Thomas Shepard (1605-1649) was a person of great learning, a hard student, an admirable preacher, and an excellent writer. Originally published in 1659 from sermon notes he left behind, The Parable of the Ten Virgins calls attention to true assurance of salvation. Shepard warns against antinomianism as he carefully distinguishes believers from nonbelievers. Following Matthew 24:1-13, the first part of this work details the visible church’s preparation to meet Christ at His return, while the second half explains His coming to meet her.