Gospel of Matthew Chapter 25 Vs. 36

 The Final Judgment

Matthew 25:36 “Naked, and ye clothed me: I was sick, and ye visited me: I was in prison, and ye came unto me.”

Naked, and ye... Poorly clothed. Among the Jews they were called naked who were clad in poor raiment, or who had on only the “tunic” or inner garment, without any outer garment.

For in such a condition sometimes are the dear children of God, and members of Christ (see 1Cor. 4:11). When others, who like Dorcas have made coats and garments for them, and clothed them with them. And which will be shown another day, or taken notice of as the fruits, and so evidences of the grace of God in them.

I was sick, and ye visited me, or looked after me, or visits paid to sick persons in a Christian manner, relieving them with their substance, giving good advice, or speaking comfortable words to them. And attending them, and waiting on them, and doing such things for them which, in their weak state, they are not capable of doing for themselves.

Visited (ἐπεσκέψασθε)

Lit., Ye looked upon. Our word visit is from the Latin viso, to look steadfastly at, and thence to visit. We retain the original thought in the popular phrases go to see one, and to look in upon one.

I was in... Which has been often the lot of the saints, as it was frequently of the Apostle Paul. Who had this respect shown him by many of the people of God, as by the house of Onesiphorus, and by Epaphroditus, who brought him a present from the Philippians, when he was in bonds; and which will be remembered another day.

True it is that Christ identifies Himself with His people, and accepts the kindness done to the poorest of them as done to Himself; but there is obviously implied, what is elsewhere in a similar connection clearly expressed, that the kindness must be done in the name of a disciple. In other words, love to Christ must be the motive of the deed of charity, else it is worthless as a test of true discipleship.

Again, the basis of their entrance is seen in their actions, for they provided food, drink, clothing, and care for the King (Mat. 25:35-36).