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SHEEP AND GOATS
1. What is the basis for judgment?
A. Is it our stand on certain doctrines?
B. Is the basis our moral values?
C. Will we be judged on our behavior?
D. Will attitudes be part of our judgment?
E. Do "Loving and Caring" determine our judgment?
ANSWER: All of the above are vital to pleasing God. This parable is about those who would question the judgment of God. Those who will question God's judgment are the ones who have followed the "letter" of the law without love and concern for others.
2. What is the purpose of judgment day?
A. To determine "guilty or innocent"?
B. To review everyone's life?
C. To understand the sentence and the reason for it.
ANSWER: As in our legal system, guilt is determined by a jury. The judge determines the sentence. Judgment day is not a time for each human who has ever lived to have their life reviewed item by item. Our guilt or innocence is known already. What we need to hear from God is why we are accepted or lost.
3. Is there a difference between "visit" the sick and "come to" those in prison?
A. What do we do in a visitation program?
B. Have you ever "visited" a prison?
C. How are we visiting widows and orphans? (James 1:27)
ANSWER: "Visit" includes looking after the needs of the sick, widow or orphan. From this same word comes the word for "bishop" or "overseer". The job of an elder is not to have a friendly chat with each member. An elder is to look after, feed, tend, meet the needs of the flock.
"Come to" means just that. Chat, carry on conversation, exchange ideas, talk about news, weather and sports. All of this is fine for one in prison. His needs (food, shelter, medical attention) are being met. He just needs someone with whom he can chat.
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