Matthew 25:14-30

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

15 He 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.

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

18 But 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.

20 The 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.

25 I 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,

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

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

29 To 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.

30 Throw this useless servant outside into the darkness. People will cry and be in extreme pain there.'