Matthew 25:16 Meaning and Explanation
“Then he that had received the five talents went and traded with the same, and made them other five talents.”
King James Version (KJV)
Read this verse in context with translation switching:
Read Full Chapter →The servant with five talents immediately puts the money to work and gains five more.
What Does Matthew 25:16 Mean?
The first servant wastes no time: he went and traded. The wording pictures him working with the money, venturing it in real commerce where loss was possible. He acts as a man who knows his master expects increase, and his diligence doubles the trust.
Faithfulness is active. Whatever God places in our hands — abilities, means, opportunities, truth — is given to be used for him, not admired or guarded. Growth in the kingdom usually looks like this servant: prompt, willing to risk comfort, working steadily while the master is unseen. Peter calls believers stewards of the manifold grace of God (1 Peter 4:10); grace received is meant to become grace multiplied.
Matthew 25:16 in the Original Language
ergazomai (ἐργάζομαι), 'traded' -- to work, to put to active use.
Frequently Asked Questions About Matthew 25:16
What does Matthew 25:16 mean?
The servant with five talents immediately puts the money to work and gains five more.