New Testament
Matthew 25:46
Read the Bible in clear, modern English—easy to understand, faithful to the meaning, and written for everyday readers.
Then they will go away into everlasting punishment, but the righteous will enter eternal life."
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And these shall go away into everlasting punishment: but the righteous into life eternal.
What Matthew 25:46 means
Plain-English insight for readers
In this verse, Jesus speaks about the final judgment where people will be separated based on their choices and actions during their lives. Those who have lived righteously, following God's ways, will be rewarded with eternal life, a state of perfect joy and communion with God. In contrast, those who have rejected God and lived in sin will face everlasting punishment, which signifies a separation from God's presence and the consequences of their choices. This verse emphasizes the seriousness of our decisions and the reality of eternal destinies, urging listeners to reflect on their lives and the paths they choose. It serves as a reminder that our actions have lasting consequences, and it encourages believers to strive for righteousness and to share this message of hope and warning with others.
How to apply Matthew 25:46 to your life
This verse challenges us to evaluate our lives and the choices we make daily. It encourages us to pursue righteousness and live in a way that reflects our faith. Additionally, it motivates us to share the message of hope and the reality of judgment with others, fostering a sense of urgency in our spiritual lives.
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Illustrated scene from Jesus's story: Teaching on the Mount of Olives (Matthew 24:1–25:46)
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Photo: Gary Todd (Gary Lee Todd, Ph.D.), via Wikimedia Commons. License: CC0 1.0 Universal Public Domain Dedication. Source. Location: Southern end of the Temple Mount, Jerusalem Old City. Resized for the web.
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At a Glance — the Book of Matthew
- Author
- Matthew the apostle
- Written
- Around AD 60-70
- Genre
- Gospel
- Original Audience
- Jewish Christians
Frequently Asked Questions
Quick, clear answers about this verse
What does Matthew 25:46 mean?
Matthew 25:46 describes the final judgment where people are separated based on their actions. The righteous are rewarded with eternal life, while those who have rejected God face everlasting punishment.
What is the meaning of eternal life in Matthew 25:46?
In Matthew 25:46, eternal life refers to a state of perfect joy and communion with God that the righteous will experience after judgment. It signifies a lasting relationship with God, free from sin and suffering.
What does everlasting punishment mean in Matthew 25:46?
Everlasting punishment in Matthew 25:46 indicates a permanent separation from God's presence for those who have chosen to live in sin. It reflects the serious consequences of rejecting God and His ways.
How does Matthew 25:46 apply to my life?
Matthew 25:46 encourages self-reflection on your choices and actions. It motivates you to pursue a righteous life and share the message of hope and judgment with others, highlighting the importance of your decisions.
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