Bible Pathways 10/11/2000
October 11
Matthew 25 -- 26
Before He ascended into Heaven, Jesus represented Himself in a parable saying: The Kingdom of Heaven is as a man traveling into a far country, who called his own servants, and delivered unto them his goods. And to one he gave five talents, to another two, and to another one; to every man according to his several abilities; and straightway took his journey (Matthew 25:14-15). In this parable, his own servants are represented in three groups. His own servants meant they were his slaves and his goods were not theirs, but remained the property of the Master. These goods represent the opportunities and abilities that He expects us to use for our Masters best interest.
The one who received five talents recognized that what he had received belonged to his master, for on the day of judgment he said: Lord, you delivered unto me five talents: behold, I have gained beside them five talents more (25:20). This is a reminder that to whom much is given, of him shall be much required (Luke 12:48).
Likewise he that had received two, he also gained other two (Matthew 25:17). He was not expected to gain five since he had been given less than the first servant. Both doubled their talents, and both were equally commended by their Master. No one is forced to be a servant. God gave us a free will to express our love and gratitude to Him for having the privilege of being His slaves. All who accept Jesus Christ as Savior also make Him Lord: You are not your own for you are bought with a price: therefore glorify God in your body, and in your spirit, which are God's (I Corinthians 6:19-20).
The third servant received one talent. He too put forth effort, but not for his master. Instead he went and digged in the earth, and hid his lords money (Matthew 25:18).
The one who received just one talent used the talent entrusted to him for interest that pertained to the earth. He did not accept the master as lord over his affairs. His effort for "earthly security" was inexcusable. He tried to excuse himself for not using his opportunities and abilities like the person today who says: "I'm too busy, but I'll serve the Lord after I retire or at some more convenient time." Others say: If I cant do great things, then Ill do nothing. The lord revealed his attitude when he called him a wicked and slothful servant (25:26).
This third person represents many who show great diligence working in the secular world, but who do not recognize that their time, wealth, strength, and talent are gifts given by God to whom we must give an account. It is of utmost importance that we recognize that we are bought with a price; be not the servants of men (I Corinthians 7:23).
The loss of opportunities to serve his master was not the greatest loss. We hear again those dreadful words, which the Lord spoke seven times: Cast the unprofitable servant into outer darkness: there shall be weeping and gnashing of teeth (Matthew 25:30; comp 8:12; 22:13; 24:51).
Cross References:
For Matthew 26:31: See Zech. 13:7. Matt. 26:64: See Psa. 110:1; Dan. 7:13.
Government Officials: Rep. Jim Davis (FL), Rep. Bob Inglis (SC), Rep. Sam Johnson (TX), and Sen. Patty Murray (WA) · BPM Staff: Barbara Jean Jackson · Pray for Aud Raanas, Norwegian translator · Pray for the Bible Pathway International Radio broadcast in honor of Letha Hash's brother Henry Rogers · Country: Ecuador (11 million) in South America, crossed by the equator · Major language: Spanish · Religious freedom · 91% Roman Catholic; 3% Protestant · Prayer Suggestion: Ask the Lord to work in your life in whatever way pleases Him (Hebrews 13:21).
Memory Verse for the Week:
Hebrews 3:12
