What is the meaning of Matthew 25:2? Five of them • The parable opens with ten virgins, “Five of them were foolish, and five were wise” (Matthew 25:2). The number ten pictures completeness, reminding us of the whole visible community awaiting Christ’s return, much like the wheat and tares grow together until the harvest (Matthew 13:24-30). • Splitting the group in half signals that outward association with believers does not guarantee inward readiness; Jesus also warned that “many” who say “Lord, Lord” will hear, “I never knew you” (Matthew 7:21-23). • The scene underscores personal responsibility. No one can borrow another’s faith (cf. Ezekiel 18:20); each person must stand before God (2 Corinthians 5:10). Were foolish • Scripture calls someone foolish when he neglects God’s revealed will (Proverbs 1:7). These virgins carried lamps yet failed to take oil (Matthew 25:3), symbolizing a profession without regeneration—works without the Spirit (Romans 8:9). • Their folly was not ignorance of Christ’s coming but indifference to preparation, echoing the man who built on sand, hearing but not doing Christ’s words (Luke 6:46-49). • Spiritual complacency appears harmless until crisis exposes it. At midnight the shout came, and the foolish found their lamps sputtering; likewise, sudden judgment will catch the unprepared off guard (1 Thessalonians 5:2-3). And five were wise • Wisdom in Scripture is living in reverent obedience (Proverbs 9:10). The wise virgins took oil in jars (Matthew 25:4), illustrating a heart indwelt by the Spirit and sustained by ongoing fellowship with Christ (Ephesians 5:18). • Their foresight mirrors the prudent builder whose house withstood the storm because it rested on the Rock (Matthew 7:24-25). True wisdom counts the cost, endures in faith, and perseveres to the end (Hebrews 10:36-39). • When the Bridegroom arrived, the prepared entered the wedding banquet (Revelation 19:7-9). Wisdom, therefore, is rewarded with intimate, everlasting joy in Christ’s presence (John 14:3). summary Matthew 25:2 draws a sharp line within a seemingly united crowd: half ready, half not. The verse reminds us that: • Mere association with believers is not enough; personal preparedness is essential. • Folly dismisses the need for continual dependence on the Spirit, leaving one empty when the Lord appears. • Wisdom actively trusts and obeys Christ, storing “oil” through a genuine, persevering relationship with Him. The Bridegroom is coming; may we be found among the wise, lamps trimmed and hearts full of His life-giving oil. |
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