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Parable of the Talents

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hillsbororiver:
Contemplating on this parable recently I began to think about how this could apply to us, are we (those who have been blessed with a clearer understanding of His purpose for humanity) putting to a good use the knowledge (treasure) He has generously provided?

Are we like the servant who buried his master's treasure (Mat 25:14 - Mat 25:30) or are we seeking to increase it by setting a good example (through Him) that draws people to wonder what is the source of our hope and joy? (1Pe 3:15)

It is also written that to whom "much is given" (Luke 12:48) "of him much shall be required" how does this relate to the way we live or speak (write) or think? It can be too easy to denigrate the churches and the people in them but how many talents have they been given? What are some of the individuals doing with the smaller amount of the treasure of His Word that has been granted them?

There are some out there doing some very selfless things based on the limited knowledge they have been given, imagine how those folk's love and committment to the Lord will increase when He opens their eyes to the things we have been blessed to receive! Remember our own joy? What are we doing presently with these talents? With this treasure?

These questions/observations have been rolling around my brain the last few days and any comments are greatly appreciated.

His Peace and Wisdom to you,

Joe

aktikt:
Joe,

Ray has shown that all the parables say the same thing and it is the parable of the sower which says so,

Mar 4:13 ¶ And he said unto them, Know ye not this parable? and how then will ye know all parables?

(I know that you know that, but I am restating.)  And all the parables get at that many are called and few are chosen.  Taking this together with knowing there is no free will and that the greater works we do are spiritual rather than physical, I believe this parable to say that those who are the called hear, but it doesn't bear any fruit because the seed fell by the way side, on rocky ground, or on thorny ground.  The called hear (carnally) the Word even though they don't (spiritually) hear!  And to them much is given, that is it is the Word of God they are hearing (though clearly it is the Word of God in the KJV mixed with the teaching of man).  This is much.  However, they don't bear fruit. 

I don't think we can take this principle of to whom much is given much is required further than this otherwise it would turn into works rather than grace.   Am I off base, or is this what you were getting at?

Josh

CEO:
Joe and Josh

You bring up powerful and nagging questions.  Are we, right now, making the best use of our time with what we know, with our wisdom ?

What is the work of a follower of Jesus ?, today?  For me it is to study and think and learn.  Jn 6: 28,29  'what shall we do that we may work the works of God?'  Jesus answered and said to them, "This is the work of God, that you believe in Him whom He sent".

Let's keep up the good work!


                                                    Askseeknock

                                                     Charles O

Kat:
Hi Joe,


--- Quote ---What are we doing presently with these talents? With this treasure?

--- End quote ---

Hmmm good question.

Gal 5:22-23  But the Spirit produces love, joy, peace, patience, kindness, goodness, faithfulness, humility, and self-control.

Love.  I think I have a different understanding of love now.  There is agapao love toward fellowman, because they are simple where God has put them.
And there is the deeper phileo love for those you know personally, because it is a two-way street of love you share, and an even greater appreciation for family and friends, in seeing them in light of God's plan.

Joy.  Having the knowledge of the truth of the One true God and His plan for mankind, is a great and unexpressable joy to me.

Peace.  This scripture says it well.  Phi 4:7  "And the peace of God which passes all understanding shall keep your hearts and minds through Christ Jesus."

Patience.  A good test of this for me is in traffic, don't blow up with anger.

Kindness.  Showing consideration to others.

Goodness.  I'll have to go with this scripture.  Mark 10:18  "And Jesus said to him, "Why do you call Me good? No one is good except God alone."  But through Christ indwelling we can show His goodness.

faithfulness.  Belief and trust in God's sovereignty.

humility.  Wouldn't this be the opposite of prideful,  with Christ indwelling we have nothing to be prideful about, He does it all.

self-control   Isn't this the ability to remain calm under duress.

Well I'm thinking these are like the talents in the parable, that we need to be showing in our lives.  Have not got them all down too good, but I'm still a work in progress  :)

mercy,, peace, and love
Kat

iris:
This has been a really great thread, and Kat I especially liked what you
posted. It made me think and question myself on the 'fruit of the spirit,
and how I was showing and living them in my life. Thank you!


Iris

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