Rich in Talent
August 16, 2026
The Rich Young Ruler was not only wealthy; he was a ruler. He possessed leadership ability, influence, responsibility, and opportunity. Yet none of those gifts were fully surrendered to Jesus. Join us for part two of Rich! as we discover that God does not measure us by what He entrusted to someone else, but by what we do with what He has entrusted to us.
Passage
Matthew 25:14-30
Principle
God is not asking whether you have what ##someone## ##else## ##has##; He is asking whether what you ##do## ##have## is ##available## to Him.
Practice
Complete the My 2027 Rhythm of Generosity Card.
Small Group Questions
Use this outline for personal reflection, as a couple or family, or with a small group.
HANGOUT
- What is the most valuable thing someone has ever left in your care?
- How did that responsibility make you feel?
HEAR
Read Matthew 21:33-46
- Who was Jesus addressing in this parable, and why?
- How is this parable similar to the parable of the talents? How is it different?
- What is the danger of taking for granted the things God has entrusted to our care?
Read Romans 12:3-8
- Which character trait is Paul promoting in verse 3?
- Why is that character trait essential for someone to accept the truth Paul mentions in verses 4 and 5?
- Discuss the gifts mentioned in verses 6-7. Do you see these gifts among the people in your group? Is this an exhaustive list?
Read Acts 6:1-7
- How does this story illustrate Paul’s words in Romans 12:3-8?
- Compare and contrast the apostles in Acts 6 with the unfaithful stewards in Matthew 21.
- What should we take away from these passages related to the use of our time, talent, and treasure?
HUDDLE
- Is there any talent, skill, ability, or experience you are not currently surrendering to God?
- How do you balance the practical demands of work and family with the need to make all that you have and are available to God’s use?
- Talk about it, invite accountability, and pray together.
Daily Reading
As you read each passage, look for connections to this week’s sermon and small group discussion. Invite the Holy Spirit to be your teacher as you seek Him with all your heart, soul, mind, and strength.
- Day 1: Matthew 25:14-30
- Day 2: Romans 12:3-8
- Day 3: 1 Peter 4:7-11
- Day 4: Exodus 31:1-11
- Day 5: 1 Corinthians 12:4-27
- Day 6: Colossians 3:23-23
- Day 7: Ephesians 4:11-16
Passage to Memorize: Matthew 25:29
Think Deeper
- Do you see the talents, skills, abilities, and experiences you possess as something you own or something you steward?
- How often do you find yourself falling into the comparison trap?
- Is there anything you possess that you are currently burying? If so, what is it and why are you burying it?
Suggested Resources
How to Be Rich, by Andy Stanley
The Treasure Principle, by Randy Alcorn
The Generosity Practice, by John Mark Comer
(Wednesday Night Group Study begins on August 19 @ 6 p.m.)
Financial Peace University, by Dave Ramsey
(Wednesday Night Group Study begins on August 19 @ 6 p.m.)
Check out these and other books from our suggested reading list at https://bit.ly/AspireSMB.