Matthew 25:31

Son of man. [The Sheep and the Goats, Matt. 25:31-46. On parables see pp. 207-213.] For comment on the circumstances under which this parable was given see on eh. 24:1-3; cf. on eh. 25:1, 14. Like the parables of the Ten Virgins (vs. 1-13) and the Talents (vs. 14-30), the parable of the Sheep and the Goats was told to illustrate truths set forth in dr. 24 relative to the promised return of Jesus. For the relationship of the two preceding parables to the discourse of dr. 24, see on dr. 25:14. This, the last of Jesus’ parables, appropriately presents the great final assize and reduces to the most simple and practical terms the basis on which judgment is to be meted out. Concerning the expression “Son of man” see on Matt. 1:1; Mark 2:10.

Come in his glory. At His first advent Jesus veiled His divine glory and lived as a man among men (see on Luke 2:48). The kingdom He then established was the kingdom of His grace (see on Matt. 5:3). However, He will come again, “in his glory,” to inaugurate His eternal kingdom (Dan. 7:14, 27; Rev. 11:15; see on Matt. 4:17; 5:2).

Jesus’ second advent is the theme of Matt. 24 and 25.

The holy angels. Although there is little textual evidence (cf. p. 146) for including the word “holy,” there can be no doubt that holy angels are meant. For the association of the angels in the work of judgment see on Dan. 7:10; Rev. 5:11. For their ministry on behalf of men see on Heb. 1:14. For the presence of the angels at the second coming of Christ see on Matt. 24:30, 31; Acts 1:9-11; 1 Thess. 4:15-17.

Then shall he sit. That is, as King (v. 34) and Judge (vs. 32, 34, 41).

Throne of his glory. Or, “His glorious throne.” Christ was seated upon the throne of the universe prior to His incarnation (DA 22, 23). Upon His ascension He was once more enthroned (AA 38), as Priest and King (Zech. 6:13; AA 39), and shared His Father’s throne (DA 832; Rev. 3:21). At the completion of the work of investigative judgment, begun in 1844 (see on Rev. 14:6, 7), Jesus will receive “His kingdom” (GC 426, 613, 614; EW 55, 280). The final coronation and enthronement of Christ as King of the universe takes place at the close of the millennium, before all men — those who are subjects of His glorious kingdom and those who have refused allegiance to Him.