We ended our last study with me remarking that the Church today is asleep regarding the coming again of the Saviour.

That was not always the case, verse 1. "Then shall the kingdom of heaven be likened unto ten virgins, which took their lamps, and went forth to meet the bridegroom." 1 Thess 5:1-8,

That early watchfulness did not last. 1 Cor 15:33-34, note Paul's call to wakefulness. Matt 24:48-49 depicts the unconverted that at the end have taken power in the church.

I. THE CRY FROM HEAVEN THAT IS SOUNDED

"And at midnight there was a cry made, Behold, the bridegroom cometh; go ye out to meet him," verse 6.

1. It is close to the return of the Saviour. "The bridegroom cometh." The midnight hour, the hour of judgment, Ex 11:4, 12:29.

2. It is the voice of the Bridegroom's attendants. Christ will arouse His church in preparation for His coming and all that entails through the ministry of His servants. That prospect will again grip the mind and hearts of His people - the Exodus spirit, Ex 12:11.

We are those that "look for Him." That is how it used to be - Php 3:20; Heb 9:28; 2Pe 3:13-14.

3. The church will again be taken up with preparations for the imminent coming of Christ. That will impact upon our walk. "Wherefore, beloved, seeing that ye look for such things (events that follow Christ's coming), be diligent that ye may be found of him in peace, without spot, and blameless," 2 Peter 3:14.

This is first century Christianity.

* Note the concern about oil, verse 8. The reality of what is needed will dawn upon many but error persists and time is gone, it is too late.