(There are four parables somewhat similar, yet
aiming at different points. That in Matt. xx. 1.
describes a householder paying for labor per-
formed. That in Matt. xxi. 33, describes a house-
holder absent from home, sending for returns
from his vineyard. That in Luke xix. 11, de-
scribes a nobleman looking for pecuniary returns
for property entrusted. That in Matt. xxv. 14,
describes a master likewise looking for interest,
but with the peculiar feature of the buried talent,
upon which our Lecture is founded.)
(This parable has some features resembling that in
Luke xiv., yet they are quite distinct. In that,
the first invited make excuses; in this, they
boldly refuse. In that, the indignation of the
king exhibits God's judgments on Israel for re-
fusing the Gospel; and, also, its peculiar feature
is that of the want of a wedding-garment: on
which incident the Lecture is founded.)
Every person in Christendom.
Holy obedience.
Death of the impenitent. Those indulging hope of salvation.
External religion.
Prepared for heaven and
Appeal to the wise, and Natural feelings on both
May He who taught these mighty truths by these simple emblems, condescend to bless this humble effort to exhibit His thoughts.