The Parable of the Talents is a difficult passage for many Christians, especially as the servant who did not take a risk with his money is called “worthless,” and is assured a life of darkness where there will be “weeping and gnashing of teeth.” Ouch! This is the type of Bible story that keeps people away from church.

However, a closer look at the Scripture reveals the true meaning of the parable. The servant who played it safe with his money did so because he feared his master. He was so scared of his boss, that he was afraid to do anything positive with the money given to him. Likewise, if we are so afraid of God — viewing God as a punishing and vengeful God — we will be too afraid to take risks in our own lives. But living a Christian life, pursuing justice and practicing Jesus’ teachings takes great risk. God wants us to take risks, and Jesus was the ultimate risk-taker.

We need to have the courage, individually and as a church, to not get comfortable with the abundant blessings in our lives and to go out and take risks.

Sermon

“Entering Into Joy”
Sermon by The Rev. Joe Gunby
Matthew 25:14-20
Sept. 3, 2017