Rewards and Punishment
Introduction
When last looking at this passage (v35-40) – being ready for the return of Jesus Christ
His people are to wait, watch, be vigilant and be ready for the coming of the Lord
Great theological knowledge is no good if you are not living in the light of Christ’s return
Last time we considered the word “blessed” (v37-38)
The master will serve them
Today (v41-48)
Some strong teaching
Blessings and punishment – some graphic language
We must be faithful to the word of God
Considering the themes of rewards and punishment
Rewards (v42-44)
Punishment (v45-48)
Today’s criminal punishment – often light sentencing
Rights vs entitlements
The Bible speaks of privileges and responsibilities, of stewardship, accountability, rewards and punishment
We must not think that good works equals a reward and a profligate life equals punishment
The message of Christianity is that we have all sinned and all need the unmerited grace of God
Yet we know that we must give an account of our life before God
There will be rewards and punishments
God is fair and just
v41 – Peter asks if this parable is to the disciples (or even just the 12 apostles) or all people
v22 – He was previously talking to His disciples
Jesus does not give a yes or no – His response is nuanced
v47 – More would be expected of the disciples that other people
v47 – It applies to the Jews
v44 – It applies to the Gentiles
It applies to all people in different ways
Overview
The blessing of faithfulness
The curse of abuse
The degrees of punishment
The requirements of privilege
The Blessing of Faithfulness
v42-43
Stewardship
Luke 16:1-13, 19:12-27, Matt 25:14-30 – explanation
Jesus often speaks of the master going away and entrusting his servants
v42 – a picture of servants in the household
If they do their duty they will receive privileges
“Blessed” – examples
Have you trusted solely in Jesus?
Are you living for Him and not for self?
Are you seeking first His Kingdom?
Are you trusting in grace?
Do you love the Master?
Blessings:
v32 – He will give us the kingdom
The 12 apostles sitting on 12 thrones
We will judge angels
We will reign with Christ
The Curse of Abuse
v45-46
A big contrast
Another wicked servant
A cruel and abusive servant
Who lives it up
Who is this speaking about?
A religious person – living a double life
11:39 – explanation
v46 – appointed with the unbelievers
He did not fear God – He was not a believer
Not speaking about a believer – a child of God (who cannot lose their salvation)
Examples
Severe language
Cut in two
Assigned a portion with the unbelievers
The Degrees of Punishment
v47-48
Shocking language in the 21st century
Who is Jesus speaking about?
Believers or unbelievers – note it does not say ‘apportioned with the unbelievers’ (v46)
Don’t get too caught up in the exactitude of the language
Ask if you know God’s will and are you doing it?
v47 – the Jew, v48 – the Gentiles
v47 – those in the Church (who don’t know God) and v48 – those outside the Church
Jesus spoke about those having greater suffering in the judgment
God is a just God
Ask if you have come to Christ?
Ask if you are following God’s word?
Example of Numbers 15
What privilege have we had?
Being brought up in a Christian home?
Being taught the Bible?
Sunday School?
However, we are all responsible for the life we have been given – v48
The Requirements of Privilege
v48
To those who more is given – more will be required
1 Cor 4:2 – Stewards must be found faithful
How will you respond?
Are there sins that need to be confessed?
Do you need to give your life to God?
Oh that we all be faithful and wise stewards and take the warnings of God seriously