“Keep on the Watch”
Although Jesus directed the parable of the ten virgins to his anointed followers, its basic message applies to all Christians. (w15 3/15 12-16) “Keep on the watch, therefore, because you know neither the day nor the hour.” (Mt 25:13) Can you explain Jesus’ parable?
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Bridegroom (vs. 1)—Jesus
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Discreet, prepared virgins (vs. 2)—Anointed Christians who are prepared to carry out their assignment faithfully and who shine as illuminators until the end (Php 2:15)
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The shout: “Here is the bridegroom!” (vs. 6)—Evidence of Jesus’ presence
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Foolish virgins (vs. 8)—Anointed Christians who go out to meet the Bridegroom but who do not remain watchful and do not maintain their integrity
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The discreet virgins refuse to share their oil (vs. 9)—After the final sealing, it is too late for faithful anointed ones to help any who have turned unfaithful
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“The bridegroom came” (vs. 10)—Jesus comes to render judgment near the end of the great tribulation
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The discreet virgins enter the marriage feast with the bridegroom, and the door is shut (vs. 10)—Jesus gathers his faithful anointed ones to heaven, but the unfaithful ones lose their heavenly reward