Chapter 25 of Matthew offers a different approach to some parables of Jesus: the foolish and wise virgins; the parable of the “Talents”; and the sheep and the goats.
The traditional interpretation of these parables is usually linked to death and judgment. Earlier, Chap. 24 states, “You know neither the day nor the hour. “Watch out, because you do not know what day your Lord will come.” The Son of Man is described “like a thief in the night.” Pretty scary stuff.
These chapters and parables in NTI are not about fear, death, or judgment at all. They are much more about trust, willingness, and being open to grace and guidance. I believe by changing the focus we are also made aware of the illusory aspects of fear, death, and judgment.
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The wise and foolish virgins--Lesson--do not look to the world for your joy and peace. Joy and peace might seem to be there, but the world's joy and peace is not lasting. Seek God whose light never goes out.
The Talents (FYI-”talent” was a type of coin back then, but it is an interesting ‘coincidence.’)--Lesson-- Fear begets fear; pray to see beyond your fear.
The sheep and the goats--Lesson--you have a choice of which of your thoughts you choose to focus on.
In all these lessons, the Holy Spirit says: “Look to me and ask for help. We will sort through the herd (of your thoughts) together. The sheep shall be separated from the goats. The sheep shall last forever, and the goats shall be no more.”
Chapter 26 follows up on that idea by stating, “With every thought that comes into your mind, you must make a decision: Will I believe this thought and keep it, to will I let this thought go?”
Instead of condemning Judas, NTI looks at him as a symbol of confusion. Judas is a powerful symbol of guilt and fear. The confusion is in thinking guilt and fear is real, and therefore being in need of punishment.
Can you imagine having thoughts like that and simultaneously being aware of the unconditional love of the Father that Jesus channeled to all He touched? At the time, Judas could not get passed his confusion.
In comparison, Peter also seemed to mess up big time, but unlike Judas, he acknowledged his fear, let it move through him and “began the process of forgiveness.”
Chapter 26 is filled with teachings that are quite different from those most of us grew up with. I would encourage you to read the chapter slowly and lovingly.
If you need a little refresher course of the traditional interpretation of the events, then read over chapter 26 in The New Testament, get a feel for it, and then read NTI again, and see how it feels.
I am not suggesting judging one over the other. Simply notice which one speaks the truth to you, and perhaps offers you a different way of looking at life.
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