1. “Now when these things begin to take place, straighten up and raise your heads, because your redemption is drawing near. The sluggard does not plow in the autumn; he will seek at harvest and have nothing. And if I go and prepare a place for you, I will come again and will take you to myself, that where I am you may be also.”

2 “Then the kingdom of heaven will be like ten virgins who took their lamps and went to meet the bridegroom. Five of them were foolish, and five were wise. For when the foolish took their lamps, they took no oil with them, but the wise took flasks of oil with their lamps. As the bridegroom was delayed, they all became drowsy and slept.”

3 “Watch therefore, for you know neither the day nor the hour. You also must be ready, for the Son of Man is coming at an hour you do not expect.”

4 “Therefore you also must be ready, for the Son of Man is coming at an hour you do not expect. But in your hearts honor Christ the Lord as holy, always being prepared to make a defense to anyone who asks you for a reason for the hope that is in you; yet do it with gentleness and respect.”