To Whom Much is Given, Much is Required

Luke 12:47&48 - The servant who knows what his master wants him to do, but does not get himself ready and do it, will be punished with a heavy whipping. But the servant who does not know what his master wants, and yet does something for which he deserves a whipping, will be punished with a light whipping. Much is required from the person to whom much is given; much more is required from the person to whom much more is given.



At verse 42 in the 12^th chapter of Luke, we see Jesus teaching regarding a master who temporarily leaves home and places a servant in charge. He says that the servant does well to carry out his duties honorably, not knowing when his master will return. Jesus says that the servant that knows what he was supposed to be doing but is found neglecting his duties will be punished severely. Other servants, however, should they err unknowingly, will be punished lightly. Bible scholars believe Jesus, in this discourse, was alluding to Levitical law found in the 5^th chapter regarding sins committed in ignorance as well as law found in the 15^th chapter of the book of Numbers regarding the commission of intentional (presumptuous) sin. While both are punishable, there is a distinction in the punishment that each receives.

He that commits sin in ignorance, because of carelessness or neglect will receive a lighter punishment. Interestingly, we see Jesus on the cross asking the Father to forgive those who crucified Him because “they do not know what they do”. Jesus was indicating that they were ignorant, their eyes were not open, they were not making an informed observation of the circumstances and acting in full knowledge – they did not perceive what they truly were doing.

He that willingly and brazenly commits a sin – well aware of the wrong but intent on it – he will receive sharp punishment. His knowledge of what is right aggravates the sin.

Jesus goes on to reveal that to whom much is given, much will be required. The Living Bible translation, I believe, does a good job of making this verse 48 concept clear: “Much is required from those to whom much is given, for their responsibility is greater.” The servant to whom much is given – the one whom God blesses greatly - carries a greater responsibility. This man is expected to be a wise and faithful steward of all the Lord has placed under his authority. With great blessing comes great responsibility. We often pray for great blessing but may neglect to truly understand the duty that comes with it.

Father, as we receive from You, may we respond with appreciation and a sober understanding of our responsibility.