What actions can ensure we are not like the unprepared virgins in Matthew 25? Matthew 25:12 — The Closed Door “But he replied, ‘Truly I tell you, I do not know you.’” The Bridegroom’s verdict warns that mere outward association with Him is not enough; living, prepared faith is required. Keep the Lamp of Faith Burning - Receive Christ personally and openly confess Him (John 1:12; Romans 10:9-10). - Nurture faith daily through the Word: “Faith comes by hearing, and hearing by the word of Christ.” (Romans 10:17) - Let Scripture shape decisions, priorities, and attitudes. Stay Filled With Oil — Life in the Spirit - Walk in ongoing reliance on the Holy Spirit, the true “oil” that keeps the flame bright (Ephesians 5:18). - Invite His filling through repentance of sin and yielded obedience (Acts 5:32). - Cultivate intimacy with the Spirit in worship, thanksgiving, and listening prayer (2 Corinthians 13:14). Live Watchfully Every Day - Maintain alertness: “So then, let us not sleep as the others do, but let us remain awake and sober.” (1 Thessalonians 5:6) - Keep a heart tuned to Christ’s imminent return (Revelation 22:12). - Order schedules and plans as stewards who might meet the Master at any moment (Luke 12:35-36). Persevere in Obedience and Good Works - Express love for Christ through practical obedience (John 14:15). - Bear fruit that endures: service, generosity, purity, mercy (John 15:8; Titus 2:14). - Continue even when results seem slow; perseverance proves genuine faith (Hebrews 10:36-39). Serve Faithfully Until He Comes - Use gifts and resources to bless others (1 Peter 4:10). - Engage in gospel witness locally and globally (Matthew 28:19-20). - Care for “the least of these,” a theme Jesus expands later in the chapter (Matthew 25:40). Guard Against Spiritual Drowsiness - Reject complacency produced by delays (2 Peter 3:9-14). - Limit influences that dull the spirit: sinful entertainment, unchecked worry, materialism (James 4:4). - Practice regular self-examination in light of Scripture (2 Corinthians 13:5). Strengthen One Another in Community - Gather faithfully with believers for encouragement and accountability (Hebrews 10:24-25). - Share testimonies of God’s work to keep hope vivid (Psalm 107:2). - Restore wandering brothers or sisters with gentleness (Galatians 6:1-2). Key Takeaways - Enter a genuine, saving relationship with Christ now. - Daily depend on the Holy Spirit to supply the “oil” of readiness. - Live alert, obedient, fruitful, and servant-minded until the Bridegroom appears. - Encourage fellow believers so the whole church stands prepared and the door never closes on us with the words, “I do not know you.” |
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