In Matthew 25:1-13 we have recorded one of Jesus well known parables. Keep in mind that a parable is a story of earthly activity with a spiritual meaning, and all the details which are part of the earthly side of the story need not necessarily apply to the central theme, which in this parable is preparedness. The setting here drawing from the customs of an ancient Eastern wedding where the Bride and the attendants knew the wedding was coming but the Bridegroom did not announce the exact time of his arrival. Therefore it was imperative that they remain in a continuous state of preparedness, for at his sudden appearance there would be no time for preparation; only “those who were ready went in with him to the wedding; and the door was shut” verse 10. Since these weddings usually took place at night the burning lamps or torches seem to serve as a great illustration of being prepared. The five wise virgins were prepared for any unexpected delay in the bridegroom’s arrival, while the others apparently became negligent allowing their oil supply to run too low, Perhaps not expecting him to come that night. The bridegroom in this parable is associated with Jesus and the thought that of Him returning for His “Bride”, the Church. What would constitute one not having a supply of oil in their vessel with their lamp? Perhaps many things could enter into the equation, therefore it behooves us to “give the more earnest heed to the things we have heard, lest we drift away” Hebrews 2:1. Jesus said, “take heed to yourselves, lest your hearts be weighed down with carousing, drunkenness, and cares of this life, and that day come on you unexpectedly” Luke 21:34. And He also said, “Take heed, watch and pray; for you do not know when the time is” Mark 13:33. And then in Revelation 16:15 He said, “Behold, I am coming as a thief, blessed is he who watches, and keeps his garments, lest he walk naked and they see his shame.” And to us who have been entrusted with the work of His kingdom He says, “Blessed is that servant whom his master, when he comes, will find so doing” Matthew 24:46.
Are you prepared?
By Rose Hill
There are those who think they are very wise,
But it is only in their own eyes.
The truly wise are those who watch and pray,
And are looking for Jesus every day.
Scripture quotations are from the New King James Version copyright …1982 by Thomas Nelson Co. used by permission.