Luke 19:12-27
19:12 a A nobleman was called away to a distant empire to be crowned king: The account fits the situation of Judea as a client kingdom of the Roman Empire. After the death of a king, claimants to the throne would go to Rome to try to gain support. Like the nobleman, Jesus would first depart (to heaven) to receive his royal authority; he will later return to rule God’s people and judge those who have opposed him (see 19:14 b, 27 c).19:14 d his people hated him and sent a delegation: This happened to Archelaus, the son of Herod the Great, who violently put down protests after the death of his father. In response, the Jews sent a delegation to plead against his kingship before the Roman emperor.
19:17 e you will be governor of ten cities as your reward: Because of the servant’s faithfulness, the king gave him a major position in his kingdom. Similarly, those who are faithful to Jesus in this life will receive greater responsibility here and great rewards in heaven.
19:23 f deposit my money in the bank: Literally put the money on the table, which means to give it to moneylenders who would loan it out at interest.
19:26 g even more will be given: Those who are faithful with a little will be entrusted with more (cp. 8:18 h).
19:27 i as for these enemies of mine: Those who reject Jesus’ reign as king will suffer his judgment. This part of the parable was directed against the religious leaders.
• bring them in and execute them: A new king would often execute his opponents (see 1 Kgs 2:13-46 j; cp. Ps 2 k).
Copyright information for
TNotes