Profitable Servants

Preview: The parable of the talents is a graphic illustration of what Christ expects of His servants. The talents, or gifts, are not ours, but Christ’s, therefore we have nothing of which to boast. Yet if we are faithful in the use of them we will be rewarded; if not, we will be cast out. The parable of the vine emphasizes, among other things, the importance of steadfastness. These are the two main points of the lesson, to be profitable and fruitful we must be faithful and steadfast.


Scripture Reading: Matthew 25:14-29.

Memory Verse: Matthew 25:30.

1. What will be the result if the seven keys mentioned by Peter are used? II Peter 1:4-8.
2. Why did Jesus want us to be fruit bearing? John 15:8.
3. How did Jesus illustrate His relationship to the Father? John 15:1.
4. What is our relationship to Jesus? John 15:5 (first part).
5. What happens if we stay in Christ? John 15:5 (last part).
Note: The appropriateness of this parable becomes more obvious when we consider how the proper care of a vineyard is necessary if it is to be fruitful. It is the vine that must be trimmed back to one or two buds if it is to bear fruit properly, in fact it appears that the branches are just ruined. In like manner we Christians have to be trimmed of ourselves until it looks as though there is almost nothing left before we can bear fruit for Christ.
6. What are we urged to do? Why? John 15:4.
7. What is required in order to abide in Jesus? John 15:10.
8. What is one of those Commandments? John 15:12-14.
9. What causes one to be unfruitful? Mark 4:18-19.
10. In what should we have no part? Ephesians 5:11, Leviticus 19:17.
Note: Take no part in the barren deeds of darkness, but show them up for what they are.
11. How should we walk and what will it cause? Colossians 1:10, Titus 3:14.