The second is the parable of the talents (vv. 14–30). The third is the story of the separation of the sheep and the goats (vv. 31–46). Each parable makes its own points, but taken together they intensify and even broaden Jesus’ warnings. Instead of speaking of people who are obviously saved or lost, such as those who perished in the flood or the wicked, careless servant, Jesus seems to speak of people who look like believers and who even think they are but who will not be ready when he comes.