In that day it will be poured out without remedy. The figure of sheep and goats is used for the accepted and rejected because of the habits and color of the animals. Goats are naturally mischievous, wayward, quarrelsome, lascivious, and ill-centred, and as such are a symbol of riotous, profane and impure men. Innately selfish, they represent those nations and individuals given up to their own passions and lusts, and who fail to see the needs of others. They are found quarrelling with or opposing God's people, whether it be Israel as a nation, or His true sons and daughters, and will reap the fruits of their action from the hands of him who will render a proper re-payment of vengeance in due time.
Goats are extremely destructive.
We were once informed, when touring Israel, that the Jews had no success in restoring forests in certain areas, until they banned goats from it, and then, immediately, they had success. The goats browse on the tender shoots of the trees and shrubs, and so prevent growth. Even in color and habits there are significant differences between the two animals. Sheep are usually white whilst goats are black, speaking of righteousness and sin. Moreover, the two animals maintain a measure of separateness, for though goats might mingle with sheep, there is no disposition on either side for more intimate acquaintance.