The Talents

Summary

In this sermon on Matthew 25:14-30, Dominic Jackson continues the Parables series by turning to the parable of the talents—a story not about personal giftedness, but about what we do with what’s been entrusted to us. Dominic emphasizes that the parable is less about ability and more about responsibility, especially in light of who we believe God to be. Jesus presents a master who entrusts his wealth to servants with varying amounts and then departs, inviting them to act in his absence. The contrast between the faithful servants and the third servant hinges not on results, but on relationship. The third servant’s fear and distorted image of the master lead him to bury what he’s been given. And we are challenged to consider how our view of God shapes our stewardship, and whether we are hiding or risking what’s been placed in our hands.

Questions for reflection

• How does your view of God shape the way you take risks or avoid them?

• What has God entrusted to you in this season, and how are you stewarding it?

• Are there places in your life where fear is causing you to hold back or bury something?

• How do you respond to the idea that faithfulness involves initiative, not just preservation?

• Where might God be inviting you to act with courage and trust, even without guarantees?

• In what ways have you been tempted to compare your “talents” to someone else’s?

• What story are you telling yourself about who God is—and how is that shaping your choices?