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The parable of the ten virgins shows us our duty to ourselves; the parable to the servants our duty to others, etc. The one parable cries "Watch!" The other cries " Work!"

I. Look AT THE FAITHFUL SERVANT. There are several things respecting him illustrating our own position.

1. He was a "servant;" one who is dependent upon, and responsible to another. Whatever our position, this is the character of every one of us. Men often speak as if God had no claim upon sinners. The man who hid his talent was as much a servant as he who by diligent trading made his five talents into ten. We are all servants, whether we own our Master or not, etc. Ascertain the character you bear.

2. He was entrusted with some of his master's property. So are we.

3. The talents bestowed upon the servants varied in their number. So it is with us.

4. They are given to us to be used according to the will of the proprietor — we may invest them, or waste them, or hide them.

5. They are entrusted to us for a limited period; the extent of that period is unknown.

II. LET US LOOK AT THE CONDUCT OF THE SERVANT. He was not elated with pride because he had more than others, nor was he depressed with envy because he had less. He realized his responsibility, and at once set to work, etc. He was" good "and "faithful," referring to his character and conduct. While faithful to his master, he was good to his brethren, and the manifestation of his goodness is seen in the revelation that follows, "Faith without works is dead," etc.

III. Look at the FAITHFUL, SERVANT'S REWARD. Gives his account with joy.

1. Has his master's approval.

2. He is raised to a higher position.

3. He was admitted to his master's presence — a honour beyond our comprehension. Apply the subject.

(Charles Garrett.)

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KJV: For the kingdom of heaven is as a man travelling into a far country, who called his own servants, and delivered unto them his goods.

WEB: "For it is like a man, going into another country, who called his own servants, and entrusted his goods to them.