Matthew 25:1-13       

This week’s Scripture reading, Matthew 25:1-13, is taken from the midst of Jesus’ fifth and last discourse in Matthew’s Gospel.

 Pay close attention to the setting and the audience by taking note of Matthew 24:1-3.

 This speech by Jesus in described as apocalyptic. The Greek word means “revelation” (e.g. the Book of Revelation, the last book in the Bible, is titled in Greek “Apocalupsis Ioannou” — literally “The Apocalypse of John”). The parable contained in Matthew 25:1-13 is meant to underscore Jesus’ teaching in Matthew 24:3-51.

 This parable might be read as a scary warning: if you miss Christ’s return, you’re out! Read these apocalyptic messages for a more positive interpretation of the passing of the world into its perfection:

 Isaiah 11:1-9

 Jeremiah 31:31-34

 Revelation 21:1-5

 In Christ, Lee