Matthew 25

“Then the kingdom of heaven will be comparable to ten virgins who took their lamps, and went out to meet the bridegroom …” (v1).  Jesus’ parables of the kingdom always leave us a bit uncomfortable.  The people thrown into “outer darkness” don’t seem so terrible – simply unprepared, like the virgins, or lazy (v26), or self-centered (v45).  But Jesus taught that the Kingdom wasn’t just another religion.  We can’t follow Him and continue normal patterns of life, blending in with our cultures.  Following Him costs something.

When we fail, Jesus forgives.  Meanwhile He keeps calling us to a radically sacrificial life, empowered by His Spirit.