Luke 19:19

And he said likewise to him, Be thou also over five cities.

Luke 19:19 (KJV)

Context

Jesus spoke this parable on His way to Jerusalem, near Jericho, shortly after the conversion of Zacchaeus. Because many listeners thought the kingdom of God would appear immediately, Jesus told the parable of the ten pounds to correct that expectation. A nobleman went to a distant country to receive a kingdom, entrusted ten servants with one pound each, and told them to do business until he returned. When he came back, he called the servants to give an account of their stewardship.

Meaning

In Luke 19:19, the second servant reports, “Lord, thy pound hath gained five pounds,” and the master replies, “Be thou also over five cities.” The reward is directly proportional to the servant’s faithfulness and productivity. The first servant, who gained ten pounds, was given authority over ten cities; this servant, who gained five, is given authority over five cities. The word “likewise” indicates approval and commendation, even though the servant is not called “good” as the first was. The reward is not merely a future heavenly state but is described in terms of delegated authority and rule.

Biblical connections

This parable echoes the principle that faithful stewardship leads to greater responsibility. The reward of authority over cities pictures the responsibility given to those who are faithful with what God has given them.

Application

This verse teaches that God rewards faithful service with greater responsibility. The servant’s faithful handling of a modest amount prepared him for larger tasks. Believers are called to be faithful stewards of their time, abilities, finances, and spiritual gifts, recognizing that how they use these resources has eternal significance. Diligence in seemingly small matters prepares believers for greater tasks in God’s kingdom.

Reflection

Our actions today have lasting, eternal impact. God honors those who faithfully employ their gifts for His purposes, and He entrusts greater authority to those who prove faithful. This should encourage believers to serve diligently, knowing that their labor in the Lord is not in vain.