The Parable of the Bridesmaids

Pastor Kevin Rutledge - 3/19/2023 10:00 AM

The parable of the ten bridesmaids, also known as the parable of the ten virgins, is found in Matthew 25:1-13. It tells the story of ten bridesmaids waiting for the bridegroom's arrival at a wedding feast. They all had lamps, but only five of them brought extra oil. When the bridegroom was delayed, all ten bridesmaids fell asleep. When the bridegroom finally arrived, the five bridesmaids who had brought extra oil could keep their lamps burning and were welcomed into the feast, but the other five who did not have enough oil were shut out.

In this week's sermon, we will take an in-depth look at what Jesus might be teaching in this parable, how it challenges how we live in this world, and how we use the "talents" God gives each of us.

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Scripture:

First Reading: Psalm 43
Second Reading: Matt 25:1-13

This Week's Reading Plan

Day:	Reading:
Monday	The Son of David: Matthew 22:41-46
Tuesday	A Psalm of David: Psalm 110:1-7
Wednesday	Humbled and Exalted: Matthew 23:1-12
Thursday	Woes: Matthew 23:13-26
Friday	And More Woes: Matthew 23:27-36
Saturday	Jerusalem! Jerusalem!: Matthew 23:37-39
Sunday	When Did We See You?: Matthew 25:31-46

Reflections and Caring Conversations

Please use the prompts and prayers below to aid you in your devotions for this week.

Scripture Verse of the Week: “Well done, good and trustworthy slave; you have been trustworthy in a few things, I will put you in charge of many things; enter into the joy of your master.” - Matthew 25:23
Mealtime Prayer: O God, we thank you for the gift of food and drink. We thank you for how you continue to provide for us. We thank you for the gift of family and friends. We ask that you continue to provide for others who are in need of all these things. Amen.
Prayer of the Week: God, you have blessed us with your presence. Be with us and encourage us to use what you have given us to serve you and to serve our neighbors. With whatever we have to offer, we pray it is used wisely and for your benefit. Amen.
Thinking about This Week’s Story: 3) When the bridegroom is delayed (we do not know why), everyone falls asleep, so this story's message is not to stay awake. Instead, the point seems to be that we should have enough oil to relight our lamps in case of a delay. What do you think this means concerning “the kingdom of heaven”? What does it mean to have “extra oil” for your lamp regarding the kingdom?
Getting Ready for Next Week’s Story: This story explains that when we love and help people in need, we are indeed loving and helping Jesus. How did you help or love someone today?