Luke 19:23

Why then did you not deposit my money in the bank, and upon my return I could have collected it with interest?'

Study Bible

Why then
This phrase introduces a rhetorical question, emphasizing accountability and expectation. In the Greek, "Why" (διὰ τί, dia ti) often signals a challenge to the listener's reasoning or actions. It suggests a moment of introspection, urging the servant to consider the master's perspective. Historically, this reflects the cultural context of stewardship and responsibility, where servants were expected to act wisely with their master's resources.

did you not deposit
The Greek word for "deposit" (βάλλω, ballō) implies placing or setting something in a specific location for safekeeping. In the context of the parable, it suggests a minimal effort that could have been made to ensure some return on the master's investment. This reflects a broader biblical principle of stewardship, where believers are called to wisely manage the resources and gifts God has entrusted to them.

my money
The term "money" (ἀργύριον, argyrion) in the Greek refers to silver or currency, symbolizing the resources or talents given by God. The possessive "my" underscores the notion that all we have ultimately belongs to God, and we are merely stewards. This aligns with the conservative Christian view that emphasizes God's sovereignty and ownership over all creation.

in the bank
The "bank" (τράπεζα, trapeza) in ancient times was not a formal institution as we know today but rather a place where money could be exchanged or lent. This reflects the historical practice of money lending and interest, which was common in the Greco-Roman world. The mention of a bank suggests a safe and practical option for ensuring growth, paralleling the spiritual principle of investing in God's kingdom.

and upon my return
This phrase anticipates the master's return, symbolizing Christ's second coming. The Greek word for "return" (ἐλθών, elthōn) conveys the idea of coming or arriving, emphasizing the certainty of the master's return. This aligns with the eschatological expectation in conservative Christianity that Christ will return to judge and reward according to one's faithfulness.

I could have collected
The verb "collected" (πράσσω, prassō) implies receiving what is due or gathering what has been earned. It suggests a rightful expectation of return on investment. In a spiritual sense, it reflects the biblical principle that God will reward those who diligently use their gifts for His glory.

it with interest
The term "interest" (τόκος, tokos) refers to the profit or gain from an investment. In the biblical context, it symbolizes the spiritual growth and fruitfulness expected from the faithful use of one's talents. This aligns with the conservative Christian belief in the importance of bearing fruit for God's kingdom, as seen in passages like John 15:8, where Jesus speaks of bearing much fruit to glorify the Father.

Persons / Places / Events

1. The Master
In the parable, the master represents God or Jesus, who entrusts His servants with resources and expects them to be productive.

2. The Servants
These are the individuals entrusted with the master's money, symbolizing believers who are given gifts and responsibilities by God.

3. The Money (Mina)
This represents the resources, talents, or opportunities God gives to His people to use for His kingdom.

4. The Bankers
In the parable, the bankers symbolize a means of gaining interest or profit, representing the idea of using resources wisely to yield spiritual growth.

5. The Event of Reckoning
This is the moment when the master returns and holds the servants accountable for their stewardship, symbolizing the final judgment or Christ's return.

Teaching Points

Stewardship and Responsibility
God entrusts each believer with resources, talents, and opportunities. We are called to use these wisely and productively for His kingdom.

Accountability
There will be a time when we must give an account of how we have used what God has given us. This should motivate us to live purposefully and diligently.

Spiritual Investment
Just as the master expected interest from the bankers, God expects us to invest spiritually, growing in faith and contributing to the growth of His kingdom.

Faith in Action
Our faith should be evident in how we manage our resources. It is not enough to simply hold onto what we have; we must actively use it for God's glory.

Eternal Perspective
Keeping an eternal perspective helps us prioritize our actions and decisions, focusing on what will have lasting value in God's kingdom.

Bible Study Questions

1. How does the concept of stewardship in Luke 19:23 challenge your current use of time, talents, and resources?

2. In what ways can you "invest" spiritually in your community or church, similar to the idea of gaining interest from the bankers?

3. Reflect on a time when you felt accountable for how you used a gift or opportunity. How does this parable encourage you to approach future opportunities?

4. How can the principle of faith in action, as seen in this parable, be applied to your daily life and decisions?

5. What steps can you take to maintain an eternal perspective in your personal and professional life, ensuring that your actions align with God's kingdom purposes?

Connections to Other Scriptures

The parable of the talents in Matthew 25:14-30 shares a similar theme of stewardship and accountability, emphasizing the importance of using God-given resources wisely.

1 Corinthians 4:2 highlights the requirement for stewards to be found faithful, reinforcing the idea of accountability in using what God has entrusted to us.

James 2:14-26 discusses faith and works, connecting to the idea that true faith results in action and productivity, much like the expectation of the master in the parable.