Luke 19:16

The first. Compare Matt. 25:20. The experiences of but three of the ten servants are here related, as samples of varying degrees of success. The first had much to report, the second some to report, and the third nothing to report. In the parable of the Talents there were but three servants to begin with, and all three were called to render account.

Thy pound. Each of the servants recognizes that the “pound” entrusted to him is still his master’s property.

Gained ten pounds. Literally, “worked in addition ten minas,” or “gained in addition ten minas.” The gain was 1,000 per cent of the capital invested. The capital being 100 days’ wages, the profit was 1,000 days’ wages. This first servant now had a total of 11 minas, more than 3.5 years’ pay (see on v. 13). The first servant had demonstrated unusual skill in his business ventures, and this reflected his devotion to his master and his diligence and fidelity in his activities.