The Great Controversy The Great Controversy | Page 395

of the bridegroom. The widespread reformation under the proclamation
of His soon coming, answered to the going forth of the virgins. In this
parable, as in that of Matthew 24, two classes are represented. All had
taken their lamps, the Bible, and by its light had gone forth to meet the
Bridegroom. But while “they that were foolish took their lamps, and
took no oil with them,” “the wise took oil in their vessels with their
lamps.” The latter class had received the grace of God, the regenerating,
enlightening power of the Holy Spirit, which renders His word a lamp
to the feet and a light to the path. In the fear of God they had studied
the Scriptures to learn the truth, and had earnestly sought for purity of
heart and life. These had a personal experience, a faith in God and in
His word, which could not be overthrown by disappointment and delay.
Others “took their lamps, and took no oil with them.” They had moved
from impulse. Their fears had been excited by the solemn message, but
they had depended upon the faith of their brethren, satisfied with the
flickering light of good emotions, without a thorough understanding of
the truth or a genuine work of grace in the heart. These had gone forth
to meet the Lord, full of hope in the prospect of immediate reward; but
they were not prepared for delay and disappointment. When trials came,
their faith failed, and their lights burned dim.
“While the bridegroom tarried, they all slumbered and slept.” By the
tarrying of the bridegroom is represented the passing of the time when
the Lord was expected, the disappointment, and the seeming delay. In
this time of uncertainty, the interest of the superficial and halfhearted
soon began to waver, and their efforts to relax; but those whose faith
was based on a personal knowledge of the Bible had a rock beneath their
feet, which the waves of disappointment could not wash away. “They all
slumbered and slept;” one class in unconcern and abandonment of their
faith, the other class patiently waiting till clearer light should be given.
Yet

394