It’s a Test for the Church
I Don’t Know You – Part 1

Scripture Reading: Matthew 25:14-20

Key Verse: Matthew 25:12

“But he replied, ‘I tell you the truth, I don’t know you.’

Our printed key verse for today comes from a sobering story about being prepared for eternity.  Jesus tells the story of the ten bridesmaids.  The bottom line is that half of them were not prepared.  When these five came knocking at the door, they heard the sad news: “I don’t know you.”  Jesus summarizes the story in verse 13: “So you, too, must keep watch!  For you do not know the day or hour of my return.”

A story like this certainly begs the question: How do we “keep watch”?  How do we make sure we are ready when Jesus returns?  Jesus explains the answer to this question in the next few verses.  He tells another parable to help us understand what it means to live ready in the kingdom of God.  This parable includes three men, each receiving three bags of money.  They were asked to use it, not hoard it.  Two used the money properly, but one decided to do nothing.  This man, according to Jesus, will be thrown into “outer darkness, where there will be weeping and gnashing of teeth” (Matthew 25:30).

To live in a prepared state for Jesus’ return, we must use the gifts we have to do good and bless others.  In Matthew 25:29 we read these words, “…but to those who do nothing.”  Jesus expects His followers to do something to help the hungry; the hurting and the oppressed.”  (Continued)

Father, I thank you for all you have given me.  I am so blessed.  Open my eyes to the person you want me to help by sharing my blessings.  In Jesus’ name, amen.