King James Version

What Does Matthew 25:14 Mean?

Matthew 25:14 in the King James Version says “For the kingdom of heaven is as a man travelling into a far country, who called his own servants, and delivered unto the... — study this verse from Matthew chapter 25 with commentary, cross-references, and original Greek word analysis.

For the kingdom of heaven is as a man travelling into a far country, who called his own servants, and delivered unto them his goods.

Matthew 25:14 · KJV


Context

12

But he answered and said, Verily I say unto you, I know you not.

13

Watch therefore, for ye know neither the day nor the hour wherein the Son of man cometh.

14

For the kingdom of heaven is as a man travelling into a far country, who called his own servants, and delivered unto them his goods.

15

And unto one he gave five talents, to another two, and to another one; to every man according to his several ability; and straightway took his journey. talents: a talent is 187.pounds 10.ten shillings, chap.18.24

16

Then he that had received the five talents went and traded with the same, and made them other five talents.


Commentary

KJV Study Commentary
The kingdom of heaven is as a man travelling into a far country—Jesus introduces His parable with basileía tōn ouranōn (βασιλεία τῶν οὐρανῶν), marking this as eschatological teaching about Christ's ascension and return. The anthrōpos apodēmōn (ἄνθρωπος ἀποδημῶν, traveling man) represents Christ departing to receive His kingdom (cf. Luke 19:12).

Called his own servants, and delivered unto them his goods—The term douloi (δοῦλοι, bond-servants) emphasizes ownership and obligation. The verb paradidōmi (παραδίδωμι, delivered/entrusted) indicates stewardship, not ownership. God's gifts (ta hyparchonta, τὰ ὑπάρχοντα) remain His property; we are merely stewards accountable for their use.

KJV Study — Public Domain

Historical & Cultural Context

In first-century Judea, wealthy landowners often traveled to Rome to secure political appointments or settle estates. During their absence, trusted slaves managed affairs with full authority but strict accountability. This practice explains why Jesus's audience would understand both the master's extended absence and the servants' responsibility.

Reflection Questions

  1. What 'goods' has Christ entrusted to you—spiritual gifts, opportunities, resources—and how are you stewarding them?
  2. How does viewing yourself as a bond-servant rather than an owner change your relationship to your possessions and abilities?
  3. Does Christ's return being 'after a long time' tempt you to spiritual complacency?

Original Language Analysis

Greek · 14 words
Ὥσπερ1 of 14

the kingdom of heaven is as

G5618

just as, i.e., exactly like

γὰρ2 of 14

For

G1063

properly, assigning a reason (used in argument, explanation or intensification; often with other particles)

ἄνθρωπος3 of 14

a man

G444

man-faced, i.e., a human being

ἀποδημῶν4 of 14

travelling into a far country

G589

to go abroad, i.e., visit a foreign land

ἐκάλεσεν5 of 14

who called

G2564

to "call" (properly, aloud, but used in a variety of applications, directly or otherwise)

τοὺς6 of 14
G3588

the (sometimes to be supplied, at others omitted, in english idiom)

ἰδίους7 of 14

his own

G2398

pertaining to self, i.e., one's own; by implication, private or separate

δούλους8 of 14

servants

G1401

a slave (literal or figurative, involuntary or voluntary; frequently, therefore in a qualified sense of subjection or subserviency)

καὶ9 of 14

and

G2532

and, also, even, so then, too, etc.; often used in connection (or composition) with other particles or small words

παρέδωκεν10 of 14

delivered

G3860

to surrender, i.e yield up, entrust, transmit

αὐτοῦ11 of 14

unto them

G846

the reflexive pronoun self, used (alone or in the comparative g1438) of the third person, and (with the proper personal pronoun) of the other persons

τὰ12 of 14
G3588

the (sometimes to be supplied, at others omitted, in english idiom)

ὑπάρχοντα13 of 14

goods

G5224

things extant or in hand, i.e., property or possessions

αὐτοῦ14 of 14

unto them

G846

the reflexive pronoun self, used (alone or in the comparative g1438) of the third person, and (with the proper personal pronoun) of the other persons


Study Guide

Historical Context

This verse is found in the book of Matthew. Understanding the historical and cultural background helps illuminate its meaning for the original audience and for us today.

Theological Significance

Matthew 25:14 contributes to our understanding of God's character and His relationship with humanity. Consider how this verse connects to the broader themes of Scripture.

Cross-References

Verses related to Matthew 25:14 from Treasury of Scripture Knowledge

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