What is the meaning of Matthew 25:18?

But the servant who had received the one talent

- Even one talent equaled about twenty years’ wages; no gift from God is insignificant (Romans 12:6).

- He represents anyone entrusted with time, abilities, or possessions (1 Peter 4:10).

- The issue is faithfulness with what is given, not the amount (1 Corinthians 4:2; Luke 16:10).

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went off

- He steps away from the master’s presence, picturing spiritual drift (Jonah 1:3; James 4:8).

- Distance breeds self-directed choices over accountable obedience (Proverbs 14:12).

- Neglect begins with subtle separation before obvious failure (Hebrews 2:1).

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dug a hole in the ground

- He expends energy on something that produces nothing; idleness often looks busy (Proverbs 20:4).

- Burying treasure in earth exchanges eternal potential for temporary security (Colossians 3:2).

- Refuses the risk of faith that marked the servants who “went at once” to invest (Matthew 25:16).

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and hid his master’s money

- Ownership never shifts; the resources are still the master’s (Psalm 24:1; Haggai 2:8).

- Concealing a talent is the opposite of letting light shine (Matthew 5:16).

- Fear masquerades as caution, yet the master labels it “wicked and lazy” (Matthew 25:24-26; Luke 19:22).

- Accountability is certain: “From everyone who has been given much, much will be required” (Luke 12:48).

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summary

Matthew 25:18 shows a servant choosing safety over stewardship. He receives a valuable trust, distances himself from the giver, spends effort on non-productive self-preservation, and hides what was meant to serve the master’s interests. Jesus warns that neglect—not only open rebellion—provokes the Master’s displeasure. Each believer must remain close to the Lord, act in faith, and put His gifts to work for His glory.