J. Burns, LL. D. Matthew 25:1-13 Then shall the kingdom of heaven be likened to ten virgins, which took their lamps, and went forth to meet the bridegroom.… I. IN THEIR PROFESSIONAL PROBATIONARY CHARACTER — "Who took their lamps." In this, the profession of Christianity is exhibited. Religion is to be manifested. This profession of discipleship and friendship with Christ — 1. Should arise from love to Christ. 2. Must be public and open before men. 3. Must be constant and continued. 4. It must be sustained by Divine grace. A profession without the grace of God in the soul will be joyless, promiseless, transitory. II. THE DELAY OF THE BRIDEGROOM, AND THE VIRGINS IN THEIR SLEEPING STATE. The early Christians expected His Second Advent in their time. So in many ages since. But the period is not revealed. The virgins "all slumbered and slept." There are no obvious distinctions between the two classes. But the wise prepared for the future. The others were satisfied with the present — had no supply for the coming exigency. III. THE SOLEMN ANNOUNCEMENT. 1. The period. 2. The pomp and magnificence of His coming. The event is momentous, and the scene truly sublime. All beings in all worlds will be interested in it. IV. THE AWFUL DEFICIENCY OF THE FOOLISH VIRGINS IS DISCOVERED. What shall they do? We cannot give grace to each other now. How much less, then! V. THE CONCLUSION OF THE CEREMONY AND THE CONSUMMATION OF THE FEAST. The wise acknowledged, etc. But the foolish labour to supply the deficiency in seeking oil. But "the door is shut." 1. The door of opportunities and means. 2. The door of mercy. 3. The door of hope. 4. The door of heaven. Application: 1. Let the subject lead to solemn examination. 2. To earnestness, and diligence, and vigilance. (J. Burns, LL. D. .) Parallel Verses KJV: Then shall the kingdom of heaven be likened unto ten virgins, which took their lamps, and went forth to meet the bridegroom. |
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