Lesson 17
Keeping Our Lamps Filled with Oil
Lesson Objective:
To challenge believers to continually stay filled with the Holy Spirit, living in readiness for Christ’s return like the wise virgins who kept their lamps burning.
Introduction:
Jesus told the parable of the ten virgins to illustrate the importance of being spiritually prepared. All ten were waiting for the bridegroom, but only five were wise enough to have oil ready when He came. This oil represents the constant infilling of the Holy Spirit, a life of communion with God, and readiness to meet Christ.
Key Points:
1. The Lamp Represents Our Christian Witness
-
Matthew 5:14–16 – “Ye are the light of the world. A city that is set on an hill cannot be hid.”
-
Our lives are meant to shine for Christ. Without oil, the light goes out, and our witness becomes dim.
2. The Oil Symbolizes the Holy Spirit and Spiritual Vitality
-
Zechariah 4:6 – “Not by might, nor by power, but by my spirit, saith the LORD of hosts.”
-
We can’t live ready for Christ’s return in our own strength. We need daily filling through prayer, worship, and the Word.
3. The Wise Virgins Prepared Ahead of Time
-
Proverbs 21:20 – “There is treasure to be desired and oil in the dwelling of the wise…”
-
Preparation can’t be borrowed or done last minute. Your relationship with God is personal—you can’t depend on someone else’s oil.
4. The Foolish Virgins Missed the Bridegroom
-
Matthew 25:10 – “…and the door was shut.”
-
Once the Bridegroom comes, the time for preparation is over. We must be ready now.
5. We Keep Our Lamps Burning Through Spiritual Disciplines
-
Daily prayer and devotion (Luke 18:1).
-
Feeding on the Word of God (Matthew 4:4).
-
Fellowship and encouragement in the body of Christ (Hebrews 10:25).
Application:
Ask yourself:
-
Is my lamp burning brightly?
-
Am I living in daily dependence on the Holy Spirit?
-
Am I ready to meet Jesus if He comes today?
Challenge to the Congregation:
Live every day like the Bridegroom might come tonight. Keep your oil fresh, your light shining, and your heart pure. The shout could come at any moment—be ready!
Memory Verse: Matthew 25:13 – “Watch therefore, for ye know neither the day nor the hour wherein the Son of man cometh.”
No comments:
Post a Comment