Luke 19:11 – 27

When Jesus, returning from Jericho came near to Jerusalem, He told a parable to teach His disciples, that the Kingdom of God would not appear immediately. He spoke of a noble man going to a far-off country to receive kingly power and then return.

Before leaving, the noble man had called his servants and given them ten pounds to trade with it till he returned. On his return, he found that the first two servants had multiplied their pounds, while the third servant just kept it preserved in a napkin. The third servant was not willing to risk trading, because loyalty to the noble man could endanger his life, if the opposition leader took over the kingship.

Jesus referred the noble man to Himself going to the Father, just like Archelaus in 4 B.C went to Rome to get his kingdom approved by Caesar. Since a delegation of Jewish people went up to Augustus Caesar and protested, Archelaus could not get 50% of the father’s kingdom.

Now Jesus was asking His disciples whether they would be bold, loyal, faithful and willing to take the risk to work for Him in His absence, till He returned. Those who were faithful and willing to risk their lives, Jesus assured that they would be given more responsibilities in His new kingdom, while the unfaithful would be relieved of their responsibilities. Jesus also added that His enemies would be judged and punished.

Thought for the day: In spite of opposition, are we willing to serve Jesus boldly and faithfully in His absence till He returns?