Mount Pleasant Christian Church

1. The wedding.

First, there was the engagement.

Second, there was the betrothal.

Third, there was the wedding banquet.

2. The wedding party.

Let’s begin with the bridegroom who represents Jesus. Just like the bridegroom in the parable who was going to and get his bride so the wedding feast could begin, one day Jesus will come to get his bride for the beginning of what will ultimately be a new heaven and a new earth.

Then there are the bridesmaids. These are the ten virgins although we shouldn’t “spiritualize” the use of the word “virgins.” This were simply young women – and this description (Parthenos meaning “a marriageable maiden”) perfectly fits the culture of Jesus’ day.

In the original language the word is lampas which means torch. This isn’t a small candle. Back in Matthew 5:14-15 Jesus said, You are the light of the world. A city on a hill cannot be hidden.Neither do people light a lamp and put it under a bowl. Instead they put it on a stand, and it gives light to everyone in the house. (NIV) Jesus used a completely different word there for “lamp” that describes a small flame (small enough to be put under a bowl).

3. The wedding lessons.

Initially these 10 virgins/bridesmaids were indistinguishable.

The oil represents the grace of God which is necessary for salvation.

Jesus makes it clear there will be a time of waiting for the bridegroom.

There will be a time when it’s too late.

At the end of the day, you are responsible for you.