Dictionary of Bible Themes  »  8000 The life of the believer  »  8400 The tasks of the believer  »  8434 giving  »  8437 giving, of talents

All human abilities and skills derive from God and are to be dedicated to his glory and the good of others.

Talents are given and sustained by God

1 Corinthians 4:7

Skill, ability and knowledge given by God for the making of the Tent of Meeting:

Exodus 28:3; Exodus 31:3-6; Exodus 35:31-35; Exodus 36:1-2 Deuteronomy 8:18; 2 Samuel 22:34-35; Psalm 18:33-34; Matthew 25:15 pp Luke 19:13; Acts 7:10; Romans 12:6; 1 Corinthians 12:7-8; 2 Corinthians 3:5; Ephesians 3:7; Ephesians 4:7

Talents differ

Matthew 25:15 See also 2 Chronicles 2:13-14; Romans 12:6; 1 Corinthians 7:7; Corinthians 12:4-6; Ephesians 4:11

Talents need to be developed

2 Timothy 1:6 See also Matthew 25:16-30 pp Luke 19:12-26; 1 Timothy 4:14

Talents are to be devoted to God

For his own glory

1 Peter 4:11 See also Exodus 35:10,25; 1 Kings 7:40; 1 Chronicles 9:13; Psalm 33:2-3; Psalm 137:4-5; 1 Corinthians 10:31

For the good of others

1 Peter 4:10 See also 1 Corinthians 12:7; Corinthians 14:12; Ephesians 4:12

Talents are to be accounted for

Matthew 25:19 pp Luke 19:15 See also Matthew 21:34 pp Mark 12:2 pp Luke 20:10; Luke 12:48

Rewards according to use or misuse of talents

Matthew 25:21 See also Matthew 25:23-30 pp Luke 19:17-26

See also

3281  Holy Spirit, inspiration
5051  responsibility
5272  craftsmen
5840  eagerness
5889  ingratitude
7966  spiritual gifts
8248  faithfulness
8256  fruitfulness
8342  servanthood
8742  faithlessness
8783  neglect