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PARABLE OF TEN VIRGINS – THE MARRIAGE
FRIDAY, MAY 8
Matthew 25:1-13

Memory verse: Matthew 25:2-3

 

“And five of them were wise,

and five were foolish.”

 

PARABLE OF TEN VIRGINS – THE MARRIAGE
 
The Parable of the Ten Virgins is a kingdom of heaven parable about salvation. The ten virgins are the professing believers in the local church. The bridegroom is Jesus Christ. The marriage is the return of Christ for His church. The focus of this parable is on vigilance. Every genuinely born-again believer must be vigilant in preparing for the bridegroom’s coming.
 
The Jewish wedding in Jesus’ time, as described by Albert Barnes in his commentary: “Marriage ceremonies in the East were conducted with great pomp and solemnity. The ceremony of marriage was performed commonly in the open air, on the banks of a stream. Both the bridegroom and bride were attended by friends. They were escorted in a palanquin, carried by four or more persons. After the ceremony of marriage succeeded a feast of seven days if the bride was a virgin, or three days if she was a widow. This feast was celebrated in her father’s house. At the end of that time the bridegroom conducted the bride, with great pomp and splendour, to his own home. This was done in the evening, or at night, Jeremiah 7:34; 25:10; 33:11. Many friends and relations attended them; and besides those who went with them from the house of the bride, there was another company that came out from the house of the bridegroom to meet them, and welcome them. These were probably female friends and relatives of the bridegroom, who went out to welcome him and his new companion to their home. These are the virgins mentioned in this parable. Not knowing precisely the time when the procession would come, they probably went out early, and waited until they should see indications of its approach.”
 
The ten virgin’s duty was to always be prepared for the bridegroom’s coming. The belief in the certainty of his coming is revealed by how the ten virgins prepared themselves. If they truly believe, they would ensure they have sufficient oil regardless of the time of the bridegroom’s coming. It is the bridegroom’s prerogative what time he chooses to come. The virgin’s duty was to wait to join the wedding party when the bridegroom finally came. Without the light, they would be locked out.
 
THOUGHT: Are you well prepared for Christ’s return at any time?

PRAYER: Father, keep me ready for Christ’s return.

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