a shepherd separates sheep from goats. In this moment, all the nations will be gathered before Him, and He will judge each person according to their deeds.
What is remarkable about this passage is that the judgment is not based on theological knowledge, ritual practices, or religious affiliation. Instead, Christ judges each person according to their actions—the way they have treated others in their lives.
The list of actions shows us the path of Christian love and mercy. It is not just a theoretical love, but one that is practical, concrete, and rooted in the needs of others.
Acts of charity—feeding the hungry, welcoming the stranger, caring for the sick—are essential expressions of our faith.
Salvation is about becoming like Christ, who came into the world not to be served, but to serve.
The righteous, who respond to Christ’s invitation, are those who, through acts of mercy, reveal the love of God in their daily lives.
Christ says: “inasmuch as you did it to one of the least of these My brethren, you did it to Me.” Here, we see that every act of kindness, every sacrifice made for others, is an encounter with Christ Himself.
There is also a warning for those who are indifferent. Their judgment reflects the truth of a life lived without seeing Christ in the faces of those in need.
We are reminded that Christ’s commandment is clear: “Love your neighbor as yourself.”
The message of the Last Judgment calls us to a life of active mercy. It challenges us to examine our hearts and ask: How are we living out our faith? Are we serving Christ by serving those around us, or are we turning a blind eye to their suffering?
Salvation is not a passive process, but an active transformation. We are called to grow in the virtues, to make our lives a reflection of Christ’s love.
Through the practice of hospitality and compassion, we are imitating Christ.
The Last Judgment is not merely a future event to fear, but an ongoing call for us to live our lives in love and service to one another.
May we live each day in a way that reflects the love of God and prepares us for the eternal joy of His kingdom. Amen!
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