Ready
Introduction
Jesus changes His focus from earthly possessions in verses 13-34 to watching for the Lord’s Second Coming. Three parables on vigilance follow: the watching servants, the watchful householder, and the servant in authority. Throughout Luke, watchfulness and faithfulness with one’s possessions consisted in laying up treasure in heaven rather than on earth.
Thesis: Jesus entrusted His kingdom to us, but will return to claim it.
The Watching Servants, vv. 36-38
A. “Be ready”
- Image is not of a sleeping fireman
- Watchful, aware, alert
- Prepared to be dispatched
B. Keeping the Lamps Burning
- Elements of a Burning Lamp
- Fire = Presence of God
- Lamp = Life of the Believer
- Oil = Fulling of the Holy Spirit
- Trimming the Wick = Process of Sanctification
C. The Reward on the Lord’s Arrival: “Christ Himself will serve us.”
The Watchful Householder, vv. 39-40, The Warning
A. Unaware of Burglars
B. Unexpected Return of the Master
The Servant in Authority, vv. 42-48, The Commission
A. Definition of a Faithful and Wise Manager
- Discharges his duty in a timely manner
- Distinguished with honors
B. Definition of a Foolish and Wicked Manager
- Abused His Master’s Trust
- Lives Wickedly
- Ignores His Master’s Will
- Punished and Placed with the Unbelieving