Matthew 25:1

Then shall the kingdom of heaven be likened unto ten virgins, which took their lamps, and went forth to meet the bridegroom.

Then {G5119} shall the kingdom {G932} of heaven {G3772} be likened {G3666} unto ten {G1176} virgins {G3933}, which {G3748} took {G2983} their {G846} lamps {G2985}, and went forth {G1831} to meet {G529}{G1519} the bridegroom {G3566}.

"The Kingdom of Heaven at that time will be like ten bridesmaids who took their lamps and went out to meet the groom.

“At that time the kingdom of heaven will be like ten virgins who took their lamps and went out to meet the bridegroom.

Then shall the kingdom of heaven be likened unto ten virgins, who took their lamps, and went forth to meet the bridegroom.

Commentary

Matthew 25:1 introduces one of Jesus's most poignant parables, often referred to as the Parable of the Ten Virgins (or Wise and Foolish Virgins). This verse sets the scene for a powerful lesson about spiritual preparedness and watchfulness, central to understanding the end times and the return of Christ.

Context

This verse is the opening of the first of three parables found in Matthew chapter 25, all of which continue the themes from the Olivet Discourse in Matthew 24. Following Jesus's prophecies about the destruction of the temple and signs of His second coming, these parables emphasize the critical need for His followers to be ready and vigilant. The phrase "Then shall the kingdom of heaven be likened" directly links this teaching to the preceding discourse about the unknown timing of the Lord's return.

Key Themes

  • The Kingdom of Heaven: Jesus consistently uses parables to illustrate the nature and expectations of God's rule. Here, the focus is on what it means to be part of this kingdom, particularly in light of future events.
  • Preparedness and Watchfulness: The core message revolves around being spiritually ready for the unexpected arrival of the Bridegroom. This isn't just about passive waiting, but active vigilance.
  • The Bridegroom (Christ): In biblical imagery, the bridegroom often represents God or, in the New Testament, Jesus Christ. His arrival signifies a climactic moment, often associated with His second coming.
  • The Ten Virgins: These figures represent those who profess to be awaiting the Bridegroom, symbolizing believers or those within the community of faith who are anticipating Christ's return.
  • Lamps: These are essential for light in the darkness and represent the outward profession of faith. The subsequent verses will reveal the crucial difference between having a lamp and having sufficient oil for it.

Linguistic Insights

The phrase "kingdom of heaven" (Greek: hē basileía tōn ouranōn) is characteristic of Matthew's Gospel, often used interchangeably with "kingdom of God" and highlighting God's sovereign rule and the spiritual realm. The "virgins" (Greek: parthénoi) were young women, typically friends of the bride, who would participate in the wedding procession, waiting for the bridegroom to arrive at the bride's house. This cultural detail underscores the expectation and the procession toward a joyful union. The "lamps" (Greek: lampádas) were likely torches, which required a continuous supply of oil to burn, setting up the central conflict of the parable in later verses.

Practical Application

Matthew 25:1 calls believers to a state of constant spiritual readiness. It's a reminder that while all may outwardly appear to be waiting for Christ, true preparedness involves an inner, active faith—symbolized by the "oil" that the wise virgins possess. This verse encourages us to cultivate a deep relationship with God, to live righteously, and to remain spiritually vigilant, ensuring we are not caught unprepared when the Lord returns. It emphasizes that salvation and readiness are personal responsibilities that cannot be borrowed or obtained at the last minute, echoing the urgency found in passages about being ready for the Son of Man.

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Cross-References

  • Luke 12:35 (60 votes)

    Let your loins be girded about, and [your] lights burning;

  • Luke 12:36 (60 votes)

    And ye yourselves like unto men that wait for their lord, when he will return from the wedding; that when he cometh and knocketh, they may open unto him immediately.

  • Philippians 2:15 (29 votes)

    That ye may be blameless and harmless, the sons of God, without rebuke, in the midst of a crooked and perverse nation, among whom ye shine as lights in the world;

  • Philippians 2:16 (29 votes)

    Holding forth the word of life; that I may rejoice in the day of Christ, that I have not run in vain, neither laboured in vain.

  • Matthew 24:42 (27 votes)

    Watch therefore: for ye know not what hour your Lord doth come.

  • Matthew 24:51 (27 votes)

    And shall cut him asunder, and appoint [him] his portion with the hypocrites: there shall be weeping and gnashing of teeth.

  • Revelation 19:7 (26 votes)

    Let us be glad and rejoice, and give honour to him: for the marriage of the Lamb is come, and his wife hath made herself ready.