How can we ensure we are spiritually ready, as taught in Matthew 25:11? Scripture Focus “Later the other virgins arrived as well. ‘Lord, Lord,’ they said, ‘open the door for us!’” (Matthew 25:11) Why the Warning Matters • A closed door means the moment of decision has passed. • Jesus is teaching that spiritual preparation must happen before He returns, not after (cf. Matthew 25:13, “Therefore keep watch, because you do not know the day or the hour”). • The cry “Lord, Lord” shows that words without readiness are empty (see Matthew 7:21). What “Spiritual Readiness” Looks Like 1. Possessing “oil” (the life of the Holy Spirit) rather than merely carrying a lamp (an outward profession). 2. Maintaining a living faith in Christ that bears fruit in obedience (John 15:4-5). 3. Expecting the Bridegroom’s arrival at any moment, shaping every choice by that expectation (Titus 2:11-13). Practical Steps to Stay Ready • New Birth First – Receive Jesus by faith; you cannot borrow someone else’s faith (John 3:3, 5). • Daily Filling with the Spirit – Ask the Spirit to govern thoughts, decisions, conversations (Ephesians 5:18). • Watchfulness in Prayer – Keep short accounts with God; confess sin promptly (1 John 1:9). – Pray with anticipation, “Come, Lord Jesus” (Revelation 22:20). • Obedient Living – Apply Jesus’ commands in everyday life (Luke 6:46). – Pursue holiness: “Make every effort to be found at peace with Him, without spot or blemish” (2 Peter 3:14). • Faithful Stewardship – Use time, abilities, and resources for the Master’s purposes (Matthew 25:14-30). • Fellowship and Accountability – Encourage one another “and all the more as you see the Day approaching” (Hebrews 10:24-25). Common Pitfalls to Avoid • Procrastination—thinking there will be time later. • Borrowed spirituality—leaning on family, church culture, or past experiences instead of a present relationship with Christ. • Half-hearted discipleship—keeping just enough religion to soothe conscience without surrendering lordship to Jesus. Certainty for the Prepared • Jesus promises, “Blessed are those servants whom the master finds on watch when he returns” (Luke 12:37). • He supplies grace to remain ready; our part is to abide and obey (Philippians 2:12-13). Stay awake, stay supplied, and stay expectant—the Bridegroom’s arrival will vindicate every moment spent in readiness. |
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