When we read the parable of the talents in the Gospel of Matthew, most of us focus on the importance of faithfulness in the servants. The master entrusted five talents to one servant, two to another servant, and one to a third servant. The first two servants proved faithful as they doubled the money entrusted to them. The third servant buried his master’s money and was deemed “lazy and wicked.” The lesson is clear—faithfulness matters.

The lessons from the servants are plentiful and powerful. However, there’s another lesson that is often overlooked in this parable. It’s a lesson from the master on how to lead faithful team members.  

Three Ways to Lead Faithful Team Members

To the first two servants, the master said, “Well done, my good and faithful servant. You have been faithful in handling this small amount, so now I will give you many more responsibilities. Let’s celebrate together!” (Matthew 25:21). How did the master lead these servants? He engaged three practices. He…

1. Commended

Notice the first thing the master said to the faithful servants: “Well done, my good and faithful servant.” He acknowledged the good work of these servants. Their ability to double their master’s wealth didn’t go unnoticed. Team members shouldn’t have to wonder whether or not they’re doing a good job. As leaders, we must regularly commend their good work.

2. Entrusted

After commending the servant’s faithfulness, the master said, “You have been faithful in handling this small amount, so now I will give you many more responsibilities.” This is where leaders often drop the ball. We expect faithfulness, but then we don’t make a way for the faithful to advance. We expect faithfulness, but when it’s delivered, we don’t entrust the faithful with more responsibility and opportunity. This is demoralizing to team members. They are left to wonder, “How much more do I need to do to be entrusted with greater opportunities?” Your job as a leader is to make a pathway for emerging leaders to assume greater responsibility and opportunity. Expect faithfulness, but then be prepared to open doors when it’s delivered. 

3. Rewarded

The master did one more thing for the faithful servants. He said, “Let’s celebrate together!” In other words, he rewarded their faithfulness. As we lead our teams, there should be times set aside to celebrate wins. It might happen through public praise, a special outing, a bonus, or some other expression of appreciation. The point is, intentionally reward faithfulness. 

As you lead your team, don’t just expect faithfulness. Learn to commend, entrust, and reward the faithful. As you do, your team will flourish, grow in loyalty, and produce greater impact.