This chapter includes the accounts of Zacchaeus, Jesus’ ‘triumphal entry’ into Jerusalem, Him weeping over Jerusalem and clearing out the temple, and a parable about ‘ten minas of gold’.
” ‘The first [nobleman’s servant] came before him… And he said to him, “Well done, good servant! Because you have been faithful in a very little, you shall have authority over ten cities.” Then another came, saying, “Lord, here is your mina, which I kept laid away in a handkerchief; for I was afraid of you….” He said to him, “…you wicked servant! … Why… did you not put my money in the bank, and… I might have collected it with interest? I tell you that to everyone who has, more will be given, but from the one who has not, even what he has will be taken away.’ ” (v16-17, 20-23, 26 abr)
This parable teaches us about Jesus, his servants, and His return. Jesus (the nobleman) left on a long journey to receive a kingdom (our future dwelling place). While He is away, His servants are each equally entrusted with His resources – His gospel and Holy Spirit. Those who obediently ‘go about the Master’s business’ and help grow Jesus’ kingdom, will be entrusted with even more service opportunities. Those who are disobedient / lazy and don’t utilize their spiritual gifts to help build Jesus’ kingdom, will ‘lose what was entrusted to them’. Those who completely refuse to claim Jesus as Lord will perish.
I’m not entirely sure what will be lost by those who are poor stewards of Jesus’ kingdom, however, it is clear that we are all called to be good and faithful stewards. Those who are diligent and obedient will be entrusted with even more, both here and in eternity. Those who don’t, may possibly be excluded form the kingdom, or at the very least, will receive minimal / no authority / rewards.
Father God, our Glorious and Righteous Lord, thank you for Your indwelling Spirit and gospel message. Please help us be good and faithful stewards of all that You entrust to us. Please reach others through us so they may receive Jesus as their King, and join us in His eternal kingdom. Please multiply Your gifts one-thousand-fold through us, so You may be honored, glorified, and praised, forever and ever, amen.
~ Conqueror in Training