Thank you Lisa and Amy

Your last letters are excellently put.  I think that the crux of the 10 virgins/eternal security/bride discussion has to do with the misunderstanding of who and how many Christians there are.  Just because someone says we are Christian doesn't mean they are.  Not every one who says Lord Lord will be recognized by Christ. I believe that God knows who His are and He keeps them.  I also believe that those who are saved know who they are, they wanted to be saved in the first place. They love God and want to know Him and serve Him.

Christ said "If you love me keep my commandments"  and then went on to give us such commandments as to love one another and to love God with all of our hearts, soul, mind and strength.  He didn't say go around passing judgement on each other or trying to be better than someone else so you can earn your spot. or to scare each other into being better people or hiding our sins from each other (because we all sin)

He also said IF you abide in my word, you will be my disciples, you will know the truth and the truth will set  you free.  That is a pretty BIG conditional towards knowing the truth. He who lacks wisdom has only to ask and it will be given abundantly.

There are many phases of Christians in the Christian life, the goal is to grow to maturity in humility.  God doesn't use the arrogant, only the humble.  It is our job as believers  to share the good news of the hope (and joy) that is in us with others and to ENCOURAGE  and LOVE one another.

Your sister in Christ,
Jill