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Jesus told three parables about His return. First, the parable of the ten virgins teaches that only those prepared will enter the kingdom when the bridegroom comes (vv. 1–13). Five wise virgins brought extra oil for their lamps; five foolish ones did not. When the bridegroom arrived, the prepared went in with Him, and the door was shut. The others were refused, and Jesus warned to “watch” because no one knows the day or hour (v. 13). Next, in the parable of the talents, a man entrusted three servants with different amounts to manage while he was away (vv. 14–30). Two invested and doubled their master’s money, receiving his praise and greater responsibility. The third hid his talent out of fear and laziness, losing even what he had and being cast into outer darkness. The lesson is that Jesus’ followers must faithfully use what He has entrusted to them while waiting for His return.
Finally, Jesus described the final judgment, when the Son of Man will come in glory and separate people like a shepherd separates sheep from goats (vv. 31–33). The “sheep” on His right inherit the kingdom because their care for “the least of these” was service to Christ Himself (vv. 34–40). The “goats” on His left are condemned to eternal fire for failing to show such compassion, revealing hearts that never truly belonged to Him (vv. 41–46). The chapter calls believers to readiness, faithful stewardship, and love for fellow believers in need, knowing that these are inseparable from a true relationship with Jesus.
🌀 Reflection: Jesus’ return will come without warning, and once He comes, there will be no second chances. Readiness means living each day with faith, using the gifts and opportunities God has given you, and loving others as if you were serving Jesus Himself.
💬 Mission Challenge: Do one act of intentional kindness this week for a fellow believer in need—whether through encouragement, help, or provision—seeing it as service to Christ.
Just Keith Harris 
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