Parables - Spiritual Investments: Wise Servant (Matthew 24:45-51) Wise Steward (Luke

12:42-48) Ten Minas (Luke 19:11-27) Ten Talents (Matthew 25:14-30)

// Kingdom living means making spiritual investments //

In contrast with the parable of the Laborers in the Vineyard (Matt 20:1-16), these parables
suggest that the reward we will receive when Jesus returns to establish his kingdom on earth
will vary depending on how well we handle those things God has invested in us. While anyone
can receive forgiveness at any time, those who have been more faithful to God will receive a
greater reward. Ultimately, it is God who enables us to produce good works (see Phil. 1:6), but
the return we give God does matter. See also 1 Thess. 1:3 and 2 Thess. 1:11—this is what is
meant by “work of faith” or “work produced by faith,” depending on your translation. In other
words, based on these parables and other passages like James 2:17, the faith we claim is
useless if we are not producing fruit in our character, intimacy with God, and serving others.
Fruit is the evidence of a new life, so assess what you’ve been given and serve boldly.

What hindered one servant from investing his talent wisely (Matt 25:24)? Can you think of some
hobby or activity that you would never try because you’re too scared? Andy’s examples:
skydiving, bungee jumping, mountain climbing (the real stuff) etc. What about dreams—is there
something you dream of doing but don’t think it’s “realistic” enough for you? Some of these may
be highly personal or sensitive! Andy’s examples: be a public debater for Christianity, work at
transforming university departments and making them more objective and friendly to
Christianity, finish doctoral work.

Sometimes we don’t produce fruit for God because we are lazy and uninterested in following
Jesus where he wants us to go. If you’re in this category remember that there’s no such thing
as “Christian plateauing”—the Bible teaches that you’re either growing in Christ or becoming
lukewarm in your faith (see Revelation 3:16). Other times, we may choose to not serve God due
to lack of fear. Fearing what people might think if we share our faith, fearing that we won’t know
what to say, fearing that we’re not “spiritual enough.” Well, the Bible teaches us that fear is not
an excuse, but that God wants us to practice our faith regardless, and pray for the filling of the
Spirit to make us bold. Look at Acts 6:8-15. Whose grace, power, and wisdom did Stephen
have (v. 8, 10)?

This same power—the Holy Spirit—lives inside everyone of us. All we have to do is pursue our
relationship with Him, and ask that he give us from his resources for us to serve.

Reflection: Is my life truly making spiritual investments into God’s kingdom? Or am I investing
more in myself—my comfort, my image etc. Do I truly believe that God equips believers, or do I
act like I am doing it in my own might?

Prayer: Spirit, fill us anew with your presence so we may be ready to share your Gospel with the
world and be used by you to grow your kingdom.