Give Me Oil for My Lamp!
March 26, 2006 - Matthew 25:1-13
Open It
What is the most elaborate or important social function you have ever been invited to?
When was a time you were late to an important event, and why were you delayed?
How do you react when you are made to wait?
Explore It
To what did Jesus compare the kingdom of heaven in this parable? (25:1)
How were the ten women described? (25:1-2)
Why were some of the bridesmaids described as "foolish"? (25:3)
What made some of the bridesmaids "wise"? (25:4)
What happened to the bridegroom? (25:5)
What happened at midnight? (25:6-7)
What did the foolish bridesmaids ask of the others? (25:8)
How did the wise bridesmaids respond when asked to help the ones who weren't prepared? (25:9)
When did the bridegroom arrive and the wedding banquet begin? (25:10)
What did the foolish bridesmaids discover and do when they returned? (25:11)
How did the bridegroom respond when some bridesmaids wanted to come to the wedding late? (25:12)
With what warning did Jesus conclude this parable? Why? (25:13)
Get It
In what ways do you tend to count on more mature Christians or try to ride their coattails?
What responsibility does each Christian have before God?
Why is continual preparation for Christ's return better than "last minute cramming"?
Why do we tend to think (and act like) we have all the time in the world to get ready for Christ's return?
What does this passage say about the need for individual readiness?
What are the possible consequences of putting off thinking about Christ and spiritual growth until later?
Apply It
What spiritual preparation do you need to make today in order to "keep watch"?
How can you change your attitude this week in order to reflect your belief in the imminent return of Christ?
What Christian should you lovingly warn about the imminent return of Christ?
Notes
Matthew 25:1ff: Jesus told the following parables to clarify further what it means to be ready for his return and how to live until he comes. In the story of the ten bridesmaids (Matthew 25:1-13), we are taught that every person is responsible for his or her own spiritual condition. The story of the talents (Matthew 25:14-30) shows the necessity of using well what God has entrusted to us. The parable of the sheep and goats (Matthew 25:31-46) stresses the importance of serving others in need. No parable by itself completely describes our preparation. Instead, each paints one part of the whole picture.
Matthew 25:1ff: This parable is about a wedding. On the wedding day the bridegroom went to the bride's house for the ceremony; then the bride and groom, along with a great procession, returned to the groom's house where a feast took place, often lasting a full week.
These ten bridesmaids were waiting to join the procession, and they hoped to take part in the wedding banquet. But when the groom didn't come at the expected time, five of them were out of lamp oil. By the time they had purchased extra oil, it was too late to join the feast.
When Jesus returns to take his people to heaven, we must be ready. Spiritual preparation cannot be bought or borrowed at the last minute. Our relationship with God must be our own.