What does Matthew 25:38 mean?
The King and the Judge, Jesus, has returned in the end times to sit on His throne and address a group He has designated as "sheep" (Matthew 25:31–33). These blessed ones have proven their election (Ephesians 1:4; Matthew 24:22; Mark 13:27; Romans 11:7; Titus 1:1) to salvation in this prepared kingdom (Matthew 25:34) by their obedience to Christ's commands (John 14:15). Jesus has applauded these people for providing Him with food, water, clothing, and care during His times of need. Those people are replying to Jesus' praise by repeating His comments, in the form of a question.Since this occurs in the end times (Matthew 24:3), at least the majority of these people will not have seen Jesus in person until His return. They're unsure as to how, or when, they would have performed these good deeds for Jesus. Christ will go on to explain that it was their service to other believers (1 John 3:11) which was, in effect, love shown to Him (John 14:15; Matthew 10:40–42; 25:40).