After Jesus encourages the disciples to “keep watch”, to be prepared, he illustrates what that means with three parables. We stay alert by living in a such a way that we would have no cause for shame if Jesus did come at any time, since he may in fact do so.

The first parable concerns a servant who is given responsibility for the care of the household’s servants, to “give them their food at the proper time” (v.45). The servant who is found to be doing the right thing when the master returns will be blessed. If the head servant mistreats the others and looks after their own pleasure by eating and drinking to excess, the master will punish that servant severely when he returns. Whilst directed at Israel, this parable also applies particularly to any Christian in leadership. It is clearly addressed to the disciples and to those who will follow in their steps in the ministry of feeding and shepherding the church of Jesus Christ, be they pastors, evangelists, small group leaders or Sunday school teachers. Jesus has been critical of the leadership and ministry of the Jewish religious leaders, but equally high standards will apply also to the Christian Church.

All Christian leaders, whether that ministry is performed in the church, at home, or in the community, need to remember their true role as servants of the Gospel. The blessings attached to the faithful exercise of this ministry cannot be overstated. The health and welfare of the household, the church, is their responsibility and depends upon their faithful ministry. Of the ones to whom much is given, much is required. DR

Questions

Why is it so important for leaders and ministers of all types to be held to a higher standard of accountability? How do we continue to be servants of the Gospel when no-one is watching?

Prayer

Gracious Lord, we thank for the ministries that you call us to in your household, the church. Help us to serve you and the gospel as good and faithful servants. Help us to share the Gospel, to use our gifts and to persevere until your return. In Jesus' Name, Amen.