Matthew 25:14–30: Faithful Stewardship
The parable of the talents measures faithfulness by obedient effort with what was actually given, not by the size of the gift. The servant who does nothing is judged for a fearful refusal that misrepresents the master.
Parable of the Talents: Stewardship and Mission
The parable of the talents teaches that God entrusts his goods to his people according to their ability, and faithfulness means putting them to work rather than burying them in fear. Stewardship and mission belong together because the master's interests are meant to be risked and multiplied until he returns.