For it will be like a man going on a journey, who called his servants and entrusted to them his property. To the one he gave five talents, to another two, to another one, to each according to his ability. Then he went away… Now after a long time the master of those servants came and settled accounts with them… To everyone who has will more be given, and he will have an abundance. But from the one who has not, even what he has will be taken away. - Matthew 25:14 – 15, 19, 29. The church is not a talent show. There is so much more at stake than individual egos and vanity. Jesus reminds His followers of the gravity of stewardship; being responsible with all of life’s blessings. Each of us will be asked to give an account of what we did with the grace we were given. This has the potential for incredible lasting joy, or severe and eternal sorrow. Sermon Outline: Stewardship means something has been entrusted to you (vs. 14). Therefore, there should be no cause for pride or boasting. Stewardship means it was given according to your ability (vs. 15). Therefore, there should be no cause for comparing. Stewardship means you will be required to give an account one day (vs. 19). Therefore, there should be no cause for laziness. Stewardship means the possibility of greater joy in service (vs. 21, 23, 29) Therefore, there should be every motivation for faithfulness. Discussion Questions: To understand the gravity of this parable, we must understand its context. Ch. 26:1 – 2 helps us see that. What is the context of Jesus sharing this parable? Why does that matter? It is easy to trivialize the idea of rewards in heaven. How does this parable (and the other two in Ch. 25) underline that what we do on this earth after knowing Jesus matters a great deal?- Does this parable teach salvation by works? How do you distinguish between being saved by grace alone, through faith alone, in Christ alone, and the consequences of being unfaithful? Application: What ‘talents’ has God entrusted into your stewardship? Have a conversation with someone this week about what you think they are, and how you can invest them best in Jesus’ kingdom.