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This week on Tell the Truth, we wrapped up our discussion of the Olivet Discourse by diving into the Parable of the Talents found in Matthew 25.
Picking up where we left off two weeks ago after discussing the ten virgins, we turned our attention to verses 14 and following, where Jesus tells the story of a man traveling to a far country who called his servants and delivered his goods to them. To one servant he gave five talents, to another two, and to another one—each according to their ability—and then departed on his journey.
We explored how this parable connects to the return of Jesus and His second coming. After a long time, the master returns to settle accounts with his servants. The servant who received five talents came forward, having gained five more, saying “Master, you entrusted five talents to me. See, I’ve gained five more talents.” The master’s response was beautiful: “Well done, good and faithful slave. You were faithful with a few things. I will put you in charge of many things. Enter into the joy of your master.”
The same happened with the servant who received two talents—he also doubled what he was given and received the same commendation from his master.
But then we looked at the servant who was given one talent. Out of fear, he hid his talent in the earth and simply returned what was originally given to him. The master’s response was harsh, calling him a “wicked and slothful servant” and pointing out that he should have at least put the money with the exchangers so it could have earned interest. The talent was taken from him and given to the one who had ten.
We reflected on the personal application of this parable. God has given each of us talents and abilities according to what we can handle. As we discussed, He didn’t give some of us the musical talent He gave others—because we’d probably be playing guitar non-stop instead of being responsible with our other duties! The point is clear: whatever talent God has given us, we need to use it for Him and for His glory. Whatever we’ve got, we give it back to Him.
This parable reminds us that Jesus is coming back, and when He does, He’s going to settle accounts. The question for each of us is: what are we doing with what He’s given us?
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