The Parable of the Ten Virgins

In interpreting the parables of the Savior, we need to be careful to not put our own interpretations on display in such a way that might detract from what the Savior intended. However, we believe in prophets, seers and revelators. When they interpret scripture, we are on solid footing.

Today, Elder Bednar of the Quorum of the Twelve Apostles addressed the saints of the Caribbean in a Regional Conference and spoke of the difference between testimony and enduring conversion. The Parable of the Ten Virgins is an excellent lesson to use in illustrating the importance of not living merely on the testimony of our conversion. In likening the scriptures to us, he added the words "of testimony" to references to "lamp' and "of conversion" to references to "oil."

1 Then shall the kingdom of heaven be likened unto ten virgins, which took their lamps of testimony, and went forth to meet the bridegroom.
2 And five of them were wise, and five were foolish.
3 They that were foolish took their lamps of testimony, and took no oil of conversion with them:
4 But the wise took oil of conversion in their vessels with their lamps of testimony.
5 While the bridegroom tarried, they all slumbered and slept.
6 And at midnight there was a cry made, Behold, the bridegroom cometh; go ye out to meet him.
7 Then all those virgins arose, and trimmed their lamps of testimony.
8 And the foolish said unto the wise, Give us of your oil of conversion; for our lamps of testimony are gone out.
9 But the wise answered, saying, Not so; lest there be not enough for us and you: but go ye rather to them that sell, and buy for yourselves.
10 And while they went to buy, the bridegroom came; and they that were ready went in with him to the marriage: and the door was shut.
11 Afterward came also the other virgins, saying, Lord, Lord, open to us.
12 But he answered and said, Verily I say unto you, I know you not.

Questions:

1. Were the 5 wise virgins being selfish in not sharing their oil with the 5 foolish virgins? Why?

2. Is conversion something that can be postponed, or do we need to be adding to it constantly? How?

Summary:

The oil of conversion cannot be borrowed from someone else. Each of us must earn it for ourselves. Oil of conversion comes one drop at a time. There is no shortcut available. We must learn line upon line, precept upon precept.