Matthew 25:14

The kingdom of heaven. [The Talents, Matt. 25:14-30. Cf. on Luke 19:11-28. On parables see pp. 203-207.] The words, “the kingdom of heaven is,” have been supplied by the translators. For the circumstances under which this parable was told see on chs. 24:1-3; 25:1. For the truth it was given to illustrate see on eh. 24:45-51.

Whereas the parable of the Ten Virgins (eh. 25:1-13) places emphasis upon personal preparation for Christ’s promised return, that of the Talents stresses the responsibility of soul-saving labor for others. Thus, to “watch” (eh. 24:42) includes both personal preparation and personal missionary labor.

In many respects this parable and that of the Pounds are similar, but there are also great dissimilarities.

A man travelling. See on Luke 19:12. Jesus thus refers to Himself.

A far country. Jesus returned to heaven. The nobleman in the parable of the Pounds went “to receive for himself a kingdom” (see on Luke 19:12).

His own servants. Jesus thus designates His disciples, whom He has entrusted with the conduct of His affairs on earth (see on eh. 28:19, 20). We belong to God by virtue of His creative power and His redeeming grace. We ourselves and all that we have belong to Him.

Delivered unto them. The master had two objectives: (1) to increase his holdings, and (2) to test his servants in anticipation of entrusting them with greater responsibilities.

Similarly, Christ has committed the work of the gospel to men in order to advance the interests of His kingdom on earth and to train His servants for increased responsibilities. See on Matt. 25:21; Luke 19:13.