Benjamin now explains why his listeners are unprofitable servants in a passage that extends through verse 25. First, Benjamin describes what the master requires of his servant(s). This great Yahweh, this heavenly master and king, only “requires of you… to keep his commandments.” Clearly, Benjamin’s people already know these commandments. Benjamin is not instructing them about the commandments but rather about the central behavior—obedience to the commandments—in establishing their personal relationship to Yahweh.
In exchange for their obedience, this great master promises that “ye should prosper in the land,” a benefit that they know their Master can grant. Benjamin emphasizes Yahweh’s immutability. Yahweh does not change or renege on his promises. Since Yahweh has promised that they will prosper if they keep the commandments, then they assuredly will prosper if they obey, for Yahweh will keep his word (his covenant).