1. “GOD’S KINGDOM” MATTHEW 25 PARABLES The Fate of the Unprepared Parable of the Ten Virgins – Matthew 25 March 5, 2006

2. Matthew 25:1-13 The Ten Virgins The Lesson of the Wedding –The Arrangement – “Bride Price” –The Engagement – “Covenant Cup” –The Betrothal – “The Waiting” –The Ceremony – “The Feast”

3. Matthew 25:1-13 The Ten Virgins The Lesson of the Bridesmaids Similarities between Wise & Foolish Virgins –All were virgins! Indistinguishable from the outside. All had their lamps at the ready! –All profess to know Christ intimately as His disciples! –All go out to meet the bridegroom! –All get sleepy and fall asleep!

4. Matthew 25:1-13 The Ten Virgins Differences between Wise & Foolish Virgins –Some took enough oil with them, some did not! –Some were godly, others had only a form of godliness! –Some have Christ in their heart, some have made the commitment only religiously, socially, & intellectually!

5. Matthew 25:1-13 The Ten Virgins MAIN POINT: Only those who are ready & truly know Christ will be admitted into the Kingdom! What does it mean to be ready?

6. Matthew 25:1-13 The Ten Virgins #1: THE KEY TO BEING READY IS HAVING A PERSONAL RELATIONSHIP WITH JESUS  Matthew 7:21-23; Luke 13:22-27 Indicators of not having a “Right” relationship NOT calling him “Lord” over your life!NOT calling him “Lord” over your life! NOT being familiar with what he said & didNOT being familiar with what he said & did NOT attending church or fellowshipping withNOT attending church or fellowshipping with the body! the body!

7. Matthew 25:1-13 The Ten Virgins Lessons from the Bridegroom –The Arrival –The Closed Door –The Warning