Introduction

What information about this servant can we glean from the biblical account? What was his history, what was he like, what happened to him? What lessons can we learn from his story? In what ways do our lives parallel his? Let’s take this passage apart and find out what it says to us. [A sermon preached by Dr. Arnold Lastinger. Published with permission.]

Read Luke 12:42-48

1. He was in service for his Master

A. This man was busily involved in working for his Master and faithful in the pursuit of his duties.

B. His faithfulness helped him climb the ladder of success as his loyalty and diligence caught the attention of the Master.

C. Parallel to the Christian life: He had a salvation experience, (this story plays havoc with “Once saved, always saved.”)

2. He was a trustworthy Servant

A. Responsible for managing the household and feeding the Master’s family. Did not yet have the highest reward, the “charge of all he owns.”

B. He was the Master’s substitute, (the Master had delegated his own responsibilities to the servant).

C. Parallel: Jesus has sent us to do his work in this world, (John 20:21). Being a servant involves being delegated responsibility.

3. He began neglecting his Master’s return

A. Reputation is what others see you do; character is what you do when there’s no one watching. This man’s true character came out when his Master’s back was turned.

B. He lost his sense of accountability; the Master wasn’t there to look over his shoulder. Everybody needs to be accountable to somebody!

C. Because our Master is not a man with skin, we sometimes forget that He is still watching us. Jesus warned us to be watchful for the Master’s return, (Matthew 24:50). Don’t let the Master’s delay lure you into unchristian living; Jesus is coming soon!

4. He gradually gave into the web of sin

A. He was faithful for a while, (otherwise, why would he have been chosen for such high responsibility?) He began to live just for the moment, with no thought of the future.

B. He began to mistreat others and engaged in sinful behavior. His job began to suffer, (you can’t be diligent in pursuit of the Master’s business and pursue your own selfish, sinful desires at the same time.)

C Jesus said that sin enslaves us, (John 8:34). Sin is moral quicksand; it sucks us deeper and deeper down. At first, you may have a choice but eventually, only God can break the bondage of sin. It happens so gradually!

5. His judgment was unimaginably severe

A. The New Living Translation renders this verse as “He will tear the servant apart and banish him with the unfaithful”

B. Not something He would do to one of His own. Here banishment implies exile from His presence.

C. Punishment was worse because he knew his duty but failed to do it. He had no excuse! Nor will you!

6. Jesus our Master is ready to forgive Us

A. The purpose of this story was to warn us. Some here today have known God’s love, but you have been lulled to sleep by Satan.

B. The Father is ready to take you back. The Bible says, “Him that cometh to me I will in no wise cast out!” (John 6:37)

C. If you are like that servant, go before God in repentance. He will pardon your sin and restore you.

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