Matthew 25:11
What does Matthew 25:11 mean?
A plain-English look at Matthew 25:11 in WEB alongside six other public-domain English translations, with cross-references and chapter context.
What Matthew 25:11 means
After the wise virgins had entered and the door was shut, the foolish virgins returned, pleading with the bridegroom to open the door for them. Their cry of "Lord, Lord" indicates a prior acquaintance or profession, but their desperate late arrival highlights their failure to be ready at the appointed time. This plea underscores the futility of seeking entry after the opportunity has passed. It emphasizes that a belated profession or a recognition of need, without prior diligent preparation, will be insufficient for entrance into the Kingdom of Heaven.
Parallel translations
WEB
World English Bible · 2000Afterward came also the other virgins, saying, Lord, Lord, open to us.
KJV
King James Version · 1611Afterward came also the other virgins, saying, Lord, Lord, open to us.
ASV
American Standard Version · 1901Afterward came also the other virgins, saying, Lord, Lord, open to us.
BBE
Bible in Basic English · 1949After that the other virgins came, saying, Lord, Lord, let us in.
YLT
Young's Literal Translation · 1862and afterwards come also do the rest of the virgins, saying, Sir, sir, open to us;
DRA
Douay-Rheims (Challoner) · 1752But at last came also the other virgins, saying: Lord, Lord, open to us.
DBY
Darby Bible · 1890Afterwards come also the rest of the virgins, saying, Lord, Lord, open to us;
Context
This verse immediately follows the shutting of the door in verse 10, bringing the foolish virgins back to the scene. Their belated return and desperate pleas continue the narrative's tension and directly set up the bridegroom's stern, final response. This interaction further emphasizes the themes of missed opportunity and the irreversible consequences of spiritual unpreparedness that the parable has been building towards.
Cross references
Related passages from across Scripture, drawn from the Treasury of Scripture Knowledge.
- Matthew 7:21
Not every one that saith unto me, Lord, Lord, shall enter into the kingdom of heaven; but he that doeth the will of my Father who is in heaven.
Related questions readers ask
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