ACC ~ Matthew 25 v26 - 27

SLOTHFUL SERVANT

GREGORY THE GREAT: The Lord answered, “You wicked and lazy servant! You knew that I reap where I have not sown and gather where I have not scattered. Therefore you ought to have given my money to the moneylenders. On my return I would at least have received what was mine with interest.” The servant was trapped by his own words when his master confirms, “Yes, I reap where I have not sown and gather where I have not scattered. I expect something of you that I have not given. I expect much more than merely what I gave you to trade with.” FORTY GOSPEL HOMILIES 9.3. [1]

[1] PL 76:1107-8; CS 123:129-30* (Homily 18).

YOU OUGHT TO HAVE INVESTED MY MONEY

CHRYSOSTOM: What then does the Master say? “You ought to have invested my money with the banker.” You ought to have spoken to someone and received his advice and been admonished. Are the bankers bad people? That is not for you to say.

What could be more gentle than this? Those who give money at interest keep close accounts on its repayment. But you have not done anything with it. You ought to have given it to someone else to work with and required them to report to you. I require it back with increase, that is, with some good works to boot. You ought to have done the easy part and left with someone else the part that is more difficult. THE GOSPEL OF MATTHEW, HOMILY 78.2-3. [1]

[1] PG 58:714; NPNF 1 10:472.

I SHOULD HAVE RECEIVED INTEREST. GREGORY THE GREAT: To give money to moneylenders means to lay out knowledge of preaching to those who can practice it. As you perceive my danger, if I hold the Lord’s money, so carefully consider your own, dearly beloved. What you have will be required of you with interest. The point about interest is that more comes back than was laid out. FORTY GOSPEL HOMILIES 9.3-4. [1]

[1] PL 76:1108; CS 123:130* (Homily 18).