What is the meaning of Matthew 25:9? “No,” The very first word in the response is firm and uncompromising. The wise virgins recognize a boundary that cannot be crossed. Just as Jesus tells His followers to “let your ‘Yes’ be ‘Yes,’ and your ‘No,’ ‘No’” (Matthew 5:37), the wise answer leaves no wiggle room. Their refusal is not selfishness but stewardship; it mirrors how God’s yes and no are clear in passages like 2 Corinthians 1:18-20. Some things—especially readiness for Christ’s coming—cannot be negotiated. “said the wise ones,” Scripture calls them “wise” because they planned ahead (Proverbs 14:8). Wisdom in the Bible is always tied to fearing the Lord and obeying Him (Proverbs 9:10; James 3:13). These bridesmaids had acted on the Lord’s earlier instruction: “Be dressed for service and keep your lamps burning” (Luke 12:35-36). Their wisdom contrasts sharply with the foolish virgins, underscoring the two paths Jesus often sets before His listeners (Matthew 7:24-27). “or there may not be enough for both us and you.” The reason for refusal is simple math: a limited supply. • Readiness cannot be transferred; each person must possess it (Ezekiel 14:14; Galatians 6:5). • Salvation is personal; no one can believe on another’s behalf (John 3:18; Romans 14:12). • The wise recognize that if they try to divide what is essential, all will end up in darkness—echoing Jesus’ warning about “the blind leading the blind” (Matthew 15:14). The lamp oil symbolizes what keeps the believer’s light burning: genuine faith evidenced by obedience (Philippians 2:12-13). “Instead,” The word pivots from refusal to instruction. Grace still extends an invitation while time remains (2 Peter 3:9). It is reminiscent of Jesus’ “Instead, seek His kingdom” (Luke 12:31) and Paul’s “But now” urgings (2 Corinthians 6:2). The wise point the foolish in the only viable direction left. “go to those who sell oil” Practical steps are given. In everyday life, oil vendors are open only for a season; spiritually, the gospel is available now but not indefinitely (Isaiah 55:6). The idea of “buying” evokes Revelation 3:18, where Jesus counsels the church to “buy from Me gold refined by fire,” stressing personal transaction with Him. No one else can make that purchase for us. “and buy some for yourselves.” Ownership is the takeaway word. Like the Israelites gathering manna daily (Exodus 16:16-18), every disciple must secure what sustains faith. The price here is repentance and surrender (Luke 14:33), not money. Yet the command reminds us there will be a moment when the door shuts (Matthew 25:10-12). Prepare now, because last-minute borrowing will not work. summary Matthew 25:9 teaches that preparedness for Christ’s return is personal, cannot be loaned, and must be secured before the final moment arrives. The wise virgins’ firm “No” highlights the non-transferable nature of saving faith and obedience, while their guidance—“go and buy for yourselves”—underscores that today is the day to make sure our lamps are full and our hearts ready. |
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