But he who had received one went and dug in the earth, and hid his lord’s money.
He also that is slothful in his work is brother to him that is a great waster.
Who is there even among you that would shut the doors for nothing? neither do you kindle fire on my altar for nothing. I have no pleasure in you, says the LORD of hosts, neither will I accept an offering at your hand.
And likewise he who had received two, he also gained two more.
After a long time the lord of those servants came back, and settled accounts with them.
And another came, saying, Lord, behold, here is your pound, which I have kept laid up in a napkin:
That you be not slothful, but followers of those who through faith and patience inherit the promises.
For if these things are in you, and abound, they guarantee that you shall neither be barren nor unfruitful in the knowledge of our Lord Jesus Christ.