Ready for Jesus’ Return: Parables in Matthew 24-25Sample

Like the first parable we read (Matthew 24:45–51), in today’s parable, servants are entrusted with great responsibility by a master. A “talent” is a unit of currency. One talent might sound small (25:15), but it was worth at least half a lifetime’s pay for an ordinary worker! The first servant went off “at once” (25:16; the second reacted “in the same way,” according to v. 17), which conveys both zeal and a sense of urgency. Each servant certainly had ample opportunity to invest their talent since the master came back “after a long time” (v. 19, compare Matthew 24:48; 25:5). One servant made five more talents; one made two – but each receives the same praise: “Well done, good and trustworthy servant” (25:21, 23). If five talents (which represents what you could be paid throughout 2–3 lifetimes) could be described as “a few things,” imagine how much “many things” might be (25:21, 23). By contrast with the joy promised to the first two servants (25:21, 23), the third servant was gripped by paralyzing fear (25:25) and so failed to act. The master's response seems harsh (25:28–30), but this servant has blamed his master for his failure (v. 24), and it is God’s right to redistribute his gifts as he chooses.

This third of four parables reminds us that we never know when Jesus might return. He might come at any moment, and we must always be ready. There isn’t a moment to lose, and there will be a judgment, which has severe consequences for those found wanting. “Talents” represent not just gifts but the privileges, opportunities, and responsibilities that belong to the kingdom of God. Some of us are given more responsibilities; some carry more burdens; some have more productive time available; some have more money; some have been blessed with more education and training. But what are YOU doing with what you’ve been given? We must accept our life circumstances, opportunities, gifts, responsibilities, burdens, and obligations and then ask ourselves, “What will I do with them?” Jesus is less interested in results than our faithfulness. When we envy others their opportunities or responsibilities, remember: much is expected of those to whom much has been given (Luke 12:48). The third servant was afraid of what might happen if he took a risk, so he played it safe and didn’t do anything at all (Matthew 25:25). To be a disciple means putting our lives into God’s hands every single day and surrendering control – and that’s the biggest risk of all! Are you willing to take the risk?