Parable of the Minas
Introduction
Historical introduction about Caesar and Archelaus
Some people think Jesus used this historical event as the background to this parable
Explanation
Perhaps Jesus used this reference to get people thinking
People were already talking about the kingdom – v11
Jesus wanted them to think about what would happen in the intervening time
Examples
We are to invest in Jesus and look for opportunities to advance His kingdom
Three characters
Citizens who hate Him
True servant who love Him
The false servant who despises Him
We either love Him or hate Him
Overview:
Correction – correcting wrong perceptions of the kingdom
Encouragement – encouraging faithful service
Warning – against ignorance and rebellion
Correction
There was a misunderstanding about Jesus
People were expecting Him to be a physical King on Earth
John 6:15
The Jews were expecting Jesus to be King
They thought the kingdom would appear immediately – v11
Will He now establish His kingdom?
Luke 17:20
Jesus has to correct their misunderstanding
The King will have to leave you
Before the reigning of a King comes a cross
Before glory comes suffering
Luke 18:31-34a
Yes, there would be Palm Sunday and the people would welcome Him into Jerusalem
Soon after would be Good Friday
You need to invest in Me and not just wait for me to return
Christianity is not a care-free life as taught by some – there will be suffering and hardship
There are blessings of peace and joy upon this hard path
Do not have a misconception of the kingdom of God
We are called to serve Jesus – use the talents for His kingdom
Saved by grace through faith and no more is needed
We are created by God for good works
We are to be zealous for good works
Titus 3:8, 14
Faith without works is dead
Different words used in Scripture to describe Christians
Steward
Servant/slave
Soldier
Never a spectator
“Do business till I come” – v13
Jesus corrects wrong thinking
Do not jump to incorrect thinking
Encouragement
The Bible is full of encouragement
God rewards those who diligently seek Him
Each servant was given a mina – representing 3 months pay
One made 10 – and was rewarded with 10 cities
One made 5 – and was rewarded with 5 cities
Faithful service is rewarded in disproportionate ways
What must it be to be in charge of 10 cities?
Jesus is encouraging us to serve Him faithfully
We don’t do it to get a reward
We do it to please our Master
Examples of biblical encouragements
What is this multiplication?
Is it talking about spiritual growth?
Is it talking about conversion of souls?
Is is talking about talents, gifts and graces?
Surely it is any faithful service to God
We are to continually invest in His kingdom
To give of our money and time
To be sacrificial
v26-27
More blessings for those who serve God faithfully
Not brownie points or that good works get you to heaven
Jesus rewards His children who serve Him gladly
Warning
A warning to the two other categories
The false servant
The outright unbeliever
A warning to the false servant
Does the third servant love, honour and respect the Master?
Did he do any business at all?
He has no concern, respect or love
He is not bothered about advancing the estate of the master
v21 – it sounds that he did not really fear his master
If we really feared someone, we would do what they say
v23 – there is a severe side to God – He will hold us to account
He is also loving and generous (as we have seen)
What about people today?
They either see that He is love
They only see that He is strict and a judge
They do not see the perfect harmony of God – explanation
Jesus often spoke about false ‘professors’
He says ‘depart from Me, I never knew you’
They are workers of iniquity
Matt 25
‘Make your calling and election sure’
If you are leading a double life – repent and turn to God
A warning to the openly rebellious – v14
There are those who are openly rebellious
For them there is a severe end – v27
Paul and Jesus wept over those who refuse Christ
Yet people reject Christ
We must receive Jesus for ourselves
Closing Remarks