Good Sunday morning to you all:
I know this message maybe a little early, but, I figured let's start the new week with talking about gifts. This Is a little long, so beware.
This even for me was somewhat confusing. I say this because often when I am studying something in a pattern, I overlook the original message. After spending time in the Word and focusing on what Jesus was pointing out in regards to Zaccheaus, it made sense. If you read Luke 19 : 1-11, you will see the exchange between Jesus and Zaccheaus the tax collector.
Scripture: Luke 19:11-27
Time period: 27 - 31 AD
Place: Jericho, a city East of Jerusalem, near the Jordan river
Author: Dr. Luke (most scholars believe)
Events: Christ is teaching through various cities in preparation for His return to Jerusalem.
The Parable of the Ten Minas
11 While the people were listening to these things, Jesus proceeded to tell a parable, because he was near to Jerusalem, and because they thought that the kingdom of God was going to appear immediately. 12 Therefore he said, “A nobleman went to a distant country to receive for himself a kingdom and then return. 13 And he summoned ten of his slaves, gave them ten minas, and said to them, Do business with these until I come back. 14 But his citizens hated him and sent a delegation after him, saying, We do not want this man to be king over us! 15 When he returned after receiving the kingdom, he summoned these slaves to whom he had given the money. He wanted to know how much they had earned by trading. 16 So the first one came before him and said, Sir, your mina has made ten minas more. 17 And the king said to him, Well done, good slave! Because you have been faithful in a very small matter, you will have authority over ten cities. 18 Then the second one came and said, Sir, your mina has made five minas. 19 So the king said to him, And you are to be over five cities. 20 Then another slave came and said, Sir, here is your mina that I put away for safekeeping in a piece of cloth. 21 For I was afraid of you, because you are a severe a man. You withdraw what you did not deposit and reap what you did not sow. 22 The king a said to him, I will judge you by your own words, you wicked slave! So you knew, did you, that I was a severe man, withdrawing what I didnt deposit and reaping what I didnt sow? 23 Why then didnt you put my money in the bank, so that when I returned I could have collected it with interest? 24 And he said to his attendants, Take the mina from him, and give it to the one who has ten. 25 But they said to him, Sir, he has ten minas already! 26 I tell you that everyone who has will be given more, but from the one who does not have, even what he has will be taken away. 27 But as for these enemies of mine who did not want me to be their king, a bring them here and slaughter them in front of me! ”
Luke 19:11- 27 (Matthew Henry Commentary)
Vs. 11- 27. This parable is like that of the talents, Matthew ch 25. Those that are called to Christ, he furnishes with gifts needful for their business; and from those to whom he gives power, he expects service. The manifestation of the Spirit is given to every man to profit withal, 1 Corinthians 12:7. And as every one has received the gift, so let him minister the same, 1 Peter 4:10. The account required, resembles that in the parable of the talents; and the punishment of the avowed enemies of Christ, as well as of false professors, is shown. The principal difference is, that the pound given to each seems to point out the gift of the gospel, which is the same to all who hear it; but the talents, distributed more or less, seem to mean that God gives different capacities and advantages to men, by which this one gift of the gospel may be differently improved. (MHC)
Now, here is what I believe we should take from this:
Each of you have a gift that in some way enhances or brings honor to the glory of God's kingdom. This/these gifts afford(s) you the opportunity to spread the gospel through your actions, or other means. However, it is your duty to use them in His service. Many of us spend our time searching for our dreams to do what make us happy. Others search to do what make others happy. Have you noticed how many unhappy successful people there are in the world?
Have you considered searching for what would make God happy? Consider identifying the natural talent provided by God, if you do, the success will be that much greater. Everyone is not going to be a preacher, songstress, actor, etc. However, given what God has given you, who knows. In today's society, many people still blame something or someone for their lack of success. Don't let politicians and government programs be your savior. How about looking within 1st and seeking a relationship with Christ and asking for help to accept your mistakes or missteps and move on.
Be blessed and have a great week.
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