Matthew 25:46

[Todd]

As I see it, this passage is not about what non-christians do (or neglect to do) for christians; rather, Christ is speaking about those in need and how each of us (both christian and non-christian) reacts to their situation. Jesus is not a respecter of persons and has the same wrath for the one self-centered person as He does for another. However, the timing of this parable is not the end of time, but it is speaking of our everyday life. Opportunities for service for those in need are around us everyday. Do we turn our back in selfishness or do we respond and help. The Spirit of Christ is our Judge and He works within each of us to condemn or affirm our choices. When we choose selfishly we are condemned in our soul by the Spirit; when we choose love, giving, and sacrifice the Spirit affirms and grants us peace and joy. It is in this way that all things are made subject to Christ.

In this passage the Eternal punishment refers to the condemnation from the Eternal Spirit. Conversely, Eternal Life, refers to the affirmation of the same Spirit.

Todd