Jesus’ Last Week-Conclusion
As we arrive at Jesus’ closing teachings let’s remember His last instructions before the Cross: be faithful, be wise, and be accountable; Matt. 24:45-51 is the first of three parables given to stress those points. This parable (also found in Luke 12) describes a servant/manager, with position and authority, whose responsibility is to take every opportunity to bless those around him. When the master returns a separation will occur: was he faithful or irresponsible? There are always consequences to behavior, therefore, when we evaluate ourselves will we hear these words …
Come, you who are blessed by My Father, inherit the kingdom prepared for you from the foundation of the world. Matt. 25:31
Secondly, the parable of the Ten Virgins (Matt. 25:1-13) highlights the value of intimacy with God which leads to wisdom. Based on having enough oil for light, the fullness of the Holy Spirit, the five wise virgins were separated from the foolish when the Bridegroom finally arrived. Time spent with God always brings wisdom and the strength you need for any circumstance. You begin to know Him and He knows you. When He returns at the midnight hour will your light be shining?
Stay dressed for action and keep your lamps burning. Luke 12:35
Will you be ready to enter into the marriage feast?
Let us rejoice and exult and give Him the glory, for the marriage of the Lamb has come and His Bride has made herself ready. Rev. 19:7
Thirdly, Jesus desired us to seriously use the spiritual gifts He’s given us. Matt. 25:14-30 tells the story of three servants who were entrusted with specific abilities, dunamis power, to use in the absence of the Master. Keep in mind, the three servants had varying degrees of ability in their positions but the Master still expected accountability. What did they do with what they were given?
As believers we’re all given positions in the Kingdom of God with His authority to be used in the here-and-now.
What is man, that You are mindful of him, or the son of man, that You care for him? You made him for a little while lower than the angels; You have crowned him with glory and honor, putting everything in subjection under his feet. Heb. 2:7
We identify with the three parables as we evaluate our spiritual lives and ways we’re serving the King until He returns.
If anyone serves Me, he must follow Me; and where I am, there will My servant be also. If anyone serves Me, the Father will honor him. John 12:26
I join you as we eagerly wait and anticipate His return (1 Cor. 1:7) all the while passionate for good works (Titus 2:13). As we serve Him now, faithful to use our gifts (1 Cor. 12), gaining His wisdom in time spent with Him, we can rest in blessed assurance that He is pleased.
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