New Testament
Matthew 25:27
Read the Bible in clear, modern English—easy to understand, faithful to the meaning, and written for everyday readers.
Then you should have at least deposited my money with the bankers so I would have gotten it back with interest when I returned.
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Thou oughtest therefore to have put my money to the exchangers, and then at my coming I should have received mine own with usury.
What Matthew 25:27 means
Plain-English insight for readers
In this verse, the master is expressing disappointment with a servant who failed to invest his money wisely. The master expected the servant to at least deposit the money with bankers, which would have earned interest. This highlights the importance of being responsible and proactive with the resources entrusted to us. The master’s return signifies accountability; he expects to see a return on his investment. The mention of interest (or usury) indicates that even a small effort to grow what was given would have been better than doing nothing. This serves as a reminder that we are called to use our talents and resources effectively, rather than burying them or being complacent. The underlying message is about stewardship and the expectation that we should actively engage with what we have been given, whether it be money, skills, or opportunities, to produce positive outcomes.
How to apply Matthew 25:27 to your life
We should actively use our skills and resources to benefit ourselves and others. Instead of being passive, we can seek opportunities to grow what we have been given, whether in our careers, relationships, or community involvement. This encourages a mindset of growth and contribution.
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Illustrated scene from Jesus's story: Teaching on the Mount of Olives (Matthew 24:1–25:46)
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Keep studying Matthew 25:27
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Key themes
Related topics
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 25:27 teach about financial responsibility?
Matthew 25:27 emphasizes the importance of being responsible with the resources we are given. The master expected the servant to invest the money wisely, which illustrates that we should actively manage our finances rather than letting them sit idle. This verse encourages us to seek opportunities for growth and to be proactive in our financial decisions.
How can I apply the lesson of Matthew 25:27 in my life?
To apply the lesson from Matthew 25:27, consider how you can use your skills and resources more effectively. Look for ways to invest your time, talents, and finances in projects or opportunities that can yield positive results. Whether it's furthering your education, volunteering, or starting a side business, taking initiative can lead to personal growth and benefit others.
What is the significance of 'interest' in Matthew 25:27?
The mention of 'interest' in Matthew 25:27 signifies the expectation of growth and return on investment. It highlights that even minimal effort to increase what we have been given is better than doing nothing. This serves as a reminder that we should strive to enhance our abilities and resources, ensuring they are used effectively to produce positive outcomes.
How does Matthew 25:27 relate to stewardship?
Matthew 25:27 is a powerful illustration of stewardship, which involves managing and utilizing the resources we have been given wisely. The verse teaches that we are expected to actively engage with our talents and possessions, making the most of them to create value. This principle of stewardship calls us to be diligent and proactive in our efforts to grow and contribute positively to our communities.
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