The parable of the Stewards: The background & introduction (Matt. 25: 14-19)

At the outset it must be noted that this is a parable. A story designed to teach morals & principles using parallels in this world.  As such, we must be careful how far we take these parables & the connections in this world.  Only as far as is necessary to teach the moral or principle before us.

For the kingdom of heaven is like a man... To say is like is not to say is.

The key to the whole parable is the phrase found in verse 15, "to each according to his own ability"

What did the stewards do?  We see this in verses 16-18.  Verse 19 points out the judgment.

To each according to his own ability.  Our Lord does not expect of us what he does not give.  He knows what we can handle and grants to us as we are able, that which we can bear.  Whether an active responsibility to positively do something, or negatively a trial to bear. 

1 Corinthians 10:13 exemplifies this negative point, "No temptation has overtaken you except such as is common to man; but God is faithful, who will not allow you to be tempted beyond what you are able, but with the temptation will also make the way of escape, that you may be able to bear it."

Our Lord know that we are but dust. (Psa 103:14)

My wife’s favorite passage, Proverbs 3:5-6, also speaks to this principle when is states, "Lean not on your own understanding" 

Augustine of Hippo is quoted as praying, "Oh Lord, Command what you will, give what you command."

And He will - For He is good. And it is this point which is not agreed upon by the unjust steward.  We'll see this as we study.   Amen.