ACC ~ Matthew 25 v31

WHEN HE COMES IN HIS GLORY

CHRYSOSTOM: In his previous parables when he speaks of two persons he is referring to two portions of humanity, the disobedient and the obedient. Here he speaks out more fearfully and with fuller clarity.

He does not say that the coming kingdom is compared to this or that, as he has been speaking previously, but now openly shows himself to be the Son of man, who “shall come in his glory.” If he has up to now appeared in a condition of dishonor, now he appears in a different role. He reproaches. He confronts. He sits upon his throne of glory.

And he continually mentions glory. For his cross was drawing near, a thing that seemed to be a matter of reproach. So he lifts his hearers up and brings before their sight the judgment seat, with all the world gathered around him. THE GOSPEL OF MATTHEW, HOMILY 79.1. [1]

[1] PG 58:717; NPNF 1 10:475.

THE SON OF MAN

JEROME: Jesus rightly promises that the glory of the triumphant one [would follow] after two days in which he would celebrate the Passover and be consigned to the cross, mocked by humanity and given wine and gall to drink. Thus he will offset with the promised reward the blameworthy actions to follow. Clearly he who is to be seen in majesty is the Son of man. COMMENTARY ON MATTHEW 4.25.33. [1]

[1] CCL 77:243.

ALL THE ANGELS WITH HIM

CHRYSOSTOM: And not in this way only does he make his discourse awesome but also by showing the heavens opened. For all the angels will be present with him. They are there to bear witness to the many ways they had served when sent by the Lord for the salvation of humanity. Everything spoken of that day shows that it is fearful. Then “shall be gathered together,” he says, “all nations,” that is, all humankind. [1] THE GOSPEL OF MATTHEW, HOMILY 79.1. [2]

[1] Chrysostom refers to the parable of the talents, in which the figures of the individual servants represent entire categories of humanity. He extends his observation to the pericope of the judgment of nations as well, observing immediately afterward that Jesus speaks no longer in parables but directly so as to cause greater fear.

[2] PG 58:717; NPNF 1 10:475.