Albert Barnes Commentary Matthew 25:15

"And unto one he gave five talents, to another two, to another one; to each according to his several ability; and he went on his journey." — Matthew 25:15 (ASV)

Five talents. (See Barnes on Matthew 18:24).

A talent of silver was worth about 1519 dollars, 23 cents, [or £342 3s. 9d.] It here denotes the highest abilities given to men; perhaps the highest offices in the church, and the greatest opportunity of doing good.

According to his several ability. According to the ability of each one. According as he saw each one was adapted to improve it.

So in the church and the world. God gives men stations which he judges them adapted to fill, and requires them to fill them. So he makes distinctions among men in regard to abilities, and in the powers and opportunities of usefulness; requiring them only to occupy those stations and discharge their duties there (1 Corinthians 4:7).