Bring Your Jars of Oil with You

The foolish ones took their lamps but did not take any oil with them. The wise ones, however, took oil in jars along with their lamps. Matthew 25:3-4

On a long, high-altitude hike with friends, we ran out of water. We were fairly well prepared, and thankfully the weather was nice. But shortly after turning around at the summit, with hours of hiking still ahead, someone asked, “Does anyone have any water left?” We quickly realized no one did.

Things run out. Can faith run out?

Jesus told a parable about ten young women waiting to welcome a bridegroom to his wedding celebration. All ten had lamps. But only five brought extra oil in jars. Their job was simple. They were supposed to be ready to accompany the bridegroom . . . . into the celebration with burning lamps. But the bridegroom was delayed until midnight. Five were ready. Five were not.

This is a parable about the kingdom of heaven. Jesus is talking about his return. All ten began with lamps, but only five were prepared when the bridegroom arrived. It’s not enough to just say we’re Christians, or that we used to believe. Faith unfortunately can be lost through repeated rejection of the Word and grace in Christ. Jesus doesn't explain exactly what the oil represents. But Scripture tells us what we need to be ready for his return.

Repentance and faith. “Whoever believes in him is not condemned” (John 3:18).

The Holy Spirit. God “put his Spirit in our hearts as a deposit, guaranteeing what is to come” (2 Corinthians 1:22).

Perseverance and watchfulness. “He will also keep you firm to the end” (1 Corinthians 1:8).

Avoiding sin that can destroy faith. “Let us put aside the deeds of darkness and put on the armor of light” (Romans 13:12).

God graciously fills our lamps with the oil we need. Through his Word, he strengthens our faith, sustains us by his Spirit, and keeps us ready for Christ's return. Don't leave your jars of oil behind! Keep receiving what God so generously supplies. And pray that he will preserve your faith until the Bridegroom arrives.