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    In Context

    What Is the Parable of the Ten Virgins — In Biblical Context

    The Parable of the Ten Virgins warns believers to be spiritually prepared and watchful, for Christ's return will come at an unexpected hour.

    Quick Answer

    The Parable of the Ten Virgins warns believers to be spiritually prepared and watchful, for Christ's return will come at an unexpected hour.

    "And five of them were wise, and five were foolish." — Matthew 25:2 (KJV)

    The Biblical Context

    In Matthew 25:1-13, Jesus tells of ten virgins who took their lamps to meet the bridegroom. Five were wise and took oil in their vessels with their lamps; five were foolish and took no extra oil. When the bridegroom delayed, all fell asleep. At midnight a cry rang out: 'Behold, the bridegroom cometh; go ye out to meet him.' The foolish virgins found their lamps going out and begged the wise for oil, but were told there would not be enough for both. While they went to buy, the bridegroom came, and those who were ready went in with him to the marriage. The door was shut. Jesus concludes: 'Watch therefore, for ye know neither the day nor the hour wherein the Son of man cometh.' The oil represents the indwelling Holy Spirit and genuine saving faith — external religion without inward life will be exposed when Christ returns.

    Where It Sits in Scripture

    The core passage for this question, Matthew 25:2, sits inside Matthew 25. To grasp the full meaning, read the surrounding paragraph — the verses before set up the thought, the verses after carry it forward.

    "And five of them were wise, and five were foolish."
    — Matthew 25:2 (KJV)

    Supporting Passages

    Matthew 25:10
    "And while they went to buy, the bridegroom came; and they that were ready went in with him to the marriage: and the door was shut."
    Matthew 25:13
    "Watch therefore, for ye know neither the day nor the hour wherein the Son of man cometh."

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