Matthew 25:9

Commentary on Matthew 25:9 (KJV)

Matthew 25:9 is a pivotal moment in the Parable of the Ten Virgins, where the wise virgins refuse to share their oil with the foolish ones. This verse encapsulates a crucial lesson about individual spiritual responsibility and the nature of salvation.

Context

This verse is part of Jesus' Olivet Discourse (Matthew 24-25), a series of teachings delivered on the Mount of Olives concerning the end times, His second coming, and the need for vigilance. The Parable of the Ten Virgins (Matthew 25:1-13) immediately precedes the Parable of the Talents and the description of the Last Judgment, emphasizing the theme of being watchful and prepared for the unexpected return of the Bridegroom (Christ). The virgins represent those awaiting the Lord, and the oil symbolizes spiritual readiness, which can include faith, good works, and the indwelling of the Holy Spirit.

Key Themes and Messages

• Individual Responsibility for Spiritual Readiness: The core message is that spiritual preparedness cannot be transferred or shared. Each person must cultivate their own relationship with God and ensure their "lamp" is full. The wise virgins' refusal underscores that one cannot borrow faith or righteousness from another, especially at the critical moment of Christ's return.
• The Impossibility of Borrowing Grace: The phrase "lest there be not enough for us and you" highlights that spiritual grace and readiness are personal. They are not commodities that can be lent or shared in a way that benefits another's eternal standing. This points to the deeply personal nature of salvation and the necessity of individual diligence.
• The Urgency of Preparation: The advice to "go ye rather to them that sell, and buy for yourselves" implies that there is a time and a way to acquire what is needed for spiritual readiness, but it must be done proactively and individually. The delay of the bridegroom in the parable signifies that there is a window of opportunity for preparation, but it is not indefinite. Once that window closes, it is too late, as seen when the foolish virgins find the door shut (Matthew 25:10).
• Consequences of Neglect: This verse foreshadows the ultimate consequence of neglecting spiritual preparation – being shut out from the joyous celebration of the Bridegroom's arrival.

Linguistic Insights

The Greek phrase translated "Not so" is οὐ μήποτε (ou mēpote), a strong double negative that conveys an emphatic refusal, meaning "by no means" or "never." This reinforces the impossibility of sharing. The command to "buy for yourselves" (ἀγοράσατε ἑαυταῖς - agorasate heautais) emphasizes the active, personal effort required to acquire spiritual readiness. While not literal buying, it signifies the investment of time, attention, and obedience required to live a life pleasing to God.

Practical Application

Matthew 25:9 serves as a potent reminder for believers today. It urges us to:

• Prioritize Personal Spiritual Growth: Do not rely on the faith of parents, spouses, or friends. Your relationship with God is your own, and your spiritual readiness is your personal responsibility.
• Be Diligent in Preparation: Just as the wise virgins prepared in advance, we are called to live a life of watchfulness and obedience now. This involves cultivating faith, living righteously, and being filled with the Holy Spirit.
• Understand the Value of Time: The parable implies a limited time for preparation. We do not know the hour of Christ's return, making present-day readiness paramount. As Jesus warns in Matthew 25:13, "Watch therefore, for ye know neither the day nor the hour wherein the Son of man cometh."