DIGGING DEEP NO. 1140 • July 14, 2026
CHARACTER STUDY – The Ten Virgins
Introduction
When the cry came at midnight, the foolish virgins realized something was missing.
They asked:
"Give us some of your oil."
The answer shocked them.
The oil could not be shared.
Not because the wise virgins were selfish.
But because some things are personal.
Discussion
1. What Does the Oil Represent?
Primary Scripture- Matthew 25:1-13 (Read the whole parable)
- Matthew 24:42-44
- Luke 12:35-40
Notice that Jesus never tells us exactly what the oil is. Rather than assigning one rigid meaning, the oil points to personal spiritual readiness. That readiness is expressed through a genuine relationship with God, obedient living, enduring faith, and perseverance. The point of the parable is not to decode the oil but to understand why only some were prepared when the Bridegroom arrived.
Questions- Why do you think Jesus never explicitly defined the oil?
- What characteristics distinguish the wise virgins from the foolish?
- What does "being ready" look like in practical Christian living?
2. What Things Cannot Be Borrowed Spiritually?
Scriptures- Philippians 2:12
- Romans 14:12
- Can someone else's faith sustain you?
- Can you inherit spiritual maturity?
3. How Do We Build Spiritual Reserves?
Scriptures- Psalm 1:2-3
- John 15:4-5
- Jude 20-21
- What habits strengthen believers?
- How can believers remain spiritually healthy?
Key Teaching Points
- Prayer cannot be borrowed.
- Faith cannot be borrowed.
- Character cannot be borrowed.
- Intimacy with God cannot be borrowed.
The oil was not produced overnight.
It was accumulated through preparation.
The strongest believers are often those who have invested consistently in their relationship with God.
Closing Prayer
Lord, help us take responsibility for our spiritual growth. Teach us to seek You diligently and build a relationship that sustains us through every season. In Jesus' name, Amen.