Parables

Ten Virgins – Be Ready

Sunday, July 7th 2024

 Matthew 25:1-13

 Introduction

Jesus is speaking here (as in this entire discourse) to His disciples; He is not speaking to His adversaries, the Jewish religious leaders, nor to the crowds.

 Jesus is answering the questions posed by the disciples after Jesus declaration that the Temple would be destroyed (24:1,2).

 This parable and the others should serve as a warning to the church.

 Live Heartedly for the Glory of God and Prepare for His Return

 Live Heartedly for the Glory of God

Why do I say ‘heartedly?’ Why not just say ‘live for the glory of God?

 The foolish and wise virgins is a parable about how we are to be prepared for the return of the Master. We are to have extra oil in case he is delayed.

 The parable of the talents is about God judging us in how we handle his money. Are we going to be wise stewards or faithful stewards with what he has given to us. How are we helping his kingdom grow through our generosity.

 The parable of sheep and goats is about God judging us for how we love others, those totally different from us. Are we going to feed them, clothe them, and be a friend to them?

 All three parables are warnings to us as the Church! Let’s us love God and love others!

 Prepare for His Return

v.1 – “Then the kingdom of heaven will be like ten virgins who took their lamps and went to meet the bridegroom…”

 Jesus emphasizes the need for His followers to be watchful and ready for His return.

The contrast between the wise and foolish virgins teaches us about the importance of spiritual wisdom and readiness.

v.3 – “For when the foolish took their lamps, they took no oil with them…”

It wasn’t that they ran low, it was they brought no oil with them.

 Are we actively preparing ourselves spiritually for the coming of our Bridegroom? Or are we complacent, assuming there is time to spare?

 v.6 – “But at midnight there was a cry, ‘Here is the bridegroom! Come out to meet him!’

The suddenness of the bridegroom’s arrival underscores the imminence of Christ’s return. It could happen at any moment, catching the unprepared off guard.

 Are we living in anticipation of Christ’s return, eagerly awaiting His coming? Or have we

become distracted and indifferent to the urgency of His promise?

 v.8 – “And the foolish said to the wise, ‘Give us some of your oil, for our lamps are going out. But the wise answered, saying, since there will not be enough for us and for you, go rather to the dealers and buy for yourselves. And while they were going to buy, the bridegroom came, and those who were ready went with him to the marriage feast, and the door was shut.”

 The foolish virgins realize their lamps have no oil. They miss the bridegroom’s coming.

 The foolish virgins were shut out from the wedding feast, illustrating the consequences of not being spiritually prepared.

 v.13 – “Watch therefore, for you know neither the day nor the hour.”

Be prepared at all times, for we do not know the hour of Christ's return (Matt. 24:42)

 Remember, one day the delay will eventually end! Jesus will return and the door will be closed, or we will die and meet him face to face. Either way we need to prepare to meet him.

 Live with Eternity in View: This life is temporary, but eternity is forever. Live each day with a heavenly perspective, investing in what truly matters for eternity. Share the hope of Christ with others, so they too can be prepared for His coming.

 Conclusion