Matthew 25:14-30

The previous parable spoke of a coming judgment for the nation of Israel.  They need to be prepared when Messiah returns with His bride.  But prepared in what sense?  Surely it’s not a matter of always having lamps with sufficient oil.  The Parable of the Talents gives us the answer.  It is a judgment of works, of using what the Master gives us for the good and glory of the Master.

Works is the basis of judgment for everyone (Rom. 2:5-6; Jer. 32:19), including Israel (Ezek. 7:1-4), Christians (2 Cor. 5:10; 1 Cor. 3:9-17) and unbelievers (Rev. 20:11-12).  Stewardship is a good picture for each.  A steward is a household slave who is given a measure of responsibility in caring for the family.  In this context it speaks of God’s judgment of Israel (called for in the previous parable) as well as His judgment of the nations (seen in the following passage).  The point is that we can all benefit from this Parable of the Talents.

The master gave the servants talents, precious stones (around 75 lbs.) worth a a lot of money (depending on whether they are gold or silver).  He gave each according to their ability and established a time of accounting.  For us, in the Body of Christ, the principles of this parable are seen, for example, in 1 Cor. 12.

·        Every servant has some “goods”, 1 Cor. 12:11.

·        The Master is sovereign in dispersing those goods, 1 Cor. 12:11,18.

·        No servant in unimportant, 1 Cor. 12:14-16.

·        Not all goods are the same, 1 Cor. 12:17-20.

·        All the goods are essential, 1 Cor. 12:21-23.

·        True servants respect each other, 1 Cor. 12:25-26.

·        Servants do not compete with each other, 1 Cor. 12:31.

In the parable, and in every judgment, what is at stake?  What does the Master look for in giving out the talents?  What does He look for when He returns?

·        Stewardship.  The goods are His; His assessment is what matters.  And note: stewardship is not taking care of the Master’s goods but using them.

·        Productivity.  For Christians here are four areas of productivity.

o   Fruitfulness, John 15:16 (was their increase in God’s Kingdom?)

o   Edification, Rom. 15:2 (is the Body of Christ built up?)

o   Growth, 1 Peter 2:2 (was their increased likeness to Christ?)

o   Completion, 2 Tim. 3:16-17 (was the Masters will fulfilled?)

·        Eternity.  This has eternal consequences.  Remember that the first work is to believe in the One the Father has sent into the world (Jn. 6:29).  Then we will be judged according to how we have used the time and energy and resources given us by God in this lifetime (2 Cor. 5:10).

A wise and faithful steward is always prepared for his Master’s return! Are you that steward?