Luke 12:46

Luke 12:46, in plain English

The master comes back on a day that servant doesn't expect. The punishment is severe -- he's treated like an unbeliever. Privilege without faithfulness leads to the harshest judgment.

Why it's here

This is sobering: having responsibility and squandering it is worse than never having it at all. The unfaithful leader gets the worst punishment, not the least.

Who's speaking

Jesus delivers the consequences of unfaithful stewardship with unmistakable severity.

Where it sits in the story

The parable ends with a shock. The master doesn't give second chances to the abusive servant. Those given trust who betray it face the most serious judgment.

The scholarly reading

The master returns on an unexpected day (hēmera hē ou prosdoka) and hour (hōra hē ou ginōskei). The punishment is severe: dichotomēsei auton (cut him in two/punish severely) and assign him a portion (meros) with the apistōn (unfaithful/unbelievers).

Language and setting

Dichotomēsei literally means 'cut in two,' though it may be figurative for severe punishment. The placement with 'unbelievers' shows that unfaithful stewards ultimately share the fate of those who never believed.

Voice

Jesus describes the severe consequences awaiting the unfaithful steward upon the master's unexpected return.

Significance

The unfaithful steward's end is terrible: the master he thought was delayed returns without warning. Those entrusted with much face the strictest judgment for their betrayal of trust.

44Truly I tell you, he will put him in charge of all his possessions.

45But suppose that servant says in his heart, ‘My master will be a long time in coming,’ and he begins to beat the menservants and maidservants, and to eat and drink and get drunk.

46The master of that servant will come on a day he does not expect and at an hour he does not anticipate. Then he will cut him to pieces and assign him a place with the unbelievers.

47That servant who knows his master’s will but does not get ready or follow his instructions will be beaten with many blows.

48But the one who unknowingly does things worthy of punishment will be beaten with few blows. From everyone who has been given much, much will be required; and from him who has been entrusted with much, even more will be demanded.

Read all of Luke 12 — Sparrows, barns, and a thief in the night — Jesus teaches his followers to stop hoarding and start trusting. Worry is the opposite of faith.