unto every one which hath shall be given
William MacDonald teaches that spiritual growth and blessings come through faithful obedience and diligent use of the gifts God has given us.
In this insightful teaching, William MacDonald explores the biblical principle that those who faithfully obey and utilize what God has given them will be blessed with greater spiritual insight and responsibility. Drawing from Luke 19:26 and other Scriptures, he emphasizes the importance of obedience over mere knowledge and warns against the dangers of neglecting our spiritual gifts. This sermon encourages believers to actively apply God's Word and steward their talents for His glory.
Text
“For I say unto you, that unto every one which hath shall be given; and from him that hath not, even that he hath shall be taken away from him.” (Lu. 19:26)
The word “hath” at the beginning of this verse means more than mere possession. It includes the idea of obeying what we have been taught and of using what we have been given. In other words, it is not just what we have but rather what we do with what we have.
Here is a great principle for us, then, in the study of the Bible. As we follow the light which we receive, God gives us more light. The man who makes the best progress in the Christian life is the one who is determined to do what the Bible says, even if he doesn’t see anyone else around him doing it. In other words, it isn’t a matter of one’s intelligence quotient. What really counts is his obedience quotient. The Scriptures open up their treasures most readily to the obedient heart. Hosea said it well: “Then shall we know, if we follow on to know the Lord” (6:3). The more we practice what we have been taught, the more the Lord will reveal to us. Information plus application leads to multiplication. Information without application leads to stagnation.
The principle applies also to the use of our gifts and talents. The man whose pound increased to ten pounds was given authority over ten cities, and the man whose talent gained five pounds was given rule over five cities (Mt. 25:16-19).
This shows that the proper discharge of our responsibilities is rewarded with greater privileges and responsibilities. The man who did nothing with his pound lost it. So those who refuse to use what they have for the Lord eventually lose the ability to do so. “If you don’t use it, you lose it.”
We know that when we fail to use any part of the body it atrophies or wastes away. It is through constant use that normal development takes place. So it is in spiritual life. If we bury our gift, either through timidity or laziness, we will soon find that God has put us on the shelf and is using others in our place.
Therefore it is of utmost importance that we obey the precepts of Scripture, claim the promises and use whatever abilities God has given us.
Sermon Outline
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I
- Meaning of 'hath' beyond possession
- Importance of obedience in spiritual growth
- God rewards those who use what they have
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II
- Application of biblical principles leads to multiplication
- Obedience quotient vs intelligence quotient
- Scriptures open to obedient hearts
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III
- Use of gifts and talents increases responsibility
- Failure to use gifts results in loss
- Spiritual atrophy from neglect
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IV
- Call to obey Scripture and claim promises
- Importance of using God-given abilities
- Consequences of timidity and laziness
Key Quotes
“The Scriptures open up their treasures most readily to the obedient heart.” — William MacDonald
“Information plus application leads to multiplication. Information without application leads to stagnation.” — William MacDonald
“If you don’t use it, you lose it.” — William MacDonald
Application Points
- Commit to obeying God's Word even when it is challenging or unpopular.
- Actively use and develop the spiritual gifts and talents God has given you.
- Remember that neglecting your responsibilities can lead to loss of opportunities to serve.
Frequently Asked Questions
What does 'hath' mean in Luke 19:26?
'Hath' means more than possession; it includes obeying and using what we have been given.
How does obedience affect spiritual growth?
Obedience opens the treasures of Scripture and leads to greater revelation and growth.
What happens if we do not use our spiritual gifts?
Neglecting our gifts causes them to atrophy and can lead to losing the privilege to serve.
Is intelligence or obedience more important in the Christian life?
Obedience is more important than intelligence for spiritual progress.
What is the reward for faithful stewardship?
Greater responsibilities and privileges are given to those who faithfully use what God has entrusted to them.