1. To what was the kingdom compared (verse 1)?

2. What was the difference between those who were wise and those who were foolish (verses 2-4)?

3. What did all ten do (verse 5)?

4. What happened at midnight (verse 6)?

5. How did all ten react (verse 7)?

6. What did the foolish request (verse 8)?

7. What was the response of the wise (verse 9)?

8. What happened (verses 10, 11)?

9. When the foolish returned and asked to be admitted, how did the bridegroom respond (verse 12)?

Things to note about the kingdom of heaven:

1. Insights from the ten virgins:
   1. All were invited to meet the bridegroom.

   2. All accepted the invitation.

   3. All made preparation.

   4. All were waiting for the bridegroom at the right place.

   5. All intended to be ready for the bridegroom to arrive.

2. There was only one difference between the foolish and the wise (prudent):
   1. The wise prepared for his arrival regardless of when it occurred.

   2. The foolish prepared for his arrival within the limits of their expectations.

3. The preparation of the wise could not cover the needs of the foolish.

4. Only those prepared to receive him when he did arrive were welcomed.

5. The inadequately prepared were not received.

6. Lesson to the first century Israelites: with the certain knowledge that God's kingdom was coming, be adequately prepared to receive it.

7. Many of the first century Israelites made some preparation for the coming of the kingdom. However, the majority made inadequate preparation.

8. The fact that they would be the "unknown" when seeking entrance into the kingdom was, to them, unthinkable.

David Chadwell

Jesus' Kingdom Parables Study Guide (part 11)
Wednesday evening Bible class, 10 June - 18 November 1998
West-Ark Church of Christ, Fort Smith, AR

Copyright © 1998
Permission is granted to freely copy and distribute with text unchanged, including author's name.

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