The parable of the ten virgins (Matthew 25:1-13) starkly warns that initial righteousness is insufficient for eternal entry. All ten were “virgins,” symbolizing purity and outward adherence. All awaited the Bridegroom (Christ). Yet, five were deemed foolish because their righteousness lacked preparedness and sustained wisdom. They had lamps (outward faith) but no extra oil (the inward, enduring resource of a living relationship and the Holy Spirit’s enabling).
Their folly wasn’t immorality, but complacency and short-sightedness. They assumed their initial state was enough. When the Bridegroom delayed, their lamps flickered out, and their frantic search for oil proved futile: “But while they were on their way to buy the oil, the bridegroom arrived. The virgins who were ready went in with him to the wedding banquet. And the door was shut” (Matthew 25:10). Their righteous identity couldn’t compensate for their lack of readiness when the critical moment arrived.
This parable urges believers to cultivate attributes beyond mere initial righteousness to “make heaven”:
- Wisdom and discernment: the wise understood the need for sustained resource. “The beginning of wisdom is this: Get wisdom. Though it cost all you have, get understanding” (Proverbs 4:7). We must discern true spiritual need.
- Vigilance and preparedness: “Therefore keep watch, because you do not know the day or the hour” (Matthew 25:13). Life in Christ demands constant readiness through prayer, Scripture, and obedience.
- Endurance and perseverance: the delay tested them. “You need to persevere so that when you have done the will of God, you will receive what he has promised” (Hebrews 10:36). Faith must endure trials and time.
- Spiritual fullness (The Oil): The oil signifies the Holy Spirit’s ongoing work. “Be filled with the Spirit” (Ephesians 5:18). We must daily depend on Christ, cultivating an inner life that sustains faith.
- Active, Living Faith: true faith produces ongoing readiness. “Faith by itself, if it is not accompanied by action, is dead” (James 2:17). Our belief must translate into consistent spiritual discipline.
Don’t be righteous yet foolish. Be wise: cultivate vigilant, Spirit-filled, enduring faith. “Make every effort to add to your faith goodness; and to goodness, knowledge; and to knowledge, self-control; and to self-control, perseverance; and to perseverance, godliness… For if you do these things, you will never stumble, and you will receive a rich welcome into the eternal kingdom” (2 Peter 1:5-6, 10-11). Your eternal entry depends on it.