Be Ready

Introduction

In this article, we discuss the parable of the ten bridesmaids told by Jesus in Matthew 25. This parable illustrates the importance of being prepared for the coming of the Kingdom of Heaven. Jesus compares the bridesmaids waiting for the bridegroom to his disciples waiting for his return. He emphasizes that not everyone will be ready for his coming, and it is crucial to be prepared.

The parable begins with ten bridesmaids, half of whom were considered wise and the other half foolish. They all took their lamps and went out to meet the bridegroom. However, only the wise bridesmaids brought extra oil for their lamps, while the foolish ones did not. As they waited, the bridegroom took longer than expected to arrive, and all the bridesmaids grew drowsy and fell asleep.

At midnight, the cry went out that the bridegroom had arrived. The bridesmaids woke up and started trimming their lamps, but the foolish ones realized that their lamps were running out of oil. They asked the wise bridesmaids for some of their oil, but the wise ones refused, telling them to go and buy oil for themselves. While the foolish bridesmaids were out buying oil, the bridegroom arrived, and the door to the wedding banquet was shut.

When the foolish bridesmaids finally returned, they pleaded with the bridegroom to let them in, but he replied that he did not know them. Jesus concludes the parable by urging his disciples to stay vigilant and be prepared, just as the wise bridesmaids were.

Keywords

• Parable of the ten bridesmaids
• Kingdom of Heaven
• Wise and foolish bridesmaids
• Preparedness
• Second coming of Jesus

FAQ

• What is the main message of the parable of the ten bridesmaids? The parable emphasizes the importance of being prepared for the second coming of Jesus and the arrival of the Kingdom of Heaven.

• What does the oil symbolize in the parable? The oil represents the readiness and preparedness of the disciples. The wise bridesmaids who had extra oil were prepared for the long wait, while the foolish ones lacked preparation.

• Why did the wise bridesmaids refuse to share their oil? The oil could not be shared because it symbolized personal preparation and faith. Each person is responsible for their own readiness for the coming of the Kingdom of Heaven.

• What does the parable teach us about the second coming of Jesus? The parable underscores the need for continuous vigilance and readiness for the return of Jesus. It reminds us that not everyone will be ready and that we should always be prepared for his arrival.