◄ Matthew 25 ►
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Berean Standard Bible | Par ▾
The Parable of the Ten Virgins 1“At that time the kingdom of heaven will be like ten virgins who took their lamps and went out to meet the bridegroom. 2Five of them were foolish, and five were wise. 3The foolish ones took their lamps but did not take along any extra oil. 4But the wise ones took oil in flasks along with their lamps. 5When the bridegroom was delayed, they all became drowsy and fell asleep. 6At midnight the cry rang out: ‘Here is the bridegroom! Come out to meet him!’ 7Then all the virgins woke up and trimmed their lamps. 8The foolish ones said to the wise, ‘Give us some of your oil; our lamps are going out.’ 9‘No,’ said the wise ones, ‘or there may not be enough for both us and you. Instead, go to those who sell oil and buy some for yourselves.’ 10But while they were on their way to buy it, the bridegroom arrived. Those who were ready went in with him to the wedding banquet, and the door was shut. 11Later the other virgins arrived and said, ‘Lord, lord, open the door for us!’ 12But he replied, ‘Truly I tell you, I do not know you.’ 13Therefore keep watch, because you do not know the day or the hour.a The Parable of the Talents (Luke 19:11–27) 14For it is just like a man going on a journey, who called his servants and entrusted them with his possessions. 15To one he gave five talents,b to another two talents, and to another one talent—each according to his own ability. And he went on his journey. 16The servant who had received the five talents went at once and put them to workc and gained five more. 17Likewise, the one with the two talents gained two more. 18But the servant who had received the one talent went off, dug a hole in the ground, and hid his master’s money. 19After a long time the master of those servants returned and settled accounts with them. 20The servant who had received the five talents came and presented five more. ‘Master,’ he said, ‘you entrusted me with five talents. See, I have gained five more.’ 21His master replied, ‘Well done, good and faithful servant! You have been faithful with a few things; I will put you in charge of many things. Enter into the joy of your master!’ 22The servant who had received the two talents also came and said, ‘Master, you entrusted me with two talents. See, I have gained two more.’ 23His master replied, ‘Well done, good and faithful servant! You have been faithful with a few things; I will put you in charge of many things. Enter into the joy of your master!’ 24Finally, the servant who had received the one talent came and said, ‘Master, I knew that you are a hard man, reaping where you have not sown and gathering where you have not scattered seed. 25So I was afraid and went out and hid your talent in the ground. See, you have what belongs to you.’ 26‘You wicked, lazy servant!’ replied his master. ‘You knew that I reap where I have not sown and gather where I have not scattered seed. 27Then you should have deposited my money with the bankers, and on my return I would have received it back with interest. 28Therefore take the talent from him and give it to the one who has ten talents. 29For everyone who has will be given more, and he will have an abundance. But the one who does not have, even what he has will be taken away from him. 30And throw that worthless servant into the outer darkness, where there will be weeping and gnashing of teeth.’ The Sheep and the Goats 31When the Son of Man comes in His glory, and all the angels with Him, He will sit on His glorious throne. 32All the nations will be gathered before Him, and He will separate the people one from another, as a shepherd separates the sheep from the goats. 33He will place the sheep on His right and the goats on His left. 34Then the King will say to those on His right, ‘Come, you who are blessed by My Father, inherit the kingdom prepared for you from the foundation of the world. 35For I was hungry and you gave Me something to eat, I was thirsty and you gave Me something to drink, I was a stranger and you took Me in, 36I was naked and you clothed Me, I was sick and you looked after Me, I was in prison and you visited Me.’ 37Then the righteous will answer Him, ‘Lord, when did we see You hungry and feed You, or thirsty and give You something to drink? 38When did we see You a stranger and take You in, or naked and clothe You? 39When did we see You sick or in prison and visit You?’ 40And the King will reply, ‘Truly I tell you, whatever you did for one of the least of these brothers of Mine, you did for Me.’ 41Then He will say to those on His left, ‘Depart from Me, you who are cursed, into the eternal fire prepared for the devil and his angels. 42For I was hungry and you gave Me nothing to eat, I was thirsty and you gave Me nothing to drink, 43I was a stranger and you did not take Me in, I was naked and you did not clothe Me, I was sick and in prison and you did not look after Me.’ 44And they too will reply, ‘Lord, when did we see You hungry or thirsty or a stranger or naked or sick or in prison, and did not minister to You?’ 45Then the King will answer, ‘Truly I tell you, whatever you did not do for one of the least of these, you did not do for Me.’ 46And they will go away into eternal punishment, but the righteous into eternal life.” Footnotes: 13 a BYZ and TR include when the Son of Man comes. 15 b A talent was worth about twenty years’ wages for a laborer. 16 c Or 15... And he went on his journey at once. 16... went and put them to work. Translators vary as to the placement of the Greek adverb eutheōs (at once) at the end of verse 15 or at the beginning of verse 16. Berean Standard Bible (BSB) printed 2016, 2020, 2022, 2025 by Bible Hub and Berean.Bible. Produced in cooperation with Bible Hub, Discovery Bible, unfoldingWord, Bible Aquifer, OpenBible.com, and the Berean Bible Translation Committee. This text of God's Word has been dedicated to the public domain. Free downloads and unlimited usage available. See also the Berean Literal Bible and Berean Interlinear Bible. Bible Hub Matthew 25 Summary The Ten Virgins, the Talents, the Sheep and Goats Verses 1–13 – The Parable of the Ten Virgins Jesus pictures ten young women waiting at night to escort a bridegroom into the wedding feast. Five are “wise,” having brought extra oil; five are “foolish,” having none. When the shout announces the groom’s arrival at midnight, the wise refill their lamps and enter the celebration, while the foolish search for oil and arrive too late. The door is shut, and the Lord says, “I do not know you.” The lesson: “Therefore keep watch, because you do not know the day or the hour.” Verses 14–30 – The Parable of the Talents A traveling master entrusts three servants with large sums: five talents, two, and one. The first two trade and double the money; the third buries his single talent. On the master’s return, the productive servants are praised—“Well done, good and faithful servant”—and invited into greater responsibility and joy. The unproductive servant is condemned as “wicked and lazy,” stripped of his talent, and cast “into the outer darkness, where there will be weeping and gnashing of teeth.” Verses 31–46 – The Judgment of the Nations: Sheep and Goats When the Son of Man comes in glory, He sits on His throne and gathers all nations. He separates people as a shepherd separates sheep from goats—sheep on His right, goats on His left. The criterion is how they treated “the least of these brothers of Mine”: feeding the hungry, welcoming strangers, clothing the naked, visiting the sick and imprisoned. The righteous inherit the kingdom prepared “from the foundation of the world,” while the unrighteous depart “into the eternal fire prepared for the devil and his angels.” Matthew 25 presents three powerful teachings of Jesus, each bearing crucial insights into Kingdom life. The Parable of the Ten Virgins emphasizes preparedness for Christ's return, the Parable of the Talents underscores faithful stewardship of our God-given gifts, and the account of the Final Judgement emphasizes compassion for the 'least of these.' Historical Background Matthew 25 is part of Jesus’ final teaching on the Mount of Olives during the last week before the crucifixion (Matthew 24–25). Passover crowds were filling Jerusalem, and talk of Messiah and kingdom expectations ran high. Each parable drives home what kingdom readiness looks like when the King appears unexpectedly. Jewish Wedding Customs and Oil Lamps • First-century village weddings began with the groom fetching the bride from her father’s home at night. Friends lit the way with small clay lamps fueled by olive oil. • Archaeologists have unearthed such lamps in Galilee—oval, palm-sized, with a single spout—capable of burning about 15–30 minutes without replenishment. Wise guests routinely carried an extra flask of oil. • The closed door echoes Song of Songs 5:2-6, capturing the joy and exclusivity of the feast. First-Century Money and the “Talent” • A talent equaled roughly 75 pounds (34 kg) of silver—around 6,000 denarii, or about 20 years’ wages for a laborer (Matthew 20:2). • Jesus’ listeners would have viewed five talents as an astonishing fortune. The parable magnifies the master’s trust and highlights that even “one talent” is no small gift. • Investing could include leasing farmland, financing caravans, or trading in marketplaces like Sepphoris and Caesarea. Shepherds, Sheep, and Goats in Judah • Mixed flocks grazed on the Judean hills. At night shepherds separated gentle sheep from more unruly goats for warmth and milking. • Sheep on the right hand symbolized favor (Genesis 48:13-20); goats on the left, lesser honor. • The imagery recalls Ezekiel 34:17-22, where God judges between “fat” and “lean” sheep. Key Themes: Watchfulness, Faithfulness, Compassion 1. Watchfulness (vv. 1-13) – Compare 1 Thessalonians 5:4-6; Luke 12:35-40. Believers remain spiritually awake, prepared for Christ’s sudden return. 2. Faithfulness with God-given resources (vv. 14-30) – See 1 Peter 4:10; Proverbs 13:4. Kingdom stewardship turns talents, gifts, and opportunities into fruitful service. 3. Compassionate action (vv. 31-46) – James 2:14-17 and 1 John 3:17 echo Jesus: genuine faith acts. Meeting practical needs reveals love for the King Himself. Old Testament Connections • Isaiah 62:5 pictures God rejoicing over His people like a bridegroom. • Psalm 50:1-6 foretells God gathering His saints for judgment. • Daniel 7:13-14 shows the “Son of Man” receiving authority and nations. Jesus claims this role in verse 31. New Testament Connections • Luke 19:11-27 (parable of the minas) parallels the talents; differing amounts stress personal accountability. • John 10:11-16 presents Jesus as the Good Shepherd, reinforcing the sheep imagery. • Revelation 19:7-9 describes the wedding supper of the Lamb, the ultimate fulfillment of the Ten Virgins’ scene. Archaeological Notes • Oil lamps matching first-century designs have been uncovered at Qumran, Nazareth, and Capernaum. Carbon residue tests confirm olive oil as fuel. • Talent-weight ingots and Tyrian silver coins found near the Temple Mount illustrate the scale of wealth discussed. • Ancient sheepfold remains south of Bethlehem show low stone walls with a single gate—an image of controlled entry echoing the closed door and the shepherd motif. Practical Application for Believers Today • Stocking extra “oil” means cultivating daily fellowship with Christ—prayer, Scripture, obedience—so faith stays bright when trials strike. • Every gift, career, relationship, or dollar is a “talent.” Invest them in ways that honor the Lord and bless others. • Acts of kindness—meals delivered, visits made, clothes shared—are received by Jesus Himself. Eternity weighs on our everyday choices. Connections to Additional Scriptures Readiness and Watchfulness 1 Thessalonians 5:2-6; Luke 12:35-40 Stewardship and Faithfulness 1 Peter 4:10; 1 Corinthians 4:2 Compassion and Service James 2:14-17; Galatians 6:9-10 Teaching Points The Parable of the Ten Virgins (Matthew 25:1-13) The Kingdom of Heaven is likened to ten virgins who took their lamps to meet the bridegroom. Five were wise and five were foolish. The wise virgins took oil in jars along with their lamps, while the foolish ones did not. The bridegroom's delay tests the preparedness of the virgins, highlighting the importance of spiritual vigilance. Therefore keep watch, because you do not know the day or the hour (Matthew 25:13). The Parable of the Talents (Matthew 25:14-30) A man entrusts his servants with talents before going on a journey, expecting them to invest wisely. The servants who doubled their talents are commended, while the one who hid his talent is rebuked. This parable emphasizes faithful stewardship and the use of God-given gifts for His glory. For to everyone who has, more will be given, and he will have an abundance (Matthew 25:29). The Parable of the Sheep and the Goats (Matthew 25:31-46) Jesus describes the final judgment, where the righteous (sheep) are separated from the unrighteous (goats). The criteria for judgment are acts of compassion and service to the least of these. This parable underscores the importance of living out our faith through tangible acts of love. Truly I tell you, whatever you did for one of the least of these brothers of Mine, you did for Me (Matthew 25:40). Practical Applications Be Spiritually Prepared Cultivate a daily relationship with Christ through prayer and Bible study. Stay vigilant and expectant for Christ's return, living each day with purpose. Use Your Gifts Wisely Identify and develop the talents God has entrusted to you. Seek opportunities to serve others and advance God's Kingdom with your resources. Practice Compassionate Living Engage in acts of kindness and service to those in need. Reflect Christ's love in your interactions with others, especially the marginalized. People 1. The Bridegroom In the Parable of the Ten Virgins (Matthew 25:1-13), the bridegroom represents Jesus Christ. The Greek word used is "νυμφίος" (nymphios), symbolizing Christ's return and the coming of the Kingdom of Heaven. 2. The Ten Virgins These are divided into two groups: five wise and five foolish virgins. The wise virgins are prepared for the bridegroom's arrival, while the foolish are not. This parable emphasizes the importance of being spiritually prepared for Christ's return. 3. The Servants In the Parable of the Talents (Matthew 25:14-30), three servants are entrusted with different amounts of money (talents) by their master. The Greek term "δοῦλος" (doulos) is used, meaning servant or slave. The parable illustrates the responsibility of using God-given gifts wisely. 4. The Master The master in the Parable of the Talents represents God or Christ, who entrusts His servants with resources and expects them to be faithful stewards. 5. The Sheep In the teaching on the Final Judgment (Matthew 25:31-46), the sheep represent the righteous who inherit the Kingdom of God. The Greek word "πρόβατον" (probaton) is used, symbolizing those who have lived according to God's will. 6. The Goats Also in the Final Judgment, the goats symbolize the unrighteous who are separated from God. The Greek term "ἔριφος" (eriphos) is used, representing those who have failed to live in accordance with God's commands. 7. The King In the Final Judgment narrative, the King is a representation of Jesus Christ, who judges the nations. The Greek word "βασιλεύς" (basileus) is used, indicating His authority and sovereignty. Places 1. The Wedding Banquet This setting is part of the Parable of the Ten Virgins (Matthew 25:1-13). The wedding banquet represents the Kingdom of Heaven, where the wise virgins enter with the bridegroom. The Greek term used for "banquet" (γάμος, gamos) signifies a marriage feast, symbolizing the joyous and intimate union with Christ. 2. The Marketplace In the same parable, the foolish virgins go to buy oil from the marketplace (Matthew 25:9-10). The marketplace represents the world where people seek resources, but it is too late for the foolish virgins to prepare for the bridegroom's arrival. 3. The Master's House In the Parable of the Talents (Matthew 25:14-30), the master entrusts his servants with talents before going on a journey. The master's house symbolizes the place of accountability and stewardship, where the servants must eventually return to give an account of their actions. 4. The Outer Darkness This is mentioned in the conclusion of the Parable of the Talents (Matthew 25:30). The "outer darkness" (σκότος, skotos) is a place of exclusion and judgment, where there is "weeping and gnashing of teeth," representing separation from God's presence. 5. The Throne of Glory In the teaching about the final judgment (Matthew 25:31-46), Jesus describes the Son of Man coming in His glory and sitting on His glorious throne. The "throne of glory" signifies the place of divine authority and judgment, where all nations are gathered before Him. Events 1. The Parable of the Ten Virgins (Matthew 25:1-13) Jesus tells a parable about ten virgins who took their lamps and went out to meet the bridegroom. Five were wise and took oil with their lamps, while five were foolish and took no oil. When the bridegroom was delayed, all became drowsy and slept. At midnight, a cry announced the bridegroom's arrival. The wise virgins, with their prepared lamps, entered the wedding banquet, but the foolish ones were left out. Jesus concludes with the admonition, "Therefore keep watch, because you do not know the day or the hour" (Matthew 25:13). The Greek word for "keep watch" is "γρηγορεῖτε" (grēgoreite), emphasizing vigilance and readiness. 2. The Parable of the Talents (Matthew 25:14-30) In this parable, a man going on a journey entrusts his servants with his wealth, giving five talents to one, two to another, and one to the last, each according to his ability. The servants with five and two talents invest and double their amounts, while the servant with one talent hides it in the ground. Upon the master's return, he praises the first two servants for their faithfulness and rewards them with greater responsibilities. The third servant, however, is rebuked for his laziness and fear, and his talent is taken away. The master declares, "For to everyone who has, more will be given, and he will have an abundance. But the one who does not have, even what he has will be taken away" (Matthew 25:29). The Greek term "τάλαντον" (talanton) refers to a large sum of money, symbolizing the gifts and responsibilities given by God. 3. The Final Judgment (Matthew 25:31-46) Jesus describes the scene of the final judgment when the Son of Man comes in His glory, accompanied by angels, and sits on His glorious throne. All nations are gathered before Him, and He separates people as a shepherd separates sheep from goats. The "sheep" on His right are blessed and inherit the kingdom because they served Christ by serving the least of His brothers. The "goats" on His left are cursed and sent into eternal punishment for failing to do so. Jesus emphasizes the importance of serving others, saying, "Truly I tell you, whatever you did for one of the least of these brothers of Mine, you did for Me" (Matthew 25:40). The Greek word "αἰώνιον" (aiōnion) used for "eternal" underscores the everlasting nature of the judgment and reward. Lessons from Matthew 25 1. Be Prepared for the Unexpected In Matthew 25, Jesus shares the parable of the ten virgins, emphasizing the importance of being prepared for His return. The wise virgins took oil for their lamps, while the foolish ones did not. As the parable concludes, Jesus warns, "Therefore keep watch, because you do not know the day or the hour" (Matthew 25:13). This lesson reminds us to live each day with readiness and anticipation, ensuring our spiritual lives are in order and our hearts are aligned with God's will. 2. Use Your Talents Wisely The parable of the talents teaches us about stewardship and responsibility. Each servant was given talents according to their ability, and the master expected them to invest wisely. The servant who buried his talent was rebuked, while those who multiplied theirs were rewarded. Jesus says, "For to everyone who has, more will be given, and he will have an abundance" (Matthew 25:29). This encourages us to use our God-given gifts to serve others and glorify Him. 3. Faithfulness in Small Things Matters In the parable of the talents, the master commends the faithful servants, saying, "Well done, good and faithful servant! You have been faithful with a few things; I will put you in charge of many things" (Matthew 25:21). This highlights the significance of being faithful in small tasks, as they prepare us for greater responsibilities. Our daily acts of obedience and service, no matter how small, are valuable in God's eyes. 4. The Importance of Compassionate Action The parable of the sheep and the goats illustrates the importance of compassionate action. Jesus identifies with the needy, saying, "Truly I tell you, whatever you did for one of the least of these brothers of Mine, you did for Me" (Matthew 25:40). This lesson calls us to actively care for those in need, reflecting Christ's love through our actions and serving others as if we are serving Him. 5. Eternal Consequences of Our Choices Matthew 25 underscores the eternal consequences of our choices. The parable of the sheep and the goats ends with a stark reminder: "Then they will go away to eternal punishment, but the righteous to eternal life" (Matthew 25:46). This serves as a sobering reminder to live with eternity in mind, making choices that align with God's kingdom and lead to eternal life. 6. The Call to Vigilance The parable of the ten virgins emphasizes vigilance. Jesus urges us to "keep watch" (Matthew 25:13), reminding us that spiritual alertness is crucial. We are called to be spiritually awake, discerning the times, and ready for Christ's return. This vigilance keeps our faith vibrant and our hearts attuned to God's voice. 7. Accountability Before God The parable of the talents teaches us about accountability. Each servant had to give an account of their stewardship. Similarly, we will stand before God to account for how we used our time, talents, and resources. This encourages us to live purposefully, knowing that our lives are a stewardship entrusted to us by God. 8. The Joy of the Master In the parable of the talents, the faithful servants enter into the joy of their master. Jesus says, "Come and share your master’s happiness!" (Matthew 25:21). This joy is a reward for faithful service and a glimpse of the eternal joy we will experience in God's presence. It motivates us to serve with joy, knowing that our labor in the Lord is not in vain. 9. The Reality of Judgment Matthew 25 presents the reality of judgment, where Jesus separates the sheep from the goats. This reminds us that our actions have eternal significance. Jesus' words, "Depart from Me, you who are cursed, into the eternal fire prepared for the devil and his angels" (Matthew 25:41), urge us to live righteously and compassionately, aware of the coming judgment. 10. The Urgency of the Gospel The lessons in Matthew 25 highlight the urgency of the Gospel message. As we await Christ's return, we are called to share the Good News with others, inviting them to experience the salvation and hope found in Jesus. Our lives should reflect the urgency of the Gospel, compelling us to be active witnesses of His love and truth. Topics 1. The Parable of the Ten Virgins (Matthew 25:1-13) This parable emphasizes the importance of being prepared for the coming of the Kingdom of Heaven. It tells of ten virgins who took their lamps to meet the bridegroom, but only five were wise and brought oil with them. The Greek word for "virgins" (παρθένοι, parthenoi) highlights purity and readiness. The parable concludes with the admonition to "keep watch, because you do not know the day or the hour" (Matthew 25:13). 2. The Parable of the Talents (Matthew 25:14-30) This parable illustrates the responsibility of using the gifts and resources God has entrusted to each believer. A man going on a journey entrusts his servants with talents (a form of currency), expecting them to invest wisely. The Greek term for "talents" (τάλαντα, talanta) refers to a significant sum of money, symbolizing the valuable gifts God gives. The parable ends with the principle that "to everyone who has, more will be given" (Matthew 25:29). 3. The Sheep and the Goats (Matthew 25:31-46) This passage describes the final judgment, where the Son of Man separates the righteous (sheep) from the unrighteous (goats) based on their actions. The Greek word for "nations" (ἔθνη, ethnē) indicates that this judgment encompasses all people. The righteous are commended for their acts of kindness, which are seen as service to Christ Himself. The passage concludes with the eternal destinies of both groups: "Then they will go away to eternal punishment, but the righteous to eternal life" (Matthew 25:46). Themes 1. Readiness for Christ’s Return This theme is illustrated in the Parable of the Ten Virgins (Matthew 25:1-13). The emphasis is on being prepared for the return of Christ, as seen in verse 13: "Therefore keep watch, because you do not know the day or the hour." The Greek word "γρηγορέω" (grēgoreō) is used here, meaning to be vigilant or watchful. 2. Faithful Stewardship The Parable of the Talents (Matthew 25:14-30) highlights the importance of using God-given resources wisely. Verse 21 states, "His master replied, ‘Well done, good and faithful servant! You have been faithful with a few things; I will put you in charge of many things. Enter into the joy of your master.’" The Greek word "πιστός" (pistos) for "faithful" underscores the reliability and trustworthiness expected of believers. 3. Judgment and Accountability The theme of judgment is prominent in the depiction of the Sheep and the Goats (Matthew 25:31-46). Verse 32 says, "All the nations will be gathered before Him, and He will separate the people one from another as a shepherd separates the sheep from the goats." The Greek word "κρίνω" (krinō) for "judge" or "separate" indicates a decisive evaluation based on one's actions. 4. Compassion and Service to Others This theme is evident in the criteria for judgment in the Sheep and the Goats narrative. Verse 40 states, "The King will reply, ‘Truly I tell you, whatever you did for one of the least of these brothers of Mine, you did for Me.’" The Greek word "ἐλάχιστος" (elachistos) for "least" emphasizes the importance of serving even the most marginalized individuals. 5. Eternal Consequences The chapter concludes with a focus on the eternal outcomes of one's life choices. Verse 46 declares, "And they will go away into eternal punishment, but the righteous into eternal life." The Greek word "αἰώνιος" (aiōnios) for "eternal" signifies the everlasting nature of the consequences, whether punishment or life. Prayer Points Pray for a heart that is always ready and watchful for the Lord's return. Ask God for wisdom and courage to use your talents for His glory. Seek God's guidance in showing love and compassion to those around you. Pray for the strength to live out your faith in practical and meaningful ways. Answering Tough Questions 1. Why does the parable of the ten virgins (Matthew 25:1–13) assume a wedding custom that seems unfamiliar or historically unsubstantiated? 2. How can the harsh judgment on the servant in Matthew 25:24–30 be reconciled with a supposedly just and merciful God? 3. Is there any historical or archaeological evidence corroborating the setting implied in the parable of the talents (Matthew 25:14–30)? 4. How does the concept of eternal punishment in Matthew 25:31–46 align with the notion of a loving God found elsewhere in Scripture? 5. Why does Matthew 25 appear to emphasize good works (Matthew 25:31–46) when other passages stress faith alone (e.g., Romans 3:28)? Bible Study Discussion Questions 1. What does the Parable of the Ten Virgins teach us about spiritual preparedness? 2. How does the Parable of the Talents challenge our understanding of stewardship? 3. What is the significance of the Final Judgement focusing on acts of compassion towards the 'least of these'? 4. How can we apply the lessons from the Parable of the Ten Virgins in our daily spiritual life? 5. What are some practical steps we can take to be good stewards of our God-given gifts, as highlighted in the Parable of the Talents? 6. How can we incorporate acts of compassion as an integral part of our faith in light of the Final Judgement? 7. What are the implications of the unexpected return of the bridegroom in the Parable of the Ten Virgins? 8. How can we overcome the fear that prevents us from using our God-given gifts effectively, as seen in the servant with one talent? 9. What role does the teaching of Matthew 25 play in your understanding of the Christian responsibility towards social issues? 10. How does Matthew 25 shape your perspective on the connection between faith and works? 11. How does the judgement scene in this chapter influence your understanding of Christ as both Savior and Judge? 12. In what ways does the Parable of the Talents challenge the use of your personal gifts and resources? 13. How does the separation of the 'sheep' and 'goats' influence your understanding of God's judgement? 14. How does Matthew 25 inspire you to live in readiness for Christ's return? 15. How can we embody Christ's compassion in our interaction with the 'least of these' in our community? 16. How does the unexpectedness of Christ's return influence your daily spiritual discipline? 17. How can you ensure that you are investing your 'talents' in a way that honors God? 18. How can we ensure that our daily actions reflect the compassion Jesus calls for in His depiction of the final judgement? 19. How can the teachings in Matthew 25 transform the way you engage with the world around you? 20. How does Matthew 25 challenge you to live out your faith in action, stewardship, and anticipation of Christ's return? Bible Hub Chapter Summaries and Bible Study Questions