Topical Bible: Jesus, the Christ: Enunciates the Parable of the Pounds (In Jericho)

Bible > Topical > Jesus, the Christ

◄ Jesus, the Christ: Enunciates the Parable of the Pounds (In Jericho) ►

Topical Encyclopedia

Introduction

The Parable of the Pounds, also known as the Parable of the Ten Minas, is a significant teaching of Jesus Christ, delivered during His journey to Jerusalem. This parable is recorded in the Gospel of Luke 19:11-27 and is set in the context of Jesus' visit to Jericho. It serves as a profound lesson on stewardship, accountability, and the anticipation of the Kingdom of God.

Context and Setting

As Jesus approached Jerusalem, He passed through Jericho, where He encountered Zacchaeus, a chief tax collector. The encounter with Zacchaeus and the subsequent declaration of salvation for his household (Luke 19:9) set the stage for the parable. The crowd accompanying Jesus believed that the Kingdom of God would appear immediately (Luke 19:11). In response, Jesus shared the Parable of the Pounds to correct their misconceptions and to teach about the nature of His Kingdom.

The Parable

In the parable, a nobleman goes to a distant country to receive a kingdom and then return. Before leaving, he entrusts ten of his servants with a mina each, instructing them to engage in business until his return. Upon his return, the nobleman calls his servants to account for their stewardship.

1. The Faithful Servants: The first servant reports that his mina has earned ten more. The nobleman commends him, saying, "Well done, good servant! Because you have been faithful in a very small matter, you shall have authority over ten cities" (Luke 19:17). Similarly, the second servant earns five more minas and is given authority over five cities.

2. The Unfaithful Servant: Another servant, however, returns the original mina, having kept it hidden out of fear. The nobleman rebukes him for his lack of initiative and orders that the mina be taken from him and given to the one with ten minas. The nobleman declares, "I tell you that to everyone who has, more will be given. But from the one who does not have, even what he has will be taken away" (Luke 19:26).

3. The Rebellious Citizens: The parable also mentions citizens who hated the nobleman and sent a delegation after him, saying, "We do not want this man to rule over us" (Luke 19:14). Upon his return, the nobleman orders that these enemies be brought and executed in his presence.

Interpretation and Significance

The Parable of the Pounds emphasizes several key themes:

- Stewardship and Responsibility: The servants' varying degrees of faithfulness highlight the importance of using God-given resources and opportunities wisely. Believers are called to be diligent and productive in their service to God, recognizing that they will be held accountable for their actions.

- Reward and Judgment: The parable illustrates the principle of reward for faithfulness and the consequences of negligence. Those who are faithful in small matters are entrusted with greater responsibilities, while those who squander their opportunities face loss.

- The Kingdom of God: The nobleman's journey to receive a kingdom symbolizes Christ's ascension and eventual return. The parable corrects the misconception of an immediate earthly kingdom, emphasizing that the Kingdom of God requires patient anticipation and active participation.

- Rejection and Consequences: The rebellious citizens represent those who reject Christ's authority. The parable serves as a warning of the ultimate judgment that awaits those who oppose the reign of Christ.

Conclusion

The Parable of the Pounds, delivered by Jesus in Jericho, remains a timeless teaching on the nature of God's Kingdom and the responsibilities of His followers. It calls believers to faithful stewardship, readiness for Christ's return, and recognition of the eternal consequences of their choices. Through this parable, Jesus underscores the importance of living with purpose and accountability in anticipation of His coming Kingdom.

Nave's Topical Index

Luke 19:11-28
And as they heard these things, he added and spoke a parable, because he was near to Jerusalem, and because they thought that the kingdom of God should immediately appear.
Nave's Topical Index