How do we define a Christian? In the parable, some are admitted into heaven, and some are shut out. What is the difference? A lamp can’t burn by itself. It needs a source of energy, something it does not possess. By itself, it is lifeless. It needs something put into it, otherwise it is useless. This is an illustration of being converted. In my natural state, the state in which I am born into the world, my spirit is not alive. Spiritual life must be put into me. Forgiveness must be given to me, and righteousness imputed to me. Christ suffered to give life to those who seek him. Many have never sought the Lord. They think, if there is a God they will get by. Some have some good intentions, but they are still full of self-love, love of sin. Some are self-righteous; they think they sufficient righteousness of their own, and do not need pardon or conversion. Without Christ, you will be shut out of his kingdom forever. That’s why you need him and must seek him, and come to him in repentance and faith. The lamp represents the soul; the oil represents life, spiritual life which must be put into the soul. You need oil to know the Lord, or else you may have something that looks like a lamp but it won’t light.