For whoever has will be given more, and they will have an abundance. Matthew 25:29a

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Today we look at a parable of Jesus.  We won’t go through the whole chapter but will focus specifically on the parable found in verses 14-30.

Let’s start by understanding that this parable is talking about two things.  Most parables that Jesus taught has two meaning.  One for this life and one for spiritual.

First, it is talking about the Kingdom of God.  Jesus is using parables about modern life to communicate what the spiritual life is like.  He wants to put the abstract into concrete terms.

Second, it is talking about a business owner who invests in three of his workers.  He is leaving the equivalent of hundreds of thousands of dollars with these workers.  He hands it to them with no instructions.

Each worker knew that he has to risk the money and in order to increase the return.  We know that by what the worker says in verse 24: “I knew that you are a hard man harvesting where you have not sown.”  The worker knew he was supposed to get a return for the investment and it made the owner mad when he didn’t.

Here is where it gets weird.  In the second part of verse 29 he mentions that “whoever does not have, even what he has will be taken away.”  The better translation can be found in the Amplified version. “whoever does not have because he has ignored or disregarded his blessing and gifts from God, even what he has will be taken away.”

First and foremost, God gives us abilities and skills.  He expects us to use those skills to further his kingdom.  You are in business and God expects you to influence others and grow His kingdom here on earth.

Next, we get into the real world application.  This business owner invested his money.  He knew what three areas to invest in and one of them did not produce a return.

Money is to be used to further the kingdom.  If you have a chance to invest money in a Christian company, do so.  You will see that companies built on values tend to have a better overall return.

Investing also means investing in people.  That includes yourself.  Invest in growing yourself.  Invest in growing those around you.  Invest in the Kingdom of God.

For whoever has will be given more, and they will have an abundance. Matthew 25:29a