New Testament
Matthew 25:20
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, a servant who was given five talents, which were a form of money, returns to his master with an additional five talents he earned through his efforts.
- Author
- Matthew the apostle
- Written
- Around AD 60-70
- Genre
- Gospel
- Original Audience
- Jewish Christians
The servant who had received 5 talents came forward and presented 5 more, saying, "Master, you entrusted me with 5 talents. Look — I've earned 5 more."
And so he that had received five talents came and brought other five talents, saying, Lord, thou deliveredst unto me five talents: behold, I have gained beside them five talents more.
Verse Analysis
Plain-English insight for readers
In this verse, a servant who was given five talents, which were a form of money, returns to his master with an additional five talents he earned through his efforts. This illustrates the principle of stewardship, where the servant is accountable for how he manages the resources entrusted to him. The servant acknowledges the trust placed in him by the master and demonstrates his success in multiplying what he was given. This act of bringing back more than he received shows diligence, responsibility, and the importance of using one's abilities wisely. The master’s expectation is that servants will not only preserve what they have but also grow it, reflecting a proactive approach to responsibilities. This verse emphasizes the value of hard work and the rewards that come from being faithful with what one has been given, encouraging believers to actively engage in their tasks and use their gifts to produce positive outcomes.
Related Bible verses
How to apply Matthew 25:20 to your life
This verse encourages us to actively use our talents and resources for good. Instead of being passive, we should seek opportunities to grow and multiply what we have been given, whether in our work, relationships, or community involvement. Faithful stewardship leads to greater rewards.
Curated for this public verse page. Matthew Summary
Frequently Asked Questions
Quick, clear answers about this verse
What does Matthew 25:20 mean?
Matthew 25:20 describes a servant who returns to his master with five additional talents, demonstrating the importance of using one's resources wisely and being accountable for them. It highlights the principle of stewardship, where individuals are expected to grow and multiply what they have been entrusted with.
What is the meaning of stewardship in Matthew 25:20?
Stewardship in Matthew 25:20 refers to the responsible management of resources and talents given by God. The verse illustrates that individuals should actively work to increase what they have, reflecting diligence and accountability in their actions.
How does Matthew 25:20 apply to daily life?
Matthew 25:20 encourages individuals to actively use their talents and resources for positive outcomes in their work, relationships, and community. It serves as a reminder to seek opportunities for growth and to be diligent in managing what one has.
What lessons can we learn from Matthew 25:20?
From Matthew 25:20, we learn the importance of being proactive and responsible with our resources. The verse teaches that hard work and faithfulness in using our abilities can lead to greater rewards and positive impacts.

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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