Matthew 25:21

His master replied, 'Well done, good and faithful servant! You have been faithful with a few things; I will put you in charge of many things. Enter into the joy of your master!'

Study Bible

His master replied
This phrase introduces the response of the master, a figure representing God or Christ in the parable. The Greek word for "master" is "κύριος" (kyrios), often translated as "Lord." This term signifies authority and ownership, reflecting the divine authority of God over His creation. In the historical context of the New Testament, a master-servant relationship was well understood, symbolizing the relationship between God and His followers.

‘Well done
The phrase "well done" is translated from the Greek "εὖ" (eu), meaning "good" or "well." This commendation reflects approval and satisfaction. In the scriptural context, it signifies divine approval of faithful service. The historical context of the phrase would resonate with the audience as a high form of praise, indicating that the servant has met or exceeded expectations.

good and faithful servant!
The words "good" and "faithful" are translated from the Greek "ἀγαθός" (agathos) and "πιστός" (pistos), respectively. "Agathos" implies moral goodness and integrity, while "pistos" denotes reliability and trustworthiness. Together, they describe the ideal characteristics of a servant of God. The term "servant" (δοῦλος, doulos) reflects a bond-servant or slave, emphasizing total devotion and service to the master, which in the Christian context, is God.

You have been faithful with a few things
The phrase "faithful with a few things" highlights the principle of stewardship. The Greek word for "faithful" is again "πιστός" (pistos), emphasizing consistency and reliability. The "few things" refer to the responsibilities or talents given by God. This reflects the biblical principle that God entrusts His followers with resources and responsibilities, expecting them to manage them wisely, regardless of the quantity.

I will put you in charge of many things
This promise of increased responsibility is a reward for faithfulness. The Greek phrase "καταστήσω σε" (katastēsō se) means "I will appoint you." It implies a promotion or elevation in status. In the biblical context, this suggests that those who are faithful in small matters will be entrusted with greater responsibilities in God's kingdom, both in this life and the life to come.

Come and share your master’s happiness!’
The invitation to "share your master’s happiness" is a call to enter into the joy of the Lord. The Greek word for "happiness" is "χαρά" (chara), meaning joy or delight. This reflects the ultimate reward for the faithful servant: eternal joy and fellowship with God. In the scriptural context, it signifies the eschatological hope of Christians, the joy of being in the presence of God, and participating in His eternal kingdom.

Persons / Places / Events

1. The Master
Represents God or Christ, who entrusts His servants with responsibilities and rewards them based on their faithfulness.

2. The Servant
Symbolizes believers who are entrusted with God's gifts and are expected to use them wisely and faithfully.

3. The Talents
In the broader context of the parable, these are the resources or opportunities given by God to His people to steward.

4. The Joy of the Master
Represents the eternal reward and fellowship with God that faithful believers will experience.

5. The Parable of the Talents
A teaching of Jesus that illustrates the importance of faithfulness and stewardship in the Kingdom of God.

Teaching Points

Faithfulness in Small Things
God values our faithfulness in the small tasks and responsibilities He gives us. We should not underestimate the importance of being diligent and trustworthy in everyday matters.

Stewardship of God’s Gifts
Every believer has been entrusted with gifts, talents, and opportunities. We are called to use these for God's glory and the advancement of His Kingdom.

Eternal Perspective
Our faithfulness on earth has eternal implications. The joy and reward of the Master remind us to live with an eternal perspective, focusing on heavenly rewards rather than earthly gains.

Joy in Service
Serving God faithfully brings joy, both in this life and in the life to come. Our ultimate joy is found in entering into the joy of our Master.

Accountability and Reward
We are accountable to God for how we use what He has given us. Faithfulness leads to greater responsibilities and rewards in His Kingdom.

Bible Study Questions

1. How can you identify the "few things" God has entrusted to you in your life, and how can you be more faithful with them?

2. In what ways does the promise of entering into the "joy of your master" motivate you to serve God more diligently?

3. How does the principle of being faithful in small things apply to your current job, family responsibilities, or ministry?

4. What are some practical steps you can take to ensure you are a good steward of the talents and opportunities God has given you?

5. How do the additional scriptures connected to Matthew 25:21 deepen your understanding of faithfulness and reward in the Christian life?

Connections to Other Scriptures

Luke 16:10
This verse emphasizes the principle that faithfulness in small matters leads to greater responsibilities, similar to the message in Matthew 25:21.

1 Corinthians 4:2
Highlights the requirement of stewards to be found faithful, aligning with the servant's commendation in Matthew 25:21.

Hebrews 12:2
Speaks of Jesus as the author and perfecter of faith, who for the joy set before Him endured the cross, paralleling the joy set before the faithful servant.

Revelation 22:12
Jesus promises to reward each person according to their deeds, echoing the reward given to the faithful servant.

Proverbs 28:20
A faithful person will abound with blessings, reinforcing the idea of reward for faithfulness.