---

I. His CHARACTER.

1. A good and faithful servant accepts his position as a servant, with all that is included in that position.

2. He bears the work-burden of his servitude.

3. He renders service with hearty goodwill.

4. He is obedient to his master.

5. He has his master's interest ever before him.

6. He is profitable to his master.

II. THE CONDUCT UPON WHICH THIS CHARACTER IS BASED. "Thou hast been faithful over a few things."

III. THE COMMENDATION AND REWARD. "Well done."

1. This is real commendation, not doubtful.

2. This is complete and full commendation.

3. This is useful commendation.It is not an encumbrance, like a robe of state or an official chain of gold, but it is as a strong girdle for the loins. "Enter thou into the joy of the Lord."

1. The joy of the Lord on His return to His servants.

2. The joy of the Lord in the goodness and fidelity of His servants.

3. The joy of the Lord in commending and rewarding His servants.

4. The whole personal joy of the Lord, so far as it can be shared by His servants.

5. The joy set before Him when He endured the cross.

6. The joy of finished work and completed suffering, of the joy provided in that kingdom which is joy.This text teaches

1. What the Christians are expected to be — servants.

2. What we are expected to do.

3. What we may expect to obtain.

4. Supplies a present test of character and motive to service,

(S. Martin.)

---

---

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.