What will you do with what you've been given? I. Understanding the Question: “What Will You Do with What You’ve Been Given?” This question revolves around personal responsibility, stewardship, and the use of the abilities and resources entrusted to every individual. Within Scripture, humanity is depicted as receiving life, gifts, and opportunities from God. The inquiry challenges each person to consider how these gifts might be used for good and for the glory of the One who bestowed them. The question steps well beyond mere self-improvement or philanthropy; it touches on eternal perspectives, ethical obligations, and the practical outworking of faith. Below is an in-depth exploration of this topic, grounded in biblical teaching, supported by historical, archaeological, and scientific findings that confirm the trustworthiness of Scripture. II. Biblical Basis for Stewardship A. Every Good Gift Comes from God Scripture is clear that all blessings—from material possessions to talents—come from a divine source. As stated in James 1:17, “Every good and perfect gift is from above, coming down from the Father of the heavenly lights, with whom there is no change or shifting shadow.” By recognizing God as the ultimate Giver, individuals are reminded of the need for gratitude and careful management of these blessings. B. The Parable of the Talents Perhaps the most direct biblical account addressing what one does with what they have is found in Matthew 25:14–30. In this parable, three servants receive talents (a form of currency) from their master. Two invest wisely, multiplying what was entrusted to them, while the third buries his single talent out of fear. The master commends the two who increased what they received: “Well done, good and faithful servant!” (Matthew 25:21). Conversely, the servant who hid his talent suffers rebuke. This passage illustrates that every resource and ability should be used productively. The parable also underscores accountability, suggesting that individuals are answerable for their stewardship. C. “To Whom Much Is Given…” In Luke 12:48, Scripture affirms, “From everyone who has been given much, much will be demanded.” Whether one’s gifts are material wealth, intellectual ability, spiritual insight, or relationships, there is the expectation of fruitful investment. This principle implies not just a call to avoid waste but to actively pursue edifying and life-giving uses of what one possesses. III. A Historical and Archaeological Perspective A. Reliability of Biblical Manuscripts Ancient manuscripts such as the Dead Sea Scrolls, discovered in 1947 near the Qumran Caves, provide remarkable confirmation of the Old Testament’s accuracy. These scrolls demonstrate that the transmission of Scripture over centuries preserved key teachings that inform how believers today view stewardship. Similarly, early fragments of New Testament writings (e.g., papyrus fragments like P52 containing portions of the Gospel of John) reveal that the message regarding Christ’s teachings, such as the parable of the talents, has remained consistent. Such manuscript evidence bolsters confidence in the Scriptural instructions about using what one is given for good. B. Archaeological Finds Supporting Biblical Settings Ongoing excavations at sites like Jericho and Hazor have yielded structures, city walls, and artifacts aligning with biblical narratives. These findings underscore the historical context that shaped biblical teachings on stewardship. In the ancient Near East, owning property, land, or livestock was not only a way to sustain a family but also to express one’s dedication to God. The biblical framework of giving back part of the harvest, as taught in passages such as Deuteronomy 26:2–10, is illuminated further by these archaeological insights. C. Geological Examples and Young Earth View Many who hold a young earth perspective point to geological formations, fossil records, and catastrophic events (e.g., significant sedimentary layers that appear to have been deposited quickly) as suggestive of a global flood consistent with the record of Genesis 6–9. This narrative includes a divine trust given to Noah to preserve life. While interpretations of these patterns vary, those who favor this view believe it highlights the overarching biblical theme: God provides resources and opportunities, and humankind is responsible for using them in alignment with divine purposes. IV. Foundations of Stewardship in Scripture A. God as Owner, Humanity as Steward Psalm 24:1 states, “The earth is the LORD’s, and the fullness thereof, the world and all who dwell therein.” This underscores that everything ultimately belongs to God. Humanity is thus portrayed as a caretaker, responsible for managing resources according to God’s will. B. Work as Worship Stewardship extends beyond finances to include labor and creativity. Colossians 3:23 exhorts, “Whatever you do, work at it with your whole being, for the Lord and not for men.” This principle transforms the concept of “what will I do with what I have?” from a utilitarian question into an act of worship: each task, profession, or act of service can be offered to God as an expression of gratitude and obedience. C. Caring for the Needy The Bible consistently emphasizes using personal resources to provide for those in need. Proverbs 19:17 states, “Kindness to the poor is a loan to the LORD, and He will repay the lender.” This direct promise underscores that God values generosity and will respond to those who use their means to help vulnerable individuals. V. Practical Outworking of Stewardship A. Time and Talents Time management stands at the forefront of good stewardship. Ephesians 5:15–16 says, “Pay careful attention, then, to how you walk, not as unwise but as wise, redeeming the time, because the days are evil.” Whether in community service, creative work, or spiritual pursuits, investing time wisely acknowledges that time itself is a gift from God. Talents—skills, aptitudes, or professional expertise—are likewise meant to be harnessed for the benefit of others. An individual gifted in teaching, science, or art is encouraged to hone that skill and employ it in ways that promote truth, goodness, and the glory of God. B. Resource Management Biblical stewardship also involves managing material possessions. In 2 Corinthians 9:7, the apostle Paul teaches, “Each one should give what he has decided in his heart to give, not out of regret or compulsion. For God loves a cheerful giver.” Personal generosity, budgeting, ethical investing, and caring for creation all reflect responsibility and compassion. C. Sharing Spiritual Truth If one has experienced the truth of salvation, Scripture enjoins that this treasure should not remain hidden. As in Matthew 5:14–16, Jesus calls His followers “the light of the world” and instructs, “Let your light shine before men, that they may see your good deeds and glorify your Father in heaven” (v. 16). Sharing hope and encouraging others is central to faithful stewardship of the spiritual truths one has received. VI. The Ultimate Gift: Salvation and Purpose A. God’s Greatest Provision Among all gifts, the provision of salvation through Christ stands at the pinnacle. As declared in John 3:16, “For God so loved the world that He gave His one and only Son, that everyone who believes in Him shall not perish but have eternal life.” The question “What will you do with what you’ve been given?” becomes most poignant when it concerns this offer of rescue from sin and reconciliation with God. B. The Resurrection as the Cornerstone The resurrection of Christ from the dead confirms both His deity and the reality of eternal life. In 1 Corinthians 15:14, Paul emphatically proclaims, “And if Christ has not been raised, our preaching is worthless, and so is your faith.” However, the consistent testimony of New Testament manuscripts and the early church is that Christ indeed rose. This historical event provides comfort, motivation, and the promise of new life for all who accept it. C. Responding to the Gift of Christ Accepting the message of the risen Christ and committing to live under His lordship shapes the believer’s perspective on stewardship. This response is not reserved for spiritual matters alone; it encompasses career, relationships, finances, and personal gifts, all channeled toward glorifying God. Even scientific or academic exploration can be used to highlight the wonders of creation, echoing passages such as Psalm 19:1: “The heavens declare the glory of God; the skies proclaim the work of His hands”. VII. Illustrations and Examples A. Historical Anecdotes of Faithful Stewardship Throughout church history, numerous examples show men and women who embraced the call of stewardship. Early Christian communities, as reported in writings from the second and third centuries, collected alms for widows, orphans, and the poor—even during times of persecution. This sacrificial use of meager resources embodied the biblical ideals of caring for the needy while proclaiming the gospel truth. B. Modern Applications and Testimonies Contemporary stories also demonstrate faithful service. Individuals who use their scientific knowledge to develop sustainable water solutions in impoverished regions reflect a commitment to love of neighbor. Those who leverage their organizational skills to coordinate relief efforts in disaster-stricken areas exemplify diligence. In each case, what had been entrusted—knowledge, finances, or talents—became a channel of blessing. VIII. Conclusion: A Call to Action The question, “What will you do with what you’ve been given?” cuts to the heart of human purpose. From biblical teaching to historical and modern examples, it is evident that believers and seekers alike face a profound choice: • Will the gifts—time, talents, resources, spiritual insights—be hidden away, safely shielded but producing no fruit? • Or will they be put into use, multiplied, and offered back to the One who gave them? The biblical message, attested by manuscripts and confirmed by historical and archaeological findings, calls people to act as faithful servants, using every entrusted resource for good and for the glory of God. As the parable of the talents shows, it is those who step out in active stewardship, investing themselves and their resources wisely, who hear the commendation: “Well done, good and faithful servant!” (Matthew 25:21). This is ultimately a question of the heart. When one recognizes the gracious gifts from the Creator—from material blessings to the immeasurable gift of salvation through Christ—faithful service becomes not a burdensome task but a joyful expression of thanksgiving. May the consideration of these truths inspire everyone to live in a manner worthy of the gifts and responsibilities bestowed upon them, thus answering the question with faithfulness, courage, and gratitude. |
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