Knowing God Before the Door Closes
Scripture
“Afterward came also the other virgins, saying, Lord, Lord, open to us.
But he answered and said, Verily I say unto you, I know you not.” Matthew 25:11–12 KJV
Devotion
One of the most sobering moments in the parable of the ten virgins comes at the end.
The foolish virgins arrived at the door after the wedding celebration had already begun. They knocked and called out, “Lord, Lord, open to us.” They expected the door to open because they had been part of the group that was waiting.
But the answer they received was not what they expected.
“I know you not.”
This moment reveals something deeply important about spiritual readiness. The issue was not simply that they arrived late. The issue was that there was no real relationship with the bridegroom.
Jesus was teaching that readiness is not about appearances.
It is about knowing Him.
Many people are familiar with religious language. They know the right words. They may attend church, hear sermons, and even speak about God. But familiarity with religious things is not the same as a living relationship with Christ.
The door in the parable reminds us that there will come a moment when the opportunity to prepare will no longer remain open.
That is why knowing God now matters.
The invitation to know Him is open today. The relationship with Christ can begin today. The oil can still be placed in the lamp today.
The time to know the Bridegroom is before the door closes.
Reflection
Is your faith built on a real relationship with Christ, or only on familiarity with spiritual things?
What helps you deepen your relationship with God now?
Extended Insight
The closing scene of the parable in Matthew 25 emphasizes the difference between outward association and genuine relationship. The foolish virgins expected access to the wedding celebration, yet the bridegroom’s response revealed that something deeper was missing.
Jesus often emphasized knowing Him personally rather than simply identifying with religious activity. In several places in Scripture, He warned that some people would claim association with Him without truly knowing Him.
The call of the Gospel is not merely to learn about Christ but to know Him.
A living relationship with Christ prepares the heart for the day when He returns.
Prayer
Father, help me know You personally and deeply.
Guard my heart from relying on outward religion instead of a real relationship with You. Teach me to walk with You daily and grow in intimacy with Christ.
Help my life be ready for the day when the door closes and the Bridegroom returns.
Amen.