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I. The EXCUSE SET UP by the unprofitable servant for his neglect. It is general. "I know that thou art a hard man." This is the language of the disobedient heart with reference to the merciful parent of the universe. The service is framed to meet our moral happiness. The ways of wisdom axe ways of pleasantness. The excuse uses an audacious tone; God is unreasonable, and expects the impossible, and does not put forth the needful agencies.

II. THE SENTENCE pronounced on him.

1. Supposing there was truth in his accusation, why did he not adopt the course less injurious to his Master?

2. Deprivation — "Take, therefore, the talent from him." "Cast ye the unprofitable servant into outer darkness."

(D. Moore, M. A.)

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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.