Matthew 25:1-13

I. Wasted Preparation

A. Ancient east wedding custom
B. The foolish tried to get by with minimum effort and ran out of oil

II. Individual Responsibility

A. Though we are a part of the body that Jesus will save (Ephesians 5:23), we must individually work out our own salvation (Philippians 2:12-13)
B. I must let my light shine (Matthew 5:14-16)
C. The body is made up of individual members (Romans 12:4-5; 1 Corinthians 12:12-14, 27)

III. Proper Preparation

A. Do not deny the power of personal godliness (2 Timothy 3:5)
B. Do not doubt the power of God to provide (Genesis 22:7; John 1:29)
C. Do not rely on minimal effort
1. In living (Ephesians 4:1; 1 Corinthians 15:58; Luke 6:27-31)
2. In giving (2 Corinthians 8:1-5; 9:6)
3. In forgiving (Luke 6:32-36)