Scripture
47 And that servant, which knew his lord’s will, and prepared not himself, neither did according to his will, shall be beaten with many stripes. 48 But he that knew not, and did commit things worthy of stripes, shall be beaten with few stripes. For unto whomsoever much is given, of him shall be much required: and to whom men have committed much, of him they will ask the more. — Luke 12: 47-48 KJV
Observation
These two verses are from the Parable of the Faithful Steward (Luke 12:41-48). Before Jesus started telling the parable, Peter asked Him: “Lord, are you telling this parable for us or for everyone?”. Jesus actually never answered this question, which means this is applicable for “everyone” (v 48).
Christians who have been called by God, “to whom much was given”, entrusted with many abilities and responsibilities will be held highly accountable before the Throne of the Lord on the Day of Judgement, “of him much will be required”. God will justly inflict more “severe beating” for those “who knew his master’s will”, had all the understanding and wisdom of God’s commandments and chose to ignore them. And even being given with a perfect opportunities to share the Gospel to others, chose to disobey God and do not “act according to His will”.
Nevertheless, “ignorance of the law excuses not”. It excuses in part, but not completely. These Christians who have not been given with many abilities and responsibilities, “who did not know, and did what deserved a beating, will receive a light beating”.
Application
This is the time for your journaling. Reflect on these questions. Ask the Holy Spirit to test your faith and your walk with Christ.
5 Examine yourselves, whether ye be in the faith; prove your own selves. Know ye not your own selves, how that Jesus Christ is in you, except ye be reprobates? — 2 Corinthians 13:5 KJV
- Where you are in your discipleship pathway?
- Do you know that God called you?
- What God has entrusted you with?
- Do you feel accountable about God’s gifts for you?
- Do you do God’s will?
Prayer
Dear Heavenly Father, we thank you for the many gifts You have given us. Thank you for using us for your Greater Glory. We pray that with the power of the Holy Spirit we will be able to use all the knowledge what You have revealed to us through Jesus Christ for the furtherance of Your Kingdom. Please, teach us, Your stewards, to be faithful, obedient and humble like our Lord Jesus Christ.
We pray in the name of Jesus Christ. Amen
