Study 10: The 10 Virgins

Matthew 24:36 – 25:13

Monday 4^th to Sunday 10^th April, 2011

Introduction

Do you think Christians today are eager to know when Christ will return? Why?

Studying the passage - Read Matthew 24:36 -25:13

1) What do verses 36-44 teach us about the end of the age? How are we meant to respond to this knowledge? Based on what you have studied in Matthew, what do you think that means?

2) “He will cut him to pieces” (v. 51). Why do you think the servant’s punishment is so harsh?

3) How might his final resting place with “the hypocrites” explain why he is not ready for the Master? (Hint: Matt. 6:1-2).

4) In The Parable of the 10 Virgins (25:1-13), why were five of them foolish (v. 2)? How might we be tempted to become foolish?

Response - Read 1 Thessalonians 4:13 - 5:24.

How is the coming of the Lord in this passage like the arrival of the master and the bridegroom in the parables?

How does this passage give us confidence that we are “ready” (Matt. 24:44)? How confident are you? Why?

How does this 1 Thessalonians’ passage help to explain what it means to “keep watch” (Matt. 24:42)?

Do you have any “blind spots”?

According to the passage, how could you help others to be more watchful?

Spend some time praying for one another and for the world.