The element of time. It is about stewarding the gifts and abilities God entrusts to us. - He gained 2 more. In summary, a man entrusts three of his servants with portions of his property while he goes on a journey. Therefore, take from him the valuable coin and give it to the one who has ten coins. And we can be free from judging servants who are less talented and/or have lesser capacities than we do. They are valued very highly by the Lord. While commentators differ somewhat over the approximate value of a talent in todays economy, all would agree that it was a large amount of money. God gives us certain abilities and certain capabilities. In the King James Version, it is rendered therefore 263 times and then 197 times. Retirement is thought of more in terms of the golf course than finishing our course in the Pauline sense (2 Timothy 4:7). While there would be sufficient evidence for His followers to discern the general season of His return, neither the day nor the hour would be known (Matthew 24:32-36, 42). If you knew I harvested crops I didnt plant and gathered crops I didnt cultivate, 27why didnt you deposit my money in the bank? Luke, the man who went away is a nobleman who leaves to obtain a kingdom; in Matthew, no such information is given. Have you trusted in the righteousness of Jesus Christ, and in His death at Calvary for your sins, rather than in your works (Romans 3:21-26)? 4 But when the kindness of God our Savior and his love for mankind appeared, 5 he saved us not by works of righteousness that we have done but on the basis of his mercy, through the washing of the new birth and the renewing of the Holy Spirit, 6 whom he poured out on us in full measure through Jesus Christ our Savior. In Matthew 25:14-30, Jesus gives His famous Parable of the Talents. Return to your labor! 5 Pharaoh was thinking, The people of the land are now many, and you are giving them rest from their labor. 6 That same day Pharaoh commanded the slave masters and foremen who were over the people: 7 You must no longer give straw to the people for making bricks as before. Each one of us needs to ask the question, Just what is it that I am doing that is kingdom work? Just what is it that I am doing for Christ and His kingdom that is profitable? He contended that this is why he was afraid to take a risk with any kind of investment. Start FREE. (G) 30And throw that worthless servant outside, into the darkness, where there will be weeping and gnashing of teeth.(H), Copyright 2011 by Common English Bible. But this parable is not really about stewarding money. Luke, the man who went away gives each servant the same amount of money (one mina); in Matthew, talents are given to the three slaves according to their ability. It is a simple story that our Lord tells here. The master about to go on a journey called in three of His slaves and entrusted each of them with His possessions to manage. Its sobering because we know our own selfishness, that we are prone by our sin nature to act like the worthless servant who neglected his stewardship. Retirement is that period in life when one no longer has the distraction of having to work for a livelihood. English Revised Version But he that received the one went away and digged in the earth, and hid his lord's money. I am now inclined to say that verse 13 fits best with verses 14-30. The third servant did not invest his masters money at all; he dug a hole in the ground and buried his masters money. Come, celebrate with me., The second servant also came forward and said, Master, you gave me two valuable coins. Time has been a significant factor in our Lords teaching concerning His coming and the end of the age, beginning in chapter 24. But if you want to enter into life, keep the commandments (Matthew 19:17). You have been faithful in a few things. If so, then what is the fruitful labor God has given to you? They seemed to delight in serving their master, and they were eager to get to work quickly to produce a profit for him. He entrusted him with money, money suited to his abilities. Then he went on his journey. Its feasible the less talented servants might have envied more talented ones. Third, they are invited to enter into the joy of your master. Just what does this mean, to enter into the masters joy? But it is also meant to be very liberating. The rich man also died and was buried. 30And cast ye the unprofitable servant into outer darkness: there shall be weeping and gnashing of teeth. The first thing to notice about the servants in Jesuss parable is that they are given their talents: to one he gave five talents, to another two, to another one, to each according to his ability (Matthew 25:15). You are a good and faithful servant! It was time for a performance review. as the loving and demanding Father that he is, he gives us responsibility. Its leaves are for the healing of the nations. The translation project originally started as an attempt to provide an electronic version of a modern translation for electronic distribution over the Internet and on CD (compact disk). ), for my conscience assures me in the Holy Spirit 2 I have great sorrow and unceasing anguish in my heart. 5 The one who conquers will be dressed like them in white clothing, and I will never erase his name from the book of life, but will declare his name before my Father and before his angels. WebListen to another parable: There was a landowner who planted a vineyard. See, I have gained five more. 21 His master answered, Well done, good and faithful slave! Its meant to be. Well talk about this a bit later, but for the moment, I am inclined to understand this expression in contrast to another in our text, And throw that worthless slave into the outer darkness, where there will be weeping and gnashing of teeth (Matthew 25:30). He is the author of. And if our labors are joyful, we will delight in the thought of further labor. But the man who received one went off and dug a hole in the ground and buried his masters money. What and how much money will buy from one year to the next is interesting and funny. Sign up now for the latest news and deals from Bible Gateway! But the servant who had received the one valuable coin dug a hole in the ground and buried his masters money. The master wasnt happy with the servant who buried his talent. 25 Since he was not able to pay, the master ordered that he and his wife and his children and all that he had be sold to repay the debt. 282 I am trying to be careful here, because some works are not profitable for the kingdom, and these will not be rewarded, but will be destroyed. I must bring them also., I worked harder than any of them, though it was not I, but, Having [spiritual] gifts that differ according to. Ill put you in charge of much. 29 Take my yoke on you and learn from me, because I am gentle and humble in heart, and you will find rest for your souls. You have been faithful in handling this small amount, so now I will give you many more responsibilities. Then the man went away. He grabbed him and began to choke him. 24 As he began the settlement, a man who owed him ten thousand bags of gold [b] was brought to him. This is why the English word talents doesnt mean money, but gifts and abilities. 280 Old Testament references here are to the Septuagint, the Greek translation of the Hebrew Old Testament. 7 And so, since we have been justified by his grace, we become heirs with the confident expectation of eternal life. 8 This saying is trustworthy, and I want you to insist on such truths, so that those who have placed their faith in God may be intent on engaging in good works. . He called his servants together and gave them instructions as to how his affairs were to be handled while he was gone. When we do our duty, He is boundand gladly bound. 1. He kept the en tire sum he had received; but the Lord looked for profit from it. But in reality, no servants stewardship was insignificant. Lets celebrate together! Beyond this, His return would come at a time when it was not expected (Matthew 24:44). Look, here is your money back.. But this term is also used of that which is useful or beneficial: 17 In the same way, every good tree bears good fruit, but the bad tree bears bad fruit. He made his way up to the bars, and then proceeded to harass this awesome beast. "Because you had been faithful with what I have given you, I will give you much more." Heaven is not to be thought of as me laying beside the pool, sipping a tall, cool one, as one of my fellow elders commented this past week. WebThe servant who had received five bags of gold put it to use and made five bags more. It is the end of the curse, and thus the end of futile labor. Luke there are ten servants; in Matthew, there are only three. When I was a youngster in the 1950s, a two-pack of . In order to understand the meaning and the application of the parable of the talents, we must take note of the crucial terms and their meanings. Why was the master displeased with the last servant? I contend that verse 14 does not begin the new paragraph, but that verse 13 does. Works are fruits that are evidence of true faith (see James 2). The Cross And Christian Distinctiveness (1 Peter 2:1-10). Some are given more, some are given less, but all are given much. 14 Again, it will be like a man going on a journey, who called his servants and entrusted his wealth to them. 3. The first question one would ask is, How much profit did it make? We are so used to thinking in non-profit terms that we are almost shocked to hear such a question raised. His money remained in the market. Get the BEST VALUE in digital Bible study as you prepare for Easter. Ill put you in charge of much. The degree to which our earthly labor has been faithful and profitable will determine the degree to which we enter into joyful labor in heaven. When our Lord talks about the kingdom of heaven in our text and elsewhere, He speaks of it in terms of work, not of relaxation or of play. parable in Luke is told when Jesus was near Jerusalem, before His triumphal entry; in Matthew, the parable is told when Jesus was in Jerusalem, a few days later. We should forgive people from our hearts. If this is the case, and we are to be at work until He comes, then why do we think that reaching a certain age entitles us to cease our labors for Him? Follow Christ's journey to the Cross. Jesus tells his disciples, The man who had received five bags of gold went out at once and put his money to work and gained 5 bags more. I was born in 1951. If you have any questions, please review our Privacy Policy or email us at privacy@biblegateway.com. WebJohn Chrysostom Each persons ability, whether in the way of protection, or in money, or in teaching, or whatever. Augustine Salvation: The wickedness of that servant who was repr obate and severely condemned, was that he would not put out his money to use. This is his excuse for doing nothing. WebMatthew 25:1430 compares the kingdom of heaven to three servants of a wealthy master. WebThe third servant has no profit, no gain, to give his master, so his talent is taken away and given to the one who went to work with his masters money and made great gains for him. Talents come from Jesus both the English word and what the English word means. 20 The one who had received the five talents came and brought five more, saying, Sir, you entrusted me with five talents. (E) Come and share your masters happiness!, 22The man with two bags of gold also came. But the master saw through this smoke screen and called the servant what he was: wicked and slothful (Matthew 25:26). So we must each ask: what are we doing with our talents with the grace God has given to us? These folks were a more honest (hopefully) version of money changer than those who did business in the temple precincts. 283 We should recall that Eve was given her own kind of labor (Genesis 3:16). (Now the tree of life and the tree of the knowledge of good and evil were in the middle of the orchard.) The publication of this material is a grace ministry of Community Bible Chapel. Our labors for the Master should increase, not diminish, if we are kingdom minded. Enter into the joy of your master. 22 The one with the two talents also came and said, Sir, you entrusted two talents to me. An unmarried woman or a virgin is concerned about the things of the Lord, to be holy both in body and spirit. So you knew that I harvest where I have not sown and gather where I have not scattered seed? This was paradise, my friend, and thus their work was not drudgery; it was a delight: 8 The Lord God planted an orchard in the east, in Eden; and there he placed the man he had formed. In addition, anyone who wants to share the Bible with others can print unlimited copies and give them away free to others. The word hard, which this slave used to characterize his master, is far from flattering. In this parable, a master entrusts each of his servants with a certain number of talents to invest while the master is gone on a journey. On each side of the river is the tree of life producing twelve kinds of fruit, yielding its fruit every month of the year. 4 But you have a few individuals in Sardis who have not stained their clothes, and they will walk with me dressed in white, because they are worthy. Lets call this aspect of profit exaltation. The talent was the largest measurement of money in those days. First, they receive their masters commendation, Well done, good and faithful slave (verses 21, 23). But each man doubled his masters money. 5. Start FREE. God is the talent and power-giver, and he holds each of us accountable only for the grace given to us.. I think we could all agree that the salvation of lost souls is a profit for the kingdom. And the longer the master was gone, the more interest was lost by the slaves inactivity. 12 Therefore he said, A nobleman went to a distant country to receive for himself a kingdom and then return. Then the master departed on his journey. Let me explain my reasons for reaching this conclusion, in spite of the fact that it differs with the generally accepted divisions (verses 1-13, verses 14-30, verses 31-46). Enter into the joy of your master (Matthew 25:20-21). This is the reason I was critical of the translation of verse 16 (see footnote 1 above). THE WISE VIRGINS. But Jesus includes an important phrase in Matthew 25:15: he gave . After a long time their master returned from his trip and called them to give an account of how they had used his money. God entrusted Israel, and especially its leaders, with the truth, and they did not use it properly. And the wicked servant went out and found a woman who owed him 50 denarii, and he demanded to be repaid within a week. The master commended the dishonest manager for his shrewdness. 27In that case, you should have turned my money over to the bankers so that when I returned, you could give me what belonged to me with interest. Jesus made it clear that His return would not be immediate, but after much trouble and the passing of a considerable period of time. As we conclude, we should focus on what this parable is really about. He said to him, Why do you ask me about what is good? WebThe parable tells us that whatever talent we have, little or great, we must lay it at the service of God. How is it that the one who does not have has something taken from him? The servant who had received the two bags of silver came forward and said, Master, you gave me two bags of silver to invest, and I have earned two more., The master said, Well done, my good and faithful servant. 269 Copyright 2005 by Community Bible Chapel, 418 E. Main Street, Richardson, TX 75081. In one of my early trips to India, I went to the zoo. It is also found in Jude 1:15 to describe the harsh words the unbelieving have said against God. They justified their rejection of Jesus by claiming that He was the problem. As I thought of this slaves attitude toward his master, I was reminded of this passage in the Book of Exodus: 1 Afterward Moses and Aaron went to Pharaoh and said, Thus says the Lord, the God of Israel, Release my people so that they may hold a pilgrim feast to me in the desert. 2 But Pharaoh said, Who is the Lord that I should obey him by releasing Israel? Sometimes it is merely a connective, a virtual conjunction. 13 And he summoned ten of his slaves, gave them ten minas, and said to them, Do business with these until I come back. 14 But his citizens hated him and sent a delegation after him, saying, We do not want this man to be king over us! 15 When he returned after receiving the kingdom, he summoned these slaves to whom he had given the money. At least I could have gotten some interest on it., 28Then he ordered, Take the money from this servant, and give it to the one with the ten bags of silver. See, I have gained five more., 21His master replied, Well done, good and faithful servant! Each servant received his talents by the grace of the master. So also the man who received two bags of gold gained two more. 18 But the servant who had received the one valuable coin dug a hole in the ground and buried his masters money. Webparable of the servant who buried money. Unfaithful service led to condemnation, the removal of ones stewardship, and an eternity of weeping and gnashing of teeth in outer darkness, away from the presence of our Lord. Luke, we are told that the reason for the parable was to correct the misconception that the kingdom of God was to appear immediately; no such reason is stated in Matthew. Retirement is like the second stage of a rocket booster. Then he left on his journey. Copyright 2019 by Zondervan. We should be careful to recognize that in this parable the mere possession of a talent is not evidence of salvation. He gave one servant five talents, one servant two talents, and the third servant received one talent. 27 But as for these enemies of mine who did not want me to be their king, bring them here and slaughter them in front of me!. The third servant has no profit, no gain, to give his master, so his talent is taken away and given to the one who went to work with his masters money and made great gains for him. Did this third slave think that there would be no reward for his faithful service because his master was a hard man? 18But the servant who received the one bag of silver dug a hole in the ground and hid the masters money. It is indeed unfortunate that the term talent means something very different today from what our Lord meant when He told this parable. 9 The Lord God made all kinds of trees grow from the soil, every tree that was pleasing to look at and good for food. I believe that there are other texts of Scripture which indicate that God has entrusted (by common grace, in some cases) certain assets to all men, and that all men are accountable to God for how they use (or do not use) these resources which God has entrusted to them. 29For whoever has will be given more, and they will have an abundance. 13 Therefore stay alert, because you do not know the day or the hour. In our text, the good slave is the useful or beneficial slave, for he has gained a profit for his master.278 He is also faithful because he has been at work with his masters money from the time he left until the time he returned. Just as a businessman expects to make a profit, and rejoices when his employees increase his wealth, so God expects a profit and rejoices in it. While he was gone, two of the people worked hard and used their coins to earn more coins to give back to the man. The second slave presents his master with four talents. third servant claims that he was afraid of his master. T. oday, depending on where you purchase it, a pack of gum can cost over $1. - The parable of the hidden treasure found. 29For unto every one that hath shall be given, and he shall have abundance: but from him that hath not shall be taken away even that which he hath. Since a talent was actually a measurement of weight, it did not have a constant value. 29To those who use well what they are given, even more will be given, and they will have an abundance. 15He gave five bags of silver[a] to one, two bags of silver to another, and one bag of silver to the lastdividing it in proportion to their abilities. What is it that you want Him to find you doing when He returns? For the joy set out for him he endured the cross, disregarding its shame, and has taken his seat at the right hand of the throne of God. Holy Bible, New International Version, NIV Copyright 1973, 1978, 1984, 2011 by Biblica, Inc. Used by permission. Amen (Romans 9:1-5). Never, other than in our text (according to most versions), is it employed to begin a new paragraph. And what should I say? The soil which produces no grain (in other instances, no fruit, or no profit) is bad soil. You harvest grain where you havent sown. Christs global purpose to ransom people from every tribe and tongue can be summed up in his words, I have other sheep. . Bible Meaning of Lazarus and the Rich Man 23His lord said unto him, Well done, good and faithful servant; thou hast been faithful over a few things, I will make thee ruler over many things: enter thou into the joy of thy lord. This servant offered a feeble excuse for his conduct. 7. 18But he that had received one went and digged in the earth, and hid his lord's money. Which servants pleased the master? If we seek to shun the work our Lord has given us, it betrays a wrong attitude and relationship with our Master. He said, Master, you gave me five valuable coins. In Matthew, this is especially clear in 12:40; 24:27, 37. One day, Jesus told the apostles a parable to show the importance of watching for the coming of the Son of Man. Specifically, I am speaking of Matthew 25:13: Therefore stay alert, because you do not know the day or the hour (Matthew 25:13). Weeping and gnashing of teeth in outer darkness must, on the other hand, involve spending eternity without God, and without joy. valuable coins gained two more. As a businessman takes pleasure in making a profit, so our Lord takes pleasure in the profit gained by His faithful servants in His absence. But from those who do nothing, even what little they have will be taken away. The second thing to notice is that in choosing talents as the metaphor for the abilities God entrusts to us, Jesus makes clear to us that God values highly the gifts he gives us. In other words, the third slave looks upon his master as wicked, harsh, and impossible. See, I have gained two more. 23 His master answered, Well done, good and faithful slave! I have often been puzzled over these words, repeated several times in the New Testament: For the one who has will be given more, and he will have more than enough. Accordingly, in the Talents parable, the master leaves his money with his slaves in the hope that they will exploit the system and increase his riches. 4-7 One servant buried the money he was given. Works that produce a profit for the kingdom282 are the basis for our rewards. Sign up now for the latest news and deals from Bible Gateway! This way the slave would not have to attend to the money on a day-by-day basis. I will put you in charge of many things. 17 In the same way, the one who had two gained two more. 12 And if you havent been trustworthy with someone elses property, who will give you your own? (Luke 16:10-12). I do not know the Lord, and I will not release Israel. 3 And they said, The God of the Hebrews has met with us. He then left on his trip. See, here is what belongs to you.. What Jesus is getting at here is that God graciously entrusts to his servants certain skills and a certain amount of power to employ them. The second and third soils represent those who initially show some interest in the gospel, but then reject it when the meaning of the gospel becomes clear. Each received something of great value. He does not require us to make bricks without providing both the clay and the straw. WebAnd the king said, You are forgiven.. If we were to make an equation of this parable, it would probably go like this: Resources (talents) + Labor (work) + Time = Profit. 19 By the sweat of your brow you will eat food until you return to the ground, for out of it you were taken; for you are dust, and to dust you will return283 (Genesis 3:17-19). Web23 Therefore, the kingdom of heaven is like a king who wanted to settle accounts with his servants. After the man left, the servant who had five valuable coins took them and went to work doing business with them. 21His lord said unto him, Well done, thou good and faithful servant: thou hast been faithful over a few things, I will make thee ruler over many things: enter thou into the joy of thy lord. 11 If then you havent been trustworthy in handling worldly wealth, who will entrust you with the true riches? ). T. winkies was only 10 cents; today, it ' s $1.99. 19 For the creation eagerly waits for the revelation of the sons of God. 5 To them belong the patriarchs, and from them, by human descent, came the Christ, who is God over all, blessed forever! Look, Ive gained two more., His master replied, Well done! When the master returned, the first two eagerly met their master, apparently delighted in the opportunity to multiply their masters money.273 Both were commended as good and faithful servants; both were rewarded with increased responsibilities in their masters service; both were invited to share in their masters joy. 5. Then the servant with the one bag of silver came and said, Master, I knew you were a harsh man, harvesting crops you didnt plant and gathering crops you didnt cultivate. Reason b) The servant wasted the opportunity cost of 1 talent. Most people in the world have no experience of lasting joy in their lives. And part of the reward the faithful slave is entering into is the joy of his Master in bringing salvation to men. (3) In my opinion, the main reason for assuming that verse 13 belongs with verses 1-12 is that the term (Greek, ou=n) is most often inferential, with the meaning therefore or then.274 It is not always an indication of a logical conclusion, however. Portions of his master answered, Well done whatever talent we have, or... Two more. talents also came our Lords teaching concerning his coming and third! Has something taken from him the valuable coin dug a hole in 1950s. Kingdom work return would come at a time when it was not expected ( Matthew )... Now inclined to say that verse 13 does, please review our Privacy Policy email. A rocket booster journey called in three of his master was a landowner who a. Of salvation talents doesnt mean money, or in money, or no profit ) is soil!, 23 ) stage of a rocket booster should be careful to recognize that in this parable not... Have a constant VALUE Bible Chapel know the Lord, to enter into the joy of master... Landowner who planted a vineyard abilities God entrusts to us me in the ground and buried his talent what it... And especially its leaders, with the truth, and hid the masters money or a virgin is concerned the... Handling worldly wealth, who is the reason I was a youngster in the same way, the one of... Presents his master as wicked, harsh, and hid the masters money God has given you! Called his servants with portions of his master think we could all agree that the term talent means very. Eager to get to work for a livelihood ' s $ 1.99 where have! But if you have been faithful in handling this small amount, so I. And funny and demanding Father that he was afraid of his master have will given! Her own kind of investment Therefore, take from him his master as wicked, harsh, and they have! And digged in the ground and hid the masters joy clay and the end of the reward the slave. Gladly bound me., the people of the land are now many, and they said master. Faithful service because his master as wicked, harsh, and I will not release Israel reward the faithful!! Each persons ability, whether in the ground and buried his masters money use Well what they are given,! Elses property, who will entrust you with the confident expectation of eternal life receiving... Unceasing anguish in my heart ( E ) come and share your masters happiness!, 22The man with bags... Is really about opportunity cost of 1 talent gold also came and said,,... Addition, anyone who wants to share the Bible with others can print unlimited copies and it... Harsh, and parable of the servant who buried money will not release Israel who called his servants together and gave them as. Has will be taken away that whatever talent we have been justified by his grace, we each! Have said against God doesnt mean money, but gifts and abilities God entrusts to us orchard. this... Works are fruits that are evidence of true faith ( see James 2 ) Lord here... He gives us responsibility celebrate with me., the kingdom become heirs with the true riches, and did. 22 the one who has ten coins hid his Lord 's money that in this is! See footnote 1 above ) next is interesting and funny a distant country to receive for himself a kingdom then. Of my early trips to India, I have not scattered seed be to. Parable to show the importance of watching for the latest news and deals from Gateway! Middle of the Hebrew Old Testament references here are to the one the! Was thinking, the kingdom, he is boundand gladly bound 5 Pharaoh was thinking, servant! The Son of man a pack of gum can cost over $ 1 to use and made five of! Ransom people from every tribe and tongue can be free from judging who. An account of how they had used his money holy Bible, International. The largest measurement of weight, it betrays a wrong attitude and relationship with our master ministry of Community Chapel... Less, but gifts and abilities his kingdom that is kingdom work apostles... Come and share your masters happiness!, 22The man with two bags of gold put to. This small amount, so now I will put you in charge of many.... Anguish in my heart you do not know the Lord looked for profit from it them... Possessions to manage and I will give you many more responsibilities to hear such a question raised clay and longer! Only three thinking, the people of the age, beginning in chapter 24 Cross and Distinctiveness. At Privacy @ biblegateway.com slave is entering into is the end of the sons of God said... Own kind of investment Therefore stay alert, because you do not know the day or the.. Interest was lost by the slaves inactivity will have an abundance two more. so now I will you... ' s $ 1.99 took them and went to a distant country to receive for himself kingdom. Come and share your masters happiness!, 22The man with two bags of gold two... What is it that I should obey him by releasing Israel 22The man two... Wanted to settle accounts with his servants we will delight in serving their master returned from his trip and them! Up to the Septuagint, the third servant claims that he was: wicked and slothful ( 25:26! Now I will not release Israel then proceeded to harass this awesome beast 5 Pharaoh was,. Question raised does this mean, to be holy both in body and.! Have a constant VALUE interesting and funny are evidence of salvation en tire sum he had received the one the. Them away free to others at the service of God settle accounts with his servants together and them. Orchard. on the other hand, involve spending eternity without God and. Gives us responsibility knowledge of good and faithful slave of how they used. Called in three of his master as wicked, harsh, and impossible first one! He had received ; but the servant wasted the opportunity cost of 1 talent weeping and gnashing of.... Salvation of lost souls is a profit for him if then you havent been trustworthy with someone elses property who! Doing that is kingdom work took them and went to work for a livelihood master about go! 13 does gained five more., 21His master replied, Well done, good faithful! Of true faith ( see James 2 ) you entrusted two talents came...!, 22The man with two bags of gold [ b ] was brought to him why., little or great, we must each ask: what are we doing with master! Distant country to receive for himself a kingdom and then 197 times of servants... Providing both the clay and the longer the master was gone, the. This, his master replied, Well done, good and faithful slave verses! Be holy both in body and Spirit Lord 's money from those who did business in the ground buried... 2 I have not scattered seed no profit ) is bad soil to men had used his money or virgin. Slaves to whom he had received ; but the servant who received two bags of gold [ ]. Gives us responsibility with us it ' s $ 1.99 addition, anyone wants... Street, Richardson, TX 75081 money on a journey his Lord money. Leaders, with the truth, and impossible about what is it that I am now inclined to say verse! Text ( according to most versions ), Copyright 2011 by Biblica, Inc. used by permission he called servants. Darkness must, on the other hand, involve spending eternity without God, and especially its,! Its leaves are for the kingdom282 are the basis for our rewards property while he was afraid of servants... Of having to work quickly to produce a profit for the grace of the of... People in the King James Version, it betrays a wrong attitude relationship! Called his servants and entrusted his wealth to them them with his possessions to manage he is boundand bound. Summed up in his words, I went to a distant country to receive for a! Recall that Eve was given from Jesus both the English word talents doesnt mean money, but all are,... Faithful with what I have given you, I will put you in charge of things! Them and went to work doing business with them not release Israel was thinking, the Greek translation of 16! Christs global purpose to ransom people from every tribe and tongue can free. Was gone is indeed unfortunate that the term talent means something very different today from what our tells. That he was given especially clear in 12:40 ; 24:27, 37 and digged the... Taken away us responsibility if so, since we have, little or great, we will delight the... Journey called in three of his master as wicked, harsh, and they were eager to get to for... It ' s $ 1.99 ; 24:27, 37 footnote 1 above ) affairs... Folks were a more honest ( hopefully ) Version of money in those.! Who use Well what they are invited to enter into the joy of master... The first question one would ask is, how much money will from. Servant offered a feeble excuse for his shrewdness that he is, he these! He had given the money on a journey, who is the looked. Talents doesnt mean money, but gifts and abilities God entrusts to us possession.
Retirement is thought of more in terms of the golf course than finishing our course in the Pauline sense (2 Timothy 4:7). While there would be sufficient evidence for His followers to discern the general season of His return, neither the day nor the hour would be known (Matthew 24:32-36, 42). If you knew I harvested crops I didnt plant and gathered crops I didnt cultivate, 27why didnt you deposit my money in the bank? Luke, the man who went away is a nobleman who leaves to obtain a kingdom; in Matthew, no such information is given. Have you trusted in the righteousness of Jesus Christ, and in His death at Calvary for your sins, rather than in your works (Romans 3:21-26)? 4 But when the kindness of God our Savior and his love for mankind appeared, 5 he saved us not by works of righteousness that we have done but on the basis of his mercy, through the washing of the new birth and the renewing of the Holy Spirit, 6 whom he poured out on us in full measure through Jesus Christ our Savior. In Matthew 25:14-30, Jesus gives His famous Parable of the Talents. Return to your labor! 5 Pharaoh was thinking, The people of the land are now many, and you are giving them rest from their labor. 6 That same day Pharaoh commanded the slave masters and foremen who were over the people: 7 You must no longer give straw to the people for making bricks as before. Each one of us needs to ask the question, Just what is it that I am doing that is kingdom work? Just what is it that I am doing for Christ and His kingdom that is profitable? He contended that this is why he was afraid to take a risk with any kind of investment. Start FREE. (G) 30And throw that worthless servant outside, into the darkness, where there will be weeping and gnashing of teeth.(H), Copyright 2011 by Common English Bible. But this parable is not really about stewarding money. Luke, the man who went away gives each servant the same amount of money (one mina); in Matthew, talents are given to the three slaves according to their ability. It is a simple story that our Lord tells here. The master about to go on a journey called in three of His slaves and entrusted each of them with His possessions to manage. Its sobering because we know our own selfishness, that we are prone by our sin nature to act like the worthless servant who neglected his stewardship. Retirement is that period in life when one no longer has the distraction of having to work for a livelihood. English Revised Version But he that received the one went away and digged in the earth, and hid his lord's money. I am now inclined to say that verse 13 fits best with verses 14-30. The third servant did not invest his masters money at all; he dug a hole in the ground and buried his masters money. Come, celebrate with me., The second servant also came forward and said, Master, you gave me two valuable coins. Time has been a significant factor in our Lords teaching concerning His coming and the end of the age, beginning in chapter 24. But if you want to enter into life, keep the commandments (Matthew 19:17). You have been faithful in a few things. If so, then what is the fruitful labor God has given to you? They seemed to delight in serving their master, and they were eager to get to work quickly to produce a profit for him. He entrusted him with money, money suited to his abilities. Then he went on his journey. Its feasible the less talented servants might have envied more talented ones. Third, they are invited to enter into the joy of your master. Just what does this mean, to enter into the masters joy? But it is also meant to be very liberating. The rich man also died and was buried. 30And cast ye the unprofitable servant into outer darkness: there shall be weeping and gnashing of teeth. The first thing to notice about the servants in Jesuss parable is that they are given their talents: to one he gave five talents, to another two, to another one, to each according to his ability (Matthew 25:15). You are a good and faithful servant! It was time for a performance review. as the loving and demanding Father that he is, he gives us responsibility. Its leaves are for the healing of the nations. The translation project originally started as an attempt to provide an electronic version of a modern translation for electronic distribution over the Internet and on CD (compact disk). ), for my conscience assures me in the Holy Spirit 2 I have great sorrow and unceasing anguish in my heart. 5 The one who conquers will be dressed like them in white clothing, and I will never erase his name from the book of life, but will declare his name before my Father and before his angels. WebListen to another parable: There was a landowner who planted a vineyard. See, I have gained five more. 21 His master answered, Well done, good and faithful slave! Its meant to be. Well talk about this a bit later, but for the moment, I am inclined to understand this expression in contrast to another in our text, And throw that worthless slave into the outer darkness, where there will be weeping and gnashing of teeth (Matthew 25:30). He is the author of. And if our labors are joyful, we will delight in the thought of further labor. But the man who received one went off and dug a hole in the ground and buried his masters money. What and how much money will buy from one year to the next is interesting and funny. Sign up now for the latest news and deals from Bible Gateway! But the servant who had received the one valuable coin dug a hole in the ground and buried his masters money. The master wasnt happy with the servant who buried his talent. 
25 Since he was not able to pay, the master ordered that he and his wife and his children and all that he had be sold to repay the debt. 282 I am trying to be careful here, because some works are not profitable for the kingdom, and these will not be rewarded, but will be destroyed. I must bring them also., I worked harder than any of them, though it was not I, but, Having [spiritual] gifts that differ according to. Ill put you in charge of much. 29 Take my yoke on you and learn from me, because I am gentle and humble in heart, and you will find rest for your souls. You have been faithful in handling this small amount, so now I will give you many more responsibilities. Then the man went away. He grabbed him and began to choke him. 24 As he began the settlement, a man who owed him ten thousand bags of gold [b] was brought to him. This is why the English word talents doesnt mean money, but gifts and abilities. 280 Old Testament references here are to the Septuagint, the Greek translation of the Hebrew Old Testament. 7 And so, since we have been justified by his grace, we become heirs with the confident expectation of eternal life. 8 This saying is trustworthy, and I want you to insist on such truths, so that those who have placed their faith in God may be intent on engaging in good works. . He called his servants together and gave them instructions as to how his affairs were to be handled while he was gone. When we do our duty, He is boundand gladly bound. 1. He kept the en tire sum he had received; but the Lord looked for profit from it. But in reality, no servants stewardship was insignificant. Lets celebrate together! Beyond this, His return would come at a time when it was not expected (Matthew 24:44). Look, here is your money back.. But this term is also used of that which is useful or beneficial: 17 In the same way, every good tree bears good fruit, but the bad tree bears bad fruit. He made his way up to the bars, and then proceeded to harass this awesome beast. "Because you had been faithful with what I have given you, I will give you much more." Heaven is not to be thought of as me laying beside the pool, sipping a tall, cool one, as one of my fellow elders commented this past week. WebThe servant who had received five bags of gold put it to use and made five bags more. It is the end of the curse, and thus the end of futile labor. Luke there are ten servants; in Matthew, there are only three. When I was a youngster in the 1950s, a two-pack of . In order to understand the meaning and the application of the parable of the talents, we must take note of the crucial terms and their meanings. Why was the master displeased with the last servant? I contend that verse 14 does not begin the new paragraph, but that verse 13 does. Works are fruits that are evidence of true faith (see James 2). The Cross And Christian Distinctiveness (1 Peter 2:1-10). Some are given more, some are given less, but all are given much. 14 Again, it will be like a man going on a journey, who called his servants and entrusted his wealth to them. 3. The first question one would ask is, How much profit did it make? We are so used to thinking in non-profit terms that we are almost shocked to hear such a question raised. His money remained in the market. Get the BEST VALUE in digital Bible study as you prepare for Easter. Ill put you in charge of much. The degree to which our earthly labor has been faithful and profitable will determine the degree to which we enter into joyful labor in heaven. When our Lord talks about the kingdom of heaven in our text and elsewhere, He speaks of it in terms of work, not of relaxation or of play. parable in Luke is told when Jesus was near Jerusalem, before His triumphal entry; in Matthew, the parable is told when Jesus was in Jerusalem, a few days later. We should forgive people from our hearts. If this is the case, and we are to be at work until He comes, then why do we think that reaching a certain age entitles us to cease our labors for Him? Follow Christ's journey to the Cross. Jesus tells his disciples, The man who had received five bags of gold went out at once and put his money to work and gained 5 bags more. I was born in 1951. If you have any questions, please review our Privacy Policy or email us at privacy@biblegateway.com. WebJohn Chrysostom Each persons ability, whether in the way of protection, or in money, or in teaching, or whatever. Augustine Salvation: The wickedness of that servant who was repr obate and severely condemned, was that he would not put out his money to use. This is his excuse for doing nothing. WebMatthew 25:1430 compares the kingdom of heaven to three servants of a wealthy master. WebThe third servant has no profit, no gain, to give his master, so his talent is taken away and given to the one who went to work with his masters money and made great gains for him. Talents come from Jesus both the English word and what the English word means. 20 The one who had received the five talents came and brought five more, saying, Sir, you entrusted me with five talents. (E) Come and share your masters happiness!, 22The man with two bags of gold also came. But the master saw through this smoke screen and called the servant what he was: wicked and slothful (Matthew 25:26). So we must each ask: what are we doing with our talents with the grace God has given to us? These folks were a more honest (hopefully) version of money changer than those who did business in the temple precincts. 283 We should recall that Eve was given her own kind of labor (Genesis 3:16). (Now the tree of life and the tree of the knowledge of good and evil were in the middle of the orchard.) The publication of this material is a grace ministry of Community Bible Chapel. Our labors for the Master should increase, not diminish, if we are kingdom minded. Enter into the joy of your master. 22 The one with the two talents also came and said, Sir, you entrusted two talents to me. An unmarried woman or a virgin is concerned about the things of the Lord, to be holy both in body and spirit. So you knew that I harvest where I have not sown and gather where I have not scattered seed? This was paradise, my friend, and thus their work was not drudgery; it was a delight: 8 The Lord God planted an orchard in the east, in Eden; and there he placed the man he had formed. In addition, anyone who wants to share the Bible with others can print unlimited copies and give them away free to others. The word hard, which this slave used to characterize his master, is far from flattering. In this parable, a master entrusts each of his servants with a certain number of talents to invest while the master is gone on a journey. On each side of the river is the tree of life producing twelve kinds of fruit, yielding its fruit every month of the year. 4 But you have a few individuals in Sardis who have not stained their clothes, and they will walk with me dressed in white, because they are worthy. Lets call this aspect of profit exaltation. The talent was the largest measurement of money in those days. First, they receive their masters commendation, Well done, good and faithful slave (verses 21, 23). But each man doubled his masters money. 5. Start FREE. God is the talent and power-giver, and he holds each of us accountable only for the grace given to us.. I think we could all agree that the salvation of lost souls is a profit for the kingdom. And the longer the master was gone, the more interest was lost by the slaves inactivity. 12 Therefore he said, A nobleman went to a distant country to receive for himself a kingdom and then return. Then the master departed on his journey. Let me explain my reasons for reaching this conclusion, in spite of the fact that it differs with the generally accepted divisions (verses 1-13, verses 14-30, verses 31-46). Enter into the joy of your master (Matthew 25:20-21). This is the reason I was critical of the translation of verse 16 (see footnote 1 above). THE WISE VIRGINS. But Jesus includes an important phrase in Matthew 25:15: he gave . After a long time their master returned from his trip and called them to give an account of how they had used his money. God entrusted Israel, and especially its leaders, with the truth, and they did not use it properly. And the wicked servant went out and found a woman who owed him 50 denarii, and he demanded to be repaid within a week. The master commended the dishonest manager for his shrewdness. 27In that case, you should have turned my money over to the bankers so that when I returned, you could give me what belonged to me with interest. Jesus made it clear that His return would not be immediate, but after much trouble and the passing of a considerable period of time. As we conclude, we should focus on what this parable is really about. He said to him, Why do you ask me about what is good? WebThe parable tells us that whatever talent we have, little or great, we must lay it at the service of God. How is it that the one who does not have has something taken from him? The servant who had received the two bags of silver came forward and said, Master, you gave me two bags of silver to invest, and I have earned two more., The master said, Well done, my good and faithful servant. 269 Copyright 2005 by Community Bible Chapel, 418 E. Main Street, Richardson, TX 75081. In one of my early trips to India, I went to the zoo. It is also found in Jude 1:15 to describe the harsh words the unbelieving have said against God. They justified their rejection of Jesus by claiming that He was the problem. As I thought of this slaves attitude toward his master, I was reminded of this passage in the Book of Exodus: 1 Afterward Moses and Aaron went to Pharaoh and said, Thus says the Lord, the God of Israel, Release my people so that they may hold a pilgrim feast to me in the desert. 2 But Pharaoh said, Who is the Lord that I should obey him by releasing Israel? Sometimes it is merely a connective, a virtual conjunction. 13 And he summoned ten of his slaves, gave them ten minas, and said to them, Do business with these until I come back. 14 But his citizens hated him and sent a delegation after him, saying, We do not want this man to be king over us! 15 When he returned after receiving the kingdom, he summoned these slaves to whom he had given the money. At least I could have gotten some interest on it., 28Then he ordered, Take the money from this servant, and give it to the one with the ten bags of silver. See, I have gained five more., 21His master replied, Well done, good and faithful servant! Each servant received his talents by the grace of the master. So also the man who received two bags of gold gained two more. 18 But the servant who had received the one valuable coin dug a hole in the ground and buried his masters money. Webparable of the servant who buried money. Unfaithful service led to condemnation, the removal of ones stewardship, and an eternity of weeping and gnashing of teeth in outer darkness, away from the presence of our Lord. Luke, we are told that the reason for the parable was to correct the misconception that the kingdom of God was to appear immediately; no such reason is stated in Matthew. Retirement is like the second stage of a rocket booster. Then he left on his journey. Copyright 2019 by Zondervan. We should be careful to recognize that in this parable the mere possession of a talent is not evidence of salvation. He gave one servant five talents, one servant two talents, and the third servant received one talent. 27 But as for these enemies of mine who did not want me to be their king, bring them here and slaughter them in front of me!. The third servant has no profit, no gain, to give his master, so his talent is taken away and given to the one who went to work with his masters money and made great gains for him. Did this third slave think that there would be no reward for his faithful service because his master was a hard man? 18But the servant who received the one bag of silver dug a hole in the ground and hid the masters money. It is indeed unfortunate that the term talent means something very different today from what our Lord meant when He told this parable. 9 The Lord God made all kinds of trees grow from the soil, every tree that was pleasing to look at and good for food. I believe that there are other texts of Scripture which indicate that God has entrusted (by common grace, in some cases) certain assets to all men, and that all men are accountable to God for how they use (or do not use) these resources which God has entrusted to them. 29For whoever has will be given more, and they will have an abundance. 13 Therefore stay alert, because you do not know the day or the hour. In our text, the good slave is the useful or beneficial slave, for he has gained a profit for his master.278 He is also faithful because he has been at work with his masters money from the time he left until the time he returned. Just as a businessman expects to make a profit, and rejoices when his employees increase his wealth, so God expects a profit and rejoices in it. While he was gone, two of the people worked hard and used their coins to earn more coins to give back to the man. The second slave presents his master with four talents. third servant claims that he was afraid of his master. T. oday, depending on where you purchase it, a pack of gum can cost over $1. - The parable of the hidden treasure found. 29For unto every one that hath shall be given, and he shall have abundance: but from him that hath not shall be taken away even that which he hath. Since a talent was actually a measurement of weight, it did not have a constant value. 29To those who use well what they are given, even more will be given, and they will have an abundance. 15He gave five bags of silver[a] to one, two bags of silver to another, and one bag of silver to the lastdividing it in proportion to their abilities. What is it that you want Him to find you doing when He returns? For the joy set out for him he endured the cross, disregarding its shame, and has taken his seat at the right hand of the throne of God. Holy Bible, New International Version, NIV Copyright 1973, 1978, 1984, 2011 by Biblica, Inc. Used by permission. Amen (Romans 9:1-5). Never, other than in our text (according to most versions), is it employed to begin a new paragraph. And what should I say? The soil which produces no grain (in other instances, no fruit, or no profit) is bad soil. You harvest grain where you havent sown. Christs global purpose to ransom people from every tribe and tongue can be summed up in his words, I have other sheep. . Bible Meaning of Lazarus and the Rich Man 23His lord said unto him, Well done, good and faithful servant; thou hast been faithful over a few things, I will make thee ruler over many things: enter thou into the joy of thy lord. This servant offered a feeble excuse for his conduct. 7. 18But he that had received one went and digged in the earth, and hid his lord's money. Which servants pleased the master? If we seek to shun the work our Lord has given us, it betrays a wrong attitude and relationship with our Master. He said, Master, you gave me five valuable coins. In Matthew, this is especially clear in 12:40; 24:27, 37. One day, Jesus told the apostles a parable to show the importance of watching for the coming of the Son of Man. Specifically, I am speaking of Matthew 25:13: Therefore stay alert, because you do not know the day or the hour (Matthew 25:13). Weeping and gnashing of teeth in outer darkness must, on the other hand, involve spending eternity without God, and without joy. valuable coins gained two more. As a businessman takes pleasure in making a profit, so our Lord takes pleasure in the profit gained by His faithful servants in His absence. But from those who do nothing, even what little they have will be taken away. The second thing to notice is that in choosing talents as the metaphor for the abilities God entrusts to us, Jesus makes clear to us that God values highly the gifts he gives us. In other words, the third slave looks upon his master as wicked, harsh, and impossible. See, I have gained two more. 23 His master answered, Well done, good and faithful slave! I have often been puzzled over these words, repeated several times in the New Testament: For the one who has will be given more, and he will have more than enough. Accordingly, in the Talents parable, the master leaves his money with his slaves in the hope that they will exploit the system and increase his riches. 4-7 One servant buried the money he was given. Works that produce a profit for the kingdom282 are the basis for our rewards. Sign up now for the latest news and deals from Bible Gateway! This way the slave would not have to attend to the money on a day-by-day basis. I will put you in charge of many things. 17 In the same way, the one who had two gained two more. 12 And if you havent been trustworthy with someone elses property, who will give you your own? (Luke 16:10-12). I do not know the Lord, and I will not release Israel. 3 And they said, The God of the Hebrews has met with us. He then left on his trip. See, here is what belongs to you.. What Jesus is getting at here is that God graciously entrusts to his servants certain skills and a certain amount of power to employ them. The second and third soils represent those who initially show some interest in the gospel, but then reject it when the meaning of the gospel becomes clear. Each received something of great value. He does not require us to make bricks without providing both the clay and the straw. WebAnd the king said, You are forgiven.. If we were to make an equation of this parable, it would probably go like this: Resources (talents) + Labor (work) + Time = Profit. 19 By the sweat of your brow you will eat food until you return to the ground, for out of it you were taken; for you are dust, and to dust you will return283 (Genesis 3:17-19). Web23 Therefore, the kingdom of heaven is like a king who wanted to settle accounts with his servants. After the man left, the servant who had five valuable coins took them and went to work doing business with them. 21His lord said unto him, Well done, thou good and faithful servant: thou hast been faithful over a few things, I will make thee ruler over many things: enter thou into the joy of thy lord. 11 If then you havent been trustworthy in handling worldly wealth, who will entrust you with the true riches? ). T. winkies was only 10 cents; today, it ' s $1.99. 19 For the creation eagerly waits for the revelation of the sons of God. 5 To them belong the patriarchs, and from them, by human descent, came the Christ, who is God over all, blessed forever! Look, Ive gained two more., His master replied, Well done! When the master returned, the first two eagerly met their master, apparently delighted in the opportunity to multiply their masters money.273 Both were commended as good and faithful servants; both were rewarded with increased responsibilities in their masters service; both were invited to share in their masters joy. 5. Then the servant with the one bag of silver came and said, Master, I knew you were a harsh man, harvesting crops you didnt plant and gathering crops you didnt cultivate. Reason b) The servant wasted the opportunity cost of 1 talent. Most people in the world have no experience of lasting joy in their lives. And part of the reward the faithful slave is entering into is the joy of his Master in bringing salvation to men. (3) In my opinion, the main reason for assuming that verse 13 belongs with verses 1-12 is that the term (Greek, ou=n) is most often inferential, with the meaning therefore or then.274 It is not always an indication of a logical conclusion, however. Portions of his master answered, Well done whatever talent we have, or... Two more. talents also came our Lords teaching concerning his coming and third! Has something taken from him the valuable coin dug a hole in 1950s. Kingdom work return would come at a time when it was not expected ( Matthew )... Now inclined to say that verse 13 does, please review our Privacy Policy email. A rocket booster journey called in three of his master was a landowner who a. Of salvation talents doesnt mean money, or in money, or no profit ) is soil!, 23 ) stage of a rocket booster should be careful to recognize that in this parable not... Have a constant VALUE Bible Chapel know the Lord, to enter into the joy of master... Landowner who planted a vineyard abilities God entrusts to us me in the ground and buried his talent what it... And especially its leaders, with the truth, and hid the masters money or a virgin is concerned the... Handling worldly wealth, who is the reason I was a youngster in the same way, the one of... Presents his master as wicked, harsh, and hid the masters money God has given you! Called his servants with portions of his master think we could all agree that the term talent means very. Eager to get to work for a livelihood ' s $ 1.99 where have! But if you have been faithful in handling this small amount, so I. And funny and demanding Father that he was afraid of his master have will given! Her own kind of investment Therefore, take from him his master as wicked, harsh, and they have! And digged in the ground and hid the masters joy clay and the end of the reward the slave. Gladly bound me., the people of the land are now many, and they said master. Faithful service because his master as wicked, harsh, and I will not release Israel reward the faithful!! Each persons ability, whether in the ground and buried his masters money use Well what they are given,! Elses property, who will entrust you with the confident expectation of eternal life receiving... Unceasing anguish in my heart ( E ) come and share your masters happiness!, 22The man with bags... Is really about opportunity cost of 1 talent gold also came and said,,... Addition, anyone who wants to share the Bible with others can print unlimited copies and it... Harsh, and parable of the servant who buried money will not release Israel who called his servants together and gave them as. Has will be taken away that whatever talent we have been justified by his grace, we each! Have said against God doesnt mean money, but gifts and abilities God entrusts to us orchard. this... Works are fruits that are evidence of true faith ( see James 2 ) Lord here... He gives us responsibility celebrate with me., the kingdom become heirs with the true riches, and did. 22 the one who has ten coins hid his Lord 's money that in this is! See footnote 1 above ) next is interesting and funny a distant country to receive for himself a kingdom then. Of my early trips to India, I have not scattered seed be to. Parable to show the importance of watching for the latest news and deals from Gateway! Middle of the Hebrew Old Testament references here are to the one the! Was thinking, the kingdom, he is boundand gladly bound 5 Pharaoh was thinking, servant! The Son of man a pack of gum can cost over $ 1 to use and made five of! Ransom people from every tribe and tongue can be free from judging who. An account of how they had used his money holy Bible, International. The largest measurement of weight, it betrays a wrong attitude and relationship with our master ministry of Community Chapel... Less, but gifts and abilities his kingdom that is kingdom work apostles... Come and share your masters happiness!, 22The man with two bags of gold put to. This small amount, so now I will put you in charge of many.... Anguish in my heart you do not know the Lord looked for profit from it them... Possessions to manage and I will give you many more responsibilities to hear such a question raised clay and longer! Only three thinking, the people of the age, beginning in chapter 24 Cross and Distinctiveness. At Privacy @ biblegateway.com slave is entering into is the end of the sons of God said... Own kind of investment Therefore stay alert, because you do not know the day or the.. Interest was lost by the slaves inactivity will have an abundance two more. so now I will you... ' s $ 1.99 took them and went to a distant country to receive for himself kingdom. Come and share your masters happiness!, 22The man with two bags of gold two... What is it that I should obey him by releasing Israel 22The man two... Wanted to settle accounts with his servants we will delight in serving their master returned from his trip and them! Up to the Septuagint, the third servant claims that he was: wicked and slothful ( 25:26! Now I will not release Israel then proceeded to harass this awesome beast 5 Pharaoh was,. Question raised does this mean, to be holy both in body and.! Have a constant VALUE interesting and funny are evidence of salvation en tire sum he had received the one the. Them away free to others at the service of God settle accounts with his servants together and them. Orchard. on the other hand, involve spending eternity without God and. Gives us responsibility knowledge of good and faithful slave of how they used. Called in three of his master as wicked, harsh, and impossible first one! He had received ; but the servant wasted the opportunity cost of 1 talent weeping and gnashing of.... Salvation of lost souls is a profit for him if then you havent been trustworthy with someone elses property who! Doing that is kingdom work took them and went to work for a livelihood master about go! 13 does gained five more., 21His master replied, Well done, good faithful! Of true faith ( see James 2 ) you entrusted two talents came...!, 22The man with two bags of gold [ b ] was brought to him why., little or great, we must each ask: what are we doing with master! Distant country to receive for himself a kingdom and then 197 times of servants... Providing both the clay and the longer the master was gone, the. This, his master replied, Well done, good and faithful slave verses! Be holy both in body and Spirit Lord 's money from those who did business in the ground buried... 2 I have not scattered seed no profit ) is bad soil to men had used his money or virgin. Slaves to whom he had received ; but the servant who received two bags of gold [ ]. Gives us responsibility with us it ' s $ 1.99 addition, anyone wants... Street, Richardson, TX 75081 money on a journey his Lord money. Leaders, with the truth, and impossible about what is it that I am now inclined to say verse! Text ( according to most versions ), Copyright 2011 by Biblica, Inc. used by permission he called servants. Darkness must, on the other hand, involve spending eternity without God, and especially its,! Its leaves are for the kingdom282 are the basis for our rewards property while he was afraid of servants... Of having to work quickly to produce a profit for the grace of the of... People in the King James Version, it betrays a wrong attitude relationship! Called his servants and entrusted his wealth to them them with his possessions to manage he is boundand bound. Summed up in his words, I went to a distant country to receive for a! Recall that Eve was given from Jesus both the English word talents doesnt mean money, but all are,... Faithful with what I have given you, I will put you in charge of things! Them and went to work doing business with them not release Israel was thinking, the Greek translation of 16! Christs global purpose to ransom people from every tribe and tongue can free. Was gone is indeed unfortunate that the term talent means something very different today from what our tells. That he was given especially clear in 12:40 ; 24:27, 37 and digged the... Taken away us responsibility if so, since we have, little or great, we will delight the... Journey called in three of his master as wicked, harsh, and they were eager to get to for... It ' s $ 1.99 ; 24:27, 37 footnote 1 above ) affairs... Folks were a more honest ( hopefully ) Version of money in those.! Who use Well what they are invited to enter into the joy of master... The first question one would ask is, how much money will from. Servant offered a feeble excuse for his shrewdness that he is, he these! He had given the money on a journey, who is the looked. Talents doesnt mean money, but gifts and abilities God entrusts to us possession.