PARABLE OF THE 10 VIRGINS

In Photo: Bishop John Ekong

PARABLE OF THE 10 VIRGINS

[A call for our readiness for the Master's return]

"Then shall the kingdom of Heaven be likened into ten virgins which took their lamps and went forth to meet with the bridegroom. And five of them were wise, five were foolish. They that were foolish took their lamps and took no oil with them. But the wise took oil in their vessels with their lamps.

5 While the bridegroom tarried, they all slumbered and slept. And at midnight, they came a cry made, 'Behold the bridegroom cometh, go ye out and meet him'.

Then all those virgins rose and trimmed their lamps. And the foolish said until the wise, 'Give us your oil, for our lamps are gone out.' But the wise answered saying, 'Not so, lest there be not enough for us and you. But ye go rather to the sellers and buy for yourselves.

And when they went out to buy, the bridegroom came, and they that were ready went in with him to the marriage. And the door was shut. 11Afterwards came also the other virgins saying 'Lord, Lord, open to us'. But he answered and said, 'Verily, I say until you, I know you not'.

Watch therefore, for ye know neither the day nor the hour wherein the Son of man cometh." (Matthew 25:1-13 KJV)

Is Jesus Still Coming?

Over the years, there have been discussions and arguments among Christians whether or not Christ is still returning. The answer according to the Bible is 'Yes'. Through the Bible, we get to know Jesus, His life, ministry, death and resurrection.

He knew many people doubted who he was and still is. That is why he shared this parable. Also, he shared this parable to assure us that He shall return. Other parables, such as that of the Parable of the Net (Matthew 13:47); Wheat and Tares (Matthew 13:31-32) carries same message of Jesus' return, thus: '...this same Jesus which is taken up from you into heaven, shall so come in like manner as ye have seen him go into heaven.' (Acts 1:11b)

Are You Ready For His Return?

The 10 virgins were without doubt that the Lord is returning. They knew and we're expecting Him. Yet, 5 of the 10 missed his return. They did not miss because they did not believe. They missed because they were not ready. In this case, the lamp and oil refers to our hearts, lives and our ways.

Believingt thatJesus shall return is not enough, we have to regularly purge ourselves of the things that pollute us, and arm ourselves with the whole armour of God to sustain our faith till He returns.

Evaluate Yourself Daily

The five foolish virgins did not evaluate themselves continually. Before they could do so, it was already midnight, and a warning call has just been put out about the Master's return. Then they went to get extra oil for their lamps. Unfortunately for them, while they went, the Master came in. We do not know the exact year, month nor hour when the Lord Jesus shall return. But we have the responsibility to always be prepared.

(This does not mean that our righteous works and godly living can save us. No. Yet, we have to hold onto the promises of God: serve and love Him. Trust solely on his as our salvation.)

Be Conscious of His Return

Maybe not to today, maybe not tomorrow, or next, but God's word is authentic. It has not yet happened does not mean it is false. Jesus said that on that day, people shall be going about their normal routine activities, then the Lord will show up. (Matthew 24:40–42)

His coming shall be universal, not just in a location. The whole existence will witness his glorious return. Accept Jesus today and walk conscious of His return.

God bless you.

[GoodlifeWrites]

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