Matthew 25 - 4.9.25

Scripture: Matthew 25:10-13

“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. “Later the others also came. ‘Lord, Lord,’ they said, ‘open the door for us!’ But he replied, ‘Truly I tell you, I don’t know you.’ “Therefore, keep watch, because you do not know the day or the hour.

Observation

Jesus died to save us from our sin, not because we did anything to deserve it, but simply because of his great love for us. Once we accept his salvation, it should be evident in our lives. In three separate parables in Matthew 25, Jesus warns us not to become complacent. If we truly love God, we should want to please him by following his commands.

Application

On Sunday, Pastor Levi shared the story of the fig tree that did not bear fruit. And within days, I am again reminded that God loves me, but he also requires something of me.

It is easy to become complacent in his love. But Jesus warns us throughout scripture that we have a duty to stay focused on him; to follow God’s commands, to love others, and to share his word.

Matthew 10:5-8 These twelve Jesus sent out with the following instructions: “Do not go among the Gentiles or enter any town of the Samaritans. Go rather to the lost sheep of Israel.  As you go, proclaim this message: ‘The kingdom of heaven has come near.’ Heal the sick, raise the dead, cleanse those who have leprosy, drive out demons. Freely you have received; freely give.

Galatians 6:9 Let us not become weary in doing good, for at the proper time we will reap a harvest if we do not give up.

Prayer

Lord, please forgive me for my complacency. Forgive me for putting you second, or sometimes even last. Forgive me for testing you. Freely you shower me with your love and forgiveness. Help me to stay focused on you and connected to you. Help me to walk in a way that is pleasing to you.

Colossians 1:9-12 And so, from the day we heard, we have not ceased to pray for you, asking that you may be filled with the knowledge of his will in all spiritual wisdom and understanding, so as to walk in a manner worthy of the Lord, fully pleasing to him: bearing fruit in every good work and increasing in the knowledge of God; being strengthened with all power, according to his glorious might, for all endurance and patience with joy; giving thanks to the Father, who has qualified you to share in the inheritance of the saints in light.

- Debbie Dunn