I said in our study of the wise and foolish virgins that there are two good ways to consider the question, How do I know I am ready for the Lord’s return? (1) Am I serving the Lord? (2) Am I serving others because I love him? The next two parables, the parable of the talents and the parable of the sheep and the goats, address these questions. The parables carry Jesus’ warning to watch and be ready a step beyond the first story. All three are parables of judgment, and each makes similar points. Thus,
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