Expert: Pastor Don Carpenter - 1/18/2006

Question
Matthews 25:31-46 - According to this passage, those who helped the needy receive eternal life & those who didn't are judged.  Does it mean that good deeds can take us to heaven?  If not, what does this passage mean? Thank you.

Answer
Hi Lenin,

Thanks for this question.  The best commentary on scripture is scripture.  God's word teaches that it is impossible to do works and merit heaven, otherwise, then Christ's death would have been a waste!

Galatians 2:21
21 I do not frustrate the grace of God: for if righteousness come by the law, then Christ is dead in vain.

The King James Version, (Cambridge: Cambridge) 1769.

The passage you sited is speaking of the evidence of one's faith seen in his actions...but the actions themselves do not save...it is the faith that saves.

I hope I have helped.

In Christ
Pastor Don