Using Our Gifts: A Call to Stewardship
Summary
### Summary
Good morning, everyone. My name is Ernie Lane, and I am grateful to welcome you to Chatham Community Church. Today, I want to talk about the gifts we receive and how we use them, drawing from the Parable of the Bags of Gold. When I was younger, I loved receiving gifts, especially those that showed someone knew me well. However, I often received gift certificates, which I disliked because they were easily lost or damaged. This experience taught me that gifts are meant to be used and enjoyed, not wasted.
In our summer series, "Fertile Ground," we've been discussing how to cultivate our hearts to be receptive to Jesus' teachings. Jesus often used parables to teach, and today's parable is about a master who entrusts his wealth to his servants. Each servant receives a different amount according to their ability, and the master expects them to use it wisely. The first two servants invest their gold and double it, while the third servant, out of fear, buries his gold and returns only what he was given.
This parable teaches us several important lessons. First, everyone is given something valuable, and it's not about how much we receive but what we do with it. Second, the master knows his servants well, just as God knows us intimately. Third, we must be intentional in our relationship with God, spending time in prayer, reading the Bible, and worshiping. Fourth, we should not fall into the trap of comparing our gifts with others. Each of us has unique gifts, and God expects us to use them for His glory.
Finally, we are called to be good stewards of the gifts God has given us. Whether it's wisdom, knowledge, faith, or any other gift, we must use them to serve others and honor God. The parable encourages us to build a deeper relationship with God so that we know how to use our gifts effectively. Let us strive to hear the words, "Well done, good and faithful servant," by using our gifts to make a positive impact in the world.
### Key Takeaways
1. Intentional Use of Gifts: Gifts are meant to be used and not wasted. Just like the servants in the parable, we are entrusted with valuable gifts from God, and it is our responsibility to use them wisely and for His glory. Whether it's wisdom, knowledge, or any other talent, we must put them to work immediately and not let fear hold us back. [03:17]
2. Intimate Relationship with God: Building a relationship with God requires intentionality. We must spend time in prayer, reading the Bible, and worshiping to know Him better. Just as the master knew his servants well, God knows us intimately, and we must strive to know Him in return. This relationship helps us understand how to use our gifts effectively. [08:56]
3. Avoiding the Comparison Trap: It's easy to fall into the trap of comparing our gifts with others, but this only leads to dissatisfaction and envy. God has given each of us unique gifts according to our abilities, and we should focus on using them to the best of our ability rather than comparing ourselves to others. [12:13]
4. Stewardship and Accountability: We are called to be good stewards of the gifts God has given us. The parable shows that the master held his servants accountable for how they used their gifts. Similarly, God expects us to use our gifts to serve others and make a positive impact. Our faithfulness in small things will lead to greater responsibilities and rewards. [14:44]
5. Encouragement in Using Gifts: The parable is not meant to instill fear but to encourage us to build a deeper relationship with God. By doing so, we will know how to use our gifts effectively and hear the words, "Well done, good and faithful servant." Let us strive to be good stewards and use our gifts to glorify God and serve others. [20:59]
### YouTube Chapters
[0:00] - Welcome
[01:20] - The Joy of Receiving Gifts
[02:21] - The Frustration of Gift Certificates
[03:17] - Gifts Are Meant to Be Used
[04:26] - Cultivating Fertile Ground
[05:12] - The Parable of the Bags of Gold
[06:23] - Trust and Relationship
[08:10] - Building Trust with God
[08:56] - Knowing God Intimately
[09:34] - Being Intentional with Our Time
[10:23] - Stewardship of Gifts
[11:20] - The Comparison Trap
[12:13] - Overcoming Envy
[13:16] - Using Our Gifts Wisely
[14:44] - Accountability and Reward
[16:04] - The Story of Gypsies in the Palace
[17:47] - Fear and Inaction
[19:16] - The Master’s Response
[20:59] - Encouragement to Use Gifts
[22:31] - Serving in the Community
[24:05] - Example of Coach Rick
[25:45] - Taking Account of Our Gifts
[27:26] - Closing Prayer
Study Guide
### Bible Study Discussion Guide
#### Bible Reading
1. Matthew 25:14-30 (Parable of the Bags of Gold)
2. Psalm 139:13-14 ("For you created my inmost being; you knit me together in my mother’s womb. I praise you because I am fearfully and wonderfully made; your works are wonderful, I know that full well.")
3. Romans 12:6-8 ("We have different gifts, according to the grace given to each of us. If your gift is prophesying, then prophesy in accordance with your faith; if it is serving, then serve; if it is teaching, then teach; if it is to encourage, then give encouragement; if it is giving, then give generously; if it is to lead, do it diligently; if it is to show mercy, do it cheerfully.")
#### Observation Questions
1. In the Parable of the Bags of Gold, what did the master expect from his servants regarding the gold he entrusted to them? (Matthew 25:14-30)
2. According to Psalm 139:13-14, how does God view His creation of us?
3. What are some of the different gifts mentioned in Romans 12:6-8, and how are they to be used?
4. In the sermon, what was the significance of the master knowing his servants well and giving them gold according to their ability? [06:23]
#### Interpretation Questions
1. Why is it important to use the gifts God has given us rather than letting them go to waste? [03:17]
2. How does building an intimate relationship with God help us understand how to use our gifts effectively? [08:56]
3. What are the dangers of comparing our gifts with those of others, and how can this affect our stewardship? [12:13]
4. How does the parable illustrate the concept of stewardship and accountability in our spiritual lives? [14:44]
#### Application Questions
1. Reflect on a gift or talent you believe God has given you. How are you currently using it, and how might you use it more effectively for God's glory? [03:17]
2. What steps can you take this week to build a more intimate relationship with God through prayer, Bible reading, or worship? [08:56]
3. Have you ever found yourself comparing your gifts to others? How did it make you feel, and what can you do to focus more on your unique gifts? [12:13]
4. Think of a time when you were afraid to use a gift or talent God gave you. What held you back, and how can you overcome that fear in the future? [17:47]
5. How can you be a better steward of the gifts God has entrusted to you? Identify one specific action you can take this week to serve others with your gifts. [14:44]
6. In what ways can you encourage others in your small group or community to use their gifts for God's glory? Share a specific example of how you might do this. [20:59]
7. Reflect on the story of Coach Rick from the sermon. How can you emulate his enthusiasm and encouragement in your own service to others? [24:05]
Devotional
Day 1: Intentional Use of Gifts
Gifts are meant to be used and not wasted. Just like the servants in the parable, we are entrusted with valuable gifts from God, and it is our responsibility to use them wisely and for His glory. Whether it's wisdom, knowledge, or any other talent, we must put them to work immediately and not let fear hold us back. The parable of the Bags of Gold illustrates that the master expects his servants to invest and multiply what they have been given. Similarly, God expects us to use our gifts to serve others and advance His kingdom.
When we bury our gifts out of fear or neglect, we miss out on the opportunity to make a positive impact. God has equipped each of us uniquely, and our gifts are meant to be a blessing to others. Let us be proactive and intentional in using our gifts, trusting that God will guide us and provide the opportunities to make a difference. [03:17]
1 Peter 4:10-11 (ESV): "As each has received a gift, use it to serve one another, as good stewards of God's varied grace: whoever speaks, as one who speaks oracles of God; whoever serves, as one who serves by the strength that God supplies—in order that in everything God may be glorified through Jesus Christ. To him belong glory and dominion forever and ever. Amen."
Reflection: What specific gift or talent has God given you that you have been hesitant to use? How can you start using it today to serve others and glorify God?
Day 2: Intimate Relationship with God
Building a relationship with God requires intentionality. We must spend time in prayer, reading the Bible, and worshiping to know Him better. Just as the master knew his servants well, God knows us intimately, and we must strive to know Him in return. This relationship helps us understand how to use our gifts effectively.
When we invest time in our relationship with God, we gain wisdom and discernment on how to use our gifts. It is through this intimate connection that we can hear God's voice and follow His guidance. Let us prioritize our time with God, seeking to know Him more deeply and allowing His presence to transform our lives. [08:56]
Jeremiah 29:12-13 (ESV): "Then you will call upon me and come and pray to me, and I will hear you. You will seek me and find me, when you seek me with all your heart."
Reflection: How can you intentionally set aside time each day to deepen your relationship with God? What specific steps will you take to ensure this time is meaningful and consistent?
Day 3: Avoiding the Comparison Trap
It's easy to fall into the trap of comparing our gifts with others, but this only leads to dissatisfaction and envy. God has given each of us unique gifts according to our abilities, and we should focus on using them to the best of our ability rather than comparing ourselves to others.
When we compare ourselves to others, we lose sight of the unique purpose God has for us. Each person's journey is different, and God has a specific plan for each of us. Let us celebrate the diversity of gifts within the body of Christ and focus on fulfilling our own calling with excellence and joy. [12:13]
Galatians 6:4-5 (ESV): "But let each one test his own work, and then his reason to boast will be in himself alone and not in his neighbor. For each will have to bear his own load."
Reflection: In what areas of your life do you find yourself comparing your gifts to others? How can you shift your focus to appreciate and develop your own unique gifts?
Day 4: Stewardship and Accountability
We are called to be good stewards of the gifts God has given us. The parable shows that the master held his servants accountable for how they used their gifts. Similarly, God expects us to use our gifts to serve others and make a positive impact. Our faithfulness in small things will lead to greater responsibilities and rewards.
Being a good steward means recognizing that our gifts are not our own but are entrusted to us by God. We are accountable to Him for how we use them. Let us be diligent and faithful in using our gifts, knowing that our efforts will be rewarded and that we are contributing to God's greater plan. [14:44]
1 Corinthians 4:2 (ESV): "Moreover, it is required of stewards that they be found trustworthy."
Reflection: How can you be a better steward of the gifts God has given you? What practical steps can you take to ensure you are using your gifts to serve others and honor God?
Day 5: Encouragement in Using Gifts
The parable is not meant to instill fear but to encourage us to build a deeper relationship with God. By doing so, we will know how to use our gifts effectively and hear the words, "Well done, good and faithful servant." Let us strive to be good stewards and use our gifts to glorify God and serve others.
God's desire is for us to thrive and flourish in the use of our gifts. He provides us with the strength, wisdom, and opportunities to make a difference. Let us be encouraged to step out in faith, trusting that God will guide us and bless our efforts as we seek to honor Him with our lives. [20:59]
2 Timothy 1:6-7 (ESV): "For this reason I remind you to fan into flame the gift of God, which is in you through the laying on of my hands, for God gave us a spirit not of fear but of power and love and self-control."
Reflection: What steps can you take today to fan into flame the gift of God within you? How can you encourage others in your community to do the same?
Quotes
### Quotes for outreach
1. "We want to be fruitful people. Pastor Jaime has said that when you're around those type of people, they often leave something better than the way they found it. Right? They are the people that you like to be around. They make the world a better place. And I agree. We want to be those type of people. We want to cultivate our hearts to be fertile ground so that we can receive these teachings." [04:26] (31 seconds) (Download raw clip | Download cropped clip)
2. "We also have an opportunity to form this intimate relationship. With God the Father. God knows us full well. King David told us in one of the Psalms that he wrote. And he's saying to God, he says, For you created me. For you created my inmost being. You knit me together in my mother's womb. I praise you because I am fearfully and wonderfully made. Your works are wonderful." [08:10] (28 seconds) (Download raw clip | Download cropped clip)
3. "We are to be good stewards of the gifts he gives us. These gifts can be wisdom or knowledge, faith, healing, ability to perform. Miracles, prophecy, distinguishing spirits, speaking in tongues and even distinguishing tongues. But what he gives us is what he trusts us with. He knows our abilities. He knows us intimately. And what we do in return by having a relationship with him, we know how to use these gifts." [10:23] (32 seconds) (Download raw clip | Download cropped clip)
4. "We can find ourselves in the position of the servants. God will entrust you with gifts according to your ability. What we do with those gifts is what dictates the answer or what we hear from God. And maybe you're a new believer or maybe not so sure about the God thing. Or maybe you're hearing this parable in a different way for the first time. And you're like, wow, that sounds harsh. That sounds like I don't know if I like that." [20:59] (31 seconds) (Download raw clip | Download cropped clip)
5. "I love this church so much. My family and I have been a part of it for 13 years. And one of the reasons I love it so much is because of the people that are in it. This church serves so well. They serve on Sundays and throughout the week here at church. But more so than that, they go out in the community and they serve. They serve in the church. They serve in the church. They serve in the non-profits and they go and take neighbors and elderly to appointments. They serve with their time and oftentimes with their money." [22:31] (30 seconds) (Download raw clip | Download cropped clip)
### Quotes for members
1. "Jesus often gave wonderful instruction in the form of parables. He teaches his followers. He taught his followers then and he teaches his followers now. These parables were filled with imagery that the people were able to understand and adapt and apply to their lives. And sometimes he says, He stepped on toes. Yes. But there was a lesson to be learned. There was encouragement in there." [04:26] (28 seconds) (Download raw clip | Download cropped clip)
2. "Each servant was entrusted with this wealth according to their ability. The master knew these servants. Well, he knew that they could be good stewards of the wealth. Could be good stewards of the wealth. They all had an opportunity. And because of the relationship, God knew them well. He gave according to their ability. And they received and they knew that he would want something back in return." [10:23] (29 seconds) (Download raw clip | Download cropped clip)
3. "The problem is. Not everyone has the same gifts. If you look around at the people around you right now, some are family, some are friends, some are strangers. And we all look different. And I love it because God loves variety. But also, just like our exterior is different, our interior is different. Our souls are different. God, because he knows us intimately, he knows what gifts to give us. He knows what gifts to give us. He knows the capacity that you can serve with that." [11:20] (35 seconds) (Download raw clip | Download cropped clip)
4. "The third servant kind of did this. He just did the minimum. He didn't want to lose anything, but he didn't want to risk gaining anything either. You see, the master knew this third servant just as well as the first two. But he knew because of his ability, he was going to get one bag of gold. But the master still saw something in this third servant. He still thought that this third servant could be a good steward with that bag of gold." [19:16] (34 seconds) (Download raw clip | Download cropped clip)
5. "So as you go into your week, I want you to take account. What are you doing with what God has entrusted you with? Where are you spending your time? Are you building this relationship with God? Are you cultivating fertile ground in your hearts? Are you sharing the gift that God has given you? There are many times that we may find ourselves in the position of that third servant, and we think what we have doesn't matter, or we're not good enough." [25:45] (36 seconds) (Download raw clip | Download cropped clip)
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