Matthew 25:18

But he that had received one went and digged in the earth, and hid his lord's money.

But {G1161} he that had received {G2983} one {G1520} went {G565} and digged {G3736} in {G1722} the earth {G1093}, and {G2532} hid {G613} his {G846} lord's {G2962} money {G694}.

But the one given one talent went off, dug a hole in the ground and hid his master's money.

But the servant who had received the one talent went off, dug a hole in the ground, and hid his master’s money.

But he that received the one went away and digged in the earth, and hid his lord’s money.

Context

Matthew 25:18 is a key moment within the Parable of the Talents, which Jesus shares as part of His extensive teaching on the Mount of Olives concerning the end times and His second coming. This parable immediately follows the Parable of the Ten Virgins and precedes the description of the final judgment of the sheep and the goats. It illustrates the importance of faithful service and diligence while awaiting the master's return, highlighting accountability for what has been entrusted.

Key Themes

  • Failure of Stewardship: This verse vividly portrays the unfaithful servant's decision to hide his master's money, contrasting sharply with the diligence of the first two servants who multiplied their talents. It represents a profound failure to manage and grow what was given.
  • Fear and Inaction: The servant's later explanation in Matthew 25:25 reveals that fear of his master's perceived harshness led him to play it safe, resulting in inaction and stagnation. This highlights how fear can paralyze and prevent productive engagement with opportunities.
  • Squandered Opportunity: By burying the money, the servant ensured no loss, but also no gain. This act symbolizes a missed opportunity for growth, investment, and ultimately, for pleasing the master.

Linguistic Insights

The word "talent" (Greek: talanton) in this parable refers to a significant unit of weight or money, typically silver or gold, representing an enormous sum—far more than a small personal ability. This emphasizes that the master entrusted considerable wealth to his servants. The act of "digging in the earth" was a common and secure way to hide valuables in ancient times, but in this context, it signifies a lack of trust and a deliberate avoidance of risk or productive use.

Related Scriptures

  • The consequences of this servant's inaction are detailed in Matthew 25:26-30, where he is rebuked as "wicked and slothful."
  • A similar parable, the Parable of the Minas (or Pounds), is found in Luke 19:12-27, reinforcing the theme of accountability and stewardship.
  • This verse speaks to the broader biblical principle of good stewardship of God's gifts and resources, whether spiritual, material, or temporal.

Practical Application

Matthew 25:18 serves as a powerful cautionary tale for believers today. It challenges us to reflect on how we are using the gifts, talents, resources, and opportunities God has entrusted to us. Are we actively investing them for His kingdom, or are we burying them out of fear, laziness, or apathy? The "talent" can represent anything from spiritual gifts (Romans 12:6-8) to time, money, influence, or knowledge. This verse urges us to overcome the fear of failure and to engage proactively in fulfilling our divine purpose, understanding that we will all ultimately give an account to our Master.

Note: Commentary was generated by an advanced AI, utilizing a prompt that emphasized Biblical fidelity over bias. We've found these insights to be consistently reliable, yet we always encourage prayerful discernment through the Holy Spirit. The Scripture text and cross-references are from verified, non-AI sources.

  • 2 Peter 1:8

    For if these things be in you, and abound, they make [you that ye shall] neither [be] barren nor unfruitful in the knowledge of our Lord Jesus Christ.

  • Luke 19:20

    And another came, saying, Lord, behold, [here is] thy pound, which I have kept laid up in a napkin:

  • Malachi 1:10

    Who [is there] even among you that would shut the doors [for nought]? neither do ye kindle [fire] on mine altar for nought. I have no pleasure in you, saith the LORD of hosts, neither will I accept an offering at your hand.

  • Hebrews 6:12

    That ye be not slothful, but followers of them who through faith and patience inherit the promises.

  • Proverbs 18:9

    ¶ He also that is slothful in his work is brother to him that is a great waster.

  • Haggai 1:2

    Thus speaketh the LORD of hosts, saying, This people say, The time is not come, the time that the LORD'S house should be built.

  • Haggai 1:4

    [Is it] time for you, O ye, to dwell in your cieled houses, and this house [lie] waste?

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