MPV Commentary

Read the modernized Jamieson-Fausset-Brown commentary, aligned with each Bible book and chapter, in clear, updated English.

Currently viewing commentary for Matthew 25

Sections for Matthew 25
Mt 25:1-13 Parable of the Ten Virgins.
Mt 25:14-30 Parable of the Talents.
Mt 25:19
Mt 25:31-46 The Last Judgment.
Mt 25:14-30 Parable of the Talents.

This parable shares similarities with the Parable of the Pounds in Luke 19:11-27, but it is distinct from that one. Some commentators, such as Calvin and Olshausen, consider them to be essentially the same parable, while others like De Wette and Neander see them as different.

The key difference between these two parables lies in their focus. The Parable of the Virgins describes the inward spiritual life of believers, whereas this parable focuses on their external activity for God's kingdom. As Trench notes, "the virgins were represented as waiting for their Lord," but here we see servants working for Him. This order makes sense because a profitable outward service is only possible when one diligently maintains a living relationship with God.

14. The kingdom of heaven can be compared to a man who went abroad on a long journey.