Wednesday, September 17, 2003 (77) THE KINGDOM COMPARED TO TEN VIRGINS. The kingdom is that which is the eternal order. The number ten is a number of divine order and completion. This parable is for the church in the end of the age. This is the time of the bridegroom, if we will listen there is a call of the Spirit to prepare ourselves for the most important of events in the history of the church. The marriage of the Lamb, the Lord Jesus Christ. The virgins knew that the hour of the wedding was approaching. They went out to meet the bridegroom. Mt. 25:1 They had been attracted to Him by the sweet perfume of His name. Song 1:3 There is no name, named among men like the name of the Lord Jesus Christ. Every need for body, soul and spirit is met in great sufficiency by calling upon that majestic name. The virgin is a very significant person in the Word. She is one set apart, pure and dedicated to the Lord, in this particular instance. The virgin is depicted as one whose interest is toward the Lord and has a great desire to please Him. 1 Cor. 7:32
THE VIRGINS WERE A SPECIAL INTEREST GROUP. They were in a category of persons who were in tune with the workings of the Lord. They were aware of the time and season of His coming for a Bride. Too find that there are two classes of virgins is amazing. They had all heard the same messages but reacted differently to their instructions. They were split right down the middle, five were wise and five were foolish. The wise, heard the Word and responded in an intelligent manner. They made certain that the equipment necessary for their wait, however long, was with them. While the foolish, the stupid, those who were hearers but not doers made no preparations. They were misled by their feeling of self sufficiency. What can be said of them? They were just plain dumb. Mt. 25:2 This is a situation that is found in every body of believers. There are those who are extremely serious about their spiritual condition and there are those who are very casual about Spiritual things.
THE DIFFERENCE HINGES ON ONE COMMODITY. That was oil for their lamps. Of a certainty they all carried their lamps with them, but there had been no preparation for a refill, if necessary. Mt. 25:3 The anointing oil is the assurance of the availability of the power of the Lord. At times, it is difficult to distinguish between that which is the anointing and that which is religious professionalism. There is a form, a mannerism, which duplicates the true anointing but lacks the power of the Spirit. Of this we must be aware and avoid any contact with that which is spurious. 2 Tim. 3:5 The anointing of the Holy Ghost has been given to the church that we might know and recognize the true Spirit of the Lord. He, the Holy Spirit is the Spirit of truth and will illuminate the truth to the body of Christ. 1 John 2:27 How desperate is the need for the true anointing of the Spirit on the body of Christ in these last days. It is time to make certain of our supply of the Holy anointing oil, it is so vital to our spiritual well being.