Pastor's Brew: Stewardship of Talents

The Stewardship of Talents

The statement; “…cast the worthless servant into outer darkness…” is not what we would expect to hear as a result of not loosing something you were given charge over.

Immediately following the parable of the “Wise and Foolish Virgins” (MT. 25:1-13), we find Jesus telling the parable of the “Talents” (MT. 25:14-30).
While both parables relate to the kingdom of heaven, and especially in anticipation of the Lord’s return, note the key difference:

The first stresses the need to be “prepared;” the latter, the need to be “productive.”
The first emphasizes “watching” for the Lord; the latter, “working” for the Lord.

In both parables we learn what should characterize those who eagerly WAIT for the coming of the Lord. How can we best apply what Jesus is teaching in this parable?

The Parable Applied

Main points of the parable

Be faithful in using the opportunities for service which the Lord has given us
Diligence is rewarded; negligence is punished

Other points of application

Whatever we have, whether opportunities or abilities, belongs to God; we may possess, but God owns; we are simply stewards – v.14
The Lord grants opportunities of service in keeping with our ability to make use of them – v.15

In the day of judgment, the number of talents will not matter
The question will be, “Have you been faithful in your use of talents?”

Jesus do not expect to return immediately – vv.5 & 19
Everything we do should be done with a view on the day of reckoning which is coming - ¹⁰For ^wwe must all appear before the judgment seat of Christ, ^xso that each one may receive what is due for what he has done in the body, whether good or evil.^{^[1]} 2 Cor. 5:10 ESV
To share in the Master’s joy is part of the glory of eternity – v.21
Those who make excuses are “WICKED and LAZY” – vv.25-26
A place of punishment is prepared for those who are unproductive – v.30
The sin of OMISSION is just as bad as the sin of COMMISSION! – v.30