Context
- The Son of God was traveling toward Jerusalem to be crucified like a guilty criminal.
- This particular parable was given specifically to His disciples in a conversation about relational forgiveness.
- Jesus was warning the disciples about the pride that can follow obedience.
Content
- Just because we obey Christ’s commands does not mean that we deserve something for it.
- Rest – Past service does not give you a free pass from current responsibility (17:7).
- Reward – No amount of effort on our part entitles us to preferential treatment or guaranteed benefits (17:8).
- Recognition – You shouldn’t require personalized praise for doing what you ought to do (17:9).
- The status of “unworthy servant” can only go to those who have obeyed Christ’s commands completely (17:10).
Concept
- If Jesus never gives me anything beyond forgiveness, I’ve been given far more than what I deserve.
- Serving in the Kingdom should bring belittlement over entitlement.
- You will never regret spending your life for the One who gave His for you.
- The danger of entitlement is thinking that Jesus still owes you something.