INTRODUCTION
- There are sins which are passive by nature but are as destructive in their ultimate consequences as those willfully and deliberately committed. The sin of neglect is one of these. We can see from this parable that the consequences of such sin are terrible to contemplate. Let us be as spiritually vigilant as the wise virgins were. They availed themselves of every privilege, every opportunity, and every experience that came their way.
THEME THOUGHTS
In this day of micro-technology, we should have no difficulty in grasping the concept that small things can be significant. We may feel that we are just one among millions on this earth, but in God’s eyes we are important; and that is the point we wish to convey throughout this quarter.
God has a plan for each of us! As we begin our Christian walk, and then continue to grow in His grace, we will want to find out what that plan is, and do our best to follow it. To discover God’s plan for us, we need to communicate with Him. With that thought is mind, this quarter opens with two lessons focusing on prayer. The lessons following those deal with recognizing the call of God and fitting ourselves to be usable in His service.
We look at the importance of witnessing to others, and the vital necessity of holding on through hard places. The quarter moves on to a series of lessons on choosing and keeping friends who will not hinder our spiritual growth. The concluding thrust is the importance of staying on the alert, ready at any moment for the Lord’s coming.
SUPPLEMENTAL SCRIPTURES
Revelation 16:15
QUESTIONS
- What was commendable about the attitude of both the wise and foolish virgins?
- In what ways, then, did the foolish virgins fail?
- What admonition was given to the foolish virgins? How did they react to this advice?
- What lessons are given to us in the conduct and attitude of the wise virgins?
- Who does the bridegroom represent in the parable? What does the midnight cry depict?
- What happened to the foolish virgins?
- What can we do to keep our “lamps” from going out?
- What thought in today’s lesson do you consider most important?