Footnote

a When Jesus spoke about the sign of the last days, he gave his disciples several illustrations. It is interesting to note that he first referred to “the faithful and discreet slave,” the small group of anointed brothers who would take the lead among God’s people. (Matthew 24:45-47) Then he gave illustrations that referred to all the anointed ones. (Matthew 25:1-30) Finally he spoke about those who would support Christ’s brothers and live forever on earth. (Matthew 25:31-46) Similarly, when Ezekiel’s prophecy began to be fulfilled in our time, it applied first to those who had the hope of living in heaven. And although the ten tribes of Israel do not usually represent those who will live forever on earth, the unity described in this prophecy reminds us of the unity that exists between these ones and the anointed.