Matthew 23-25: Ready, Watchful, and Faithful

Season 3 Episode 62

Ready, Watchful, and Faithful is today’s episode of Lifespring! One Year Bible Rewind. It is December 20th, otherwise known as Last Minute Wrapping Day, and we are reading Matthew 23-25 together.

As we navigate this Gospels Saturday, we encounter Jesus’ final public discourse and His detailed teachings on the end of the age. From warnings against religious hypocrisy to the parables of readiness, these chapters call us to a life of active service while we wait for His return.

Today’s Scripture Reading

Matthew 23–25

In Matthew 23, Jesus delivers a series of “woes” to the scribes and Pharisees, criticizing their focus on outward appearance while neglecting justice, mercy, and faith. Moving into chapter 24, Jesus departs from the temple and speaks to His disciples on the Mount of Olives about the signs of His coming and the end of the age. Finally, Matthew 25 presents three powerful parables—the ten virgins, the talents, and the sheep and the goats—each emphasizing the necessity of being prepared for the Son of Man.

Commentary: Visible Like Lightning

In today’s commentary, Steve focuses on Jesus’ first response to the disciples’ questions about the end times: “Take heed that no one deceives you.” Throughout history, many have claimed to be the returned Christ, but Jesus provided a clear standard for His true return.

Using the imagery of a thunderstorm, Steve reflects on how lightning is instantly obvious to everyone in an area. Jesus’ return will not be a secret or a hidden event in a desert or an inner room. It will be visible to all, accompanied by a trumpet blast. While the church often debates the timing of these events, our primary job is to stay busy with the work He has called us to do, sharing the good news so that others will be ready too.

Thanks: A Note of Appreciation

Steve shares several encouraging messages from the Lifespring! family. Bill shares a praise report regarding divine intervention in his workload after a prayer request, while Wayne Henderson sends prayers for the Lovely Lady LeeAnn and reflects on his own start in podcasting inspired by an article about Steve. Steve also thanks Timothy LaFontaine for his donation, as well as Michael Haner and Fountain user 888328 for their boosts and prayers.

On This Date in Church History

1606 – Birth of Richard Baxter, an influential Puritan pastor whose book, The Reformed Pastor, challenged ministers to personally shepherd souls.
1817 – Birth of William Ewert Gladstone, a four-time British Prime Minister who believed Christian conviction should actively shape public policy and leadership.
1904 – Organized Sunday school teacher training programs begin to take root in the United States, strengthening grassroots discipleship for generations.

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