What does Luke 19:20 mean?
And another came, saying, Lord, behold, here is thy pound, which I have kept laid up in a napkin: Luke 19:20
Explanation
The verse from Luke 19:20 is part of the Parable of the Pounds (also known as the Parable of the Minas), which is a story told by Jesus to illustrate a moral and spiritual lesson. In this parable, a nobleman gives a sum of money to his servants before leaving on a journey. The nobleman represents Jesus, while the servants represent His followers. Each servant is given the same amount – one pound – and is expected to invest or work with it to gain more.
In the context of the verse, one of the servants comes to the nobleman upon his return and explains that he has not used the pound to earn any additional money. Instead, he has kept the pound “laid up in a napkin.” The act of keeping the money wrapped up suggests inactivity and negligence with the capital that was entrusted to the servant. The deeper meaning here is a critique of those who do not use their given opportunities, abilities, or spiritual gifts for growth, or for the benefit of God’s kingdom.
Historical Context
The parable is set in a time when it was common for wealthy individuals to entrust their servants with money in their absence. The culture established that these servants were to engage in the business to increase their master’s wealth. Historically, the parable may reflect the conditions of Palestine during the Roman era, where such financial practices would have been usual. The usage of the term “pound” (mina in Greek) refers to a unit of currency at the time.
Furthermore, the historical context for why Jesus told this parable was likely due to his audience’s expectation that the Kingdom of God would appear immediately (as seen in Luke 19:11). The parable teaches about faithful service and stewardship in the interim between Jesus’ ascension and his second coming.
Theological Insights
From a theological viewpoint, this verse, as part of the larger parable, emphasizes the theme of stewardship and responsibility. Different theological perspectives may focus on the concept of “talents” as spiritual gifts (reformation perspective), the importance of works to evidence faith (traditional Catholic perspective), or the role of grace complementing efforts (a more contemporary, balanced perspective).
The servant’s failure to invest the money may also represent a lack of faith or trust in the master. Theological discussions might explore whether the servant’s actions reflect a misunderstanding of the master’s character or a willful neglect of duty.
Practical Applications
The teachings of this verse can be applied in several ways:
- Stewardship: Encouraging individuals to use their resources, time, talents, and spiritual gifts wisely and for the benefit of others.
- Responsibility: Reminding people of the importance of taking initiative and being proactive with what they have been given.
- Accountability: Suggesting that there will be an eventual reckoning or assessment of how we have managed what has been entrusted to us.
Applying these teachings can lead to personal growth and a more profound sense of purpose and contribution to the community.
Cross-References
- Matthew 25:14-30 – Teaching of the Parable of the Talents, which shares a similar message.
- Luke 12:48 – “For unto whomsoever much is given, of him shall be much required.”
- Luke 16:10 – “He that is faithful in that which is least is faithful also in much.”
- 1 Peter 4:10 – “As every man hath received the gift, even so minister the same one to another, as good stewards of the manifold grace of God.”
Language Study
The Greek word for ‘pound’ here is “μνᾶ” (mina), a unit of currency equal to about three months’ wages for a laborer. The word ‘napkin’ translates from the Greek “σουδάριον” (soudarion), which was a small cloth or handkerchief used for wiping sweat, and in this context, indicates keeping the money wrapped up and hidden. This word choice underscores the servant’s unproductive handling of the money.
Cultural and Religious Comparisons
Comparisons can be made with ancient myths that emphasize a moral related to proactive stewardship and accountability. In various cultures, tales of misused gifts or failing to make the most out of one’s endowment are common. The notion of testing one’s faithfulness through the management of resources can also be found in other religious traditions, emphasizing the idea that divine blessings or gifts come with the responsibility to use them wisely.
Scientific Perspectives
While the verse itself does not directly intersect with modern scientific understandings, the principles of investment and growth are fundamental to economic theories that have been studied scientifically. Moreover, the psychological aspect of fear, which might underpin the servant’s inaction, is widely explored in behavioral economics and psychology.
commentaries
Biblical scholars and theologians have expressed various viewpoints on this verse:
- Matthew Henry’s Commentary emphasizes the servant’s slothfulness and his excuses, highlighting a failure to perform his duty.
- The Pulpit Commentary discusses the possible motives behind the servant’s actions, suggesting a lack of initiative might reflect his incorrect assumptions about his master’s character.
- John Calvin points out the importance of putting to use our “talents” or gifts, as neglecting to do so is equating to burying them.
- William Barclay notes the servant’s fear and lack of understanding as key elements leading to his inaction and ultimately, his punishment.
These commentaries collectively recognize the larger theme of accountability and using one’s gifts in the service of God and others.
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