Matthew 25:14-30

Introduction:

1. The word “waiting” can lend itself to the idea that this is a passive matter, but the Lord spoke plainly and clearly that we are to be active while we await His return.

2. This parable is an apt demonstration of this critical reality to close out this series.

Discussion:

I. Responsibility

A. The primary point is that God gives us critical responsibilities, a common theme (Matthew 3:8; 5:13-16; 13:3-9, 18-23; Galatians 6:10; Ephesians 2:10; 5:15-16; Colossians 1:10).

B. The second point taken is the treasure such responsibility represents (cf. 2 Corinthians 4:7).

1. The talent was a unit of monetary measurement, likely of silver (25:18).

2. A silver talent weighed about 75 LBS, worth about 6,000 days/19 years of labor.

C. Someone has boiled this down to three overarching purposes: edification (1 Thessalonians 5:11; Jude 20); benevolence (Galatians 6:10); evangelism (Matthew 28:18-20; Luke 19:10).

II. Reliability

A. The giving of these resources tests the reliability (faithfulness) of the servants.

B. Two of the three immediately put their master’s resources to work on his behalf, resulting in the doubling of the resources (25:16-17).

C. The third simply hid it away and brought no return on investment (25:18, 24-25).

III. Accountability

A. After a long delay, the master came to get an account from the servants (25:19).

B. The master’s response to the reliability or lack thereof is stark.

1. The two profitable servants are praised and rewarded (25:20-23).

2. The unprofitable servant was sharply rebuked and punished (25:26-30; John 15:1-8).

C. It is worth noting that each was given “…according to his own ability” (25:15), so the expectations were not too lofty.

D. With so much at stake (Romans 10:13-17), we must be dutiful in service.

Conclusion:

1. As we close out this musing of our transformation, we must help others make their own.

2. Their souls and ours are on the line, so we must await His return actively.

Further Food for Thought

1. Which of these roles: edification, benevolence, and evangelism challenges you most?

2. Can you think of efforts we can make collectively to help us all overcome our challenges?