A) WHAT THE PARABLE IS ABOUT.

B) ALL THE VIRGINS EQUALS ADVENTISTS.

C) THE BRIDE EQUALS?

D) THE FOOLISH VIRGINS EQUAL?

E) THE LAMPS EQUAL?

F) THE OIL EQUALS?

G) FROM CHRIST’S OBJECT LESSONS.

H) FROM REVIEW AND HERALD, August 19, 1890.

I) FROM REVIEW AND HERALD, September 17, 1895.

J) FROM REVIEW AND HERALD, July 20, 1897.

K) FROM REVIEW AND HERALD, October 31, 1899.

 

 

A) WHAT THE PARABLE IS ABOUT

 

 

“This parable has been and will be fulfilled to the very letter, for it has a special application to this time, and, like the third angel’s message, has been fulfilled and will continue to be present truth till the close of time.”  RH, August 19, 1890.

 

“The parable is designed to point out the peril of doing a surface work.”  RH, September 17, 1895.

 

“Every specification of this parable should be carefully studied.  We [WHO IS “We?” = “those who profess Christ” = see below] are represented either by the wise or by the foolish virgins.”  RH, October 31, 1899.

 

“This parable is not a representation of open sinners, but of those who profess Christ.”  RH, October 31, 1899.

 

Speaking of the foolish virgins:  “The parable is designed to point out the peril of doing a surface work.”  RH, September 17, 1895.

 

 

B) ALL THE VIRGINS EQUAL ADVENTISTS

 

 

“In the parable of the ten virgins, Matthew 25, the experience of Adventists is illustrated by the incidents of an Eastern marriage.  ‘Then shall the kingdom of Heaven be likened unto ten virgins, which took their lamps, and went forth to meet the bridegroom.’  ‘While the bridegroom tarried, they all slumbered and slept.’  The wide-spread movement under the proclamation of the first message, answered to the going forth of the virgins, while the passing of the time of expectation, the disappointment, and the delay, were represented by the tarrying of the bridegroom.” 4SP:242-243.

 

“. . . whose application to the experience of Adventists,” 4SP:248.

 

“As Christ sat looking upon the party that waited for the bridegroom, He told His disciples the story of the ten virgins, by their experience illustrating the experience of the Church that shall live just before His Second Coming.”  COL:406.

 

“This parable has been and will be fulfilled to the very letter, for it has a special application to this time, and, like the third angel’s message [WHO GIVES “the third angel’s message], has been fulfilled and will continue to be present truth till the close of time.”  RH, August 19, 1890.

 

“In the parable, the ten virgins had lamps, but only five of them had the saving oil with which to keep their lampsburning.  This represents the condition of the [ADVENTIST] Church.”  RH, August 19, 1890.

 

“They are called virgins because they profess a pure faith.”  COL:406.

 

“Are we wise virgins, or must we be classed among the foolish?  This is the question which we are deciding today by our character and attitude.”  RH, August 19, 1890.

 

 

C) THE BRIDE = THE [TRUE] CHURCH (SEE ENTIRE RH ARTICLE BELOW FOR AN UNDERSTANDING OF THE TRUE CHURCH; SEPARATE FROM THE SDA CHURCH).

 

 

“The bride is the Church who is waiting for the Second Appearing of our Lord and Saviour Jesus Christ.”  RH, October 31, 1899.

 

 

D) THE FOOLISH VIRGINS = THOSE WHO ARE NOT READY FOR THE COMING OF CHRIST

 

 

“The state of the Church represented by the foolish virgins, is also spoken of as the Laodicean state.”  RH, August 19, 1890.

 

“The name ‘foolish virgins’ represents the character of those who have not the genuine heart-work wrought by the Spirit of God.”  RH, August 19, 1890.

 

“The class represented by the foolish virgins are not hypocrites.  They have a regard for the truth, they have advocated the truth, they are attracted to those who believe the truth; but they have not yielded themselves to the Holy Spirit’s working.”  COL:411.

 

“This is the class [the foolish virgins] that in time of peril are found crying, Peace and safety.  They lull their hearts into security, and dream not of danger.  When startled from their lethargy, they discern their destitution, and entreat others to supply their lack; but in spiritual things no man can make up another’s deficiency.”  COL:411.2.

 

 

E) THE LAMPS = THE WORD OF GOD

 

 

“The five foolish virgins had lamps (this means a knowledge of Scripture truth),” ChS:263.

 

“By the lamps is represented the Word of God.”  COL:406.

 

“lamps, which represent a knowledge of the truth.”  RH, September 17, 1895.

 

 

F) THE OIL = THE HOLY SPIRIT = GRACE = CHARACTER

 

 

“The oil of grace was not mingled with their endeavors.”  RH, March 27, 1894; ChS:263.

 

“The oil is a symbol of the Holy Spirit.”  COL:407.

 

“They [the foolish virgins] have no oil in their vessels with their lamps.  They are destitute of the Holy Spirit.”  COL:408.

 

“The oil of grace is used for discernment [through the power of the Holy Spirit],” SpTA07:54.

 

“But character [the oil] is not transferable.”  COL:412.

 

“Those who have despised the Divine grace [oil] that is at their command, that would have qualified them to be the inhabitants of heaven, will be the foolish virgins.  They had all the light, all the knowledge, but they failed to obtain the oil of grace; they did not receive the truth in its sanctifying power.”  RH, August 19, 1890.

 

“Why is it that the wise did not divide their supply of oil?  But as we make the spiritual application of the parable, we can see the reason.  It is not possible for those who have faith and grace to divide their supply with those who have not.”  RH, September 17, 1895.

 

“Oil is a symbol of the Holy Spirit,” RH, September 17, 1895.

 

“. . . oil of grace,” RH, September 17, 1895.

 

“The five wise virgins could not impart their character [oil] to the five foolish virgins.”  RH, September 17, 1895.

 

“Those who would be ready to meet their Lord must keep their lamps filled with the oil of grace. . . They had lamps, but no oil; their characters could not stand the test.”  RH, July 20, 1897.

 

“The oil with which the wise virgins filled their lamps represents the Holy Spirit.”  RH, July 20, 1897.

 

“The golden oil represents the grace with which God keeps the lamps of believers supplied, that they shall not flicker and go out.  Were it not that this holy oil is poured from heaven in the messages of God’s Spirit, the agencies of evil would have entire control over men.”  RH, July 20, 1897.

 

“The oil of grace is not feeding their lamps, and they are not prepared to enter into the marriage supper of the Lamb.  The oil is the holy grace that is sent from Heaven; and there must be an inward adorning with that grace, if we would stand when He appears.”  RH, October 31, 1899.

 

“It is not possible for those who have faith and grace [oil equals “faith and grace”] to divide their supply with those who have not.  It is not possible for those who have made a thorough heart work [oil equals “a thorough heart work”], to impart the benefit of this to those who have done but surface work.  The parable is designed to point out the peril of doing a surface work.  Many profess to be Christians, and for a time their half-heartedness is not discerned.  The difference between them and those who are truly pious [oil equals “truly pious”] is not made apparent.”  RH, September 17, 1895.

 

 

G) FROM CHRIST’S OBJECT LESSONS

 

 

“[405] Christ with His disciples is seated upon the Mount of Olives.  The sun has set behind the mountains, and the heavens are curtained with the shades of evening.  In full view is a dwelling house lighted up brilliantly as if for some festive scene [The Second Coming of Christ will be visible by all].  The light streams from the openings, and an expectant company wait around [How many are waiting for the Second Coming of Christ?], indicating that a marriage procession [“The marriage represents the reception by Christ of His kingdom.”  GC:426.] is soon to appear.  In many parts of the East, wedding festivities are held in the evening [“The coming of the bridegroom was at midnight -- the darkest hour.  So the Coming of Christ will take place in the darkest period of this earth’s history.”  COL:414.3].  

 

“The bridegroom goes forth to meet his bride [Christ leaves His house/Heaven, to go to her house/earth] and bring her to his home [goes from her house/earth, to His house/Heaven].  By torchlight the bridal party [Who is the “bridal party?” -- See the procession.] proceed from [meaning the “bridal party” is on earth] her father’s house [earth] to his own [Heaven], where a feast is provided for the invited guests.  In the scene upon which Christ looks, a company are awaiting the appearance of the bridal party [Who is the “bridal party,” also comprised of Christ and His angels at the Second Coming], intending to join the procession [Notice that the virgins do not “join the procession” until after Christ heads home].

 

“Lingering near the bride’s house are ten young women [the ten virgins] robed in white [Notice that Christ’s righteousness is upon all.].  Each carries a lighted lamp [see chart] and a small flagon for oil [see chart].  All are anxiously watching for the appearance [406]

 

“of the bridegroom [“This parable is not a representation of open sinners, but of those who profess Christ.”  RH, October 31, 1899].  But there is a delay.  [The main difference between the virgins, is that five were prepared for a delay.  See GC:393, 427]  Hour after hour passes; the watchers[virgins] become weary and [all] fall asleep.  At midnight the cry is heard, ‘Behold, the Bridegroom cometh; go ye out to meet Him.’  The sleepers, [all the virgins were asleep] suddenly awaking, spring to their feet.  They see the procession [Who comprises “the procession?” -- Next sentence.] moving on, bright with torches and glad with music.  They hear the voice of the Bridegroom and the voice of the bride [There we have it:  the “bride” it should not be argued, is the Church; comprised of those who are going through.  Notice that the 5 wise virgins, representing SDA’s, join the “procession” -- Next sentence.  They are not the “procession.”  The true Church; which includes the “bride;” will now be joined by the five wise].

 

“The ten maidens [who were not members of the “procession” Church] seize their lamps and begin to trim them, in haste to go forth.  But five have neglected to fill their flasks with oil.  They did not anticipate so long a delay, and they have not prepared for the emergency.  In distress they appeal to their wiser companions saying, ‘Give us of your oil; for our lamps are going out.’ (Margin.)  But the waiting five [the wise], with their freshly trimmed lamps, have emptied their flagons.  They have no oil to spare, and they answer, ‘Not so; lest there be not enough for us and you:  but go ye rather to them that sell, and buy for yourselves.’

 

“While they [the foolish] went to buy, the procession moved on, and left them behind.  The five with lighted lamps joined the throng [the “procession”] and entered the house [Heaven] with the bridal train [= Christ and His angels], and the door was shut [= Close of Probation].  When the foolish virgins reached the banqueting hall, they received an unexpected denial.  The master of the feast declared, ‘I know you not.’ They were left standing without, in the empty street, in the blackness of the night.  [The rest of the article I give for reference points of what each article represents].

 

“As Christ sat looking upon the party that waited for the bridegroom, He told His disciples the story of the ten virgins, by their experience illustrating the experience of the Church that shall live just before His Second Coming.

 

“The two classes of watchers 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 psalmist says, ‘Thy word is a lamp unto my feet, and a light unto may path.’ [407]

 

“Psa. 119:105.  The oil is a symbol of the Holy Spirit. . . [408]

 

“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 have no oil in their vessels with their lamps.  They are destitute of the Holy Spirit. . . [411]

 

“The class represented by the foolish virgins are not hypocrites.  They have a regard for the truth, they have advocated the truth, they are attracted to those who believe the truth; but they have not yielded themselves to the Holy Spirit’s working.  They have not fallen upon the Rock, Christ Jesus, and permitted their old nature to be broken up.  This class are represented also by the stony-ground hearers {“foolish virgins” = “stony-ground hearers”}.  They receive the Word with readiness, but they fail of assimilating its principles.  Its influence is not abiding.

 

“The Spirit works upon man’s heart, according to his desire and consent implanting in him a new nature; but the class represented by the foolish virgins have been content with a superficial work.  They do not know God.  They have not studied His character; they have not held communion with Him; therefore they do not know how to trust, how to look and live.  Their service to God degenerates into a form.  ‘They come unto thee as the people cometh, and they sit before Thee as My people, and they hear Thy Words, but they will not do them; for with their mouth they show much love, but their heart goeth after their covetousness.’  Eze. 33:31.  The apostle Paul points out that this will be the special characteristic of those who live just before Christ’s Second Coming.  He says, ‘In the last days perilous times shall come:  for men shall be lovers of their own selves. . . lovers of pleasures more than lovers of God; having a form of godliness, but denying the power thereof.’  2 Tim. 3:1-5.

 

“This is the class that in time of peril are found crying, Peace and safety.  They lull their hearts into security, and dream not of danger.  When startled from their lethargy, they discern their destitution, and entreat others to supply their lack; but in spiritual things no man can make up [412]

 

“another’s deficiency.  The grace [oil] of God has been freely offered to every soul.  The message of the gospel has been heralded, ‘Let him that is athirst come.  And whosoever will, let him take the water of life freely.’  Rev. 22:17.  But character [the oil] is not transferable.  No man can believe for another.  No man can receive the Spirit [the oil] for another.  No man can impart to another the character which is the fruit of the Spirit’s working.  ‘Though Noah, Daniel, and Job were in it [the land], as I live, saith the Lord God, they shall deliver neither son nor daughter; they shall but deliver their own souls by their righteousness.’  Eze. 14:20.

 

“It is in a crisis that character [the oil] is revealed.  When the earnest voice proclaimed at midnight, ‘Behold, the Bridegroom cometh; go ye out to meet Him,’ and the sleeping virgins were roused from their slumbers, it was seen who had made preparation for the event.  Both parties were taken unawares; but one was prepared for the emergency, and the other was found without preparation.  So now, a sudden and unlooked-for calamity, something that brings the soul face to face with death, will show whether there is any real faith in the promises of God.  It will show whether the soul is sustained by grace.  The great final test comes at the close of human probation, when it will be too late for the soul’s need to be supplied.

 

“The ten virgins are watching in the evening of this earth’s history.  All claim to be Christians.  All have a call, a name, a lamp, and all profess to be doing God’s service.  All apparently wait for Christ’s appearing.  But five are unready.  Five will be found surprised, dismayed, outside the banquet hall.

 

“At the final day, many will claim admission to Christ’s Kingdom, saying, ‘We have eaten and drunk in Thy presence, and Thou hast taught in our streets.’  ‘Lord, Lord, [413]

 

“have we not prophesied in Thy name? and in Thy name have cast out devils? and in Thy name done many wonderful works?’  But the answer is, ‘I tell you, I know you not whence ye are; depart from Me.’  Luke 13:26; Matt. 7:22; Luke 13:27.  In this life they have not entered into fellowship with Christ; therefore they know not the language of Heaven, they are strangers to Its joy.  ‘What man knoweth the things of a man, save the spirit of man which is in him? even so the things of God knoweth no man, but the Spirit of God.’  1 Cor. 2:11.

 

“Saddest of all words that ever fell on mortal ear are those words of doom, ‘I know you not.’  The fellowship of the Spirit, which you have slighted, could alone make you one with the joyous throng at the marriage feast.  In that scene you cannot participate.  Its light would fall on blinded eyes, its melody upon deaf ears.  Its love and joy could awake no chord of gladness in the world-benumbed heart.  You are shut out from Heaven by your own unfitness for Its companionship.

 

“We cannot be ready to meet the Lord by waking when [414]

 

“the cry is heard, ‘Behold, the Bridegroom!’ and then gathering up our empty lamps to have them replenished [let alone risk even missing the procession].  We cannot keep Christ apart from our lives here, and yet be fitted for His companionship in Heaven.

 

“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.  It helped to swell the illumination for the bridegroom’s honor [although not members of the procession].  Shining out in the darkness, it helped to illuminate the way to the Home of the bridegroom, to the marriage feast.

 

“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.  Thus they are to glorify God, to lighten the path to the Bridegroom’s Home [Heaven], to the city of God, to the marriage supper of the Lamb.

 

“The Coming of the Bridegroom was at midnight -- the darkest hour.  So the Coming of Christ will take place in the darkest period of this earth’s history.  The days of Noah and Lot pictured the condition of the world just before the Coming of the Son of man.  The Scriptures pointing forward to this time declare that Satan will work with all power and ‘with all deceivableness of unrighteousness.’  2 Thess. 2:9, 10.  His working is plainly revealed by the rapidly increasing darkness, the multitudinous errors, heresies, and delusions of these last days.  Not only is Satan leading the world captive, but his deceptions are leavening the professed Churches of our Lord Jesus Christ.  The great apostasy will develop into darkness deep as midnight, impenetrable as sackcloth of hair.  To God’s people it will [415]

 

“be a night of trial, a night of weeping, a night of persecution for the truth’s sake.  But out of that night of darkness God’s light will shine.”

 

 

H) FROM REVIEW AND HERALD, August 19, 1890

 

 

“When the third angel’s message is preached as it should be, power attends its proclamation, and it becomes an abiding influence.  It must be attended with Divine power, or it will accomplish nothing.  I am often referred to the parable of the ten virgins, five of whom were wise, and five foolish.  This parable has been and will be fulfilled to the very letter, for it has a special application to this time, and, like the third angel’s message, has been fulfilled and will continue to be present truth till the close of time.  In the parable, the ten virgins had lamps, but only five of them had the saving oil with which to keep their lamps burning.  This represents the condition of the Church.  The wise and the foolish have their Bibles, and are provided with all the means of grace [= oil]; but many do not appreciate the fact that they must have the Heavenly unction. . . There are persons who have received the precious light of the righteousness of Christ, but they do not act upon it; they are foolish virgins.  They prefer the sophistry of the enemy rather than the plain ‘Thus saith the Lord. . .’  Are we wise virgins, or must we be classed among the foolish?  This is the question which we are deciding today by our character and attitude. . .  

 

“In the parable of the virgins, five are represented as wise and five as foolish.  The name ‘foolish virgins’ represents the character of those who have not the genuine heart-work wrought by the Spirit of God.  The Coming of Christ does not change the foolish virgins into wise ones.  When Christ Comes, the balances of Heaven will weigh the character, and decide whether it is pure, sanctified, and holy, or whether it is unclean, and unfit for the Kingdom of Heaven.  Those who have despised the Divine grace [oil] that is at their command, that would have qualified them to be the inhabitants of Heaven, will be the foolish virgins.  They had all the light, all the knowledge, but they failed to obtain the oil of grace; they did not receive the truth in its sanctifying power.

 

“Happiness is the result of holiness, and conformity to the will of God.  Those who would be saints in Heaven, must first be saints upon the earth; for when we leave this earth, we shall take our character with us, and this will be simply taking with us some of the elements of Heaven imparted to us through the righteousness of Christ.

 

“The state of the Church represented by the foolish virgins, is also spoken of as the Laodicean state. . .

 

“Half-hearted Christians obscure the glory of God, misinterpret piety, and cause men to receive false ideas as to what constitutes vital godliness.  Others think that they, also, can be Christians and yet consult their own tastes and make provision for the flesh, if these false-hearted professors can do so.  On many a professed Christian’s banner the motto is written, ‘You can serve God and please self, -- you can serve God and mammon.’  They profess to be wise virgins, but not having the oil of grace in their vessels with their lamps, they shed forth no light to the glory of God and for the salvation of men. . .”

 

 

I) FROM REVIEW AND HERALD, September 17, 1895

 

 

“ ‘Then shall the Kingdom of Heaven be likened unto ten virgins, which took their lamps, and went forth to meet the bridegroom.  And five of them were wise, and five were foolish.  They that were foolish took their lamps, and took no oil with them; but the wise took oil in their vessels with their lamps.  While the Bridegroom tarried, they all slumbered and slept.  And at midnight there was a cry made, Behold, the Bridegroom cometh; go ye out to meet Him.  Then all those virgins arose, and trimmed their lamps.’

 

“Though five of these virgins are represented as wise and five as foolish, all had lamps.  They had all been convicted that they must prepare for the Coming of the Bridegroom, and all had gained a knowledge of the truth [Now which group of believers has “a knowledge of the truth?”].  There was no apparent difference between the wise and the foolish until the cry was made, ‘Behold, the Bridegroom cometh; go ye out to meet Him;’ but the true state of things was then developed.  The wise had taken precautions to carry oil with them in their vessels, so that their lamps that were beginning to burn dimly might be replenished with oil; but the foolish had not provided for this emergency, and now they made an earnest, distressed petition to those who were wise.  ‘And the foolish said unto the wise, Give us of your oil; for our lamps are gone out.’  They had neglected to prepare themselves to meet the Bridegroom, and now turned to those who had provided themselves with oil.  ‘But the wise answered, saying, Not so; lest there be not enough for us and you; but go ye rather to them that sell, and buy for yourselves.’  [So those who provided oil for the foolish were the wise:  Did You Notice!].

 

“In reading this parable one cannot but pity the foolish virgins, and ask the question, Why is it that the wise did not divide their supply of oil?  But as we make the spiritual application of the parable, we can see the reason.  It is not possible for those who have faith and grace [oil equals “faith and grace”] to divide their supply with those who have not.  It is not possible for those who have made a thorough heart work [oil equals “a thorough heart work”], to impart the benefit of this to those who have done but surface work.  The parable is designed to point out the peril of doing a surface work.  Many profess to be Christians, and for a time their half-heartedness is not discerned.  The difference between them and those who are truly pious [oil equals “truly pious”] is not made apparent.  This parable should awaken solemn reflections.  Considering it we should ask ourselves, Are we doers of the Words of Christ?  Are we building on the Rock?  Are we, in our probationary time, making our calling and election sure?  We should not soothe our consciences in expectation of Heaven, when we are not bearing the distinguishing characteristics of the Christian life.  Paul says, ‘Examine yourselves, whether ye be in the faith; prove your own selves.  Know ye not your own selves, how that Jesus Christ is in you, except ye be reprobates?’

 

“All the ten virgins appeared to be ready for the coming of the Bridegroom, and yet the test brought out the fact that five were unready.  Those who have true piety esteem and revere the Law of God.  Through the grace of Christ they exemplify the principles of the Law in their lives, and will not willfully break any of the Commandments of God. . .

 

“The foolish virgins do not represent those who are hypocritical.  They had a regard for truth, they advocated the truth, they were intending to go forth to meet the Bridegroom.  They are attached to those who believe the truth, and go with them, having lamps, which represent a knowledge of the truth.  When there was a revival in the Church, their feelings were stirred; but they failed to have oil in their vessels, because they did not bring the [oil =] principles of godliness into their daily life and character.  They did not fall upon the rock Christ Jesus, and permit their old nature to be broken up. . .

 

“Many receive the truth readily, but they fail to assimilate truth, and its influence is not abiding.  They are like the foolish virgins, who had no oil in their vessels with their lamps.  Oil is a symbol of the Holy Spirit, which is brought into the soul through faith in Jesus Christ.  Those who earnestly search the Scriptures with much prayer, who rely upon God with firm faith, who obey His Commandments, will be among those who are represented as wise virgins. . .  The religion of the Bible must be brought into the large and the little affairs of life.  It must furnish the powerful motives and principles that will regulate the Christian’s character and course of action. . .

 

“The oil so much needed by those who are represented as foolish virgins, is not something to be put on the outside.  They need to bring the truth into the sanctuary of the soul, that it may cleanse, refine, and sanctify.  It is not theory that they need; it is the sacred teachings of the Bible, which are not uncertain, disconnected doctrines, but are living truths, that involve eternal interests that center in Christ.  In Him is the complete system of Divine truth.  The salvation of the soul, through faith in Christ, is the ground and pillar of the truth.  Those who exercise true faith in Christ make it manifest by holiness of character, by obedience to the Law of God.  They realize that the truth as it is in Jesus reaches Heaven, and compasses eternity.  They understand that the Christian’s character should represent the character of Christ, and be full of grace and truth.  To them is imparted the oil of grace, which sustains a never-failing light.  The Holy Spirit in the heart of the believer, makes him complete in Christ. . .

 

“Character is revealed by a crisis.  When the earnest voice proclaimed at midnight, ‘Behold, the Bridegroom cometh; go ye out to meet Him,’ the sleeping virgins roused from their slumbers, and it was seen who had made preparation for the event.  Both parties were taken unawares, but one was prepared for the emergency, and the other was found without preparation.  Character is revealed by circumstances.  Emergencies bring out the true metal of character.  Some sudden and unlooked-for calamity, bereavement, or crisis, some unexpected sickness or anguish, something that brings the soul face to face with death, will bring out the true inwardness of the character.  It will be made manifest whether or not there is any real faith in the promises of the Word of God.  It will be made manifest whether or not the soul is sustained by grace, whether there is oil in the vessel with the lamp.

 

“Testing times come to all.  How do we conduct ourselves under the test and proving of God?  Do our lamps go out? or do we still keep them burning?  Are we prepared for every emergency by our connection with Him Who is full of grace and truth?  The five wise virgins could not impart their character to the five foolish virgins.  Character must be formed by us as individuals.  It cannot be transferred to another, even if the possessor were willing to make the sacrifice. . .”

 

 

J) FROM REVIEW AND HERALD, July 20, 1897

 

 

“Those who would be ready to meet their Lord must keep their lamps filled with the oil of grace.  It was a neglect to do this that distinguished the foolish virgins from the wise.  They had lamps, but no oil; their characters could not stand the test.  The wise virgins had not only an intelligent knowledge of the truth, but through the imparted grace of Jesus Christ, their faith and patience and love constantly increased.  Their lamps were replenished by their vital connection with the Light of the world.  While the foolish virgins awoke to find their lamps burning dimly, or going out in the darkness, the wise virgins, with their lamps burning brightly, entered the festal hall [Heaven], and the gates were shut [Close of Probation].  Greatly rejoicing at the sound of the bridegroom’s voice, they joined the bridal procession.

 

“The oil with which the wise virgins filled their lamps represents the Holy Spirit. . .

 

“The golden oil represents the grace with which God keeps the lamps of believers supplied, that they shall not flicker and go out.  Were it not that this holy oil is poured from Heaven in the Messages of God’s Spirit, the agencies of evil would have entire control over men.

 

“God is dishonored when we do not receive the communications which He sends us.  Thus we refuse the golden oil which He would pour into our souls to be communicated to those in darkness.  When the call shall come, ‘Behold, the Bridegroom cometh; go ye out to meet Him,’ those who have not received the holy oil, who have not cherished the grace of Christ in their hearts, will find, like the foolish virgins, that they are not ready to meet their Lord.  They have not, in themselves, the power to obtain the oil, and their lives are wrecked. . .

 

“Only by knowing God here can we prepare to meet Him at His Coming. . .”

 

 

K) FROM REVIEW AND HERALD, October 31, 1899

 

 

“ ‘Then shall the kingdom of Heaven be likened unto ten virgins, which took their lamps, and went forth to meet the Bridegroom.  And five of them were wise, and five were foolish.  They that were foolish took their lamps, and took no oil with them:  but the wise took oil in their vessels with their lamps.  While the Bridegroom tarried, they all slumbered and slept.  And at midnight there was a cry made, Behold, the Bridegroom cometh; go ye out to meet him.  Then all those virgins arose, and trimmed their lamps.  And the foolish said unto the wise, Give us of your oil; for our lamps are gone out.  But the wise answered, saying, Not so; lest there be not enough for us and you:  but go ye rather to them that sell, and buy for yourselves.  And while they went to buy, the bridegroom came; and they that were ready went in with Him to the marriage [Heaven]: and the door was shut [Close of Probation].’

 

“ ‘Afterward came also the other virgins, saying, Lord, Lord, open unto us.  But He answered and said, Verily I say unto you, I know you not.  Watch therefore, for ye know neither the day nor the hour wherein the Son of man cometh.’

 

“When the ten virgins went forth to meet the Bridegroom, their lamps were trimmed and burning.  Apparently there was no difference between the five who were wise and the five who were foolish.   To outward appearance all were prepared, robed in white, and carrying their lighted lamps.  But only five of these virgins were wise.  These anticipated delay, and filled their flagons with oil, ready for any emergency.  Five of the number had not this foresight; they made no provision for disappointment or delay.

 

“All the virgins are watching for the Bridegroom.  Hour after hour passes, and they are still anxiously looking for His appearing.  But at last the weary, watching ones fall asleep.  And at midnight, the very darkest hour, when their lamps are most needed, the cry is heard, ‘Behold, the Bridegroom cometh; go ye out to meet Him.’

 

“At the call, the sleeping eyes are opened, and every one is aroused.  They see the procession they are to join moving on, bright with torches and glad with music.  They hear the voice of the Bridegroom and the voice of the Bride [the true Church].  The five wise virgins trim their lamps, and go forth to meet the Bridegroom.

 

“The foolish virgins made no provision for their lamps; and when aroused from their slumbers, they found that their lights were going out.  They now see the consequences of their carelessness, and plead with their companions for a supply of oil:  ‘Give us of your oil,’ they say; ‘for our lamps are going out.’  But the waiting five, with their freshly trimmed lamps, have emptied their vessels.  They have no oil to spare, and they answer:  ‘Not so; lest there be not enough for us and you.  But go ye rather to them that sell, and buy for yourselves.’  But while they went to buy, the procession [the true Church; which includes the “bride;” now joined by the five wise] moved on, and left them behind.  The bridal train entered the house [Heaven], and the door was shut [Close of Probation].  When the foolish virgins reached the banqueting hall, they received an unexpected denial.  They were left outside in the blackness of the night.

 

“This parable is not a representation of open sinners, but of those who profess Christ.  The bride is the Church who is waiting for the Second Appearing of our Lord and Saviour Jesus Christ.  In the proclamation of the first and second angels of Revelation 14, a special message has come to our world. . .  The first and second angels’ messages are united and made complete in the third. . .

 

“Under the proclamation of these messages the cry was made, ‘Behold, the Bridegroom cometh.’  The believers in these messages were compelled to go out from the churches because they preached the Second Appearing of Christ in the clouds of heaven.  The whole world was to hear the message, ‘Behold, the Bridegroom cometh; go ye out to meet Him.’  Many who heard these messages thought they would live to see Christ Come; but there was a delay in the Coming of the Bridegroom, in order that all might have an opportunity to hear the last message of mercy to a fallen world [Here is one reason why Christ has delayed His Second Coming].

 

“Had those who claimed to believe the truth acted their part as wise virgins, the message would ere this have been given to every nation, kindred, tongue, and people.  But five were foolish.  The truth should have been proclaimed by the ten virgins, but only five had made the provision essential to join the company that walked in the light given to them [NOW WHO IS “the company” THAT HAD “the light given to them?”].

 

“The first, second, and third angels’ messages are to be repeated.  The call is to be given to the Church:  ‘Babylon the great is fallen, is fallen, and is become the habitation of devils, and the hold of every foul spirit, and a cage of every unclean and hateful bird.  For all nations have drunk of the wine of the wrath of her fornication, and the kings of the earth have committed fornication with her, and the merchants of the earth have waxed rich through the abundance of her delicacies. . . Come out of her, My people, that ye be not partakers of her sins, and that ye receive not of her plagues.  For her sins have reached unto Heaven, and God hath remembered her iniquities.’

 

“Many who went forth to meet the Bridegroom under the messages of the first and second angels, refused the third, the last testing message to be given to the world, and a similar position will be taken when the last call is made.

 

“Every specification of this parable should be carefully studied.  We are represented either by the wise or by the foolish virgins.  There are many who will not remain at the feet of Jesus, and learn of Him.  They have not a knowledge of His ways; they are not prepared for His Coming.  They have made a pretense of waiting for their Lord.  They have not watched and prayed with that faith which works by love and purifies the soul.  They have lived a life of carelessness.  They have heard and assented to the truth, but they have never brought it into their practical life.  The oil of grace is not feeding their lamps, and they are not prepared to enter into the marriage supper of the Lamb [HEAVEN].  The oil is the holy grace that is sent from Heaven; and there must be an inward adorning with that grace, if we would stand when He Appears.

 

“The men of the world do not wish the light of truth, and they are one in spirit with those who, while professing to be children of God, do not let their light shine in words of truth and deeds of holiness.  Unconverted men who claim to be Christians only encourage the sinner to continue in his sin.  In the place of seeking to save the souls that are ready to perish, they live for self.  Their vessels are empty, and therefore they can not keep their lamps replenished. . .

 

“The ten virgins are watching in the evening of this earth’s history.  All claim to be Christians.  All have a call, a name, a lamp, and all claim to be doing God service.  All apparently watch for His Appearing.  But five are wanting.  Five will be found surprised, dismayed, outside the banquet hall.  There are many who cry, Peace, peace, when there is no peace.  This is the most perilous belief that the human soul can entertain.  Christ calls upon all who bear His name, who claim to be His followers, to eat His flesh and drink His blood, or they can have no part with Him.

 

“Be not like the foolish virgins, who take for granted that the promises of God are theirs, while they do not follow the injunctions of Christ. . .”