In the Parable of the Talents (Matthew 25:14-30), what does the 'talent' most likely represent, and what theological principle does the parable teach about its use?

A The 'talent' literally represents a sum of money, and the parable teaches the importance of investing wisely to accumulate wealth. B The 'talent' represents innate abilities and skills, and the parable teaches that God expects individuals to passively wait for opportunities to use them. C The 'talent' represents spiritual gifts and opportunities for service, and the parable teaches that God expects believers to actively use and develop these gifts for His glory and the benefit of others. D The 'talent' represents salvation, and the parable teaches that those who do not share their faith will lose their salvation.