Luke 19:16
Then came the first, saying, Lord, thy pound hath gained ten pounds. Luke 19:16 (KJV)
Luke 19:11-27 contains the parable of the ten pounds, also known as the parable of the minas. In this passage Jesus tells a story to illustrate principles about the kingdom of God.
The parable begins with a nobleman who goes into a far country to receive a kingdom and then return. Before departing he entrusts ten of his servants with one pound each, a considerable sum in that culture.
In Luke 19:16 the first servant comes forward and reports, “Lord, thy pound hath gained ten pounds.” He announces that he has multiplied the nobleman’s original investment by ten, showing that he wisely invested and used the resources given to him.
The main lesson of the parable is stewardship and faithfulness. Each servant’s pound symbolizes the resources and opportunities God gives to His followers. The nobleman represents a figure who will return to establish a kingdom—many understand this figure to be Jesus Himself. The servants represent believers and their responsibility to use what has been entrusted to them for the advancement of God’s kingdom.
By multiplying the money, the first servant demonstrates diligence, wisdom, and faithfulness. He exemplifies those who faithfully employ their talents, time, and material blessings to serve God and further His reign. The narrative makes clear that faithful stewardship is rewarded.
The following verses (Luke 19:17‑27) present a contrast. Other servants are called forward; some report additional gains, while others admit they have done nothing with the pound. The nobleman rewards the faithful and condemns the unfaithful who failed to act.
This teaching calls every follower of Jesus to be a good steward of the resources and opportunities entrusted to us. It is not the amount we receive that matters, but how we use what we have been given. God desires faithfulness and diligence, and He promises reward to those who manage His gifts wisely for His glory.
In summary, Luke 19:16 sits within the parable of the ten pounds to emphasize the importance of faithful stewardship. Believers are encouraged to be diligent in service and faithful in using their opportunities, confident that God will reward such faithfulness.
