Chapter 206—Oil for Our Lamps
The wise took oil in their vessels with their lamps.
Matthew 25:4
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The two classes of watchers [in the parable of the ten virgins] represent
the two classes who profess to be waiting for their Lord. They are called
virgins because they profess a pure faith. By the lamps is represented the
Word of God.... The oil is a symbol of the Holy Spirit....
In the parable, all the ten virgins went out to meet the bridegroom. All had
lamps and vessels for oil. For a time there was seen no difference between
them. So with the church that lives just before Christ’s second coming. All
have a knowledge of the Scriptures. All have heard the message of Christ’s
near approach, and confidently expect His appearing. But as in the parable,
so it is now. A time of waiting intervenes, faith is tried; and when the cry is
heard, “Behold, the Bridegroom cometh; go ye out to meet him,” many are
unready.... They are destitute of the Holy Spirit. Without the Spirit of God a
knowledge of His Word is of no avail. The theory of truth, unaccompanied
by the Holy Spirit, cannot quicken the soul or sanctify the heart.... Without
the enlightenment of the Spirit, men will not be able to distinguish truth from
error, and they will fall under the masterful temptations of Satan....
The grace of God has been freely offered to every soul.... But character
is not transferable. No man can believe for another.... No man can impart to
another the character which is the fruit of the Spirit’s working....
We cannot be ready to meet the Lord by waking when the cry is heard,
“Behold, the Bridegroom!” and then gathering up our empty lamps to have
them replenished.... In the parable the wise virgins had oil in their vessels
with their lamps. Their light burned with undimmed flame through the night
of watching.... So the followers of Christ are to shed light into the darkness
of the world. Through the Holy Spirit, God’s word is a light as it becomes a
transforming power in the life of the receiver. By implanting in their hearts
the principles of His word, the Holy Spirit develops in men the attributes
of God. The light of His glory—His character—is to shine forth in His
followers.
Ask God to give you much of the oil of His grace.
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