Luke 19:21
Context:The Parable of the Ten Minas is about a nobleman who goes on a journey to receive a kingdom and entrusts his servants with minas (a unit of money). Each servant is given one mina and instructed to engage in business until the nobleman returns.
The servant’s fear:In Luke 19:20-21, one of the servants comes forward and says, “Lord, behold, here is thy pound, which I have kept laid up in a napkin. For I feared thee because thou art an austere man: thou takest up that thou layedst not down, and reapest that thou didst not sow.” This servant admits that he did not use the mina to gain profit because he was afraid of the nobleman.
The servant’s perception:The servant’s response reveals his faulty perception of the nobleman. He describes the nobleman as an “austere” or strict person who takes up what he did not lay down and reaps what he did not sow. This statement suggests that the servant viewed his master as harsh and demanding, expecting to receive what he had not earned.
Understanding the meaning:Jesus uses this parable to teach His followers about responsibility, stewardship, and the Kingdom of God. In this particular verse, the servant’s fear and misperception reflect a lack of faith and trust. The servant’s fear prevented him from using the resources entrusted to him effectively.
Lessons for us:This verse encourages believers to have a proper understanding of God’s character and to cultivate trust in Him. Instead of being paralyzed by fear, we should use the gifts, resources, and opportunities God has given us to advance His Kingdom. It reminds us that God is not an unjust or demanding master, but a gracious and generous one who desires our faithfulness and diligence in serving Him.
- In summary, Luke 19:21 reminds us of the importance of faith, trust, and stewardship in our relationship with God. We should not allow fear to hinder us from using the resources and gifts God has given us for His glory. Instead, we should recognize God’s character as loving and just, and diligently invest our lives in His Kingdom.
