Matthew 25:14-29

14“The kingdom of heaven is like a man going on a trip. He called his servants and entrusted some money to them.

15He gave one man ten thousand dollars, another four thousand dollars, and another two thousand dollars. Each was given money based on his ability. Then the man went on his trip.

16“The one who received ten thousand dollars invested the money at once and doubled his money.

17The one who had four thousand dollars did the same and also doubled his money.

18But the one who received two thousand dollars went off, dug a hole in the ground, and hid his master’s money.

19“After a long time the master of those servants returned and settled accounts with them.

20The one who received ten thousand dollars brought the additional ten thousand. He said, ‘Sir, you gave me ten thousand dollars. I’ve doubled the amount.’

21“His master replied, ‘Good job! You’re a good and faithful servant! You proved that you could be trusted with a small amount. I will put you in charge of a large amount. Come and share your master’s happiness.’

22“The one who received four thousand dollars came and said, ‘Sir, you gave me four thousand dollars. I’ve doubled the amount.’

23“His master replied, ‘Good job! You’re a good and faithful servant! You proved that you could be trusted with a small amount. I will put you in charge of a large amount. Come and share your master’s happiness.’

24“Then the one who received two thousand dollars came and said, ‘Sir, I knew that you are a hard person to please. You harvest where you haven’t planted and gather where you haven’t scattered any seeds.

25I was afraid. So I hid your two thousand dollars in the ground. Here’s your money!’

26“His master responded, ‘You evil and lazy servant! If you knew that I harvest where I haven’t planted and gather where I haven’t scattered,

27then you should have invested my money with the bankers. When I returned, I would have received my money back with interest.

28Take the two thousand dollars away from him! Give it to the one who has the ten thousand!

29To all who have, more will be given, and they will have more than enough. But everything will be taken away from those who don’t have much.