Online Bible Audio/Readings Links (ESV)
3/3 Reading Portions: Exodus 14; Luke 17; Job 32; 2 Corinthians 2
Luke 17:10, KJV
So likewise ye, when ye shall have done all those things which are commanded you, say,
We are unprofitable servants: we have done that which was our duty to do.
INSIGHT
The Lord Jesus presents a scenario to the disciples regarding heavenly service and the role of a “bondslave.” It’s the Greek word δοῦλοι (DŪ-loi), which is translated “servants” in both the ESV and KJV. For the disciples, in their culture and at that time, this was a reasonable illustration— the master not thanking the slave for what was commanded of him was natural; and the servant’s response was likewise appropriate. The ESV translates the servant’s response like this:
“‘We are unworthy servants; we have only done what was our duty.’”
Yet when we apply this parable to the kingdom of heaven, the implications are more remarkable. As disciples of the Lord Jesus Christ, we have been bought with price— infinite and unfathomable— because we were purchased by the life and death of the incarnate Son of God. While we are certainly “unworthy” servants, having nothing in us which merits salvation or heavenly reward, the KJV’s use of the word, “unprofitable,” seems a more fitting term. Every command of Christ to us is good, holy, and just. If we keep a command, it is of no profit whatsoever to the Lord God. Our good works will not make Him more glorious; for He is infinitely glorious in and of Himself. Our obedience does not exalt Christ any higher, bless Him any better, or altar His immutable character one nth of degree. In fact, our ability to carry out even the least of His commands comes from Him anyway; because, as Jesus reminds us, from the fifteenth chapter of John,
“…for apart from Me you can do nothing.” John 15:5
When we apprehend this perspective and grasp this insight, we will recognize that obedience to our Lord’s commands are not for His benefit, but for ours. Then, with this insight in hand,
…His commands are not burdensome.1 John 5:3
They are our joy and blessing. Hallelujah! What a Savior!