The Wise Virgins Took Oil in their Vessels with their Lamps
“But the wise took oil in their vessels with their lamps.” (Matthew 25:4, KJV)
The parable of the ten virgins teaches a crucial lesson: the Lord warns us not to run out of oil because there will come a time when everyone will depend on their own supply. Let’s briefly examine this parable.
In Matthew 25:1, Jesus likens the kingdom of heaven to ten virgins (or bridesmaids) who went to meet the bridegroom. Five were wise, and five were foolish. The difference? The wise took their lamps and extra oil, while the foolish took only their lamps.
Before continuing, let’s clarify the parts of this parable. Theologians often caution against interpreting every detail too literally, as Jesus doesn’t always explain each component. However, in the parable of the wheat and tares (Matthew 13:36-43), Jesus explains each element, showing that the details He chose are not accidental. Still, caution is needed when assigning meaning to parts not explicitly explained.
Now, let’s explore this parable. Jesus is often portrayed as the Bridegroom, and His Church as the Bride. Here, however, the bridesmaids represent Christians—those who follow Christ. Oil in Scripture often symbolizes the Holy Spirit and His work in our lives. It is the oil that keeps our lamps burning, and it is through the Holy Spirit that we shine as lights in the world. As I often say, “No oil, no light.”
The distinction between the wise and foolish virgins was their preparedness. The wise took extra oil; the foolish did not. When the foolish ran out, they begged the wise for oil but were refused. Running out of oil symbolizes the absence of the Holy Spirit’s active work in our lives—His power that keeps the light of righteousness, joy, love, peace, freedom, etc., burning in us. When the foolish ran out, the wise told them to get their own.
The lesson: there will come a time when your personal spiritual reserve will be critical. You cannot rely on the oil of your pastor, mentor, or prayer warrior. Each believer must ensure their own supply of oil—their access to the operation of power of the Holy Spirit in their lives.
And how do we generate oil in our lamps? The basics: the Word of God, prayer, and fellowship with other believers. So here’s the question:
Do you have enough oil to withstand the increasing darkness in the world? The Lord calls us to be like the wise bridesmaids—take extra oil for the lamp of your life.
Meditate
Think about the practical implications of this parable, especially the significance of the oil. How does a Christian run out of oil? Does it mean they lose their salvation? (Hint: No!)
Apply the Word
Do you have extra oil? Do you only pray only in times of crisis, or do you pray to invest in your relationship with God and prepare for the future? Can the Word of God within you sustain you when spiritual darkness attacks? The Lord urges us to get extra oil, especially as the days grow darker.
Pray
Ask the Father to help you fill your lamp with oil and take extra with you at all times.
Recommended Read
- What Was The Error Of The Five Foolish Virgins?
- Five of the Virgins were Wise and Five were Foolish
- I Shall Be Anointed with Fresh Oil
- You Need Oil to Burn and Shine
- The Ebb and Flow of the Spirit
- All Deshen Daily Devotionals
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