What is the meaning of Luke 19:23? Why then • The master’s question exposes negligence, not ignorance. The servant knew the master’s character (Luke 19:21–22) yet chose inactivity. • Hebrews 10:26 reminds us that deliberate inaction, when truth is known, is culpable. • James 4:17 underscores the same principle: “If anyone knows the good he ought to do and doesn’t do it, he sins.” Did you not deposit my money • The resources belong to the master; the servant only manages them (Psalm 24:1; 1 Corinthians 4:2). • “My money” highlights personal accountability. Each believer answers for what Christ entrusts—time, gifts, opportunities (Romans 14:12). In the bank • A bank represents the least demanding option—still productive, but requiring minimal effort. • Even the smallest act of faithfulness counts (Luke 16:10; Mark 9:41). • The servant’s refusal shows indifference, not inability. And upon my return • The master’s coming is certain; only the timing is unknown (Acts 1:11; Revelation 22:12). • Because Christ will return, present choices gain eternal weight (2 Corinthians 5:10). I could have collected it • The master rightfully expects a harvest from His own investment (John 15:16; 1 Corinthians 3:14). • Faithfulness yields joy for the master and reward for the servant (Matthew 25:21). With interest • Interest pictures growth beyond the original deposit—kingdom multiplication (Galatians 6:9; Philippians 1:11). • God delights in using even modest efforts to produce abundant results (Ephesians 3:20). summary Luke 19:23 shows that Christ expects every believer to engage His gifts, however ordinary the avenue. Doing nothing is unacceptable; even minimal, consistent action honors the returning King and advances His kingdom, yielding fruit that brings Him glory and us eternal reward. |
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