Matt. 25 – The first two parables in this chapter and the third scenario all seem to me to be speaking of the final judgment of all mankind, not an extension of the discussion of the destruction of Jerusalem at the end of Chapter 23 and all of Chapter 24. Note the introduction of the first parable – “The kingdom of heaven will be comparable . . .” The second parable is “like” the first parable, so it is about the kingdom of heaven as well. The third scenario is a comprehensive narrative in regard to “all nations.” This would also speak to the final judgment rather than the destruction of Jerusalem.
Matt. 25:1-13 – The parable of the ten virgins is a warning about our preparedness for the second coming of Christ. He is the bridegroom. He will return with His angels in power and judgment. Procrastination with spiritual preparedness for that day is dangerous and foolish. The word “prudent” in vs. 4 is the perfect word for these five virgins – they are wise toward the future. We do not know the day or the hour when Jesus will come. Do not put off to tomorrow the things you know the Lord wants you to do today.
Matt. 25:14-30 – This parable speaks to the proper use of our gifts that God has given us in life. We all have been given gifts that we should expend in the Kingdom of God. Fear is the greatest deterrent to employing our abilities for use in the Kingdom. However, we should never allow fear to be our excuse, because we have a King who promised us that He will be with us to the end. He is the one who gives the gifts; He is the one who gives us the power to use the gifts. What is there to fear when God is our Helper?
Matt. 25:31-46 – This scene at the Judgment Day is a clear picture of the necessity of being zealous for good works. God expects us to extend our hands to the poor, the downtrodden, the needy, and the abandoned. Jesus came to call all people to Him, but He obviously had a heart for those who were downcast in life. He healed; He fed; He was moved with compassion; He reached out to little children and held them. Which one of us would not give a drink of water to our Lord; which one of us would not feed and clothe Jesus? Which one of us would not visit our master in prison? The beautiful thing about this passage is that we have the opportunity to do this for the Lord by doing these things to the hungry, the poor, and the downtrodden in life. What an honor to serve Jesus in this way!