Gene’s Daily Scriptural Postings

A Secret Response: Luke 12:35-59

Focus Passage: Luke 12:35-59 (NCV)

While Jesus was teaching His followers about being ready for His return, and as He was sharing parables and illustrations with them, Peter asks Jesus a question that many of us have likely asked at some point in our lives: “Lord, did you tell this story to us or to all people?” (v. 41)

In this question, we have several possible answers. Jesus could be sharing this story to just this small group of disciples, for their own ears and minds. Or Jesus could be sharing this story to all of His followers regardless of when they lived in history. Jesus even could be sharing this story to everyone who has ever lived at any point in history, regardless of whether they believe in Jesus or not.

But which answer is it? How does Jesus respond?

Luke tells us Jesus replied by saying, “Who is the wise and trusted servant that the master trusts to give the other servants their food at the right time? When the master comes and finds the servant doing his work, the servant will be blessed. I tell you the truth, the master will choose that servant to take care of everything he owns. But suppose the servant thinks to himself, ‘My master will not come back soon,’ and he begins to beat the other servants, men and women, and to eat and drink and get drunk. The master will come when that servant is not ready and is not expecting him. Then the master will cut him in pieces and send him away to be with the others who don’t obey.” (v. 42-46)

While Jesus continues talking after this, it is almost as if His response completely ignores Peter’s question. Jesus first restates that a question has been asked, but He doesn’t really tell us if this parable is limited to a certain group of people or not.

Because of this, I am led to believe that this parable is aimed at everyone, and while it is relevant for everyone, it is only useful if it inspires Jesus’ followers to be responsible and diligent about doing the work He has called us to do. Jesus promises more responsibility for the servants who are faithful with what they have been given, and with more responsibility come more talents and blessings too.

This parable is relevant for everyone because when God’s followers are doing what He has called us to do, the world will be transformed and everyone’s life will be impacted by the love of God.

This thought was inspired by studying the Walking With Jesus “Reflective Bible Study” package. To discover insights like this in your own study time, click here and give Reflective Bible Study a try today!

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