The Holy Spirit is only a portion of what oil represents. If the Holy Spirit is all we think of when we read about oil, we will miss miss much meaning.

While the indwelling of God's Spirit certainly produces abundance, it is more accurate to say that oil and the Holy Spirit are often parallel, not equivalent.

The foolish virgins did not have enough oil because they did not pursue God's spiritual abundance, nor consistently seek the Source of the oil as a way of life.

The Parable of the Ten Virgins is prophetic concerning the attitude of Christians at the end time. The wise and foolish virgins each have things to teach us.

Jesus kept the two great commandments flawlessly, providing us an example. These two great commandments are where most of our self-examination should revolve.

To watch world events but to ignore our spiritual progress and overcoming is a foolish and futile exercise. We need to watch how we conduct ourselves.

In Luke 21:36, our Savior gives us two essential keys to being accounted worthy and escaping the terrors of the close of the age: watching and praying always.

The Bible indicates all seven churches of Revelation will exist at the end, but do God's people have hope for a bright future? Will Christ reunite His church?

Revelation 10 contains the seven thunders and the little book. It serves as an inset, not following a linear time sequence of the book of Revelation.

The meal offering represents the fulfillment of the second great commandment, "You shall love your neighbor as yourself." Here is how to understand this offering.

Who fulfills the roles of the Two Witnesses? Revelation 11 and Zechariah 4 shed light on the early work and fundamental character of these end-time prophets.

Joy and gladness are gifts from God, resulting from Christ living His life in us and helping us to love the brethren. This love is perfected through suffering.

The offerings of the Old Testament are like divine parables, acted out to teach about the Messiah, unveiling a beautiful picture once we understand the symbols.

The olive trees in Zechariah 4:11 refer to the Two Witnesses who pour oil (spiritual instruction) into a golden bowl, supplying the churches with nourishment.

The meal offering represents the second Great Commandment, love toward fellow man. Our service to others requires much grinding self-sacrifice and surrender.

Though we currently dwell in a temporary fleshly tent, we will be ultimately clothed in a permanent spiritual body, able to see God the Father and Christ.

After standing still, waiting for God's decision for us, we must diligently move forward as God draws us, taking the opportunity of acquiring more of God's Spirit.