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Matthew 25:14
Verse
Context
The Parable of the Talents
13Therefore keep watch, because you do not know the day or the hour.14For it is just like a man going on a journey, who called his servants and entrusted them with his possessions. 15To one he gave five talents, to another two talents, and to another one talent—each according to his own ability. And he went on his journey.
Sermons







Summary
Commentary
- Jamieson-Fausset-Brown
- John Gill
- Tyndale
Jamieson-Fausset-Brown Bible Commentary
PARABLE OF THE TALENTS. (Mat. 25:14-30) For the kingdom of heaven is as a man--The ellipsis is better supplied by our translators in the corresponding passage of Mark (Mar 13:34), "[For the Son of man is] as a man" travelling into a far country--or more simply, "going abroad." The idea of long "tarrying" is certainly implied here, since it is expressed in Mat 25:19. who called his own servants, and delivered unto them his goods--Between master and slaves this was not uncommon in ancient times. Christ's "servants" here mean all who, by their Christian profession, stand in the relation to Him of entire subjection. His "goods" mean all their gifts and endowments, whether original or acquired, natural or spiritual. As all that slaves have belongs to their master, so Christ has a claim to everything which belongs to His people, everything which, may be turned to good, and He demands its appropriation to His service, or, viewing it otherwise, they first offer it up to Him; as being "not their own, but bought with a price" (Co1 6:19-20), and He "delivers it to them" again to be put to use in His service.
John Gill Bible Commentary
For the kingdom of heaven is as a man travelling,.... Our Lord adds another parable to illustrate the Gospel dispensation, or its visible church state; or the state of things respecting the church of Christ, before, and at his second coming, and during the interval between his ascension and that: for by the man here, is meant Christ, who in the everlasting covenant agreed to become man, was prophesied of as such, frequently appeared in human form, under the Old Testament dispensation; and in the fulness of time, really became man; though he was not a mere man, but was God as well as man; having all the perfections and fulness of the Godhead dwelling bodily in him: this man is said to travel into a far country; by which heaven is designed, and is so called, not only because of its great distance from the earth, and which is very great indeed; but because the better country and land afar off, is out of sight; and what views we have of it, are very distant ones; and is afar off, in respect of our state of pilgrimage in this world, in which, whilst Christ was here, he was a pilgrim and a stranger too; who might be said to be as a "man travelling", whilst he was in it, and when going out of it, and ascending to heaven: he came from thence, and stayed here a while, walking up and down, and doing good; and when he had finished what he came about, he ascended on high, went to his God and Father, entered into heaven, where he is received until the times of the restitution of all things: who called his own servants; before he took his journey, to commit some things to their trust and management; and to give them some instructions how to behave during his absence: for, according to the Jewish (u) canons, "a master that had a mind to go out of the land (of Israel) could not take his servant with him, unless he pleased; and this is a rule at all times, even at this time, that the land is in the hand of the Gentiles.'' And here no mention is made of any going with him, only how they were to be employed whilst he was gone: by "his own servants" are meant, not all mankind; for though they are all in some sense his servants, or ought to be, yet they are not so called in Scripture, much less with such an emphasis, his own servants; and besides, more than what are in the kingdom of heaven, or Gospel church state, cannot be intended; since the parable reaches to, and concerns no other: nor all the elect of God only, or all are not the elect of God that are designed; for though these are the servants of Christ, and his own peculiarly, yet all intrusted with talents, are not such; one of these was wicked, slothful, graceless, and at last was eternally lost, and perished; which is not true of anyone of the elect: but ministers of the word are here meant, who are eminently the servants of Christ, his own, whom he has called, qualified, commissioned, and sent forth; for the ministers of the word, whether faithful or slothful, good or bad, are in a very lively manner described in this parable, which is a distinct one from the former; for whereas that gives an account of the different members of the visible church, this describes the several ministers of it: nor can it be any objection to this sense of it, that these servants are all of them said to be his own servants, and called, commissioned, and gifted by him; since Judas, as well as the rest, was called, ordained, qualified, and sent forth by Christ, as an apostle. And delivered unto them his goods; the Gospel, that rich treasure of divine truths, the dispensation of it, and gifts to preach it; all which are Christ's goods and his gifts, and not man's; and which was in a very eminent manner done, when Christ ascended on high, and received gifts for, and gave them unto men. Just before it, as he was ready to go, he gathered his disciples together; he renewed and enlarged their commission to preach the Gospel; and quickly after it, gave them greater and larger gifts of the Spirit than before; and has been ever since giving ministerial gifts to men, to some more, others less, and which are signified by the talents following. (u) Maimon. Hilch. Abadim, c. 8. sect. 9.
Tyndale Open Study Notes
25:14-30 This parable teaches that the Lord expects his servants to be faithful to the task given to them while waiting for his return. The delay of Christ’s return will cause some to turn to evil deeds (24:48-49), some to inactivity (25:3), and some to fearful passivity (25:18).
Matthew 25:14
The Parable of the Talents
13Therefore keep watch, because you do not know the day or the hour.14For it is just like a man going on a journey, who called his servants and entrusted them with his possessions. 15To one he gave five talents, to another two talents, and to another one talent—each according to his own ability. And he went on his journey.
- Scripture
- Sermons
- Commentary
Into the Harvest - Part 1
By Derek Prince16K34:02MAT 25:14In this sermon, the speaker emphasizes the importance of using our time on earth to make the Gospel of the Kingdom known to all nations. He highlights the idea that when we stand before Christ in judgment, we will be asked what we did to contribute to spreading the Gospel. The speaker references the parable of the talents, emphasizing that it is not the amount of talent or resources we have, but the percentage of increase that matters. He concludes by discussing a judgment scene described in Matthew 25, where every person will have to give an account of how they used the talents and resources given to them by God.
God's Judgment, Heaven and Hell - Part 2
By Derek Prince3.6K28:21MAT 25:14This sermon emphasizes the importance of doing the will of the Father as the essential requirement for heaven, highlighting the need to operate in the power of the Holy Spirit in ministry. It delves into the parables of the minors and talents, stressing the significance of faithfulness and using the gifts God has given us. The sermon also discusses the judgments believers, Israel, and the nations will face, underscoring the need to be prepared for God's judgment and to live a life that honors Him.
Becoming a Child of the Day
By Carter Conlon2.0K46:48MAT 25:14This sermon emphasizes the importance of being prepared as 'children of the day' for the imminent return of Christ. It delves into the parable of the talents in Matthew 25, highlighting the need to faithfully use the resources and gifts God has given us for His kingdom. The speaker urges believers to seek a deep deposit of Christ's life within them, to have compassion and love for a world growing increasingly cold and dark, and to be willing to go where God calls, trusting in His strength and provision.
(Matthew) ch.25:14-26:32
By Zac Poonen2.0K59:17MAT 11:6MAT 25:14MAT 25:45MAT 26:14MAT 26:29JAS 2:14In this sermon on Matthew 25:14-30, the preacher focuses on the parable of the talents and its implications for the second coming of Christ. The parable teaches responsibility and accountability to God for the gifts and talents He has given us. The emphasis is not on the quantity of what we produce, but on the quality and faithfulness with what we have. The sermon highlights three aspects of our life: our inner relationship with God, our accountability for all the gifts we have received, and our treatment of fellow believers in need. The ultimate goal is to hear the commendation from the Lord, "Well done, good and faithful servant."
God Is a Good God
By Zac Poonen2.0K50:37Character Of GodJER 29:11MAT 25:14EPH 1:3In this sermon, the preacher emphasizes the importance of understanding and proclaiming that God is a good God. He highlights how often we can have a self-centered perspective, only focusing on how things affect us. However, the preacher encourages the audience to have a deep conviction in their hearts that God is good, even in the midst of difficult circumstances. The preacher also mentions the negative impact of jealousy, selfish ambition, and competition among believers, and how it hinders the demonstration of God's goodness to the world. Ultimately, the message is to proclaim God's goodness and trust in Him, even when we don't understand everything that happens in our lives.
Christ Is All - in Scripture
By Bill McLeod1.6K46:28Fulness Of ChristPSA 2:10PSA 40:7PSA 41:9MAT 1:21MAT 28:19MRK 14:62COL 3:11TIT 3:7PHM 1:1In this sermon, the speaker begins by referencing Mark 16 and Luke 1 from the Bible. He highlights how Jesus reproached his disciples for their lack of belief in his resurrection and then commanded them to preach the gospel to the world. The speaker also mentions that some versions of the Bible omit miracles and end with Jesus' death on the cross, portraying him as a good man and advocate of peace. However, the speaker emphasizes that the Bible is truly all about Jesus and explores the significance of his ministry and his role as the Son of God.
Spiritual Gifts
By Bob Bruton1.4K24:53GiftsMAT 25:14In this sermon, the speaker emphasizes the importance of thinking soberly and making a realistic assessment of our abilities. He uses the analogy of a soldier being equipped to fight tanks to illustrate the concept. The speaker encourages listeners to search the scriptures and discover their spiritual gifts, so they can serve in the best way possible. He highlights the biblical key to discovering one's spiritual gift as stated in Romans 12:3, which cautions against thinking too highly of oneself and acknowledges that God has given each person a measure of faith. The sermon concludes by emphasizing the joy that comes from being a faithful servant of the Lord with the talents He has given.
Spiritual Gifts - Pitfalls to Avoid and Paths to Pursue
By Bob Kauflin1.1K1:01:21Spiritual GiftsMAT 25:14JHN 13:17ACT 3:6HEB 4:12In this sermon, the speaker focuses on the parable of the talents from Matthew 25. He emphasizes the importance of being faithful in little things and not burying our gifts. The speaker encourages the audience to read, study, meditate on, and obey God's word as a way to see the Spirit working in their lives. He also urges them to expect God to work through them and to encourage others by recognizing and affirming the work of the Spirit in their lives.
Initiative
By George Verwer1.0K27:53InitiativeMAT 25:14HEB 10:24In this sermon, the speaker emphasizes the lack of initiative in the world and how the world system has to resort to incentives to motivate people. However, as believers, we are called to have a baptism of initiative and go the extra mile in our service to God. The speaker uses the parable of the talents in Matthew to illustrate this point. The parable teaches that God has given each of us talents and abilities, and it is our responsibility to use them wisely and invest them for His kingdom.
What Is Your Responsibility
By Stephen Kaung8621:09:49MAT 25:14LUK 12:421CO 3:11In this sermon, the preacher emphasizes the importance of being faithful and responsible with the gifts that God has given us. He uses the parable of the talents to illustrate this point, highlighting how the servants who traded and multiplied their talents were praised, while the one who buried his talent was rebuked. The preacher also reminds the audience that we will all appear before the judgment seat of Christ, and those who believe in Jesus will be saved from eternal death. He urges listeners to respond to God's gifts by loving and honoring Him, and by using their talents and time to serve Him. The sermon concludes with a call to repentance and a reminder that as long as there is still time, there is opportunity to fulfill God's purpose in our lives.
Christian Responsibility
By Robert F. Adcock82239:34MAT 25:14In this sermon, the preacher discusses the parable of the talents from Matthew 25. He emphasizes the importance of being faithful and productive with the gifts and abilities that God has given us. The parable tells the story of a man who entrusted his servants with different amounts of talents (a form of currency), and those who multiplied their talents were praised by their master. However, one servant buried his talent out of fear and was rebuked for his lack of faith and productivity. The preacher challenges the listeners to reflect on their own responsibilities as believers and to use their gifts for the glory of God.
Faithfulness
By Anton Bosch82242:42FaithfulnessDependabilityMAT 25:14Anton Bosch emphasizes the significance of faithfulness in the Christian life, drawing from the parable of the talents in Matthew 25. He explains that faithfulness is a reflection of God's character and is essential in our relationships with Him and others. Bosch highlights that faithfulness is not just about being reliable in big tasks but also in small, everyday responsibilities. He encourages believers to be faithful in all aspects of life, as this is what God expects and rewards. Ultimately, he reminds us that faithfulness is a lifelong commitment, not a temporary effort.
Six Words That Will Determine Your Eternity
By Carter Conlon70240:39MAT 25:14This sermon emphasizes the importance of being faithful and using the strength and gifts God provides to fulfill our unique callings. It highlights the need to trust in God's provision, seek His grace, and work diligently in the specific places and roles He has assigned to us. The message urges believers to focus on hearing the six words 'well done, good and faithful servant' from Jesus at the end of their lives, signifying a life lived in obedience and faithfulness to God.
Occupy Till I Come #1
By Stephen Kaung45554:57Second ComingMAT 25:14LUK 19:13In this sermon, the speaker emphasizes the importance of exercising the life that Christ has given us. He compares physical exercise, which has some profit but is ultimately limited, to the spiritual exercise of living out our faith in Christ. The speaker uses the parable of the ten bond-servants to illustrate this point, highlighting that as believers, we are all servants of God with the responsibility to use the gifts and abilities He has given us. While the parable of the talents in Matthew 25 focuses on different abilities given to different servants, the parable of the ten minors in Luke 19 emphasizes that all believers are given the same opportunity to serve and grow in their faith.
Walking in Our Divine Assignment and Destiny (Mt. 25:14-30)
By Mike Bickle2048:28True GreatnessDivine AssignmentMAT 25:14Mike Bickle emphasizes the significance of walking in our divine assignments and understanding true greatness as defined by God. He explains that every believer has a tailor-made assignment that leads to eternal rewards, and that greatness is not measured by worldly standards but by faithfulness, goodness, and a servant spirit. Bickle encourages believers to focus on these virtues, especially in the face of small and difficult circumstances, as they are essential for success in God's eyes. He highlights the importance of aligning our expectations with God's definition of success to avoid disillusionment. Ultimately, he calls for a heart connection with God and diligence in our assignments, regardless of their visibility or impact.
Rewarded for Being Faithful in Small Things (Mt. 25)
By Mike Bickle161:05:02FaithfulnessEternal RewardsMAT 25:14Mike Bickle emphasizes the significance of faithfulness in small things, reminding us that our most important appointment is the judgment seat of Christ, where we will be rewarded for our deeds. He highlights the parable of the talents, illustrating how Jesus entrusts us with gifts and opportunities, and how our faithfulness in these small matters will lead to greater rewards in the future. Bickle warns against the tragedy of wasted opportunities and encourages believers to remain diligent and responsive to God's calling, as even the smallest acts of obedience are recognized and rewarded by Him. Ultimately, he reassures that our efforts, no matter how small, are never forgotten by God and will lead to joy and fulfillment in His presence.
Matthew 25:14
By Chuck Smith2FaithfulnessAccountabilityMAT 25:14Chuck Smith emphasizes the importance of accountability in the parable of the talents, illustrating that each servant was entrusted with resources according to their abilities. He warns that the Master will return unexpectedly, and we must be diligent in using what God has given us for His glory. The parable highlights that faithfulness in small things leads to greater responsibilities, while laziness and fear can result in loss. Smith encourages self-examination to understand what God has entrusted to each of us and to actively use those gifts. Ultimately, we will all stand before the judgment seat of Christ to account for our actions.
The Parable of the Talents Matthew 25:14-30
By R.A. Torrey1StewardshipAccountabilityMAT 25:14R.A. Torrey expounds on the Parable of the Talents, emphasizing the responsibility of believers to utilize the gifts entrusted to them by God during His absence. He contrasts the faithful servants who invested their talents and were rewarded with joy and authority, with the unprofitable servant who, out of fear and laziness, buried his talent and faced condemnation. The sermon highlights the importance of recognizing our gifts, the accountability we have to God, and the consequences of neglecting our responsibilities. Torrey encourages believers to actively engage in using their God-given abilities for His glory, as all will ultimately give an account of their stewardship. The message serves as a reminder that faithfulness in small things leads to greater opportunities in the Kingdom of God.
Faithful Use of God-Given Resources
By A.W. Tozer1StewardshipAccountabilityMAT 25:14A.W. Tozer emphasizes the importance of the faithful use of God-given resources, reminding us that while God grants His gifts freely, we are accountable for how we utilize them. Each individual, regardless of the amount of talents or resources they possess, must answer for their stewardship before Christ's judgment seat. Tozer warns against the tragedy of neglecting our gifts, as seen in the parable of the man who buried his talent, and highlights the need for Christians to reflect on their use of money, which will also be scrutinized by God. He calls for self-auditing to ensure we are making the most of our time and resources before it is too late.
Progress Made in Preparation
By Maria Woodworth-Etter1JOS 6:20JOL 2:28MAT 3:11MAT 25:14ACT 1:81JN 5:4Maria Woodworth-Etter shares her journey of reluctance and excuses before finally surrendering to God's call to preach, emphasizing the need to trust in His strength and wisdom rather than personal abilities. Through a vision, Jesus encourages her to share the glory of God, the love of Jesus, and the call to repentance, assuring His presence and power. Despite facing doubts and societal challenges as a woman preacher, Maria is reminded of the examples of women and children used by God throughout history, inspiring her to step out in faith and obedience.
Compared View of the First Three Gospels, Etc.
By John Nelson Darby0The GospelsChrist's MinistryMAT 1:1MAT 4:17MAT 5:1MAT 9:35MAT 11:28MAT 28:19MRK 1:14LUK 3:23LUK 4:18John Nelson Darby discusses the distinct characteristics and purposes of the first three Gospels, emphasizing that Mark presents a chronological account of Christ's service, while Matthew focuses on the presentation of Jesus as the Messiah and the implications of His rejection. He notes that Luke, while generally following Mark's order, includes moral teachings that are unique to his Gospel. Darby highlights the importance of understanding the genealogies and the context of Christ's ministry, particularly in relation to Israel's expectations and the establishment of the church. He concludes that the Gospels collectively reveal the nature of Christ's mission and the unfolding of God's plan for humanity.
Matthew 25:13
By Chuck Smith0FaithfulnessStewardshipMAT 25:14Chuck Smith delivers a solemn warning based on Matthew 25:13, emphasizing that all servants of the master are given different amounts of talents, yet they are all expected to use them wisely. He highlights the stark contrast between the faithful servants who invested their talents and the unfaithful servant who buried his, leading to judgment upon the latter. The sermon stresses that faithfulness in small things is crucial, as the master rewards those who are diligent, regardless of the amount entrusted to them. Ultimately, the message is a call to action, urging believers to be productive with what they have been given.
Luke 16:10
By Chuck Smith0FaithfulnessStewardshipMAT 25:14LUK 16:10Chuck Smith emphasizes the concept of stewardship, urging believers to recognize that all possessions belong to God and that we are merely caretakers of His goods. He challenges the mindset of asking how much of our money we can give to God, instead prompting us to consider how much of God's money we should spend on ourselves. Through the parable of the unjust steward, he illustrates the importance of wisely managing our resources and preparing for our eternal future. Smith reminds us that we will one day give an account to our Master for how we used what He entrusted to us, and our eternal inheritance will reflect our faithfulness in stewardship.
1 Peter 4:10
By John Gill0StewardshipSpiritual GiftsMAT 25:141PE 4:10John Gill emphasizes the importance of recognizing that every gift we receive is from God, whether it be spiritual, ministerial, or temporal. He explains that believers are called to use these gifts to serve one another, acting as good stewards of God's manifold grace. The gifts, which vary in nature and degree, should not be hidden or neglected but actively shared for the edification of others and the glory of God. Gill highlights that all believers are accountable for how they utilize their gifts, as they are ultimately God's property. The sermon encourages a spirit of generosity and service among the community of faith.
Giving What We Have
By J.R. Miller0StewardshipService to OthersMAT 25:14LUK 19:20J.R. Miller emphasizes the importance of using our talents and abilities, no matter how small, rather than hiding them away in a 'napkin' of self-doubt or perceived inadequacy. He argues that everyone has something to offer, and we are responsible for using what we have to bless others, as God expects us to be stewards of our gifts. Miller encourages us to recognize that even small acts of kindness can have a significant impact, and that we should not withhold our contributions due to feelings of insignificance. He illustrates that true service comes from understanding and sharing the love and comfort we have received from God, urging us to give freely and cheerfully. Ultimately, Miller calls us to be open-hearted and ready to serve, as we never know the hidden needs of those around us.
- Jamieson-Fausset-Brown
- John Gill
- Tyndale
Jamieson-Fausset-Brown Bible Commentary
PARABLE OF THE TALENTS. (Mat. 25:14-30) For the kingdom of heaven is as a man--The ellipsis is better supplied by our translators in the corresponding passage of Mark (Mar 13:34), "[For the Son of man is] as a man" travelling into a far country--or more simply, "going abroad." The idea of long "tarrying" is certainly implied here, since it is expressed in Mat 25:19. who called his own servants, and delivered unto them his goods--Between master and slaves this was not uncommon in ancient times. Christ's "servants" here mean all who, by their Christian profession, stand in the relation to Him of entire subjection. His "goods" mean all their gifts and endowments, whether original or acquired, natural or spiritual. As all that slaves have belongs to their master, so Christ has a claim to everything which belongs to His people, everything which, may be turned to good, and He demands its appropriation to His service, or, viewing it otherwise, they first offer it up to Him; as being "not their own, but bought with a price" (Co1 6:19-20), and He "delivers it to them" again to be put to use in His service.
John Gill Bible Commentary
For the kingdom of heaven is as a man travelling,.... Our Lord adds another parable to illustrate the Gospel dispensation, or its visible church state; or the state of things respecting the church of Christ, before, and at his second coming, and during the interval between his ascension and that: for by the man here, is meant Christ, who in the everlasting covenant agreed to become man, was prophesied of as such, frequently appeared in human form, under the Old Testament dispensation; and in the fulness of time, really became man; though he was not a mere man, but was God as well as man; having all the perfections and fulness of the Godhead dwelling bodily in him: this man is said to travel into a far country; by which heaven is designed, and is so called, not only because of its great distance from the earth, and which is very great indeed; but because the better country and land afar off, is out of sight; and what views we have of it, are very distant ones; and is afar off, in respect of our state of pilgrimage in this world, in which, whilst Christ was here, he was a pilgrim and a stranger too; who might be said to be as a "man travelling", whilst he was in it, and when going out of it, and ascending to heaven: he came from thence, and stayed here a while, walking up and down, and doing good; and when he had finished what he came about, he ascended on high, went to his God and Father, entered into heaven, where he is received until the times of the restitution of all things: who called his own servants; before he took his journey, to commit some things to their trust and management; and to give them some instructions how to behave during his absence: for, according to the Jewish (u) canons, "a master that had a mind to go out of the land (of Israel) could not take his servant with him, unless he pleased; and this is a rule at all times, even at this time, that the land is in the hand of the Gentiles.'' And here no mention is made of any going with him, only how they were to be employed whilst he was gone: by "his own servants" are meant, not all mankind; for though they are all in some sense his servants, or ought to be, yet they are not so called in Scripture, much less with such an emphasis, his own servants; and besides, more than what are in the kingdom of heaven, or Gospel church state, cannot be intended; since the parable reaches to, and concerns no other: nor all the elect of God only, or all are not the elect of God that are designed; for though these are the servants of Christ, and his own peculiarly, yet all intrusted with talents, are not such; one of these was wicked, slothful, graceless, and at last was eternally lost, and perished; which is not true of anyone of the elect: but ministers of the word are here meant, who are eminently the servants of Christ, his own, whom he has called, qualified, commissioned, and sent forth; for the ministers of the word, whether faithful or slothful, good or bad, are in a very lively manner described in this parable, which is a distinct one from the former; for whereas that gives an account of the different members of the visible church, this describes the several ministers of it: nor can it be any objection to this sense of it, that these servants are all of them said to be his own servants, and called, commissioned, and gifted by him; since Judas, as well as the rest, was called, ordained, qualified, and sent forth by Christ, as an apostle. And delivered unto them his goods; the Gospel, that rich treasure of divine truths, the dispensation of it, and gifts to preach it; all which are Christ's goods and his gifts, and not man's; and which was in a very eminent manner done, when Christ ascended on high, and received gifts for, and gave them unto men. Just before it, as he was ready to go, he gathered his disciples together; he renewed and enlarged their commission to preach the Gospel; and quickly after it, gave them greater and larger gifts of the Spirit than before; and has been ever since giving ministerial gifts to men, to some more, others less, and which are signified by the talents following. (u) Maimon. Hilch. Abadim, c. 8. sect. 9.
Tyndale Open Study Notes
25:14-30 This parable teaches that the Lord expects his servants to be faithful to the task given to them while waiting for his return. The delay of Christ’s return will cause some to turn to evil deeds (24:48-49), some to inactivity (25:3), and some to fearful passivity (25:18).