Why did Jesus share the parable of the ten virgins in Matthew 25?
“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 the virgins were foolish, and five were wise. When the foolish ones took their lamps, they did not take extra olive oil with them. But the wise ones took flasks of olive oil with their lamps. When the bridegroom was delayed a long time, they all became drowsy and fell asleep. But at midnight there was a shout, ‘Look, the bridegroom is here! Come out to meet him.’ Then all the virgins woke up and trimmed their lamps. The foolish ones said to the wise, ‘Give us some of your oil, because our lamps are going out.’ ‘No,’ they replied. ‘There won’t be enough for you and for us. Go instead to those who sell oil and buy some for yourselves.’ But while they had gone to buy it, the bridegroom arrived, and those who were ready went inside with him to the wedding banquet. Then the door was shut. Later, the other virgins came too, saying, ‘Lord, Lord! Let us in!’ But he replied, ‘I tell you the truth, I do not know you!’ Therefore stay alert, because you do not know the day or the hour.” (Matthew 25:1-13).
As was the Jewish custom and tradition, the ten women—engaged to be married—were waiting on their bridegrooms, who had gone to prepare a home for them. These young women were excited to be united with their men and waited anxiously for their return. They fell asleep with their lamps burning and at midnight heard a shout that He was on His way. Five refilled and trimmed their lamps and raced to make their greeting. Again, as was custom they went into the wedding feast, where they were welcomed in celebration. The other five didn’t have oil, but purchased some and attempted entry into the party. They were denied—unknown to their groom.
In the parable, the five prepared women represent God’s church—His believers, who are awaiting Christ’s return (both the rapture and His second coming). The oil represents Holy Spirit. These women believers were Holy Spirit filled, meaning they carried His gift—the in dwelling Spirit within them. This full and total dedication to Him was evident when He arrived and He recognized them, and they celebrated together.
The other five did not have Holy Spirit, yet believed they still should be welcomed anyway. He said He did not know them, and they were denied entry into the wedding party.
So why did Jesus share this parable? Because there are many today who believe they are ‘Christians’ and should be granted a place in heaven to live eternally with the Holy Triune God, except—according to Him—they do not believe, have not asked Him into their hearts and minds, do not obey His commandments, and do not have a relationship with Him. (Please read the post Believer and Christian for the difference between the two)
Refuse to be a worldly ‘Christian’. Instead, seek Him. Ask Him to come live within you, repent your worldly sins, and live a new life—separate from this world. Die to self and commit fully to Him, and you will be gifted the helper—Holy Spirit.
Living Holy Spirit indwelled is not like anything you’ve ever experienced! It’s a game changer, for sure.
If you’d like to learn more check out Robert Deffinbaugh of Community Bible Chapel.