Fathers

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What the Fathers say

Matthew 18:24

Eastern Fathers

Theophylact of Ohrid

And when he had begun to reckon, one was brought unto him, who owed him ten thousand talents. But forasmuch as he had not to pay, his lord commanded him to be sold, and his wife, and children, and all that he had, and payment to be made. It is we ourselves who owe ten thousand talents, receiving benefaction every day yet giving back nothing good to God in return. …

Commentary on Matthew ↗

Western Saints

Augustine of Hippo

Therefore let us say, that because the Law is set forth in ten precepts, the ten thousand talents which he owed denote all sins which can be done under the Law. (Quæst. Ev. i. 25.) This signifies that the transgressor of the decalogue deserves punishment for his lusts and evil deeds; and that is his price; for the price for which they sell is the punishment of him that is damned.

Catena Aurea by Aquinas ↗

Jerome

And when he began to settle accounts, one was brought to him who owed ten thousand talents. But since he could not pay, his master ordered him to be sold, along with his wife and children and all that he had, and payment to be made. So the servant fell on his knees, imploring him, 'Have patience with me, and I will repay you everything.' And out of pity for him, the master of that servant released him and forgave him the debt. …

Commentary on Matthew ↗

Thomas Aquinas

And when he had begun to take the account. The end of this accounting will be on the day of judgment; the beginning, when he first brings about some tribulation. 1 Pet 4:19: wherefore let them also that suffer according to the will of God, commend their souls in good deeds to the faithful Creator. Ezek 9:6: begin at my sanctuary. Likewise, a diligent examination of merits is touched upon. Lam 3:40: let us search our ways, by which is understood the examination of consciences. …

Commentary on Matthew ↗