New Testament
Matthew 25:14
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Again, the kingdom of heaven is like a man about to leave on a long journey. He called his servants together and entrusted his goods to them.
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For the kingdom of heaven is as a man travelling into a far country, who called his own servants, and delivered unto them his goods.
What Matthew 25:14 means
Plain-English insight for readers
In this verse, Jesus compares the kingdom of heaven to a man who is preparing to go on a long journey. Before he leaves, he gathers his servants and gives them responsibility over his possessions. This illustrates the idea that God entrusts us with resources and responsibilities while He is away. The man represents God, and the servants symbolize believers who are expected to manage what they have been given wisely. The emphasis is on stewardship, accountability, and the importance of using our gifts and resources for the kingdom's work. Just as the servants must act in the absence of their master, we are called to live out our faith and make the most of our time and talents until Christ returns. This parable sets the stage for the following teachings about being prepared and faithful in our duties as followers of Christ.
How to apply Matthew 25:14 to your life
We should recognize that our time, talents, and resources are gifts from God. It is essential to use them wisely and faithfully in service to others and for God's glory. Regularly evaluate how you are managing what God has entrusted to you.
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Plain Meaning
This verse opens a parable. A man is leaving on a long trip. Before he goes, he calls his servants and hands his property over to them. They will manage it while he is gone. The parable says the kingdom of heaven is like this — God's people are like servants left in charge of their master's things, with the master away and a return coming.
Read It in Context
Verse 13 ended with a command to watch, because no one knows when the Son of man will come. This parable follows that warning. It shows what faithful watching looks like: not just waiting, but working with what the master left behind.
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At a Glance — the Book of Matthew
- Author
- Matthew the apostle
- Written
- Around AD 60-70
- Genre
- Gospel
- Original Audience
- Jewish Christians
Frequently Asked Questions
Quick, clear answers about this verse
What does Matthew 25:14 mean?
Matthew 25:14 illustrates the concept of stewardship, where a man represents God who entrusts his possessions to his servants, symbolizing believers. It emphasizes the responsibility to manage what we have been given wisely while God is away.
What is the meaning of stewardship in Matthew 25:14?
Stewardship in Matthew 25:14 refers to the management of resources and responsibilities that God has entrusted to us. It highlights the importance of being accountable and using our gifts for the benefit of others and the kingdom.
How does Matthew 25:14 relate to personal responsibility?
Matthew 25:14 emphasizes personal responsibility by showing that each servant is accountable for how they manage the goods entrusted to them. This reflects the expectation that we should actively use our time and talents in service to God.
What lessons can we learn from Matthew 25:14?
From Matthew 25:14, we learn the importance of being good stewards of our resources, the need for accountability, and the call to prepare ourselves for Christ's return by using our gifts wisely.
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