The talents.
This, like the preceding parable, refers immediately to the professed followers of Christ. It probably has a special, though certainly not exclusive, application to ministers and those distinguished by office in the Churches. We have to consider—
I. THE TALENTS.
1. These are not the natural faculties.
2. They are the gifts of grace and providence.
(a) the ordinary;
(b) the extraordinary.
There is a manifestation of the Spirit given to every man to profit withal.
(a) Property.
(b) Social status.
(c) Education.
(d) Patronage.
(e) Experience.
(a) Ordinances of the gospel—Bibles, sabbaths, ministers.
(b) Circumstances of Providence, or occurrences called accidents.
(c) Relationships.
(d) Time.
Every moment has its grace; every grace has its employment; every employment is for eternity. Note: A talent of silver is worth £350. All Christ's gifts are rich and valuable. They are the purchase of his precious blood.
II. THEIR CUSTODY.
1. God gives them diversely.
2. He gives them to be improved.
(a) To the comfort and salvation of the recipient.
(b) For the benefit of his race.
(c) For the glory of his Maker.
III. THE RECKONING.
1. The diligent are rewarded.
2. The indolent are punished.
(a) "Into outer darkness." All outside heaven is darkness in eternity.
(b) "There shall be weeping," etc.; misery.—J.A.M.