Read Matthew 25:1-13

All around the world, countless countries have a day in which they celebrate their country’s independence. For example, Argentinian Independence Day is July 9, Cuba is October 10, Lebanon is November 22, Egypt is July 23, Vietnam is September 2, and the United States is July 4. On these momentous days, the minds and hearts of many are drawn to the ideals of freedom, independence, and spirited resolve.

In Matthew 25, we find a profound spiritual parallel to these ideals in the Parable of the Ten Virgins. This parable, shared by Jesus to emphasize the importance of readiness and vigilance, offers a great meaning that beautifully intersects with the themes of liberty and preparedness that so many celebrate on their country’s day of independence. At its core, this parable is a lesson in preparedness. The wise virgins, with their lamps filled and extra oil at hand, embody the foresight and responsibility inherent in maintaining one’s preparedness, mirroring the diligence required to preserve the liberties fought for by generations past.

The oil in the parable can be likened to the essence of our spiritual preparedness—faith, good works, and the indwelling of the Holy Spirit. Just as the wise virgins took care to bring extra oil, we’re called to nurture our faith through continuous prayer, reflection, and action. This spiritual vigilance ensures that our lights burn brightly, guiding us through darkness and uncertainty, much like the enduring flame of liberty that guides our nation.

However, the parable also carries a cautionary note about complacency, illustrated by the unpreparedness of the foolish virgins. Their lack of oil and subsequent exclusion from the wedding banquet serve as a stark reminder that freedom—both spiritual and national—requires more than passive acknowledgment. It demands active engagement and constant vigilance. The freedom to live according to our faith, to express our beliefs, and to partake in the blessings of divine grace, parallels the freedoms fought for. Both forms of freedom, once attained, must be diligently preserved.

In embracing the dual celebrations of spiritual preparedness and national independence, we’re reminded of the beautiful interplay between divine and earthly freedoms. Our spiritual vigilance, symbolized by the wise virgins’ readiness, fortifies our ability to navigate life’s uncertainties with grace and resilience. It also deepens our appreciation for the physical freedoms we enjoy, inspiring us to contribute positively to our communities and nation.

Discussion Question 1: What stuck out to you about this parable?

Discussion Question 2: What does it mean to be vigilant? What does spiritual preparedness entail?

Discussion Question 3: What warning does this parable offer us?

Read Matthew 25:14-30

If you could invest in something that was “a sure thing,” guaranteed to give you a 100% return on your investment, would you do it? How much would you invest? This passage of Scripture is not quite the financial advice we all desire, but a lesson on effectively using what we have been given. This is called stewardship.

First of all, it should be noted that these three servants were given something they didn’t earn, work for, or deserve. They were each given money and asked to keep it safe while the owner traveled. Essentially, they were asked to be good stewards.

Secondly, they were each given an amount of money equal to their ability. We don’t know their ability, gifts, age, hourly wage, family of origin, names, or any other distinguishing features. That’s not important. Individually, they were given the fullest amount of money they could handle, which means they were known by the man who owned the money.

Thirdly, there is no judgment about what each one was given. However, there is judgment on how it was used. The first two made 100% more of what they were given because they did something with what they were given. They put their best effort to ensuring thy did the most with what the Master gave them, and their work was rewarded. They were invited to receive joy and rest with their Master. The last one did nothing. He made excuses. He blamed the owner. He rationalized his inaction. He kept the money safe and gave back all that was given to him, but was cursed for his laziness and wickedness.

So, what do we learn from this? Everything is the Lord’s. He is the ultimate owner and master, who knows us, gives us unique and individual gifts, and wants us to share in His work and experience joy. It doesn’t matter what or how much He gives to each of us, He wants us to use it well. There is harsh judgment if we don’t. As the New Living Translation says, “To those who use well what they are given, even more will be given, and they will have an abundance. But from those who do nothing, even what little they have will be taken away” (Matthew 25:29).

Before you try to work yourself into the blessing and reward, be encouraged that it doesn’t truly depend on you or your effort. Instead, your part in this partnership with God is to be available and willing to be used by Him to accomplish the work He’s doing. All you need to do is say, “YES” and He will give you His Holy Spirit to empower you to accomplish His work and His will. He is the Owner, the Master, and is ultimately responsible for the results.

Discussion Question 4: Why did the third servant get punished for the way he used what he was given? Can you think of real-world, practical examples of what this could look like?

Discussion Question 5: How can you be on the lookout for opportunities to be faithful with what you’ve been given?

This Week

Take an inventory of your life. What do you have? Health? A great job? Wonderful friends? An amazing family? A roof over your head? We’ve all been given something. Thank God for the gifts He’s given you!

Memory Verse

“His master replied, ‘Well done, good and faithful servant! You have been faithful with a few things; I will put you in charge of many things. Come and share your master’s happiness!’”—Matthew 25:23 (NIV)

Prayer Guide

God, thank You so much for Your generosity. Thank You for all the gifts You’ve given me (list them here). I know everything is Yours, and I’m incredibly blessed. I want to be a good steward of everything. I want to experience Your joy. Fill me with Your Holy Spirit to empower me, equip me, and guide me in the work You’re doing. Amen.

If you have any questions, please reach out to us at CalvaryFTL.org/Questions.