New Testament
Matthew 25:18
The Clear Bible Translation matches the King James Version, written at a 10th-grade reading level in plain English
At a Glance
In this verse, we see a servant who was given one talent, which was a significant amount of money in biblical times.
- Author
- Matthew the apostle
- Written
- Around AD 60-70
- Genre
- Gospel
- Original Audience
- Jewish Christians
But the servant who received 1 talent went off, dug a hole in the ground, and buried his master's money.
But he that had received one went and digged in the earth, and hid his lord’s money.
Verse Analysis
Plain-English insight for readers
In this verse, we see a servant who was given one talent, which was a significant amount of money in biblical times. Instead of using it wisely or investing it to grow his master's wealth, he chose to bury it in the ground. This action reflects a lack of initiative and fear of taking risks. The servant may have been worried about losing the money or displeasing his master, but by doing nothing, he ultimately failed to fulfill his responsibility. This story illustrates the importance of using our gifts and resources wisely, rather than letting fear hold us back. It serves as a reminder that we are called to be good stewards of what we have been given, actively working to make the most of our opportunities rather than hiding them away. Explore related stewardship.
Related Bible verses
How to apply Matthew 25:18 to your life
We should not let fear prevent us from using our talents and resources. Instead of hiding our abilities, we should seek opportunities to grow and invest them wisely. Taking risks can lead to growth and fulfillment of our potential.
Curated for this public verse page. Matthew Summary
Frequently Asked Questions
Quick, clear answers about this verse
What does Matthew 25:18 mean?
Matthew 25:18 describes a servant who received one talent but chose to bury it instead of using it wisely. This reflects a failure to take initiative and a fear of risk, emphasizing the importance of being responsible with what we are given.
What is the meaning of the talent in Matthew 25:18?
In Matthew 25:18, a talent represents a significant amount of money or resources. It symbolizes the gifts and responsibilities entrusted to individuals, highlighting the expectation to use them wisely.
How does Matthew 25:18 relate to stewardship?
Matthew 25:18 emphasizes stewardship by showing that we are accountable for how we manage our resources. The servant's choice to hide his talent instead of investing it demonstrates poor stewardship.
What lesson can we learn from Matthew 25:18?
The lesson from Matthew 25:18 is to not let fear prevent us from using our talents. It encourages us to take risks and actively engage with our abilities to fulfill our potential.

The Book of Matthew
Matthew 1: The Generation and Birth of Jesus Christ
The book begins with the generation of Jesus Christ, the son of David, the son of Abraham. It records the generations from Abraham to David, from David until the carrying away into Babylon, and from the carrying away into Babylon unto Christ, each being fourteen generations. The genealogy concludes with Jacob begetting Joseph, the husband of Mary, of whom was born Jesus, who is called Christ.
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