What is a Parable?

Parables were used by Jesus to illustrate spiritual truths, clarify information about the kingdom of God, and to teach moral lessons to the people of God.

The Parable of the Ten Virgins – Matthew 25:1-13

“At that time the kingdom of heaven will be like ten virgins who took their lamps and went out to meet the bridegroom. Five of them were foolish and five were wise. The foolish ones took their lamps but did not take any oil with them. The wise ones, however, took oil in jars along with their lamps.” (Matthew 25:1-4 NIV)

The Bridegroom is Delayed

“The bridegroom was a long time in coming, and they all became drowsy and fell asleep. At midnight the cry rang out: ‘Here’s the bridegroom! Come out to meet him!’ Then all the virgins woke and trimmed their lamps. The foolish ones said to the wise, ‘Give us some of your oil; our lamps are going out.’ “‘No,’ they replied, ‘there may not be enough for both us and you. Instead, go to those who sell oil and buy some for yourselves.’ (Matthew 25:5-9 NIV)

The Bridegroom Arrives

“But while they were on their way to buy the oil, the bridegroom arrived. The virgins who were ready went in with him to the wedding banquet. And the door was shut. Later the others also came. ‘Lord, Lord’ they said, ‘open the door for us!’ But he replied, ‘Truly I tell you, I don’t know you.’ Therefore keep watch because you do not know the day or the hour.” (Matthew 25: 10-13 NIV)

The Interpretation

This parable is all about preparation. The wise virgins were prepared to meet Jesus even though they fell asleep in waiting for his arrival. However, when the time came, they had extra oil for their lamps and were allowed to enter into his presence. The foolish virgins, however, were unprepared and had to go out to seek oil for their lamps. Upon their return, they were denied entrance. In other words, they were not God’s chosen people; having been disobedient to his word.

Jesus is saying that it is important for us to be ready for his return for we don’t “know the day or the hour”. The Bible is clear that Jesus’ return will be unexpected.

“Therefore keep watch, because you do not know on what day your Lord will come. But understand this: If the owner of the house had known at what time of night the thief was coming, he would have kept watch and would not have let his house be broken into. So you also must be ready, because the Son of Man will come at an hour when you do not expect him.” (Matthew 24: 42-44 NIV)

My Prayer

God help us to be like the wise virgins, ready to meet you with our lamps shining bright. Help us to stay ready so we don’t have to get ready at the appointed time of your coming. This I pray in your name, Amen.