Podcasts about talents matthew

In Episode 496 of the Reformed Brotherhood, Tony Arsenal and Jesse Schwamb open with a rich discussion on the theology of congregational singing — including the Trinity Psalter Hymnal, the Getty's Sing!, and why psalm-singing belongs at the heart of Christian worship. The main event, however, is the first installment of their study of the Parable of the Talents (Matthew 25:14–30). Tony and Jesse argue that this parable is widely misread as a lesson in personal productivity or spiritual gift deployment, when in fact its center of gravity is entirely eschatological and theological: the wicked servant's failure is not financial incompetence — it is a catastrophic misunderstanding of who the master is, and therefore, who he himself is as a servant of that master. Key Takeaways The parable is eschatological, not motivational. Situated in Matthew 25 as the second of three eschatological parables in the Olivet Discourse, the Parable of the Talents answers the disciples' question about the sign of Christ's coming — not a general lesson about using your abilities for God. "Talents" refers to an enormous monetary sum, not personal giftedness. A single talent represented roughly 20 years of a laborer's wages. Even the least-endowed servant received an immense, unearned gift — which makes the wicked servant's inaction all the more indefensible. The wicked servant's problem is theological, not financial. He doesn't bury the talent out of ignorance or fear alone — he actively mischaracterizes the master as exploitative and unjust. His failure is a failure of theology: he does not know who his master is. The commendation "Well done, good and faithful servant" is the basic reward of every believer, not a tiered prize for the most productive. The five-talent and two-talent servants receive identical commendations, suggesting the measure is proportional faithfulness, not absolute output. Faithful stewardship is active, not passive. Both faithful servants are marked by immediacy and energetic engagement. The parable does not explain how they doubled their talents because the mechanics are not the point — their disposition of active, risk-taking faithfulness is. The parable resists works-righteousness readings. Whether one is Augustine or an anonymous deathbed convert, every justified believer enters into the same joy of the master. The parable is not a theology of graduated heavenly rewards but a distinction between those who understand their master and those who do not. The talents represent the stewardship of the Gospel and the Kingdom itself. The master entrusting his servants with his property is a picture of Christ entrusting the church with the message of salvation — ownership remains with the master, the servants are stewards, not proprietors. Key Concepts The Wicked Servant's Problem Is Who He Thinks the Master Is The most common misreading of this parable locates the wicked servant's failure in laziness or timidity — he was simply too afraid to act. But Tony Arsenal argues compellingly that the servant's own words expose something far more serious. He says, "I knew you to be a hard man, reaping where you did not sow." This is not a confession of fear; it is an accusation. The servant has constructed a theology of his master as an exploitative, unjust overseer who doesn't deserve a return. What he catastrophically misses is that the very possession of 20 years' worth of wages — an unearned, unimaginable gift — is the master sowing into him. His refusal to act is, at its root, a refusal to acknowledge the master's generosity and authority. This is the parable's most penetrating theological edge. "Well Done" Is for Every Believer, Not Just the Most Productive One of the episode's most pastorally significant observations is Tony's argument that the commendation "Well done, good and faithful servant — enter into the joy of your master" is not reserved for spiritual high-achievers. Because the five-talent and two-talent servants receive word-for-word identical commendations despite wildly different absolute returns, the logical entailment is that the one-talent servant, had he been faithful, would have received the same words. This means the commendation is not calibrated to productivity — it is the basic inheritance of every believer who enters glory. The soul-winner and the deathbed convert, Augustine and the unknown faithful, all hear the same welcome. The parable is therefore not teaching a graduated hierarchy of heavenly reward, but a binary distinction: those who know their master and act accordingly, and those who do not. The Parable Cannot Be Detached from Its Eschatological Context Jesse Schwamb is careful to anchor the parable in its literary and theological context: this is the second of three eschatological parables in Matthew 25, all part of the Olivet Discourse, all delivered in direct response to the disciples' question about the sign of Christ's return and the end of the age. Detaching the Parable of the Talents from that frame — and reading it instead as a general productivity principle or a theology of spiritual gifts — drains it of what Jesse calls its "gravity." The master going away and returning after a long time is a direct image of the ascended Christ and his parousia. The servants' task during the interval is not self-improvement or career stewardship — it is watchful, active discipleship in the time between the first and second comings. Everything in the parable, including the staggering sums of money, is calibrated to that eschatological frame. Memorable Quotes The real difference is that the former servants understood that their master had trusted them with a task and expected something of them, and the unfaithful, wicked, lazy servant had a total misunderstanding of who the master was — and therefore what his role as the master's servant was. That's the point of this parable. — Tony Arsenal Well done, good and faithful servant — that's not a special commendation that only the most amazing Christian servants get. That's the basic commendation that every Christian who enters into glory will receive. Whether you have been the most productive soul-winner in the world... you're going to receive the same commendation as the person who dies, and on their deathbed the last thing that they think is, 'I trust Jesus.' — Tony Arsenal God's measure of faithfulness is proportional, not absolute. The two-talent servant is not judged by the five-talent standard. He is judged by what he received. — Jesse Schwamb Full Transcript [00:00:08] Tony Arsenal: that's not a special commendation that only the most amazing Christian servants get, right? That's the basic commendation that every Christian who enters into glory will receive. Whether you have been the most productive soul-winner in the world, whether you are the most, you know, the most sanctified Christian who's ever lived, whether you are, the most amazing person and millions of people have come to faith because of your ministry, you're going to receive the same commendation as the person who dies, and on their deathbed the last thing that they think is, I trust Jesus." Right. And they've produced no converts, no ministry, and maybe no one even knows that they were justified, because in their final moments before the lights went out, they trusted in Jesus, right? They hear the same well done, good and faithful servant when they enter into glory. Welcome to episode 496 of the Reformed Brotherhood. I'm Jesse.  And I'm Tony, and this is the podcast with ears to hear. Hey, brother.  [00:01:19] Jesse Schwamb: Hey, brother.  [00:01:21] Parable Teaser [00:01:21] Jesse Schwamb: You know, the parables just keep coming for us, like we've said. And on this episode, to, just to tee it up, to whet everybody's appetites, we've got three servants, one absent master, an uncomfortable amount of money. What could go wrong? Yeah. As it turns out, quite a bit, especially if you're the kind of person who responds to divine generosity by finding the nearest shovel. So we're gonna get to all of that in this, what I call, this now sandwich of eschatological parables or teachings of Jesus in Matthew 25. So hopefully you're curious, hopefully you're stoked. But you can go put your thumb right in the scriptures there, because you're gonna meet us there very, very, very, very shortly. But first we got business. It's always the business we must do, the part of the podcast where we affirm with something or deny against something. And as always, I'm really curious what you have, and now I understand you have a list, or you're keeping a list. So- I do ... never again will there be something like that falls to the cutting room floor, brothers and sisters. Tony is always gonna have for us whatever was- ... what came to his brilliant mind as an affirmation or denial at any point, day or night.  [00:02:29] Tony Arsenal: Yeah. Yeah. Do you, Jesse, do you ever have... I know the answer to this question is going to be yes- Yeah. That's good ... but I'm gonna ask it- All right ... mostly for rhetorical effect here. This is good podcasting.  [00:02:38] Psalm 67B Praise [00:02:38] Tony Arsenal: Do you have, do you have those situations where, like, the, the so- a song hits you, and it's just, like, the right combination of words, but also the right combination of, like, musicality?  [00:02:49] Jesse Schwamb: For sure.  [00:02:50] Tony Arsenal: Where it just, like, it just, it just feels- For sure like, right and good in every part of your being. So- All the time, yep ... I, I'm affirming, um, th- this is like the most Presbyterian thing ever. I'm affirming the, the arrangement in the Trinity, uh, psalter hymnal for Psalm 67B. Now, I'm not gonna try to sing it for you, but I wanna read the words, because obviously it's, it's a paraphrase of a psalm. So, like, that's the first thing. Like, people, like, calm down. Like, it's okay to sing paraphrases. It's okay to sing. No one is actually singing the Hebrew psalms. Right. Amen. So, like, just calm down a little bit. Amen. Uh, there is a place for us to dedicate specific focus to psalms and songs that are from the psalms, but that can be something like Better Is One Day. Like, that's a song from a psalm. Anyway, that's a whole different, that's a whole different thing. Yes, I'm affirming psalm singing. Uh, yes, I'm denying overly rigid understandings of what that is. But here's the words for Psalm 67, Setting B. That's important It's, "O God, show mercy to us and bless us with your grace and cause to shine upon us the brightness of your face, so that the whole world over may truly know your way and so that your salvation all nations see displayed. O God, let peoples praise you. Let all the peoples praise. Let nations come rejoicing and songs of gladness rise, raise." Then, um, stanza two, "For you will judge the peoples with perfect equity. To nations of the whole Earth a governor you'll be. O God, let the peoples praise you. Let all the peoples praise. The Earth has brought its bounty throughout its harvest days.  [00:04:24] Why Sing Psalms [00:04:24] Tony Arsenal: Since God our God will bless us, yes, God will blessing send, that all the Earth may fear Him to its remotest end." Now, there are lots of really great, uh, theologically sound, edifying hymns and worship choruses, but there's just something about the Psalms, right? It's inspired- Um- ... it's perfect. Again, like I said, nobody is singing the actual Hebrew Psalms, or even, I shouldn't say nobody, most people are not singing, like, the Psalms from the ESV, right? These are almost all paraphrases. They're, they're translations. But there's just something about the Psalms that I have grown so much to appreciate since joining a Presbyterian church. That's not to say other traditions don't sing Psalms in their own right, and again, like, we would sing Better Is One Day and other songs that were based on Psalms. Um, even, like, real direct translations or real direct versions of Psalms, like Better Is One Day or Create In Me A Clean Heart, there's all sorts of them. But there's just something about singing the Psalms, and this particular musical setting, it's triumphant, but not in the, like, fanfare kind of triumphant. Do you know what I mean, Jesse? Like- Mm-hmm ... it's, it's a triumphant melody, and it has, like, really interesting rises and falls and... So I, I'm gonna probably try to put this at the end of the episode. So listen. Hopefully I'll get the whole thing. Let me just, let me just do this. Hold on a second. It's just gorgeous. It's just beautiful. So I, I, I don't know what it was this morning. Uh, it's, I wasn't, like, promo- particularly emotional. It didn't, like, make me cry. Yeah. But all of that's fine. Like, I've been brought to tears in worship before, and that's, that's all good and well. There was just something about it that resonated, and I was like, "This is just good." Like, this is just good music. It's good singing. Something about hearing, uh, the whole congregation singing together. Like, it was just beautiful. It was just a beautiful moment. So if you are not in a psalm-singing church, first of all, why aren't you in a psalm-singing church? Uh, no worship leader on Earth, no, no person who is worth... Uh, when I say worship leader, I mean the person who's responsible for leading musical worship. No one who's leading worshipful music, worshipful? Worship music, if you approach them and say, "I would like to sing more songs that are based on the Psalms," if they say, "We don't wanna sing Psalms here," then you just go somewhere else. Like, someone who tells you, like, "We don't wanna s- we don't wanna sing God's Word," that doesn't make any sense to me.  [00:06:56] Jesse Schwamb: Right.  [00:06:56] Tony Arsenal: Um, now again, like, there's a way to do it. Sometimes musically they're challenging, especially if you're singing out of something like the hymnal. But again, there are plenty of really good modern style songs and hymn style songs that are either based on the Psalms or are paraphrases, very similar to what you get in the, in the Trinity Psalter Hymnal. Or most, most people who are leading in musical worship are competent enough to just sort of take the sheet music and figure out how to do it on guitar or figure out how to play it on piano. Um, they're not that difficult. So you will be edified if you do this. Your church will be edified. There's probably a lot of people out there responsible for musical worship that actually would really like to do this, and they're kind of probably, like, just waiting for that nudge, so you may even be benefiting them. But yeah, this, this psalm is beautiful. It's just a gorgeous arrangement, and it's, it's perfect, inspired words. Really was a, just a, a balm to my soul this morning.  [00:07:51] Jesse Schwamb: I love it. And o- of course, a lot of that is still happening, which is such a glorious gift to the church. The couple of times that I've had the privilege of writing music for my own church has been right from the scriptures, and for me recently that was, like, Ephesians 1 and Psalm 16. And that's mainly because, like, as a lyricist, I'm not that creative, and I'd rather go direct to the source. And all those end up being a paraphrase, like you said, anyway. Es- especially if you wanna get turn of phrase or if you wanna have a little bit of rhyming, which is always a beautiful thing. I love the Psalter, and my, my hot take on that is I sometimes find that I like, I don't wanna call them, like, the alternate, but, like, the other secondary arrangements-  Yeah and  lyrics better. I don't know why. I don't think that's purposeful, of course. It's probably just my taste. But I always find them to be, like, super fire. I, I don't know why. The, the B and C versions always kinda grab me, especially if... And here's another thing that I appreciate about the Psalter, as you know, is sometimes those B or C versions will be written in an alternate key or a minor key. Yeah. And that's even more awesome, because there's not a lot of, let's say, like, cla- I don't wanna say classic. Classic slash contemporary, uh, Christian music or wors- quote-unquote worship music that's written in minor keys. But it's good to lament, as we've talked about before. So- Yeah ... you're gonna get that full breath and scope in the Psalter there. [00:09:06] Tony Arsenal: Yeah.  [00:09:07] Beyond Music Styles [00:09:07] Tony Arsenal: A- and, you know, maybe let me put in one more little plug here. Um- I am not one of those people that is gonna say that there's like a particular style of music that's more godly than another. I've heard people try to make arguments that there's like certain kinds of rhythms or certain kinds of like beats that are- Right either, either more godly or somehow demonic or less godly. Um, I think there might be an argument to be made that some styles of worship are not suited well for congregational singing, so they may not be appropriate for like a, a congregational worship service. Like, you're probably not gonna go in and do a lot of hip hop and have the congregation be able to like stick with you. Right. That doesn't mean that you can't worship God through that or that it somehow is less like intrinsically beautiful. But, um, there are a lot of Let me just put it this way. In modern contemporary Western Christianity, uh, there's a lot of songs that are basically just the same thing musically. You know, you'll find, um, if you go to, like, YouTube, and, and maybe, like, be careful, 'cause sometimes some of these are, they're funny but they're a little bit crass. But if you look up, like, a video about how, like, every song is Pachel Bell's Canon. Right. Right? Every song follows the same basic arrangement of chords, and this gets even more pronounced when you're talking about modern worship music or contemporary mu- worship music, because it's designed to be able to be very simple and very easily played. Um, a lot of times worship directors are not super classically trained. Um, you think of, like, the youth pastor with the guitar around the campfire. Like, those kinds of songs have to be easy, 'cause they're not, like, classically trained guitar players. They probably picked up a chord book and figured out how to play a couple easy songs like Jesus, Lover of My Soul and things like that. That's how I learned how to play guitar. That's the extent of my skills, so I'm not, I'm not banging on that person. Um, but there are a lot, there's a lot more to music. Um, there's a lot more to singing, and there's a lot more to choral music than, you know, GCDC kind of like worship courses. Uh, and singing something like the Psalter, or even just singing out of a good hymnal- Right will actually expand your musical horizons. And there's something to be said about the creativity of our God being reflected in the creativity of His people that I do think we miss out on when we are locked into really simplistic worship styles. Um, again, like, I interpret Psalms, hymns, and spiritual songs to mean, like, sing in the vernacular of the people. Um, and I, you know, that's a different episode. We can talk about that sometime. But th- that, that requires the songs to be singable, and I think sometimes, uh, sometimes some of the song- some of the Psalters, some of the songs in the Psalter hymnals, and sometimes hymnals in general, are very difficult to sing. And so I think a congregation, the people leading in music need to be thoughtful of that. But I think you would do well to, like, open your horizons a little bit to something a little bit more challenging and a little bit off the beaten path. Like, this melody, I don't know the chords behind it. It may not be anything crazy, but that, like, musicality and that, that sort of, like, melody is not a typical... And this might be why it resonated with me. It's not a typical kind of melody you're gonna find in contemporary music. Um, it's, it's very different. It's older. It's more classically styled. The, it's, it's meant to sort of bring you up to these crescendos in ways that modern music is not necessarily. So enough about that. I don't know a lot about music theory, so I might be totally wrong and, and- ... people might be rolling their eyes. But I, I do think that there's something to it. Like, a lot of the older hymns- utilize chord progressions and melodies and harmonies and things like that that we're just not used to. You're not gonna get that listening to, you know, even something like, like the more musical kind, uh, more technically proficient music like something like Bethel or Hillsong, which is at times musically very good. Uh, I don't know that I would recommend listening to it, but the music is actually, like, technically very good in some instances. Uh, even there you're not gonna find a lot of this stuff. So instead of going there for, like, really nice sounding musical worship, just go to something like the Trinity Psalter app. You know, for $10 on a- on your iPhone you can sing with it. Um, yeah, enough about that. I, I, I could talk about how great the Psalms are and how great psalm singing is for an entire episode. We should do that episode- We should ... when we're done with the parables, 'cause I know we've done a lot of episodes on, like, uh, on, on, like, the regulative principle and- Right I, I think we're still both in the same spot that, like- Right ... exclusive psalmody is probably not where we would land. Right. But I think I'm coming to the conviction that the psalms should have a much greater portion of our worship diet, uh- Hmm ... than they do in most churches. Um, and I really only came to that conviction when I was in a church where psalm singing was the norm. Uh, I know that we try to have at least one s- one canonical psalm for every single worship service. Usually there's multiple, but, um, even in a, a, a setting where we normally wouldn't be so focused on that, we still try to have at least one, and it's been a, a really huge edifying thing to my soul.  [00:14:06] Jesse Schwamb: Yeah. I absolutely love that. You'll find no complaint from me on that. I think that that's a good reminder for all of us.  [00:14:13] Tony Arsenal: Yeah.  [00:14:14] Book Sing Recommendation [00:14:14] Tony Arsenal: Jesse, what do you have?  [00:14:15] Jesse Schwamb: Well, it's, we're not gonna stop this conversation, just so you know. Because we don't sync up on these things ever, but it just so happens that I'm affirming with a book that it's a really simple primer on congregational singing-  There you go that has  long been on my list and overdue to read, and I am coming in hot with a recommendation for this, and that is the book entitled Sing! How Worship Transforms Your Life, Family, and Church by Keith and Kristyn Getty. And really, it covers so many of the things that you already talked about. I, I think at the foremost, it's a reminder that God cares whether in what we sing, but he does not mind how well we sing. Yes. But it is, like, the, this... What's true is that our voices might not be of a professional standard, but they are of a confessional standard. Yeah. And so it is incumbent upon every Christian to sing. And if you need just, like, a little bit of inspiration, so to speak, or a reminder of why that's important, I highly commend this book to you. In fact, in the back they have what's called, like, these bonus tracks. It's like four or five separate chapters that they've written just to particular people in the church, pastors, laypeople, musicians, even the people that help produce the sound. I found that bit to be so lovely and pastoral. It, it's gentle, the tone is encouraging, but it is also strong, and I appreciate that. So a lot of it is some of the themes that we've just talked about, but my conviction grows all the time of just how important congregational singing is, and how everything you just said, the music, the liturgy that we bring forward- has to be of a deliberate kind to strengthen that exercise, to make it easy, so to speak. And that does come into practical things like if you look at the psalter, and I, I don't... I have it on my phone, but I don't know where my phone is, so I was gonna look at the one you were referencing. My guess is it's, it's in probably a key with a couple of sharps in it, because those are the ones that are easiest to sing. So even little things like that matter. What you hear on the radio often is, or radio? People still listen to the radio? What you hear, like, in, like, contemporary music, like, often is not necessarily for congregational singing just in its key, and, and that's okay. And so even in my own church, we transpose things to make it reasonable and approachable. But what I think was, like, the critical question put forward in this book that I absolutely loved as a great reminder was: how did the congregation sing? It's very interesting that they kind of bring forward this thesis that that's how you should be judging your music. How did the congregation sing? And I think if we started asking that, it might slightly tweak or maybe change altogether, to your point, the methods and the practices that we use when we undergo worship by way or through music. So this is really great. It's easily readable, and it's for everybody, and it, there's a chapter on family worship as well, how to bring singing into your home and music into your home all the time as an act of worship so that when you get to the Lord's Day, your kids are like, "Yeah, this is our jam." Uh, especially maybe even recognizing some of the pieces of music and be excited about that. So there was a lot that made me think about here. It's fantastic. And to your point, Tony, I would say the Gettys, especially in, like, "Christ Alone," some of the other things, this is probably the closest to what you're talking about, where they've taken and imported kind of the classical hymn structures-  [00:17:26] Tony Arsenal: Yeah [00:17:27] Jesse Schwamb: but modernized a little bit just the language while without sacrificing any of the theological richness or the musicality that draws your ear to those beautiful rising and falling melodies, the swelling of the vocal there, without, like, distracting from anything that's going on there. It's not emotionalism- Yeah but it certainly is filled with the emotion of what it means to be a Christian and to sing in response as an act of praise to God.  [00:17:50] Tony Arsenal: Yeah.  [00:17:52] Family Worship Singing [00:17:52] Tony Arsenal: Yeah, I mean, I can't underscore enough the importance of congregational singing. We, we've, we've actually talked about, about it in context of, like, how important it is for the men of the congregation to sing, which is something I, I really appreciate about my congregation, is, is the m- the men just go all out. Like, people are, like- Love it ... nobody is, nobody is ashamed of the fact that they squawk on a note that they're not used to or anything like that. And where this really pays out, um, at least in our congregation, but I'd, I'd be willing to bet if you go to any congregation where the, where the men particularly are passionate and active in musical worship, right? Um, I think where this plays out is you see the children very quickly picking up those songs and learning them and singing them. And the, the favorite part of my day, this is gon- any parent of toddlers is gonna be like, "What are you talking about?" Bedtime is one of my favorite times of day, not just because it means that, like, in a little while I'm gonna get a little peace and quiet. Like, that's part of it, too, but there are two songs that we sing almost every single night, and Augie leads them, which is really great. He always wants to start, and he always wants to sing, and it's the Doxology and the Gloria Patri. And these are songs that he has just picked up from being in the congregation, and, you know, I, I don't remember consciously teaching him any of these songs. And now, now Adeline, who is, uh, my two-year-old daughter, almost two, she's starting to pick those songs up, and she's starting to sing them, and she recognizes them, and she responds very differently to those songs than she does to other songs. Um, it's funny because I don't, I don't know where she got this. Neither my wife nor I are particularly, uh, charismatic, emotive people. Like, we don't raise our hands when we're singing, but she, she does. She, she, when we start singing- My girl ... the Gloria Patri or the Doxology, her hand is in the air, and she's looking at the sky, and she's waving her hands around. Yeah. And, um, she recognizes that those songs have a different place than a Miss Rachel song. She doesn't put her hands in the air and wave and look up at the ceiling when Miss Rachel comes on or when Baby Shark comes on. She knows those songs. She can sing those songs. Um, but she doesn't- Respond to those in the same way. And that is a direct result of the fact that congregational singing is an important thing in the life of our church and in the life of our family. And I think a book like Sing, I haven't read it, but I've heard very good things about it, and the, the Gettys are rock solid, like- Right ... theologically. Yes. Musically. They're, they're well within our Reformed tradition, at least broadly speaking. Um, and, and they have a, they have one of the strongest sort of theologies of praise music that you're gonna find. Mm-hmm. It's not quite like a liturgiology or something like that, but it's, it's, it's a theology of praise worship, praise and worship music. Right. Um, and that's not something that's super common, right? There's a lot of theology of liturgy. There's a lot of practical theology on liturgy. Um, the Gettys have developed a really unique kind of place in things in that they've really developed this idea that congregational singing has a specific theological import, and they've developed it in a way that's approachable. So yeah, I haven't read it and I sh- I probably should, but it, it sounds like a really great book. And, um, I c- just can't underscore it enough. And- Maybe this is my little plug. Like, uh, family worship is really tough, and it's not something I've mastered. Like, we don't, we, we don't have a regular rhythm. But what we do have is we have a consistent, uh, we consistently pray at night before bed, and we consistently sing one or both of those songs. And that by itself, like, the kids are learning and they are, they're absorbing that by osmosis. Um, they're picking up the phrasing, right? Augie can tell you who the three persons of the Trinity are, and that's partially 'cause we do catechism questions, but it's also partially, and I would actually argue probably more, because of the Trinitarian structure of those two songs. Right. He's picked up the language of the Father, the Spirit, and the Son from the Gloria Patri and from the doxology in ways that probably I wouldn't have been able to teach him otherwise. So yeah. Anyway, I, I just co-opted your affirmation. But, um, but yeah. I'm here for it. Congregational worship, family worship, singing, uh, to our Lord is commanded, and it's commanded for our good- Right and for his, his benefit and his blessing. Um, and so any book that is, is solid and will help you do that, I, I'm wholeheartedly behind.  [00:22:17] Jesse Schwamb: Yeah. This is... All that is fire. This is fire.  [00:22:19] Reclaim Congregational Song [00:22:19] Jesse Schwamb: God designed our psyche for singing, and we're probably, uh, I would say contractually obligated since Reformed is in the name of the title of the podcast- to remind ourselves and everybody else that one of the things the Reformation did was reclaim the singing of God's word by his own people. Yes. Taking it out of that performatory space back into literally the voice boxes of the people who are sitting in worship together. So sometimes we might have to do that again. You know, there is a little bit, I think, of... There, there is in some places, not everywhere, this kind of tilting of that time of worship through music to be vouchsafed or relegated to those who are, uh, let's say, like, the most, like, talented in doing that, and somehow we participate merely by observing or by- Yeah just, uh, you know, being an audience spectator of that, and that's totally backwards. So I get it. The thing is- We're all singers. We may not all be very good singers, but we're all created to be singers nonetheless. This is what the Bible tells us. So we need to lean into that. We need to invest in that. Yeah. And so I, I like, of course, what you're doing with, uh, your kids because you're not only teaching them to sing, and this makes me so happy, but you're teaching them to love singing to the Lord. Yeah. And so that is, I think, what a lot of our congregations miss, is sometimes we do it, and I'm among them often, but grudgingly. And so to get to a place where we come excited that our reasonable response, our reasonable preparation on the Lord's day is to sing together, to hear that gospel message in melody in the ear of our... You know, the voice of our neighbor in our own ear is a wild thing. It's just, like, un- unheard of. And it's like, uh, we gotta stop, right? It's one of those things also that, like- ... we've, we've talked about how it's just kind of otherworldly. Not, not only in the sense that it gives us this really kind of foundational sense of God's, you know, kind of transcendence, of what it means to participate in the worship of someone who is transcendent because it is all these voices together, but also this is something that rarely happens in any other way, especially in the Western culture anymore. This coming together to express and to participate in something where we're all reading literally from the same sheet music is just an entirely different experience, increasingly relegated to this kind of experience. So we, we must protect it, not only because God says that we ought to, but also because, again, it is, it is our reasonable response. Yeah. And it is something, like you've just said, that brings Him glory and is certainly for our good. So, uh, this is the Singcast, so everybody- ... everybody get to it. You can make your own music. God has commanded us to sing. So the sooner we just understand, like, hey, it's, it's... You know. Uh, but... And the last thing I'll say is this is one of those things that's, like, practice too. A- and I get it. Like, you may say, like, "Listen, I can only hit two notes, and that's all I'm gonna hit no matter what the music is." Well, then belt the two notes, and also know that, like, the more you practice that kind of thing, honestly, the better that you'll get and the more comfortable that you'll become. The voice is an instrument like any other instrument that takes, like, a little bit of practice and a little bit of work. But even that can cause, I think, great benefits and build a little bit of confidence. But just the example of singing and doing it from a heart that is keen to worship God and that is filled with passion to respond to Him with gratitude and, you know, adoration is really the key thing. And so I, I'd rather have a entire group full of worshipers that are singing off-key but, like, with just resounding passion than to have this performance of just a handful of voices because they feel like they're the most capable to do it. Yeah. I think we'd, we'd rather have everybody else, and to hear the congregation mixed as one of those instruments. So sing. Yeah.  [00:26:05] Everyone Can Sing [00:26:05] Tony Arsenal: Yeah, and y- you and I have made the point in the past, too, like- I, I don't think, uh, maybe I'm wrong. Uh, we are a top 50 healthcare podcast, so maybe some doctor- I'm sure you're correct ... is gonna... Right. Like, I don't think being tone deaf is actually a physical condition. Like- Mm. I, I mean, I, I mean, obviously, like, some people have hearing problems, and that means they have trouble singing. I hear what you're saying. But, like, the people who are like, "Well, I j- I just can't sing. I'm just not capable of that," uh, like, I think the, the physical conditions that would make you incapable of singing are not usually what people are talking about. Like- Right. Yeah ... you know, some people have, like, vocal fold disorders or they have hearing problems, and I guess maybe, like, if perfect pitch is a thing, which it, it is. Like, perfect pitch is a... I don't know what causes it, but some people are born with perfect pitch. I suppose in theory that means some people must be born with, like, the opposite of perfect pitch. But I think most people who say, like, "Well, I just, I'm just tone deaf. I can't carry a tone," that, that's probably not true. Like, it just means you need practice. Um, and some people's voices, like physically, their bodies are more, more designed by God to produce a pleasant sound than other people. But I, I think actually just about anybody with a little bit of practice, and mostly I think this is probably just the confidence to actually sing and a little bit of practice to learn how your body works, like how your voice works, um, could probably get to a point where singing is not only very relatively comfortable and easy, but it's something that is pleasant and is not overly challenging. This is actually something that I think we've lost in the church. We should... This, I mean, this is about to come the episode, but, um- ... something we've lost in the church when we have sort of changed from a true genuine congregational singing model, which was the norm- And I've heard people make arguments about the importance of hymnals, and I, I agree with those arguments, although I know some people have moved them into almost like a realm of, like, divine mandate- Right that you have to use hymnals because it trains people to teach. But we have lost something with both the sort of commercialization of worship music and the pro- like making it a professional thing, and we've lost congregational singing. The, the people in the church throughout history have learned to sing. Many of them have learned to read, learned the scriptures, learned theology, not in the seminary and not in the monastery, but in the pew as they sing God's word and as they sing- Right ... the great theological hymns of, of the church. There's so much you can learn through that process that I just think we've lost. And I think going back to something like a hymnal or the Trinity Psalter Hymnal or whatever, whatever standard music your church is gonna use, and I mean standard music. Like, whether this is a collection of worship choruses that has been curated for the church or it's a published hymnal or something like that, going back to something like that teaches the church how to sing. And I don't remember who wrote it, but the trellis and the vine, like the worship that we sing, I know Mike Horton makes this point. The worship that we sing is the tre- is the trellis that the vine of our wor- of our- Yes ... faith grows on, right? That's true. Like, what the, what the church lex credendi, lex orandi. Like, the church, what the church prays, the church believes. What the church sings, the church believes. So all of that to say, like, the, the importance of congregational singing can't be under-emphasized, and it's... I, I mean, I don't know that I would I don't know that most theologists say technically s- like, congregational singing is an element of worship, but praising the Lord through song certainly is. Yes. It's, it's evidence. Um, and, and so I think that's definitely something that the church has lost in general. Um, and I know there are churches... I- it's funny, when Ashley and I were between churches, uh, very briefly after, um, our previous church closed down, um, we went to a local sort of, like, high, high, uh, production, seeker-sensitive church, very Steven Furtick-esque, and we only lasted, like, 10 minutes in this, in this service. We went in and the production value was great, and the music sounded great, but we couldn't hear ourselves, we couldn't sing- Right ... and it was very performative, and we just left. We were only there for a few minutes, and we left. And I think that's something we've lost as we've sort of migrated worship to almost, like, a professional class. So yeah, bring it back to the pews. Bring it back to your- Bring it back ... bring it back to your house, bring it back to your kid's bedroom when you're tucking them in. Everywhere. Bring it back to the car on the way to work, in the bus. Right. Like, just let's everywhere we go, let's sing and worship the Lord. [00:30:30] Jesse Schwamb: Yeah, that's right.  [00:30:31] Train Your Voice [00:30:31] Jesse Schwamb: Uh, so as a final thing, let me compound your hot take and say that I agree with you, that I... And I think professionals would as well, and I'm gonna stand on a resource that I'm gonna recommend to everybody here in a second, that in fact the Getty say, "If you can speak, you can sing." And there are a f- a few conditions that would prevent you from doing that, of course. And even there, they wanna explore opportunities for you, for instance, signing, for instance, to ensure that you can participate in worship. Uh, the hot take is I do think that because the instrument that God has given us in the vocal cords is exactly that, that it can be trained, and that actually most people can sing. And if you're serious about that, if you think, "You know what? I'd like to be able to do that. How can I explore that?" Here's a book for you. It's called Set Your Voice Free by Roger Love. The full title is How to Get the Singing or Speaking Voice You Want. Roger Love is, like, this amazing behind-the-scenes vocal coach. He has coached, like, a ton of really talented recording artists, and this is his very contention in the book, is that everybody can sing. It's really about how much or little work you wanna put into it. And in fact, this book comes with, like, these exercises that you can listen to and then record yourself. And then he, from a distance basically, can give you some pointers based on allowing you to kinda evaluate what you hear in your own recording back. So if you really are the kind of person that's like, "Listen, I, I dare you. I cannot sing," I would challenge you, I would double dog dare you to get this book, Set Your Voice Free, and if you're really serious about wanting to try and see if it can make a difference, I, I think it can. And I've, I myself have enjoyed this book, gone back to it many times, use it in my own work and practice because I found it to be helpful. So there you go. Sing, sing, and sing again.  [00:32:06] Tony Arsenal: Yeah.  [00:32:07] Singing Apps and Practice [00:32:07] Tony Arsenal: And if you're not a reader, first of all, why are you listening to the podcast? But second of all, if for some reason you're not a reader I'm, I'm joking. I'm sure there are people that are listening to the podcast who are not readers. That was, like, a super smug thing to say. How dare you. I'm sorry about that. How dare you. Um, if for some reason you don't wanna read that book or you're not a reader, um, y- you can do something as simple as looking up Yousician on your Yousician, Y-O-U- Yeah ... S-I, like the word musician, but U instead of, like, Y-O-U instead of, uh, musician. Um, there are plenty of apps out there. I just, I mention Yousician just because I've used that on, like, a free trial basis with some guitar teaching, and it's a reputable source. They also have a vocal module. So, like, if you wanna learn to sing, there are plenty of resources out there who can help you train your voice. A- and it- Again, I'm not a doctor, I'm not a vocal coach, I'm not a professional singer. I'm not even that great of a singer, and I, I probably could be a better singer if I wanted to devote the time to it. Um, it doesn't take much to, to be able- Right ... to become a competent singer. Um, I think most of us, you pick up one s- just like I learned guitar, you pick one or two songs that you really like and you wanna learn, and you learn to sing those songs, and then those skills will develop over time. So enough about that, Jesse. We've got, speaking of talents- ... we've got some talents to talk about. There it is. Boom, bazinga. Baza-bazom. I'm  [00:33:27] Jesse Schwamb: back. There it is. Yeah, so- I was excited  [00:33:31] Tony Arsenal: about that one ...  [00:33:32] Jesse Schwamb: that, that was really good. And, and we should just h- honor everyone. That's it.  [00:33:37] Tony Arsenal: That's it. Tip your waiters and waitresses, folks. It  [00:33:39] Jesse Schwamb: was so good. We're here all week.  [00:33:41] Parable Context Setup [00:33:41] Jesse Schwamb: So we're in Matthew 25, uh, verses 14 through 28, and this is at least gonna be a two-parter for us. This goes by the name you might be familiar of, which is The Parable of the Talents. But before we get to it, just a quick reminder that we've been speaking about this parable, not like in a special way, but hopefully in the more contextual sense. So this is the second of three eschatological parables in Matthew 25. So the first was The 10 Virgins, which we went through. We're in The Talents, and then we're coming up to everybody's favorite, The Sheep and the Goats. All three are part of this Olivet Discourse, which is, of course, Jesus' final teaching block before his Passion. And I think it h- behooves us so that we do not get distracted from, like, the center of gravity of this thing, that this is delivered in response to the disciples' question about the sign of his coming and the age to come. Because I've heard so many, like, little talks, maybe homilies is more the right word, on this particular parable that lack gravity. So little gravity that basically NASA could train their astronauts in it. So we wanna stay away from that and I think get into, like, the, the proper context. So Tony, do you have it in front of you by any chance? And would  [00:34:50] Tony Arsenal: you- I do. I do, yeah. Yeah. Read it for us? I'll read it here.  [00:34:52] Reading the Parable [00:34:52] Tony Arsenal: So this is, uh, starting in, uh, Matthew 25 verse 14, and I'm gonna read down through, uh, the end of verse 30 here. So it, it reads here, "For it will be like a man going on a journey, who called his servants and entrusted them, entrusted to them his property. To one he gave five talents, to another two, and to another one, to each according to his ability. Then he went away. He who had received the five talents went at once and traded with them, and he made five talents more. So also he who had the two talents made two talents more. But he who had received the one talent went and dug in the ground and hid his master's money. Now after a long time, the master of those servants came and settled accounts with them. And he who had received the five talents came forward bringing five talents more, saying, 'Master, you delivered to me five talents. Here I have made five talents more.' His master said to him, 'Well done, good and faithful servant. You have been faithful over a little. I will set you over much. Enter into the joy of your master.' And he also who had the two talents came forward, saying, "Master, you delivered to me two talents. Here I have made two talents more." His master said to him, "Well done, good and faithful servant. You have been faithful over a little. I will set you over much. Enter into the joy of your master." He also who had received one talent came forward, saying, "Master, I knew you to be a hard man, reaping where you did not sow, and gathering where you scattered no seed. So I was afraid, and I went and hid your talent in the ground. Here, you have what is yours." But his master answered him, "You wicked and slothful servant. You knew that I reap where I have not sown and gather where I scattered no seed? Then you ought to have invested my money with the bankers, and at my coming, I should have received what was my own with interest. So take the talent from him who gave it, who give it to him who has 10 talents. For to everyone who has will more be given, and he will have an abundance. For, uh, but from the one who has not, even what he has will be taken away. And cast the worthless servant into the outer darkness in that place where there will be weeping and gnashing of teeth."  [00:36:56] Watchfulness and Stewardship [00:36:56] Jesse Schwamb: So it starts with that amazing connective, which we really spoke about in the last episode, in verse four- 14, starting with four. So it's tying, like we said, this parable directly to verse 13, which we know is in the, the parable of the ten virgins. But it's this idea of watchfulness. "Watch therefore, for you know neither the day nor the hour." So th- I think this is the point we really drove last time, that we really felt highly convicted about, that this parable is not like a detached economic lesson, but it's really like an expedition, exposition, not expedition- ... of what watchful discipleship actually looks like during the interval of the master's absence. Like, that's the whole setup here. So it's starting with this idea of like the master goes away, but here we have these slaves or these servants who are entrusted. And to me, again, that's like such a linchpin in this whole thing, 'cause it's, it's carrying the sense that of course, like, he's handing over stewardship. It's a deposit held on another's behal- I love this parable because it has some banking language in it. It's, it's a deposit held on another's behalf, and that's like the key covenant concept of the entire thing. Ownership remains with the master. The servants are stewards. They're not proprietors. And that language, I think, really anticipates, like, the entire New Testament theology of stewardship, which is developed by Paul. So like when Paul writes in 1 Corinthians, "This is how one should regard us, as servants of Christ and stewards of the mysteries of God. Moreover, it is required of stewards that they be found faithful." So like all of that, that's like just one verse for me. Like, that's an incredible setup.  [00:38:27] Tony Arsenal: Yeah.  [00:38:28] Common Misreadings [00:38:28] Tony Arsenal: Yeah, and you know, I think it bears saying, too, um, I wanna be careful how I say this because I don't wanna impugn, uh, poor motives or anything like that on, on the, the people that I'm about to speak to. And I say this a little bit tongue in cheek, but also I say this as someone who used to be deeply involved in youth ministry. There's kind of like a, a youth ministry, um- international version of the Bible, I guess, if you wanna put it that way, where, like, there are certain, certain passages and parables that s- for some reason seem really prone to misapplication- Sure in, in some context. And I would say, like, youth ministry is the one I have in mind. Like, um, one of them is, like, in Matthew 18 where it's like, "Where two or three are gathered in my name, there I am in the midst of them." Like, that's a, that's a statement about God's, God's presence in the judgment of the church and excommunicating an un- like, a, an unrepentant, uh, person who identifies with Christ. And, and ironically here, maybe not ironically, but, like, casting them into the outer darkness of excommunication, which is representative of casting them out into the actual inner darkness of damnation. Right. Like, th- there's a, there's a misapplication of that, that like, well, you know, like, if only a couple people came to youth group tonight, like, it's still worth meeting because where two or three are gathered, there I am in the midst of them. Um, this, this parable has a very similar kind of misapplication that is maybe a, a little bit less of a misapplication. Like, I think there is something to say in this parable about the fact that God entrusts us with abilities, talents, treasure, t- our time. Like, He's entrusted us with resources, and He does expect us to use those resources, uh, in a way that is honoring to Him and beneficial for the, for the gospel and for the kingdom. Um, that's true in a broad sense, but I don't think actually that this is what that... But, like, that's not what this passage- Mm ... is teaching. Right. I think I, I kinda joked last time, but, like, I've heard more than one sermon that draws the parallel between the word talent here and our talents in terms of, like, our spiritual gifts or our ability to play guitar or, like, to bounce a basketball and, like, thr- like, throw a free throw. Like, that's not the kinda talent we're talking about here. So I wanna, I wanna sorta, like, point that out just to sort of exclude that from the conversation. Yes, God gifts His people, and He expects His people to use those gifts for His glory and for their own benefit. Um, but that's not what this parable is talking about. This is a parable about the fact that God has entrusted the kingdom of heaven on Earth to His people.  [00:41:08] Jesse Schwamb: That's right.  [00:41:08] Tony Arsenal: And He expects His people to make use of that in a way that expands the kingdom and also in a way that does not... And this is, this is, I actually think, the main point of the parable. In a way that properly understands the nature of the king. The, the punchline or the main point of the parable here, it, just to sort of, like, I don't know, give away the ending or, like, unbury the lead, I don't know, whatever that is. The point of this parable- It's not that, like, it's a really good thing to double what God has resourced you with. The point of the parable, the reason that, just like the, um, just like it wasn't the virgins falling asleep in the last parable that was the problem because everybody fell asleep, in this instance, uh, the amount of money or the amount of return on investment that the servants produce is not the point of the parable. That's not the real difference between them. The real difference is that the former servants understood that their master had trusted them with a task and expected something of them, and the, the unfaithful, wicked, lazy servant had a total misunderstanding of who the master was- Right ... and therefore what his role as the master's servant was. That's the point of this parable, and I think, this is the last thing I'll say before I, I, I take a breath here. There's a lot of people that would look at this parable and might read some sort of works righteousness or, um, and this is more understandable and I think has a place within the Reformed tradition, although I don't necessarily hold this view. But would look at this as sort of like a theology which would, would argue that we receive some sort of enhanced rewards in heaven based on our faithfulness. There's plenty of good, faithful Reformed Bible teachers that would hold that position. I actually think whether or not that's true, this is still also not what this passage is getting at. [00:43:00] Jesse Schwamb: I, I totally agree with you there.  [00:43:02] Talents as Huge Wealth [00:43:02] Jesse Schwamb: I, I think one of the reasons that we know that is because we can look at some of these details and let the details speak to us about the magnitude in their representation, why they're given. So of course, whenever the scripture gives us detail, especially in a context like a parable, it can be helpful of cour- of course not to overanalyze them, but to respect their place in the context of the story, and that's why verse 15 I think is so important. So to one he gave five talents, to another two, to another one, to each according to his ability, then he went away. Now, this, this varies slightly, but there's a lot of, I think, very common historicity here that points us to understanding, like, the talents as a unit of monetary weight, and there is some discrepancy about its exact weight. But what we can say for sure is this: that we're talking about, as I teased at the beginning, a huge sum of money. So in other words, like, this is a gift from God himself. It's a divine gift. Yeah. It's something that's not earned. It's something that's given and something that's entrusted. So in the first-century Roman world, a talent was roughly equivalent to, like, 6,000 denarii, depending on who you talk to, which would mean that a single talent represented approximately, like, 20 years on average of a laborer's wages. So the sums then here we're talking about are staggering even at the lowest one. So the five-talent servant is receiving essentially approximately equivalent of a century's wages, and the one-talent servant is receiving 20 years' worth. There's no such thing as a small gift in Christ's economy, I think is the point here, and even the least endowment is immense beyond our reckoning. Yeah. So the distribution also is deliberately unequal. It's five, one, two, and the text doesn't offer any apology for this inequality. The master distributes to each according to his ability, which as I say that, I realize that could probably be its own episode, that we could talk about what that even means. Yeah. But he is matching and entrusting to capacity, and that's not arbitrary. Of course, that's wise and personal, and even the Greek here for this idea of capacity or power suggests the master knows his servants intimately and calibrates the stewardship accordingly. But nonetheless, it proves the point you're making here, which is not just about, like, well, do you have some kind of innate ability that's above average that God has endowed you with here? That's not even what we're talking about. Again, the whole point of this is to answer the question eschatologically about what the end means and when the time is coming and what good discipleship looks like. And so in that way, we understand then these talents to be these divinely appointed and massively generous gifts of God, essentially, like you said, the stewarding of the gospel in the story of salvation itself unto his people, and then to make something of that, so to speak, by the power of the Holy Spirit that earns a return for the kingdom, that is all empowered by God, that is under the volition of the person, uh, the Christian who says, "As a disciple, it is my responsibility to steward these gifts." That is really what we're after. So we do kind of get in this place where when you take this and say, "Well, what are you doing with," let's say- your home, if you have a nice home, are you being hospitable enough? If you have, let's say, a good singing voice by talent, are you using that to make sure that you're on the, quote-unquote, "praise and worship team," is not, like, entirely wrong, but it's not right either- Yeah to use this passage- Yeah ... for that purpose. There's a bigger theme here. There is, there's a much stronger and widescale framework that God is drawing us to and examine, and it's about the stewardship of the church itself.  [00:46:30] Tony Arsenal: Yes. Yeah, yeah, yeah.  [00:46:31] The Foolish Servant Exposed [00:46:31] Tony Arsenal: That's really key, and this is what struck me as, as you were speaking about that, is like we see in so many of the kinda like, uh, like the chump in the parable. Like, there's- Yeah ... a lot of these parables have like a chump- Right ... where like you're looking at and you're like, nothing about what you've decided to do makes any sense. We're talking about people who've been given, in the first case, 100 years worth of, worth of wages. Right. Right? Any one of these people, and again, we're talking about a timeframe where, like, you could just take that money and run and, like, nobody's gonna find you. There's no digital trail on any of this, right? If I stole, if I stole 100 years worth of labor from my manager or from my, my employer, they would find me, right? That's not the situation we're talking about. So even the chump who decided, "I'm not gonna do anything with this," he could've just take- taken off with the money and had 20 years worth of labor. Right. Just 20 years worth of wages. Right. This is a, this is a sum of money that makes all f- all three of these servants unimaginably wealthy instantly, right? The point of this is, in part, that the final servant has no idea the amazing blessing and responsibility that he's been given. And again, I come back to this. It's not because he is dumb or because he is, um, somehow less competent in a strict sense, right? It, it's so funny to me, like, we also gloss over the fact that, like, the guy who has five talents, he's got 100 years worth of money, 100 years worth of wages. Right. And he just goes and gets 100 more. Like- Right he just goes and trades and- Right ... comes up with 100 years worth of wages that he brings back. Like, that's, in itself is, like, phenomenally, amazingly outrageous. We ran into this too with the, um, the parable of the unmerciful servant, right? We've, we've got one guy who's got this unimaginable debt, like, like, thousands of years worth of, uh, worth of wages that he could never make up, and he thinks he's gonna somehow come up with it if you just give him enough time. It's kind of like the opposite here. This guy's got this unimaginable amount of instant wealth, and he just buries it in the ground. First of all, how much... We're also talking about an era where money was a physical, entirely physical.  [00:48:53] Jesse Schwamb: Right.  [00:48:53] Tony Arsenal: There were no, there were no digital banks. Like- No zeros and ones most of our money exists as ones and zeros in a computer program right now. Right. Like, in reality, like- Right ... my money doesn't exist. We don't have, like, a physical gold standard anymore in America. Jesse could probably s- I'm probably making dumb things up right now. No, that's that's- Like, it used- Right on to be that, like, every dollar that the United States government printed had, like, a piece of gold sitting at Fort Knox- Yes ... uh, like backing it up, but we just don't have that anymore. Most of the money that exists in our system is entirely imaginary. It's an entirely, like, made-up digital currency way before, like, Bitcoin was a thing. That's not the case in this timeframe. This dude who buried 20 years worth of money in the ground, that's a significant amount of labor in and of itself- Right ... to even be able to do that. So we're not talking about, like... And I think this is the thing we miss when we, when we read the word talents, and one, when we obscure it and we, like, we misappropriate the word talent to mean, like, abilities, 'cause it, that's a convenient, like, illustration tool. We're talking about a huge sum of probably gold or silver that this dude just buries in the ground, and then, like, digs it up when the master comes back.  [00:50:01] Jesse Schwamb: Right.  [00:50:01] Tony Arsenal: And I think, like- When we don't realize how much money this is, we miss the force of the master's like, "You stupid, dumb, wicked, slothful servant." Like, if you had even taken this money to the bank and done the least imaginable- Yes ... effort. Exactly. Like, if you had done anything at all, like how mu- how difficult, granted more difficult back in this age than it is now, but like if you had even done something as simple requiring as little labor as possible and just brought this to the bank and let them collect interest on it, we'd still be talking about a huge return. [00:50:35] Jesse Schwamb: That's right.  [00:50:36] Tony Arsenal: And he doesn't even do that, and that's, that's the point. There's the people who do, and they gloss over this. The parable totally glosses over the amazing effort and work that it must have taken to take 100 years worth of la- of wages and turn it into 200 years worth of wages. Right. Or to take 40 years worth of wages and turn it into 80 years worth of wages. That's an amazing, probably almost miraculous return on, on investment. Whatever they did is amazing, and the parable's like, "Yeah, they did that." They just took it to the traders and they brought back five more talents. Like, it's nothing. And then this idiot, and I say idiot in like the most like, like exegetically sound, idios, like, like foolish idiot person. [00:51:20] Jesse Schwamb: Right.  [00:51:20] Tony Arsenal: This idiot just buries it in the ground and doesn't even bother to bring it to the bank where he's gonna get some return on it. This is the picture of the fool who does not make use of the means of salvation. This is the picture of the fool who refuses to receive Christ as savior, who refuses to make use of the benefit and blessing of salvation that is available to all who will trust in Christ and turn to him. This is the same picture as the idiot virgins who didn't buy enough oil and just fell asleep when they knew that the bridegroom was coming, right? Right. It's not that they fell asleep, it's that they didn't do the most obvious, simple,

The Parable of the TalentsMatthew 25:14-30 The Parable of the Talents Casey Goode For the bulletin in PDF form, click here. You Are Entrusted with Resources (25:14-15)Use Your Resources for the Work of God (25:16-18) Strive For Well Done…” (25:19-30) •. The Reward of Faithful Stewardship • The Consequences of Unfaithful StewardshipFinancesWeekly Budget 34,615Giving For 05/03 33,270Giving For 05/10 31,610YTD Budget 1,557,692Giving 1,861,358 OVER/(UNDER) 303,666 Life Choices Since 1980, Life Choices Pregnancy Resource Center has championed the sanctity of life and the love of Jesus. Fellowship will join with Life Choices TODAY for the Change for Life drive. Grab a baby bottle on a seat around you, take it home, and fill with change or a check made out to Life Choices. Bring your bottles back Sunday, May 31. Your generosity gives women in Central Arkansas facing unplanned pregnancies a safe place for spiritual physical, and emotional support. New to Fellowship?We are so glad that you chose to worship with our Fellowship Family this morning. If you are joining us for the first time or have been checking us out for a few weeks, we are excited you are here and would love to meet you. Please fill out the “Connect Card” and bring it to the Connection Center in the Atrium, we would love to say “hi” and give you a gift. Fellowship Kids VBS - There's No Place Like Rome…That's why we want your kids to join us for an exciting Bible-times adventure with the Underground Church in ancient Rome! They will explore authentic Marketplace shops, visit the Apostle Paul (who's under house arrest), sneak to the cave where the Underground Church meets, take part in games, dance to lively Bible songs, and sample tasty tidbits as they discover more about the early church. Join us June 22-26, 9:00 am- 12:00 pm. This is for kids currently in Kindergarten through 4th grade. Register by May 24 at fellowshipconway.org/register. Fellowship Women's Bible Study - Knowing GodJoin us for “Knowing God,” a 4 week study of The Trinity by Rebecca Carter & Heather Harrison. We'll meet Tuesday nights at 6:30pm, beginning June 2nd at Fellowship. Register at fellowshipconway.org/women. Text Shanna at 336-0332 to reserve free childcare by May 25th.Fellowship Kids Summer Volunteers We are wrapping up the school year and preparing to head into summer. We are continuing our three-year journey through the Bible, and we need your help to do so. Our children are ready to learn about and worship Jesus. We have a place for everyone...Nursery, classroom leaders, hall monitors, storytellers, and special needs buddies. The summer sessions are May 31 through August 9. Contact Heather today at hfulmer@fellowshipconway.org or Ashley at aoverstreet@fellowshipconway.orgFellowship 101We invite you to join us on Sunday, June 14, at 9:00 a.m. to learn more about Fellowship. This is a great opportunity to hear about our mission, values, and our ministries. If you're new to Fellowship, join us in the conference room (first floor) to hear what God is doing and where He is taking us. During this time, you will meet some of our ministry leaders and get to ask questions. Register at fellowshipconway.org/register. Men's fellowship Smoke OffNothing brings men together like BBQ! Join us for the Men's Ministry Smoke-Off on Saturday, June 20, from 5–8 PM at The Venue at Fellowship — great food, baggo, board games, and conversations that matter with men worth knowing. Want to compete? Sign up when you register. RSVP today. Register at ffellowshipconway.org/men. Prayer During ServiceWe love to pray for one another. Our prayer team will have people at the front of the Auditorium under the signs Hope and Love to pray please feel free to walk up to them for prayer or encouragement during the first worship song after the message.

In this episode I walk through our entire 2026 investment portfolio: every account, every position, and exactly what I'm doing with our money. That includes a full update on gold (which has nearly doubled but I genuinely don't care), where we stand with Bitcoin at $65k, why I moved Linda's Roth IRA into a fixed indexed annuity after spending my whole career skeptical of them, our real estate split between Fundrise and Roots, the Tesla concentration problem in our stock portfolio, and what happened when I ran an app that automatically copies Nancy Pelosi's trades for 8 months — including the $1,500 I put in and the 12.4% it returned. If you enjoyed this, we'd love to send you a free copy of our book — you just cover shipping. It has over 1,000 5-star reviews on Amazon. Grab it at seedtime.com/free.   WHAT WE COVER IN THIS EPISODE Here's a little of what we cover in this episode: The Christian fund I've held for a year that's down 3% while the S&P is up 17% — and why I'm not selling The app that automatically mirrors Nancy Pelosi's stock trades (Trump mentioned her record in the State of the Union) Why gold has nearly doubled — and why I genuinely don't care The Tesla concentration problem in our stock portfolio that every rebalancing strategy says to fix (but I won't) Why I spent my whole career skeptical of annuities — then moved Linda's Roth IRA into one What we're actually putting in crypto right now, and why 80% of it is in one coin Why I want as few US dollars as possible right now — and what I'm holding instead   BIBLE REFERENCES Parable of the Talents (Matthew 25)   RESOURCES MENTIONED Sound Mind Investing (FCTE / Full Cycle Trading Fund) Roots Fundrise Innovation Fund Alto IRA OneGold Autopilot app Webull   DISCLAIMER Obligatory legal disclaimer: I'm a financial educator, not your financial advisor, investment advisor, tax pro, or lawyer. This channel is for general education, not personalized advice, and nothing here should be taken as a recommendation to buy, sell, or use any specific investment, account, or financial product. I'm just sharing what I'm doing, what I'm learning, and what I find interesting. Markets can be humbling. Investing involves risk, including the risk of losing money, and my results are personal, may not be typical, and are not guaranteed. Do your own research, use wisdom, and talk with a qualified professional before making financial decisions. Some links are to our resources and some are affiliate links, which means we may earn a commission at no extra cost to you. That helps keep the lights on around here, so thanks for the support.

In the Olivet Discourse Jesus explained that no one wouldknow when the Son of Man was going to return. There would be no signs or warning. He could come at any moment. He also taught that His return might be delayed for a long time. His disciples had work to do while He was away. In the Parable of the Talents, Jesus taught His disciples whatit means for Christians to be faithful slaves of our Lord and Master during this age until He comes again. A sermon by Pastor Caleb at Legacy Reformed Baptist Church in East Grand Forks, MN on 5-3-26.

What does it really mean to trust God with your money - and your life?John unpacks the Parable of the Talents (Matthew 25), exploring how everything we have ultimately belongs to God and how we're called to steward it with faith, courage, and generosity.

Have you ever wondered why financial breakthrough feels so close yet so far? Bob and Linda Lotich reveal that God is constantly testing us with money—and most of us don't even realize it's happening.   In this eye-opening conversation, they break down the three distinct money tests every believer faces, how to identify which one you're in right now, and what God is trying to teach you through it.     What You'll Learn: The Three Tests - The Struggling Test - When you have less than you think you need The Surplus Test - When extra money comes your way The Stable Test - When nothing has changed for years   Key Insights: Why the habits you build in struggle carry you into surplus The George Mueller story that will transform how you pray about provision How to know if you're in a "rest season" or need to take action Why stability might be the sneakiest test of all The practical "50/50 rule" for handling raises and windfalls How to create your own "stack of stones" to remember God's faithfulness Powerful Quotes: "The habits that we build in the struggle are the habits that carry us into the surplus time." - Bob "We've just been through this too many times." - Bob (during a financial crisis moment) "What do I need to do the job that God's asked me to do? And then the rest of it can just go." - Linda "It's an open book test and you have the teacher who wants to give you the answers." - Bob Biblical Foundations: Parable of the Talents (Matthew 25:14-30) The Rich Fool (Luke 12) George Mueller's radical faith Israelites and the manna James 1:2-5 on trials and wisdom Action Steps: Identify which test you're in right now - Are you struggling, experiencing surplus, or in a stable season? Create your modern "stack of stones" - Write down a timeline of how God has provided for you in the past Do a self-evaluation - How are you handling your current test? Ask God for wisdom - Is this a season to rest or a season to take action? Set up structures for surplus - Consider implementing the "50/50 rule" for future raises The Bottom Line: You don't have to pass these tests perfectly—none of us do. But God is using money to teach you to trust Him more deeply, steward more faithfully, and expand your belief in what He can do.   The question isn't whether you're being tested. The question is: Do you recognize the test?   Scripture References: Matthew 25:14-30 (Parable of the Talents) Luke 12 (The Rich Fool) James 1:2-5 (Consider it all joy) Proverbs (multiple references to saving and wisdom) Genesis 8:22 (Seedtime and harvest) Resources Mentioned: Simple Money, Rich Life by Bob Lotich - seedtime.com/smrl George Mueller's autobiography - https://www.georgemuller.org/uploads/4/8/6/5/48652749/the-autobiography-of-george-muller.pdf True Financial Freedom course - seedtime.com/tff Mission-Driven Millionaire program - seedtime.com/mdm   Ready to grow what God's given you? Get your free copy of Simple Money, Rich Life at seedtime.com/podcast   Have a question about which test you're in? Share it in the comments below or email us at hello@seedtime.com     Watch this episode on our SeedTime Money Podcast YouTube channel (https://youtu.be/sMnrFh6o2Ls)!   If you haven't checked out our best-selling book Simple Money, Rich Life (https://seedtime.com/smrl/), we think you'll love it. It was named the 2022 Book of the Year by ICFH and has over 1,000 5-star reviews on Amazon, and is best described as "a money book for people who don't read money books."  You can take it for a test drive for FREE at https://SeedTime.com/sample where you can download chapter 1 of the audiobook, grab the 1st 2 chapters of the ebook version, and even get the 5-week book study companion guide.  

What are you doing with what God has given you? In this sermon from Pastor Phil Hopper, we explore the parable of the talents and what it means to live a life of eternal impact. Jesus' Parable of the Talents (Matthew 25:14–30) reminds us that we are not owners—we are stewards. God has uniquely entrusted each of us with time, resources, and abilities to advance His kingdom. The question isn't how much you've been given, but what you're doing with it. As 1 Corinthians 4:2 says, “it is required in stewards that one be found faithful.” If you've ever struggled with fear, comparison, or feeling like what you have isn't enough, this sermon will encourage you to trust God and step into faithful stewardship. Don't bury what God has given you—multiply it for His glory. Connect with us on Social Media↴ Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/abundantlifels/ Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/abundantlifels   Connect with Pastor Phil↴ Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/PhilHopperKC Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/philhopper_kc Books & Resources: https://abundant-life.com/resources/books/   Listen to The Well Podcast⤵ Spotify: https://open.spotify.com/show/5wadnywAMEK7c0E1qatMoY?si=SjH6Ko7VR3OoHrRy1yYLlQ&nd=1&dlsi=395ae55d95ac4b11 Apple Podcasts: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/the-well/id1233267223 YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/playlist?list=PLR50sV854C2hogfBmv7YogvCjiNYLz9a2   Find Your Next Step:https://alife.livingproof.co/ Watch More Sermons:https://abundant-life.com/sermons/   Do you want to see your life changed by Jesus? Visit our website: https://abundant-life.com/ Listen to The Well Podcast ⤵Spotify: https://open.spotify.com/show/5wadnywAMEK7c0E1qatMoY?si=SjH6Ko7VR3OoHrRy1yYLlQ&nd=1&dlsi=395ae55d95ac4b11Apple Podcasts: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/the-well/id1233267223YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/playlist?list=PLR50sV854C2hogfBmv7YogvCjiNYLz9a2Find Your Next Step: http://alife.livingproof.co/ Watch more sermons: https://abundant-life.com/sermons/Do you want to see your life changed by Jesus? Visit our website: https://abundant-life.com/ Connect with us on Social Media ↴Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/abundantlifels/Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/abundantlifels Connect with Pastor Phil ↴Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/PhilHopperKCInstagram: https://www.instagram.com/philhopper_kc/Web: https://abundant-life.com/resources/books/Learn more about the A-Life Discipleship Journey: https://alife.livingproof.co/ More information on our sermons: https://abundant-life.com/sermons/Do you want to see your life changed by Jesus? Visit our website: https://abundant-life.com/

Money has a remarkable ability to shape our emotions. In a single week, it can make us anxious, fearful, generous, or joyful. But Scripture reminds us that money—despite the power we often assign to it—cannot ultimately provide what we most want. On today's episode of Faith & Finance, we spoke with Dr. Russell James III, the CH Foundation Chair of Personal Financial Planning and Charitable Giving at Texas Tech University and author of A Christian's Guide to Joyful Wealth Management.  He helped us explore a foundational question: If money cannot give us security or control, what is it actually for? The One Thing Money Can't Do Dr. James begins where the Apostle Paul begins—in 1 Timothy 6. Paul reminds believers of a simple but transformative reality: we cannot take wealth with us when we die. “Money is temporary,” Dr. James explained. “Eventually, every one of us will lose it. The only real question is how.” That truth reframes everything about financial decision-making. If wealth cannot follow us beyond this life, then we are not owners in the ultimate sense—we are stewards. And that reality isn't merely a theological concept; it's also biological. Eventually, every dollar we possess will pass to someone else. Thinking about money this way changes the conversation. Instead of asking, “How can I keep this?” we begin asking, “How should I use what God has entrusted to me while I have it?” The Four Ways People Manage Wealth According to Dr. James, Scripture points to four common approaches to handling wealth: 1. Binge Spending wealth recklessly in pursuit of pleasure—like Solomon's experiments in Ecclesiastes or the prodigal son in Luke 15. 2. Bury Hoarding wealth, protecting it carefully but never truly using it. 3. Toil Working relentlessly to accumulate more and more wealth, even when basic needs are already met. 4. Enjoy Receiving God's provision with gratitude and using it for good. The first three approaches share a common problem: they ultimately lead to the same outcome—dying with unused or misused wealth. The fourth option—enjoyment—points us toward something better. The Hidden Role of Fear in Our Finances One of the most powerful forces shaping financial behavior is fear. Dr. James noted that many stewardship conversations focus on avoiding overspending. While that's important, Jesus often warned about the opposite problem—hoarding wealth out of fear. In both the Parable of the Talents (Matthew 25:14–30) and the Parable of the Minas (Luke 19:11–27), the servant who buried what he was given offered the same explanation: “I was afraid.” Fear narrows our focus to worst-case scenarios. It tempts us to seek control through accumulation rather than trusting God as our provider. And yet Scripture reminds us that wealth cannot offer the control we hope for. It is always uncertain and ultimately temporary. The Biblical Vision of Enjoyment One of the most surprising teachings in Scripture is that God intends us to enjoy what He provides. In 1 Timothy 6:17, Paul writes that God “richly provides us with everything to enjoy.” But biblical enjoyment is not indulgence. Dr. James explained that true enjoyment comes when we put resources to work for good purposes. In the very next verse, Paul describes what that looks like: “They are to do good, to be rich in good works, to be generous and ready to share.” —1 Timothy 6:18 In other words, enjoyment is found not in self-indulgence but in participating in God's purposes. The Power of Generosity Generosity plays a central role in joyful stewardship. When believers share resources within the community of faith, it strengthens relationships, builds trust, and points others toward God's goodness. Dr. James highlighted an interesting biblical distinction between two types of giving: Almsgiving—helping those in need, which Jesus instructs should be done privately (Matthew 6:3–4). Community sharing—supporting the fellowship of believers and ministry, which the New Testament often celebrates publicly (2 Corinthians 8–9). Understanding these distinctions helps believers see how generosity can both honor humility and inspire others. A Legacy That Lasts When people think about legacy, they often think about money passed to heirs. But Scripture points to something deeper. Financial wealth is uncertain. It can disappear through market shifts, poor decisions, or changing circumstances. But good works endure. Paul describes generosity as “storing up treasure…as a firm foundation for the coming age” (1 Timothy 6:19). The example of a life lived in faithfulness can shape generations far more powerfully than any financial inheritance. Paul's instruction in 1 Timothy 6:19 calls believers to “take hold of the life that is truly life.” According to Dr. James, joyful stewardship allows us to do exactly that. When we release fear and trust God's provision: Gratitude replaces anxiety Generosity replaces hoarding Purpose replaces accumulation Research even confirms what Scripture has long taught: generosity produces joy. Taking Hold of the Life That Is Truly Life Money cannot give us security or control. But it can become a powerful tool in God's hands. When we see wealth as a temporary trust rather than a permanent possession, we are freed to use it wisely—enjoying God's provision, blessing others, and participating in His kingdom work. That's how stewardship moves beyond spreadsheets and budgets to become something far greater: a joyful response to God's generosity.  If you'd like to read Dr. Russell James III's book, A Christian's Guide to Joyful Wealth Management, you can download the book and study guide for free at EncourageGenerosity.com.  On Today's Program, Rob Answers Listener Questions: I run a small business in Texas, and I'm looking for a point-of-sale system from a company that operates with biblical values. Do you have any recommendations? I'm 81 and have been investing in the stock market for years. Would it be wise for me to move some of that money into annuities at this stage? I have two certificates of deposit right now. Should I cash them out and move that money into an IRA instead? Resources Mentioned: Faithful Steward: FaithFi's Quarterly Magazine (Become a FaithFi Partner) A Christian's Guide to Joyful Wealth Management EncourageGenerosity.com Gainbridge Authorize.net | Square Sound Mind Investing (SMI) Our Ultimate Treasure: A 21-Day Journey to Faithful Stewardship by Rob West Wisdom Over Wealth: 12 Lessons from Ecclesiastes on Money Look At The Sparrows: A 21-Day Devotional on Financial Fear and Anxiety Rich Toward God: A Study on the Parable of the Rich Fool Find a Certified Kingdom Advisor (CKA) FaithFi App Remember, you can call in to ask your questions every workday at (800) 525-7000. Faith & Finance is also available on Moody Radio Network and American Family Radio. You can also visit FaithFi.com to connect with our online community and partner with us as we help more people live as faithful stewards of God's resources. Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

Faithfulness is often tested in the moments no one else sees. In this episode, we explore how integrity is built — not in grand gestures, but in quiet, ordinary decisions. Through a simple but powerful story about a toddler’s toy and a mother’s promise, we’re reminded that what feels small to us may mean everything to someone else. Jesus teaches that how we handle the “little” things reveals the condition of our hearts. When we resist the temptation to cut corners, we demonstrate trustworthiness — both before God and before others. What We Discuss Why small acts of obedience matter The temptation to minimize “insignificant” responsibilities How integrity is formed in private decisions The connection between stewardship and trust Why faithfulness today prepares us for greater responsibility tomorrow This episode is sponsored by Trinity Debt Management. If you are struggling with debt call Trinity today. Trinity's counselors have the knowledge and resources to make a difference. Our intention is to help people become debt-free, and most importantly, remain debt-free for keeps!" If your debt has you down, we should talk. Call us at 1-800-793-8548 | https://trinitycredit.org TrinityCredit – Call us at 1-800-793-8548. Whether we're helping people pay off their unsecured debt or offering assistance to those behind in their mortgage payments. https://trinitycredit.org Full Transcript Below: To Be Faithful with the Little Things By Deidre Braley Bible Reading:Whoever can be trusted with very little can also be trusted with much, and whoever is dishonest with very little will also be dishonest with much. - Luke 16:10 Something you should know is that we have a dog and three young children. That means that nothing in our house is ever entirely clean, and also that there’s so much hullabaloo on any given morning in our home that when the dog starts to chew a kid’s toy, it is the least of my worries. But it was not the least of our two-year-old’s worries the other morning. We were trying to get everyone on the school bus and out the door when our dog found one of the wooden “bolts” from his play toolbox and started to roll it around in his mouth. “Oh, stop that,” I said, prying it from his mouth. I tossed it back on the floor and wouldn’t have given it another thought, except that our horrified toddler cried, “Mommy, will you clean it?” I assured him I would, of course, and then I gave him a hug and a kiss and sent him out the door with my husband so everyone could make it to their morning destination on time. As soon as the house was silent, I went about my morning rounds of tidying just enough clutter so I could work at home without being utterly distracted by the mess. When I went back into his bedroom to gather up the dirty clothes and clear a path for walking on his floor, I saw the dog-slobbered toy. And I have to be honest here—I thought to myself, “He’ll never know,” and almost just tossed it back in his toolbox without washing it. But then a small voice whispered into my spirit, “Whoever can be trusted with very little can also be trusted with much, and whoever is dishonest with very little will also be dishonest with much.” I was convicted. I took out a baby wipe and gently rubbed it down, then went on with my day. When he got home that night, can you guess what he asked me right away? “Mommy, you clean my toy?” It is hard to describe the relief I felt knowing I could honestly say, “Yes, I did.” Just like I said I would. To me, that little wooden bolt had felt inconsequential. My mind had been running through all the deadlines I needed to meet that day and all the more “important” things I needed to accomplish. But to my son, that was the important thing. If I hadn’t been faithful with that, how could he trust me to be faithful at all? Intersecting Faith & Life: Since that day, I’ve been surprised by how many opportunities I’ve had to be faithful in the little things—and how often I’ve been tempted to cut corners, thinking that no one will notice or care anyway. But after telling the parable of the shrewd manager, Jesus asks, “So if you have not been trustworthy in handling worldly wealth, who will trust you with true riches? And if you have not been trustworthy with someone else’s property, who will give you property of your own” (Luke 16:11-12)? In other words, the way we steward what we have today matters, and God sees the way we handle what he’s given to us to care for. The people around us do too. Our obedience in tending to the “little” things indicates the integrity of our character and whether we can also be trusted with the “big” things. As you go about your day today, I encourage you to keep Jesus’ words in your head: “Whoever can be trusted with very little…” Whenever you are tempted to cut a corner (like tossing that dog-slobbered toy back into the bin without washing it first), remember that this is an opportunity to be faithful—to show God and others that you are a person of integrity whom they can trust. Further Reading:The Parable of the Faithful Steward: Luke 12:35-48The Parable of the Talents: Matthew 25:14-28 1 Peter 4:10 Discover more Christian podcasts at lifeaudio.com and inquire about advertising opportunities at lifeaudio.com/contact-us.

What does it really mean to be a good steward?In this powerful message, we unpack the call to serve with excellence by exploring three foundational truths of stewardship:God is the OwnerA good steward appreciates what they've been givenA good steward lives with accountability in mindThrough 1 Corinthians 15:58, Ephesians 4, 1 Peter 4, and the Parable of the Talents (Matthew 25), we are reminded that every believer has received a gift — and burying it is not an option. Fear is not an excuse. Comparison is a trap. Laziness is costly.Whether you serve on a team, in the marketplace, at home, or in your community, this message will challenge you to recognize what God has entrusted to you, develop it, multiply it, and steward it faithfully for His glory.The day of accountability is coming — and we want to hear, “Well done, good and faithful servant.”Listen in and take inventory: What has God placed in your hands?

 Virtue & VicesThis week we are ending our series Virtue vs Vice and we are going to confront a silent but dangerous enemy of the soul: apathy. In the Parable of the Talents (Matthew 25:14–30), Jesus teaches that faithfulness is not about how much we have but about what we do with what we've been given. As we wait for Jesus' return, will we act in obedience or bury what God entrusted to us? Join us as we explore The Virtue of Faithfulness vs. The Vice of Apathy.   Series: Virtues & VicesSpeaker: Herber CamposScripture: Matthew 25:14-30Timstamps00:00 - What if, at the end of your life, the greatest regret is not what you did wrong; but what you never did at all?06:38 - Context of Matthew 25:14-3009:42 - Context of the Parable11:09 - Definition of Faithfulness12:18 - Definition of Apathy12:36 - Definition of Talent14:07 - Key lessons from Matthew 25:14-3022:30 - The Judgement26:28 - Faithfulness shows in doing, not just knowing28:23 - Summary29:29 - Conclusion31:10 - Prayer32:11 - Updates32:47 - Discussion & Prayer Focus#jesus #jesuschrist #mountainviewchurch #vices #virtues #faithfulness #apathySupport the show

Title: "What Will We Do in Heaven?" - Revelation 22:3-5 Series: Heaven on Earth - Living in Light of Eternity (Week 2) Date: February 15, 2026 Most people's mental image of heaven is passive at best and boring at worst—clouds, harps, endless floating. If that's what we believe eternity looks like, it's no wonder we don't long for it. But Revelation 22:3-5 paints a radically different picture. Heaven isn't passive. It's purposeful, active, and gloriously meaningful. This week's message picks up where we left off, building on last week's foundation that God is making all things new, and answering the follow-up question every honest Christian has asked: What will we actually do there? The passage reads: "No longer will there be anything accursed, but the throne of God and of the Lamb will be in it, and his servants will worship him. They will see his face, and his name will be on their foreheads. And night will be no more. They will need no light of lamp or sun, for the Lord God will be their light, and they will reign forever and ever." Three things Scripture reveals we will do in eternity: First, we will worship Him. The word translated "worship" in verse 3 is the Greek latreuo—it means to serve, to minister, to render sacred service. It isn't primarily about singing songs. It's giving yourself fully to someone worthy of your complete devotion. When you hear "worship forever," don't picture endless Sunday morning services. Worship in eternity will be far richer and fuller than that. Think of a concert violinist so absorbed in the music that everything else fades away—no self-consciousness, no distraction, just pure absorption in something beautiful. Athletes call it "being in the zone," artists call it "flow." That moment when what you're doing feels effortless and utterly right is a tiny glimpse of what worship in eternity will be like. Not forced, not tedious, but pure joy—doing what you were created to do, giving yourself fully to the One who is infinitely worthy. C.S. Lewis called worship the "serious business of heaven"—not grim or somber, but serious in the sense of being the most important, most satisfying thing we could ever do. What will that worship include? Verse 4 says we will see His face—not from a distance, not through a veil, but face to face, fully and clearly. In Exodus 33:20, God told Moses no one can see His face and live. But in the new creation, we will, because sin will be gone, the curse will be lifted, and we will be made perfect to stand in His presence. We will also bear His name—"his name will be on their foreheads." This isn't literal but speaks to identity and belonging: we will belong to God completely, marked as His forever. And we will serve without weariness. In this world, even our best worship gets tired. We get distracted. We lose focus. In eternity, worship will be pure joy—no distraction, no fatigue, no wandering minds, just perfect, focused devotion. The application: worship now is practice. Every act of praise, every moment of service, every time you give yourself to something eternal, you're rehearsing for heaven. Second, we will reign with Him. Verse 5 says "they will reign forever and ever." This isn't about lording power over others. It connects directly to the mandate God gave humanity in Genesis 1:28—to steward creation, to bring order from chaos, to cultivate and care for what God has made. That was the original calling. Sin corrupted it. Humans have ruled selfishly and destructively. But in the new creation, we will rule the way God intended—with wisdom, justice, love, and care. This means heaven isn't retirement. It isn't endless vacation. You will have real responsibilities. You'll govern, create, steward, and build. And the faithful servant principle from Jesus' Parable of the Talents (Matthew 25) applies directly: those who were faithful with what they were given heard "Well done, good and faithful servant. You have been faithful over a little; I will set you over much." Faithfulness here prepares you for responsibility there. The way you steward your time, talents, relationships, and resources now—that's training for eternity. We will also rule with Christ Himself. Revelation 5:10 says believers will "reign on the earth." 2 Timothy 2:12 says, "If we endure, we will also reign with him." You're not just a servant in God's kingdom—you're a co-heir with Christ. We don't know all the details of what that reign will look like, but we know it will be meaningful, purposeful, and glorious. And nothing done in faithfulness is wasted. As 1 Corinthians 15:58 promises: "Your labor in the Lord is not in vain." Every act of service, every sacrifice, every moment of faithfulness counts. Third, we will work and create. Work was not part of the curse—it was part of the original design. God gave Adam and Eve meaningful work before sin entered the world. Genesis 2:15 says God put Adam in the garden "to work it and keep it." Work is good. God works. We're made in His image, and we're designed to work. What the curse did was make work frustrating, exhausting, and futile (Genesis 3:17-19). But in the new creation, the curse is gone, and work will be what it was always meant to be: creative, fulfilling, purposeful, and joyful. The story of Bezalel in Exodus 31 shows us the beauty of Spirit-filled creative work. When God commanded Moses to build the tabernacle—a physical dwelling for His presence—He chose Bezalel and filled him with the Spirit of God, giving him "ability and intelligence, with knowledge and all craftsmanship, to devise artistic designs, to work in gold, silver, and bronze, in cutting stones for setting, and in carving wood, to work in every craft" (Exodus 31:3-5). God filled a craftsman with His Spirit to create beautiful things. Creative work honors God and glorifies Him. And in the new creation, you'll do work like that—creating, building, designing, cultivating—but without frustration, exhaustion, or futility. Isaiah 65:21-22 gives us a glimpse: "They shall build houses and inhabit them; they shall plant vineyards and eat their fruit...my chosen shall long enjoy the work of their hands." Building, planting, creating, enjoying. In eternity you'll use your gifts, your talents, your skills—whatever you love to do that honors God and serves others—but better, without limits, for God's glory forever. Work in eternity won't drain you; it will fulfill you. You'll be doing what you were made to do, in a body that doesn't tire, in a world where everything works the way it should. The message concluded with three practical applications for today: Worship now—every act of praise is rehearsal for eternity, so practice worship and let it become natural. Be faithful now—God is watching how you steward what He's given you, and small faithfulness prepares you for great responsibility. Work with excellence now—Colossians 3:23-24 calls us to "work heartily, as for the Lord and not for men, knowing that from the Lord you will receive the inheritance as your reward." Heaven is not passive. It is purposeful, meaningful, and glorious. It is everything you were created to be and do—only perfected. Live in light of that today. Key Scriptures: Revelation 22:3-5, Exodus 33:20, Genesis 1:28, Matthew 25:21, Revelation 5:10, 2 Timothy 2:12, 1 Corinthians 15:58, Genesis 2:15, Genesis 3:17-19, Exodus 31:3-5, Isaiah 65:21-22, Colossians 3:23-24

In this episode, Samuel Goulet teaches on biblical faithfulness, emphasizing that our ability to remain steady, obedient, and reliable flows first from God's own faithfulness toward us. Drawing from Habakkuk 2 and the Parable of the Talents (Matthew 25), he explains that faithfulness is not driven by emotion or ambition, but by patient trust, endurance, and responsible stewardship of what God has given—whether much or little. Samuel highlights fear as one of the greatest obstacles to faithfulness, showing how fear sabotages obedience and intimacy with God, while perfect love casts it out. The message ultimately calls listeners to resist fear, remain rooted in God's ways rather than cultural pressures, and live lives marked by consistent, weight-bearing faith that reflects the character of Christ.

Waiting for a breakthrough? The secret to your next level isn't out there—it's right where you are now. Pastor Jerry Dirmann reveals the key to promotion in God's kingdom: faithfulness at your CURRENT level.In this powerful message from the "Make Your Life Count" series, Pastor Jerry unpacks the Parable of the Talents (Matthew 25:14-30) and shows how God rewards those who are faithful with what they've been given—no matter how big or small. Whether you have 5 talents, 2 talents, or 1 talent, the same commendation awaits the faithful: "Well done, good and faithful servant."

What if the very thing you've been hiding—your pain, your story, your “not enough”—is actually the talent God wants to multiply?In this deeply personal and unscripted episode of the Good News Mental Health Podcast, Dr. Uejin Kim—child & adolescent psychiatrist—reflects on the Parable of the Talents (Matthew 25) through a mental-health and trauma-informed lens. She explores how fear, comparison, and unchallenged assumptions can quietly keep us stuck—spiritually, emotionally, and relationally.This episode speaks directly to those who:Grew up needing to figure everything out aloneFeel behind, overlooked, or “less than” in faith, marriage, or callingCarry trauma, burnout, or disappointment and wonder if it still has valueFeel trapped in comparison or toxic faith narrativesYou'll hear why God doesn't ask us to outperform others—only to be faithful with what we've been given—and how healing often begins when we stop burying our gifts and start asking better questions.Helpful Links:✨ Ready to get started on your personal growth & healing journey? Heal your inner child & reconnect with yourself here:https://www.uejinkim.com/bestill

Are you a faithful servant or a lazy one? In this powerful message, "Do Something with Them!" Pastor Ernest Almond dives into the Parable of the Talents (Matthew 25:14-30) to define Kingdom Stewardship. This sermon is a direct challenge to passive faith, emphasizing the biblical truth that faith without works is dead (James 2:26).Pastor Ernest teaches that Kingdom life is all about action and accountability. God has entrusted every believer with the "Three Ts"—your Time, Talent, and Treasure—and expects a return. Discover why merely preserving what you've been given is considered wickedness and why the proof of your salvation is demonstrated by your fruitful service in the church, in the marketplace, and in your home. This is a must-listen for anyone ready to stop sitting on their potential and start activating their faith.

Corey Speer

This episode unpacks the Parable of the Talents (Matthew 25:25–29) and urges listeners to stop hiding what God has given them. It contrasts fear, which buries gifts, with faith, which multiplies them through stewardship and bold action. Now is the season to act with confidence, not caution — to build, create, and increase what you've been entrusted with, trusting that heaven measures faith, not size.

In this episode, Jeff Reynolds leads a thoughtful and encouraging conversation alongside David Tooley, TJ Renfro, Keith Christopher, and Lauren Parish about how each of us is uniquely gifted to serve God's Kingdom. Together, they explore how our God-given talents and abilities—no matter how visible or behind-the-scenes—can be used to make a meaningful impact. Through Scripture, personal stories, and honest reflection, they challenge listeners to consider how they can step into their calling and faithfully use what they've been given. This episode is a hopeful reminder that everyone has a role to play in advancing God's work in the world.   ---   This episode of The Beyond Sunday Podcast explores the sermon The Talents | Matthew 25:14–30. In this parable, Jesus challenges us to faithfully use the gifts and opportunities God has entrusted to us. Join us as we reflect on living with purpose, taking spiritual risks, and investing our lives in what truly matters.   Submit a question - bit.ly/BeyondSundayQuestions

Everybody gets something to use in service to God. How are you using yours?   ---    Jesus told stories to help anyone willing to listen better understand life in the Kingdom of God. These stories meet us where we are and take us to deeper places in our faith. Join us as we listen to Jesus' stories and ask Him to help us grow.    Sermon Notes: http://bible.com/events/49500203 Submit a Question: bit.ly/BeyondSundayQuestions

Garth Heckman The David Alliance TDAgiantSlayer@Gmail.com    I heard it again… I am broke and I need extra money… I don't know what to do?      Freelance Your Skills Online: Use platforms like Upwork, Fiverr, or Freelancer to offer services such as writing, graphic design, programming, data entry, social media management, or virtual assistant work. You leverage existing skills and set your own hours. Pet Sitting or Dog Walking: If you love animals, use apps like Rover or Wag! to find gigs watching pets in your home or theirs, or taking dogs for walks. This offers flexible hours and is often in high demand. Deliver Food or Groceries: Drive for services like Uber Eats, DoorDash, or Instacart. You can work on a flexible schedule and earn money delivering meals or groceries to people in your area. Sell Unwanted Items: Declutter your home and sell unused items like clothing, furniture, electronics, or books on platforms like eBay, Facebook Marketplace, Poshmark, or at a local yard sale. Take Paid Online Surveys and Participate in Focus Groups: Websites like Survey Junkie, Swagbucks, or Respondent pay you for sharing your opinion. Surveys are low-effort and can be done in your spare time, while focus groups often pay a higher hourly rate. Rent Out a Room or Your Car: If you have a spare room, you can rent it out for short-term stays on platforms like Airbnb. If you don't use your car often, you can rent it out through car-sharing services like Turo. Test Websites and Apps: Companies will pay you to test their websites and apps for usability, providing feedback on your experience. Services like UserTesting often offer a quick, one-time payment per test. Tutoring (Online or In-Person): If you are knowledgeable in a specific subject, language, or skill, you can tutor students online or locally. Sites like Wyzant or Chegg Tutors can help you find clients and set your rate. Complete Local Odd Jobs/Tasks: Use apps like TaskRabbit to find small gigs in your community, such as assembling furniture, light yard work, cleaning, or running errands for others.     The Bible does not contain a specific book on "business" or "entrepreneurship" as modern concepts, but it offers numerous principles regarding work, wealth, diligence, and ethical conduct that are highly relevant to both. Here are the key biblical principles applied to business and entrepreneurship:   1. Work and Diligence are Commended   The Bible encourages hard work and warns against laziness. This principle is fundamental to a successful venture. Diligence brings reward: "Lazy hands make for poverty, but diligent hands bring wealth." (Proverbs 10:4). Diligent hands: active, eager, willing to try anything….. When I first got online and saw the possibilities I figure out something pretty quick. Not every youth pastor had my creative skill and writing lessons for youth. I was already a regular contributor/writer for YouthWorker Journal - So I would put together these really good power point lessons with great applications. Then I sold them online… and guess what - people bought them!  To pay my bills I have lots of skills and I will try anything.  I have taught guitar, drums, I am a personal trainer. But all these things fit within my calendar. I can't take on another hourly, full time job - I am still and first a pastor. So Diligent hands seek what works best for each person.  Just today I hit up a woman who has a unique skill for other women- I can't give to much away just yet. But she absolutely loved my idea and wants to come on board. We will typically work with about 25 women for one night a week and make a few thousand dollars. Diligence - try anything and if you fail - keep trying.    YESTERDAY SOMEONE ASKED… Hey you said a $1000 bucks a week… how could you do that with just Uber… well my thought (and I did not explain it fully- sorry) is between uber, teach a lesson, sell something a $1000 a week is easy. Hey first and foremost - you better have a budget and stick to it! Or you will never have enough money!    Purposeful work: The creation narrative and later writings present work as a good, God-given activity (Genesis 2:15, Colossians 3:23-24). Work is seen as service, not just to people, but ultimately to the Lord…. Maybe you are asking the wrong question… maybe you should ask God what can I do to add value to your kingdom and get paid at the same time. A great friend of mine teaches martial arts/self protection… but he is also a strong believer. He gets paid well, has a strong client list, but uses this opportunity to share Christ all the time. It is a win win.    2. Stewardship and Investment   The concept of stewardship is central, suggesting that everything a person possesses—time, talent, and treasure—ultimately belongs to God and should be managed wisely… here is an idea, managing our time also means charging for our time. Listen I have a ton of people that would call me a friend - many times they want me to teach or train them for free because I am a friend and on top of that a pastor. Here is one simple rule I let them in on all the time. I have to charge my friends because my enemies won't do business with me. I say it in a fun loving way, but it gets the point across.  The Parable of the Talents (Matthew 25:14-30): This parable is often cited as a direct encouragement for enterprise and investment. The master praises the servants who invested their money and produced a profit, while rebuking the one who buried his talent out of fear. This emphasizes the expectation of using resources (gifts, skills, capital, talents) productively, taking calculated risks, and seeking growth… is a God thing. It is a value to our maker.  The lazy servant is called wicked. He acted in fear… fear kept him from seeing his investments take off. FEAR will stop 95% of all people who have ideas to make extra money… but if you are lazy fear is a great excuse to fall back on. I will forever nag my friend for not acting on his stupid idea… it was Uber, but he never acted on it… FEAR!  Prudence and Planning: "For which of you, desiring to build a tower, does not first sit down and calculate the cost, whether he has enough to complete it?" (Luke 14:28). This speaks to the need for careful planning, foresight, and sound financial management in business… most buisinesses fail due to lack of financial backing and a lack of planning. I used to have the #1 powerlifting gym in the country. Now I have a nice small personal training gym. It has everything I need…in time I will open another gym for body soul and spirit. But until then I just keep planning, picking up equipment that is a steal… and when the time is right - Boom I will act. But I will no longer rush into things! 

What does worship look like when the music stops? In this message, Pastor Jess brings our “This Is Worship” journey to a pivotal truth from Romans 12:1—worship is the everyday surrender of our whole selves to God. Drawing from Micah 6:8, 1 Peter 4:10–11, and Jesus' Parable of the Talents (Matthew 25), we explore how the rest of worship shapes a life of worship, forms the heart of worship, and naturally flows into the sacrifice of worship: service.You'll hear how offering our gifts isn't about losing what we love—it's about giving what we've been given back to God for the good of others. When we act justly, love mercy, walk humbly, and steward our talents, our worship becomes real and transformative.

We've all heard the phrase, “Well done, good and faithful servant”, but what did Jesus actually mean when He said it? In this episode, we'll unpack the Parable of the Talents (Matthew 25) and Paul's final words in 2 Timothy 4:7–8 to explore what faithfulness really looks like in the life of a believer.You'll hear:The deeper meaning behind Jesus' parable and where this phrase comes from.How God entrusts each of us with gifts and callings “according to our ability.”Why “finishing the race” matters more than perfection or comparison.How answering your calling with daily obedience leads to eternal joy and hearing those words: “Well done.”This conversation will encourage you to see your identity, calling, and purpose through the lens of faithfulness; not striving.

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Pastor Bryan Laws

Welcome to the Grace in Focus podcast. Today, Bob Wilkin and Ken Yates are addressing another “Tough Text” – “The Parable of the Talents”. What is a talent? Why are the servants given different amounts of talents? What are the lessons of this parable? Please listen today and each weekday, to the Grace in Focus

Scripture: Matthew 25:14-30 Key Takeaways: + Live the life you are going to one day wish you had lived + We have God-given resources corresponding to our God-given capacities and are responsible to God for how we steward them Psalm 24:1 + Urgency + Energy + Intentionality + Everyone will give an account to God for how they lived their lives and managed their God-given resources Matthew 16:27 1 Corinthians 4:5 2 Corinthians 5:9-10 1 Corinthians 3:10-15 + We will be evaluated NOT based on our capacities but based on our faithfulness with the capacities and opportunities entrusted to us. + The Day of Judgment will reveal the true nature of a person's relationship with God

Pastor Ryan preaches at King's Cross Church.

Send us a textWhat if everything we've been taught about success is backward? In this thought-provoking exploration of biblical principles, Tyler McHart challenges listeners to embrace faithfulness over success and consistency over spectacular outcomes.The journey begins with an examination of Proverbs 22:29 and a startling revelation: the word "success" appears only once in scripture, while "faithful" is mentioned at least 18 times in the Old Testament alone. This disparity reveals God's priorities and metrics for evaluating our lives and work. Through Jesus's parables about stewardship—both the Talents (Matthew 25) and Minas (Luke 19)—we discover that God rewards faithful consistency rather than mere achievement.Most striking is the realization that the reward for faithfulness isn't a comfortable retirement but greater responsibility. "I will put you in charge of ten cities," the master tells the faithful servant. This kingdom principle transforms how we approach our daily responsibilities, family life, and business endeavors. Success follows faithfulness when we're consistent in small things.Tyler shares personal examples from parenting his son, highlighting that faithfulness begins with simply showing up—to your Bible reading, prayer time, work commitments, and family responsibilities. Just showing up creates the possibility for something good to happen, while not showing up guarantees nothing will.Ready to shift your focus from chasing success to cultivating faithfulness? This episode will transform how you approach your daily disciplines and long-term goals. Share this message with someone who needs this perspective shift today.Support the show

Sermon July 20 - The Parable of the Talents - Matthew 25 by Sunnybrook Christian Church

“It takes 20 years to build a reputation and five minutes to ruin it. If you think about that, you'll do things differently.”With those words, Warren Buffett reminded us that character and integrity matter—especially in the world of money. Now, after more than sixty years of market-shaping moves and famous one-liners, Buffett is calling it a career. Today, Matt Bell joins us to reflect on his legacy and share what timeless lessons every investor can learn from it.Matt Bell is the Managing Editor at Sound Mind Investing, an underwriter of Faith & Finance. A Track Record That's Hard to IgnoreIf you had invested $100 in Berkshire Hathaway back in 1965, that single investment would have grown to over $5.5 million by the end of last year. Compare that with the S&P 500 over the same period, which would have turned $100 into just $39,000. Clearly, Buffett did something different.One unconventional move? He never issued dividends for Berkshire Hathaway, instead reinvesting profits to increase share value. That patient, long-view approach paid off—and it hints at biblical principles like delayed gratification and wise stewardship (Proverbs 21:20).Buffett famously said, “Be fearful when others are greedy and greedy when others are fearful.” While Christians would rightly reject greed and fear as motivations, the deeper principle here is about remaining steady and disciplined in volatile times—echoing Proverbs 14:15: “The simple believe everything, but the prudent give thought to their steps.”Buffett often waited with cash on hand until the right opportunities appeared, especially during downturns. That patience and discernment mirrors biblical instruction to avoid impulsiveness and instead seek wisdom in decision-making.Investing Lessons With Biblical ParallelsOver the years, Buffett offered dozens of pithy insights that mirror biblical truth. Here are a few standouts:“If you don't find a way to make money while you sleep, you'll work until you die.”—This speaks to the wisdom of putting money to productive use—earning a return through thoughtful investing, a principle echoed in the Parable of the Talents (Matthew 25). “Risk comes from not knowing what you're doing.”—In Proverbs 15:22, we're reminded that “Plans fail for lack of counsel, but with many advisers they succeed.” Financial ignorance creates risk, but biblical stewardship calls for wisdom and learning. Diversification, emotional control, and long-term vision—Buffett emphasized all three. These align with a measured, prudent approach to money that Scripture continually encourages.Buffett never let global turmoil shake his confidence in long-term investing. He wrote, “In the 20th century, the U.S. endured world wars, recessions, a depression, oil shocks, and more—yet the Dow rose from 66 to 11,497.” His takeaway: “It's been a terrible mistake to bet against America.”While our hope as Christians isn't rooted in any one nation's economy, Buffett's long view reminds us of the value of endurance and not making decisions based on fear or short-term noise (see James 1:5–6).Generosity and LegacyPerhaps most inspiring is Buffett's commitment to give away 99% of his wealth. He plans to direct his Berkshire Hathaway shares toward philanthropic causes within ten years of his estate being settled. While we may differ on where those funds go, the posture of open-handed generosity reflects Jesus' teaching: “It is more blessed to give than to receive” (Acts 20:35).Buffett's success wasn't just about intellect—it was about character: discipline, patience, and generosity. These are values every believer is called to cultivate. As you manage your resources, consider how biblical principles—often echoed in even the most unlikely places—can shape a wise, faithful financial life.To explore these ideas further, read Matt Bell's full article, The Wisdom of Warren Buffett at SoundMindInvesting.org.On Today's Program, Rob Answers Listener Questions:I've never had a credit card before, but I recently received a pre-qualified offer from Capital One. They mentioned they've reviewed my credit and noticed I'm keeping up with my bills. Should I consider applying for this card, and how can I verify that the offer is legitimate?As a grandmother, I'm concerned that my grandchildren aren't learning essential financial skills from their parents. I'd love to step in and help, especially with my 20-year-old grandchild. What is the best way to encourage them to save money and manage their finances wisely?Over the past couple of years, God has really blessed me with increased income, and I'm incredibly grateful. I live simply, help my parents, and avoid lifestyle inflation—but I want to make sure I'm handling this increase in a way that honors God. How can I manage this money with biblical stewardship in mind?I'm in a strong financial position—no debt, and I tithe faithfully. I just received $15,000 from selling off some business assets and want to invest it wisely. I'd like it to earn a good return, but I also want it to remain accessible if needed. What are some smart options that fit my situation?Resources Mentioned:Faithful Steward: FaithFi's New Quarterly Magazine (Become a FaithFi Partner)Sound Mind InvestingThe Wisdom of Warren Buffett by Matt Bell (Sound Mind Investing Article)Bankrate | NerdwalletOpen Hands FinanceChristian Community Credit UnionWisdom Over Wealth: 12 Lessons from Ecclesiastes on MoneyLook At The Sparrows: A 21-Day Devotional on Financial Fear and AnxietyRich Toward God: A Study on the Parable of the Rich FoolFind a Certified Kingdom Advisor (CKA) or Certified Christian Financial Counselor (CertCFC)FaithFi App Remember, you can call in to ask your questions most days at (800) 525-7000. Faith & Finance is also available on the Moody Radio Network and American Family Radio. Visit our website at FaithFi.com where you can join the FaithFi Community and give as we expand our outreach.

What if I told you that nothing you own is actually yours—and that this truth could radically change how you think about money, stress less, and give more? In this episode, we dig into one of the most transformational shifts in our Christian financial journey: moving from ownership to stewardship. This isn't just a spiritual concept—it's the antidote to both the prosperity gospel and the poverty gospel. We break down: Why guilt fades when you realize you're a steward The 3 principles Jesus taught that flip your finances upside-down How estate sales (yes, really) shook us into reevaluating our relationship with stuff Why multiplication is God's agenda, not just accumulation What “assets under management” means—and why it beats calculating net worth The parable of the talents, fast fashion, and what bike shorts taught us about ethics and obedience This one gets real. Real personal, real biblical, and real practical.

*Some* Bible-based points on the importance of investing in our future, along with supporting scriptures and biblical examples:1. *Planning Ahead is Wise* - *Proverbs 13:16* – “A wise man thinks ahead; a fool doesn't, and even brags about it.” - *Luke 14:28-30* – Jesus teaches about counting the cost before building, emphasizing the importance of planning. *Example:* Joseph in Egypt (*Genesis 41:47-49*) stored grain during seven years of abundance, ensuring survival during the famine.2. *Saving and Investing Lead to Stability* - *Proverbs 21:20* – “In the house of the wise are stores of choice food and oil, but a foolish man devours all he has.” - *Ecclesiastes 11:2* – “Invest in seven ventures, yes, in eight; you do not know what disaster may come upon the land.” *Example:* The Parable of the Talents (*Matthew 25:14-30*) shows how investing wisely leads to growth and reward.3. *Diligence and Hard Work Bring Prosperity* - *Proverbs 6:6-8* – “Go to the ant, you sluggard; consider its ways and be wise! It has no commander, yet it stores its provisions in summer and gathers its food at harvest.” - *Proverbs 10:4* – “Lazy hands make for poverty, but diligent hands bring wealth.” *Example:* Ruth (*Ruth 2:2-3*) worked diligently in the fields, leading to provision and blessings.4. *Leaving an Inheritance is a Blessing* - *Proverbs 13:22* – “A good man leaves an inheritance to his children's children.” - *Psalm 78:6* – “That the generation to come might know, even the children yet to be born, that they may arise and tell them to their children.” *Example:* Abraham (*Genesis 25:5*) left an inheritance for Isaac, ensuring his future prosperity.5. *Diversification is Key to Security* - *Ecclesiastes 11:2* – “Divide your portion to seven, or even to eight, for you do not know what misfortune may occur on the earth.” - *Matthew 25:27* – Jesus speaks of investing wisely, saying, “Then you ought to have put my money in the bank, and on my arrival I would have received my money back with interest.” *Example:* Solomon (*1 Kings 10:22*) had a diversified economy, trading in gold, silver, ivory, and spices.6. *Trusting God While Being Responsible* - *1 Timothy 6:17* – “Command those who are rich in this present world not to be arrogant nor to put their hope in wealth, which is so uncertain, but to put their hope in God.” - *Proverbs 3:5-6* – “Trust in the Lord with all your heart and lean not on your own understanding; in all your ways submit to Him, and He will make your paths straight.” *Example:* The Widow of Zarephath (*1 Kings 17:8-16*) trusted God and invested her last meal in Elijah, leading to miraculous provision.These scriptures and examples highlight the importance of *wisely investing in our future*, whether financially, spiritually, or in relationships. *Pst Leke Toba*

All Call Sunday A Sermon by Judy Mensch, missionary to the children  of Europe. For more information about Judy here.   Ouline Introduction Introduction of the speaker: Judy Mensch, a missionary, children's pastor, evangelist, and Bible school instructor. Personal anecdotes regarding support and shared history with the church community. Humorous and personal stories to establish rapport (e.g., pantyhose story behind the pulpit). Emphasis on the church as a community of people, not just a building. Reflections on Aging and Experience Positive perspective on aging: increased wisdom and social skills. Physical challenges of aging contrasted with personal vitality and ongoing activity. Encouragement to embrace age and continue serving. Purpose and Structure of the Service Explanation of the focus: The Body of Christ and individual roles within it. Outline of how the service will conclude: Invitation for newcomers to learn about Jesus. Instructions for congregation members to visit ministry tables and sign up for service opportunities. Emphasis that everyone should find a place to serve. The Body of Christ: Diversity and Function Analogy of the body: Each part has a unique and necessary function. Encouragement for all members to participate in ministry, not to remain spectators. Assurance that everyone has something to contribute. The Parable of the Talents (Matthew 25:14–30) Reference to the parable as a basis for the message. Clarification of terminology: preference for “skills and gifts” over “talents.” Emphasis that all have received gifts/skills from God. Key Points of the Message A. Variety of Gifts Everyone has received something; no one is left out. Gifts differ in type and measure, reflecting God's sovereignty and purpose. Biblical references: 1 Corinthians 12, Romans 12, Ephesians. B. Responsibility of Having Gifts Each person is called to use their gifts in service. Serving fills personal gaps and brings fulfillment. God's will is for everyone to be active, not passive. C. Rewards of Using Gifts Joy is the reward for serving and using one's gifts. Serving others leads to personal growth and spiritual satisfaction. Diversity and Equality in the Body God gives different gifts to different people, but loves all equally. No gift is more honorable; all are necessary for the body to function. Reference to the “upside down kingdom”: God's values often differ from worldly values. Practical Application and Encouragement Encouragement to sign up for ministries, including less glamorous roles (e.g., nursery). Recognition that some ministries are less visible but equally important. Everyone's contribution matters, regardless of recognition or praise. Conclusion Restatement of the call to serve and be active in the body of Christ. Assurance that serving is serving Jesus himself. Final instructions for the congregation on next steps after the service.  

Guiding Question: Where is the fear of failure holding you back—and what does real success look like in God's eyes? Summary: Robert Lewis unpacks the paralyzing effect of the fear of failure and how it can quietly dominate and define our lives. He opens with a dramatized workplace scenario and a personal story about the film Jaws to illustrate how fear—especially the fear of failing—can sabotage even our noblest ambitions, opportunities, and God-given callings. Using the Parable of the Talents (Matthew 25), Robert shows that the servant who buried his talent did so out of fear. That fear led to lost opportunities, diminished personal growth, and ultimately, loss of what he had. The message is clear: a fear-driven life doesn't stay static—it shrinks. Robert identifies five key sources that stir the fear of failure: Personal pessimism – underestimating God and overestimating our limitations. Exaggerated observations – seeing challenges through the distorting lens of fear. Concern over others' opinions – fearing how we're perceived more than what God desires. Overwhelming obstacles – allowing Goliath-sized fears to bully us into inaction. False definitions of success – confusing worldly approval with spiritual triumph. He counters this by redefining success based on Deuteronomy 30: Loving God Obeying His Word Courageously pursuing His inspired dreams Finally, Robert offers four sources of courage to overcome fear: Knowing God is with us Trusting that God will help us Believing we will succeed in God's terms Asking others to pray for us The message concludes with a call for vulnerability and community prayer, encouraging those burdened by fear to stand and receive support. Key Takeaways: Fear of failure can sabotage God's call on our lives. Real success is defined by faithfulness, not worldly accolades. The risk of obedience leads to growth, joy, and greater spiritual capacity. Courage is inspired through God's presence, strength, and community. Scripture References: Matthew 25:14–30 (Parable of the Talents) Exodus 3:11; 33:12–15 (Moses' calling and fear) Joshua 1–2 (spies and differing perspectives) 1 Samuel 10 & 17 (Saul's fear; Goliath's challenge) Deuteronomy 30:15–20 (true definition of success) Philippians 4:13 (strength through Christ) 2 Corinthians 2:14 (God leads us in triumph) 1 Thessalonians 5:25 (Paul asks for prayer)

Fear will always knock—but will you let it lead?In this episode, Chris exposes how fear quietly drives leadership decisions, stalls progress, and keeps leaders from stepping into bold, wise action.You'll discover how to recognize fear's subtle forms, replace it with courage, and build confidence one decision at a time.

The worst thing that can happen to a fighter is that he becomes civilized—and the worst thing that can happen to a church is that it gets comfortable.In this passionate, transitional message from 1 Corinthians 9, Pastor Chris calls the church to a life of gospel grit - because the gospel is worth it. Drawing from Paul's imagery of athletic discipline and inspired by scenes from the Rocky films, this sermon is a charge to live with urgency, purpose, and discomfort for the sake of Christ.- Why running hard means living a life poured out for the gospel- What it truly means to live free—and how that freedom leads us to serve- Why comfort is the greatest danger to the church in our generation- How the Parable of the Talents (Matthew 25, The Message) speaks directly to playing not to lose- A powerful closing commission to take up the mission that no one else can carry but youIf you've ever felt like your faith has settled into safe routines, this message will shake you, encourage you, and remind you that you were never called to comfort. You were called to run.

In today's fast-paced world of cryptocurrency booms, sports betting apps, and market volatility, it's easy to blur the lines between investing and gambling. Some even suggest they're essentially the same: putting money at risk in hopes of a reward. But that's a serious oversimplification—and it misses what sets these two activities apart, not just financially but morally and biblically.Let's examine closely how Scripture, wisdom, and faith guide us in thinking rightly about risk, wealth, and the difference between gambling and godly investing.Surface Similarities, Foundational DifferencesYes, both investing and gambling involve uncertainty. But the nature, purpose, and outcome of that uncertainty reveal a stark contrast.Investing is thoughtful risk—measured, intentional, and directed toward long-term growth and productivity. It's about building something: a business, a future, a legacy. Gambling, on the other hand, is a zero-sum game. One person's win always comes at another's loss. There's no product created, no value added—just money changing hands, often driven by chance.Scripture doesn't condemn risk itself. In fact, Ecclesiastes 11:1 encourages wise, forward-looking activity:“Cast your bread upon the waters, for you will find it after many days.”Farmers sow in faith, business owners launch ventures without knowing outcomes, and faithful stewards invest, trusting God while using His resources wisely.At its best, investing helps others flourish. When you invest in a company, you support its ability to hire employees, create products, and expand services. It contributes to the real economy. This aligns with the biblical call to participate in the common good and steward what we've been given.In contrast, gambling thrives on imbalance. Its business model depends on extracting wealth from those who can least afford to lose it. According to numerous studies, gambling establishments disproportionately profit from those in financial distress. That's not just unfortunate—it's unjust.Scripture speaks clearly on this:“Ill-gotten gains do not profit anyone, but righteousness rescues from death.” - Proverbs 10:2 “Learn to do right; seek justice. Defend the oppressed.” - Isaiah 1:17When we gamble, we're often not just risking money—we may be supporting an industry that profits from injustice and preys on desperation.Faithful Investing Is an Act of StewardshipIn the Parable of the Talents (Matthew 25:14–30), Jesus praises servants who wisely multiply what was entrusted to them. This wasn't a message about maximizing profits—it was about faithfulness. The servants who acted wisely weren't gamblers but stewards who took action with the Master's interests in mind.That's the heart of Christian investing: not chasing gains but multiplying God's resources to serve others and glorify Him.As stewards, we ask not just what we invest in but why. Are we motivated by generosity or greed? By love for neighbor or love of money?Gambling feeds on a dangerous lie: “If I just get lucky, everything will be better.” It exploits our dissatisfaction and fuels a restless craving for more.But the Bible calls us to contentment, not a compulsive pursuit of wealth.“Keep your lives free from the love of money and be content with what you have, because God has said, ‘Never will I leave you; never will I forsake you.'” - Hebrews 13:5That warning doesn't apply only to gamblers. Even investing, when driven by fear or pride, can become a spiritual trap. Hoarding under the guise of saving. Obsessing over returns instead of resting in God's provision. That's why heart-checks are essential: Am I trusting in God—or in my portfolio?Gambling Turns Money into a God—Investing Can Turn It into a ToolJesus was clear:“You cannot serve both God and money.” - Matthew 6:24Gambling often makes money the master—something to chase, fear, and idolize. But investing, done with a kingdom mindset, makes money a servant—something to steward and direct toward God's purposes.That's why investing should never be seen as a get-rich-quick scheme. It's a long-term discipline rooted in wisdom, patience, and generosity. It's a way of preparing for the future while contributing to the flourishing of others today.Here's the bottom line: how we handle money is never just a financial issue—it's a spiritual one.Gambling often reflects distrust in God's provision and a desire for quick fixes. When done right, investing reflects wisdom, contentment, and a desire to serve.Here are a few reflective questions to consider:Am I making financial decisions out of fear or faith?Is my heart set on what money can do—or on what God has already done?Do I view my investments as a way to bless others or simply benefit myself?Your Security Is in Christ, Not in ReturnsIn today's uncertain economy, it's tempting to look for shortcuts or put our trust in performance. But real peace doesn't come from perfect financial planning—it comes from knowing the One who holds your future.Whether you're investing, giving, saving, or simply getting by, remember:Your ultimate treasure isn't in the stock market or your net worth—it's in Christ.As you steward God's resources, don't chase the illusion of easy wealth. Instead, pursue faithfulness, justice, and generosity.That's not just wise investing. That's worship.On Today's Program, Rob Answers Listener Questions:I have a question about what I actually need to do as far as whether we look at an estate attorney, whether we look at a CPA, whether we look at a financial planner. We have several homes and investments and want to create a trust, but we just don't know which direction to go with it.I want to know if our portfolio is conservative enough. We have about $900,000 to $1 million in property. Is property considered aggressive or conservative in an investment mix?What are the pros and cons of changing house title to transfer upon death and adding my kids' names versus leaving it to them in a will?Is it advisable to contact an insurance broker about skyrocketing insurance premiums, and if so, how do I find a reputable one?Resources Mentioned:Faithful Steward: FaithFi's New Quarterly MagazineeHealth | HealthMarkets | Healthcare.govChristian Healthcare Ministries (CHM)Wisdom Over Wealth: 12 Lessons from Ecclesiastes on Money (Pre-Order)Look At The Sparrows: A 21-Day Devotional on Financial Fear and AnxietyRich Toward God: A Study on the Parable of the Rich FoolFind a Certified Kingdom Advisor (CKA) or Certified Christian Financial Counselor (CertCFC)FaithFi App Remember, you can call in to ask your questions most days at (800) 525-7000. Faith & Finance is also available on the Moody Radio Network and American Family Radio. Visit our website at FaithFi.com where you can join the FaithFi Community and give as we expand our outreach.

Sermon by Christopher Atkins on April 6, 2025. 

A.W. Tozer once wrote in The Knowledge of the Holy, “What comes into our minds when we think about God is the most important thing about us.” Our understanding of God influences everything—including how we handle what He has entrusted to us.In the Parable of the Talents (Matthew 25:14-30), Jesus tells a story that reveals how our perception of God directly affects our stewardship. Three servants are given different amounts of money while their master is away. Two invest what they receive and are rewarded for their faithfulness. The third, however, buries his portion out of fear. His failure wasn't just financial—it was a failure of understanding his master's character.A Misunderstanding That Led to FearAt first glance, the punishment of the third servant might seem extreme. After all, he didn't lose the money—he simply didn't invest it. But Jesus' parable isn't just about financial stewardship; it's about how we see God.The third servant viewed his master as “a hard man” (Matthew 25:24), someone to be feared rather than trusted. His words reveal the issue of his heart:“Master, I knew that you are a hard man, harvesting where you have not sown and gathering where you have not scattered seed. So I was afraid and went out and hid your gold in the ground.” - Matthew 25:24-25His fear of failure led him to inaction. Instead of seeing an opportunity, he saw a trap. Instead of seeing generosity, he saw harshness. And because of that, he did nothing.This is the danger of a wrong view of God. When we perceive Him as an unrelenting taskmaster, we shrink back—afraid to fail, hesitant to step out, reluctant to engage with what He has given us. We bury our talents—whether our time, resources, or gifts—assuming He is more interested in punishment than partnership. But Scripture reminds us:“There is no fear in love. But perfect love drives out fear, because fear has to do with punishment.” - 1 John 4:18Faith and Trust Lead to FruitfulnessIn contrast, the first two servants acted in faith. They saw their master as someone worth serving, embracing their responsibility with joy. They took risks, multiplied what they had been given, and were met with their master's praise:“Well done, good and faithful servant! You have been faithful with a few things; I will put you in charge of many things. Come and share your master's happiness!” - Matthew 25:21The master's reward wasn't just about productivity—it was an invitation into deeper joy. Their faithfulness wasn't about money; it was about trust. They trusted their master's goodness and acted boldly.Many struggle with obedience because they see it as a burden rather than an opportunity. But the faithful servants understood something key: what they had been given actually belonged to their master, and stewarding it well was a privilege.Jesus invites us to partner with Him in His work, not because He needs us, but because He delights in working through us. Paul describes this beautifully:“For we are co-workers in God's service; you are God's field, God's building.” - 1 Corinthians 3:9We are not slaves cowering under a harsh master—we are co-laborers in His kingdom. When we understand this, our perspective on obedience changes. Giving, serving, and using our gifts for His glory are no longer seen as obligations but as privileges.Living as Faithful StewardsThe real tragedy of the third servant is that he never truly knew his master. His false perception led to his inaction, and his master's response is sobering:“Throw that worthless servant outside, into the darkness, where there will be weeping and gnashing of teeth.” - Matthew 25:30This warning isn't just about stewardship—it's about our hearts. If we live in fear and refuse to trust God, we will miss out on the joy of His kingdom. In fact, I would venture to say that when some meet Jesus, they may not hear, “I never knew you,” but rather, “You never knew Me.”But if we truly know Him, we will step forward in faith, eager to invest our lives in His work.God invites us to see Him as He truly is—loving, generous, and trustworthy. When we do, we won't shrink back in fear—we will step forward in faith. Like the faithful servants in the parable, we will hear His words of joy:“Well done, good and faithful servant.”Let's live as stewards who know our Master—trusting in His goodness and investing in His kingdom with boldness and joy.On Today's Program, Rob Answers Listener Questions:My daughter has $20,000 in credit card debt across five cards. With her husband incarcerated, she's struggling to make the $800 monthly minimum payments. I'm looking for a way to help her consolidate the debt and get a lower interest rate so she can start paying it down.We've been offered a good price to sell our 14-year-old business, but I'm concerned about the capital gains taxes we'll owe. Besides investing in our IRAs, are there any other strategies we can use to reduce the taxes we'll have to pay on the sale?Resources Mentioned:Faithful Steward: FaithFi's New Quarterly MagazineThe Knowledge of the Holy: The Attributes of God: Their Meaning in the Christian Life by A.W. TozerCross InternationalChristian Credit CounselorsNational Christian Foundation (NCF)Wisdom Over Wealth: 12 Lessons from Ecclesiastes on Money (Pre-Order)Look At The Sparrows: A 21-Day Devotional on Financial Fear and AnxietyRich Toward God: A Study on the Parable of the Rich FoolFind a Certified Kingdom Advisor (CKA) or Certified Christian Financial Counselor (CertCFC)FaithFi App Remember, you can call in to ask your questions most days at (800) 525-7000. Faith & Finance is also available on the Moody Radio Network and American Family Radio. Visit our website at FaithFi.com where you can join the FaithFi Community and give as we expand our outreach.

Here are the three points: The master's entrustment The two faithful servants The unfaithful servant Application: Live in light of Christ's return Be faithful with what God has entrusted us Don't play the comparison game Fight against the sin of slothfulness Be encouraged: True Christians will receive an abundant reward You can watch this message here.

Topics: Judgment Day, Rewards in Heaven, Crowns in Scripture, Hebrews 9:27, Christ in You (Colossians 1:26-27), Parable of the Talents (Matthew 25:14-30), Parable of the Vineyard Workers (Matthew 20:1-16), Judgment Based on Jesus' Work, John 5:24, The Great White Throne Judgment, Revelation 20:11-15, The Bema Seat Judgment Explained, 2 Corinthians 5:10, Reward of the Inheritance (Colossians 3:23-24), Misinterpretation of "Well Done, Good and Faithful Servant" (Matthew 25:21), Servants or Friends (John 15:15), Judgment of Unbelief in Christ and Working According to the Law (Romans 14:12), Context of 2 Corinthians 5:10, Finality of Christ's Sacrifice (Hebrews 9:15), Symbolism of Crowns, James 1:12, Crown of Righteousness (2 Timothy 4:8), Crown of Glory (1 Peter 5:4), Meaning of Casting Crowns (Revelation 4:10), 1 Corinthians 9:25, Jesus Alone is King (Hebrews 2:7), Sufficiency of Christ's Blood, Hebrews 13:5, Salvation by Grace Not Works, Futility of “Earning” Rewards, Isaiah 64:6, Role of Faith in Judgment, Judgment of Unbelievers, Revelation 22:12, Eternal Security in Christ, John 10:28, Rewards vs. the Gospel, Perfection of God's Love (1 John 4:18), Judgment of Sin Already Paid, 2 Corinthians 5:21, Misuse of James 3:1 about Teaching, Refinement of Incorrect Teaching, 1 Corinthians 3, Role of Works in Christian Life, Assurance of Our Salvation, Jesus' Death as the Basis for Inheritance (Hebrews 9:15), Meaning of Being Co-Seated with Christ (Ephesians 2:6), Judgment of Believers vs. Unbelievers, Role of Faith not Performance, Christ as the Reward, Colossians 2:10, Futility of Human Effort for Rewards and Crowns, Not Judged for Sins Because Jesus Was JudgedSend Matt a text about this episode!Support the showSign up for Matt's free daily devotional! https://mattmcmillen.com/newsletter

Ever wonder why some people seem to effortlessly climb the career ladder while others stay stuck? We're about to blow the lid off the biggest secret in professional development. In this episode, we dive deep into the game-changing concept of micro-skills - the hidden superpower that can catapult you from average to extraordinary.

What if that other mom is able to raise six kids and chickens, plus make her own cheese, and you can barely keep up with your one child and keep him from the brink of disaster?Listen on: Apple | Spotify | OtherGuest: Lara d'Entremont Bible Passage: Parable of the Talents - Matthew 25:14-30Freebie: Live Like It's True WorkbookResound Media: Go to www.ResoundMedia.cc for more Gospel centered resources.Mentioned Resources:A Mother Held: Essays on Anxiety and Motherhoodby Lara d'EntremontComparison Girl: Lessons from Jesus on Me-Free Living in a Measure-Up World by Shannon PopkinYou're Only Human: How Your Limits Reflect God's Design and Why That's Good News by Kelly KapicMusic: Cade PopkinLara d'EntremontLara d'Entremont is first a mom to three little wildlings in rural Nova Scotia, Canada. While the wildlings snore, she primarily writes—whether it be personal essays, creative nonfiction, or fantasy novels. She desires to weave the stories between faith and fiction, theology and praxis, for women who feel as if these pieces of them are always at odds. Her first book, A Mother Held, is a collection of essays on the early days of motherhood and anxiety. Much of her writing is inspired by the forest and ocean that surround her, and her little ones that remind her to stop and see it.Connect with LaraInstagram Check out the Context and Color of the Bible Podcast! Visit www.shannonpopkin.com/promises/ to learn more about my six-week Bible study with Our Daily Bread, titled, "Shaped by God's Promises: Lessons from Sarah on Fear and Faith." Learn how you too can be shaped by the promises of our faithful God. Get your free False Narrative Watchlist. Learn more at ShannonPopkin.com.