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" went about doing good." (Acts x. 38.) This is to be like the apostles, — they were men of deeds even more than of words. This is to glorify God, — " Herein is my Father glorified, that ye bear much fruit." (John xv. 8.) This is to be useful to the world, — "Let your light so shine before men, that they may see your good works, and glorify your Father in heaven." (Matt. v. 16.)
We learn, secondly, from these verses, the awful danger of those who neglect the duties of their calling. Of such our Lord declares, that they shall be "cut in sunder, and their portion appointed with the unbelievers." These words no doubt apply especially to the ministers and teachers of the Gospel. Yet we must not flatter ourselves that they are confined to them. They are probably meant to convey a lesson to aU who fill offices of high responsi- bility. It is a striking fact that when Peter says at the beginning of the passage, " Speakest thou this parable to us, or even to all?" our Lord gives him no answer. Whosoever occupies a position of trust, and neglects his duties, would do well to ponder this passage, and learn wisdom. ^
The language which our Lord Jesus uses about slothful and unfaithful servants, is peculiarly severe. Few places in the Gospels contain such strong expressions as this. It is a vain delusion to suppose that the Gospel speaks noihing but " smooth things." The same loving Saviour who holds out mercy to the uttermost to the penitent and believing, never shrinks fit)m holding up the judgments of Ood against those who despise His counsel. Let no man deceive us on this subject. There is a hell for such an one as goeth on still in his wickedness, no less than a