We will be a minute longer because we will be looking at a verse that contains a mini-course in theology.
Our scripture today is Matthew 16:27.
“For the Son of Man is going to come in his Father’s glory with his angels, and then he will reward each person according to what they have done.”
There are only 29 words here, but considered deeply, they are a mini-course in theology. Let’s take a quick look at four points of theology taught in this short verse.
Point 1: Glory to God is Paramount.
The verse says, “The Son of Man is going to come in his Father’s glory.”
One day, people will say of you, “Gone but not forgotten.” The Father never forgets us, no matter how many centuries pass. But if we do not live lives that give glory to God, then we miss the point of our existence. Jesus said to let our lights shine so others may glorify the Father. Even at the birth of Jesus, the angels in heaven said, “Glory to God in the highest.” {Luke 2:14). That is why we are here.
Point 2: Jesus claimed to be divine.
It is amazing that some theologians now claim that Jesus never said he was divine. They are ignorant of the Bible’s teachings. In this verse and others, Jesus refers to himself as the “Son of Man.” That is not a reference to his humanity but rather a reference to the divine prophecy about him. Daniel 7:13–14 says, “The Son of Man is going to come.” Daniel teaches that the Son of Man is divine. Jesus is the Son of Man spoken of in prophecy.
Point 3: There will be a judgment day.
The text says, “He will reward each person according to what they have done.” Accountability is not a popular thought, but the passage clearly states that a time of judgment is coming.
Point 4: “He will reward each person according to what they have done.”
In a world where feelings seem to be all that matter, Bible believers need to remember that our actions also matter. Even some believers now echo the sentiment of feelings when they say, “What’s in your heart matters most,” but this is not true. Jesus said that we will be rewarded according to our deeds. While God’s grace and mercy are vital, we mustn’t disregard the importance of what we do. Jesus emphasized this by saying, “If you love me, keep my commandments” (John 14:15). So, guard your heart and think righteously, but also make sure you do what is right. In our verse today, Jesus reminds us that deeds have consequences.
If you know Matthew 16:27, then you too are a theologian.
Lonnie Davis