WELL DONE

The Parable of the Talents reveals a believer's responsibility. While we await Christ's return, we are stewards of His Gospel and equipped to advance its divine purpose ... 

For the kingdom of heaven is like a man traveling to a far country, who called his own servants and delivered his goods to them. And to one he gave five talents, to another two, and to another one, to each according to his own ability; and immediately he went on a journey. Matthew 25:14-15

Our salvation was made possible by the death, burial, and resurrection of the sinless Lamb of God. There is nothing we can personally bring to the table that merits His forgiveness ... 

For by grace are ye saved through faith; and that not of yourselves: it is the gift of God: Not of works, lest any man should boast. Ephesians 2:8–9 

Though 'works' cannot save us, they become the evidence of our relationship with Christ ...  

For we are his workmanship, created in Christ Jesus unto good works, which God hath before ordained that we should walk in them. Ephesians 2:10

In the parable, the first two servants knew the character of their Lord and what He expected of them. Both used the resources they were given to greatly impact the Master's kingdom. But ... fear and mistrust of his lord caused the third servant to bury the money and return it with no gain. 

To each profitable steward ... His lord said unto him, Well done, thou good and faithful servant: thou hast been faithful over a few things, I will make thee ruler over many things: enter thou into the joy of thy lord. (Matthew 25:21)

But according to Matthew 25:30, the unprofitable steward was judged and 'cast into outer darkness'. 

He represents those who know about Jesus Christ but have never surrendered to His Lordship. Pews are filled with people who are steeped in 'religion', yet don't have a personal relationship with the Son of God. They may regularly attend church, faithfully tithe, and even serve in some capacity ... but they will one day experience eternal separation from Him, in hell. 

If you've never received the gift of salvation, open your heart to His amazing grace. God loves you and wants to set you free from the ravages of sin. Put your faith in the finished work of His Son. 

Specific gifts and graces are assigned to every true believer. As you begin to understand your role in the body of Christ, use them to further His Kingdom. 

May you hear these words from His lips one day ... 'Well done, good and faithful servant'