Matthew 25:46

And they will go away into eternal punishment, but the righteous into eternal life."

Study Bible

And they will go away
This phrase indicates a definitive separation and departure. The Greek word used here is "ἀπελεύσονται" (apeleusontai), which implies a movement away from a particular place or state. In the context of the final judgment, it signifies the irreversible nature of the decision made by Christ, the Judge. Historically, this reflects the Jewish understanding of the Day of the Lord, a time of divine reckoning and separation of the righteous from the wicked.

into eternal punishment
The term "eternal" is translated from the Greek word "αἰώνιον" (aionion), which denotes an unending duration. "Punishment" comes from "κόλασιν" (kolasin), which can mean correction or penalty. Together, they convey the concept of a perpetual state of retribution for those who have rejected God's grace. This aligns with the conservative Christian belief in the reality of hell as a place of everlasting separation from God, underscoring the gravity of moral and spiritual choices made in this life.

but the righteous
"Righteous" is derived from the Greek "δίκαιοι" (dikaioi), referring to those who are justified or declared righteous by God. In the biblical context, righteousness is not merely about moral behavior but is deeply rooted in a relationship with God through faith. This reflects the conservative Christian emphasis on justification by faith, as seen in the teachings of Paul, where righteousness is imputed to believers through Christ.

into eternal life
Similar to "eternal punishment," the word "eternal" here also comes from "αἰώνιον" (aionion), indicating an everlasting state. "Life" is translated from "ζωὴν" (zoen), which in the New Testament context often refers to the abundant and everlasting life that comes from knowing God and Jesus Christ (John 17:3). This phrase encapsulates the hope and promise of the gospel, where the faithful are granted unending communion with God, a central tenet of conservative Christian eschatology.

Persons / Places / Events

1. Jesus Christ
The speaker of this verse, delivering a parable about the final judgment.

2. The Sheep and the Goats
Symbolic representations of the righteous and the unrighteous, respectively, in the parable of the final judgment.

3. Eternal Punishment
The destiny of the unrighteous, indicating a state of perpetual separation from God.

4. Eternal Life
The reward for the righteous, signifying everlasting communion with God.

5. The Final Judgment
The event where Jesus separates the righteous from the unrighteous based on their actions and faith.

Teaching Points

The Reality of Eternal Destinies
This verse underscores the biblical teaching that there are two eternal destinies: eternal punishment and eternal life. It challenges us to consider the seriousness of our choices and their eternal consequences.

The Importance of Righteousness
Righteousness is not merely a matter of belief but is demonstrated through actions. This passage calls us to live out our faith in tangible ways that reflect God's love and justice.

The Urgency of the Gospel
Understanding the reality of eternal punishment should motivate us to share the gospel with urgency, knowing that people's eternal destinies are at stake.

Self-Examination
This verse invites us to examine our own lives to ensure that our faith is genuine and that we are living in a way that aligns with God's will.

Hope in Eternal Life
For believers, this verse offers the assurance of eternal life with God, encouraging us to persevere in faith and good works.

Bible Study Questions

1. How does the concept of eternal punishment and eternal life in Matthew 25:46 influence your understanding of God's justice and mercy?

2. In what ways can you ensure that your faith is reflected in your actions, as emphasized in the parable of the sheep and the goats?

3. How do the additional scriptures connected to Matthew 25:46 deepen your understanding of the final judgment and eternal destinies?

4. What practical steps can you take to share the gospel with others, considering the urgency of eternal destinies?

5. How does the promise of eternal life encourage you in your daily walk with Christ, especially during challenging times?

Connections to Other Scriptures

Matthew 7:21-23
This passage emphasizes that not everyone who calls Jesus "Lord" will enter the kingdom of heaven, but only those who do the will of the Father, highlighting the importance of genuine faith and obedience.

John 5:28-29
Jesus speaks of a time when all who are in their graves will hear His voice and come out—those who have done good will rise to live, and those who have done evil will rise to be condemned.

Revelation 20:11-15
Describes the great white throne judgment, where the dead are judged according to their deeds, reinforcing the concept of eternal destinies.

Romans 2:6-8
Paul writes about God repaying each person according to their deeds, with eternal life for those who seek glory, honor, and immortality through perseverance in doing good.

Daniel 12:2
An Old Testament prophecy that speaks of a resurrection to everlasting life for some and shame and everlasting contempt for others, paralleling the themes of eternal destinies.