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.