This week Pastor Tommy delves into the biblical parable of the ten bridesmaids from Matthew 25:1-13. The parable, presented by Jesus, serves as a warning to the church, emphasizing the importance of spiritual preparedness for the return of Christ.
The distinction between the wise and foolish bridesmaids parallels to the diverse members within the church. We must be spiritually wise, filled with the oil of the Holy Spirit, and not succumb to spiritual complacency or worldly distractions.
We must be challenged to evaluate our level of spiritual engagement and question our personal readiness for the return of Christ. We need to engage in active participation in the church, serving others, and seeking a continual renewal of the Holy Spirit’s presence to keep the spiritual flame burning brightly.
The Kingdom of Heaven can be illustrated by the story of ten bridesmaids who took their lamps and went to meet the bridegroom. Five of them were foolish, and five were wise. The five who were foolish didn’t take enough olive oil for their lamps, but the other five were wise enough to take along extra oil. When the bridegroom was delayed, they all became drowsy and fell asleep. At midnight they were roused by the shout, ‘Look, the bridegroom is coming! Come out and meet him!’ All the bridesmaids got up and prepared their lamps. Then the five foolish ones asked the others, ‘Please give us some of your oil because our lamps are going out.’ But the others replied, ‘We don’t have enough for all of us. Go to a shop and buy some for yourselves.’ But while they were gone to buy oil, the bridegroom came. Then those who were ready went in with him to the marriage feast, and the door was locked. Later, when the other five bridesmaids returned, they stood outside, calling, ‘Lord! Lord! Open the door for us!’ But he called back, ‘Believe me, I don’t know you!’ So you, too, must keep watch! For you do not know the day or hour of my return. Matthew 25:1-13
When the bridegroom was delayed, they all became drowsy and fell asleep. Matthew 25:5
0 Comments